Longford sentencing delayed again as man's Irish citizenship 'imminent'

A man convicted of insurance fraud in Longford has been granted a second sentencing adjournment while his Irish citizenship application nears completion.

Fraud case sentencing postponed pending citizenship ruling

Longford District Court has granted a second sentencing adjournment to a man convicted of insurance fraud, with his solicitor telling the court that Irish citizenship is now "imminent," longfordleader.ie reports.

Mauricio Coutinho Oliveira, 36, of Curreen View, Ballyclare, Lanesboro, pleaded guilty to two charges relating to a fraudulent RSA No Claims Bonus Certificate submitted to Liberty Insurance on the Dublin Road, Cavan. The offences are alleged to have occurred between 2 December 2021 and 14 May 2023.

The second charge states that Coutinho Oliveira deceived Liberty Insurance into providing a reduced insurance quote, resulting in a saving of €1,388.04 to which he was not entitled. A Portuguese interpreter was present during the proceedings.

Solicitor Frank Gearty told the court his client had previously been granted an adjournment specifically to allow him to pursue Irish citizenship before sentencing. "He has progressed that very well and I understand that while it is not granted yet, it is imminent," Gearty said, requesting one final postponement.

Court Sergeant Enda Daly indicated the State had no objection to the request. Gearty added that his client "greatly values the opportunity that has been given to him."

Judge Bernadette Owens granted the adjournment and listed Coutinho Oliveira to appear before Longford District Court on 16 February.

Source: Google News IE — Crime (en)