Trial for shop worker accused of stealing €10k of Lotto cards

Rafal Winter (37) allegedly stole the Lotto cards over a three-month period.

He was served with the book of evidence when he appeared on bail before Blanchardstown District Court.

The accused, of Swallowbrook Crescent, Clonee, is charged with theft at Spar, The Crescent, Mulhuddart, on dates between July 2 and September 24 last year.

The DPP had directed summary trial in the district court, but a judge had previously refused jurisdiction to deal with it, saying that if one considered the moral quality of the matter, then the allegation was "up there".

Caution

Outlining the allegation, Gda Sgt Maria Callaghan previ- ously alleged that Mr Winter was working in the shop when he stole National Lottery scratch cards worth a total of €10,567.

The alleged theft was investigated by gardai and the accused was charged.

A state solicitor said the book of evidence was ready and had been served on the accused, who goes forward to the next sittings of Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Judge David McHugh gave the accused the formal alibi caution.

The judge assigned defence solicitor Philip Hannon and one junior counsel on free legal aid.

Judge McHugh also ordered that a video of an interview which gardai conducted with the accused be furnished to his legal team.

Mr Winter has not yet indicated how he is pleading to the charge.