Pair face trial in connection with alleged aggravated burglary in Laois

A book of evidence was served on a man who is accused of aggravated burglary in Portlaoise. 

Eduard Ionut (26) of Orlagh Grange, Knocklyn, Dublin, is accused of aggravated burglary at Ballycarnan Lodge, Portlaoise on November 2, 2025. 

Garda Lisa Murray gave evidence of serving a book of evidence on the defendant at a sitting of Portlaoise District Court. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the man should be sent forward to the current sittings of Portlaoise Circuit Court. He said there was a co-accused in the case. 

Judge Catherine Ryan noted that the book had been served and sent the case forward to the current sittings of Portlaoise Circuit Court.

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald requested and was granted legal aid for two counsel given the seriousness of the charge. 

Co-accused Jovita Zakariene (42) of Rossdarragh Hill, Portlaoise, is facing charges of conspiracy to commit burglary and providing a false report to Gardaí at Ballycarnan Lodge, Portlaoise on November 2, 2025. 

Garda Lisa Murray gave evidence of serving a book of evidence on the accused in the body of the courthouse. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said there were two charges in the book of evidence and the DPP had consented to the defendant being sent forward for trial. 

Judge Ryan issued an alibi warning and sent the case forward to the current sittings of Portlaoise Circuit Court. She granted legal aid for a solicitor and one counsel in the case.