The High Court has refused to release on bail a man charged with falsely imprisoning a Co Cork businessman, his pregnant wife and their four children at their home after the court heard the family were repeatedly threatened.
In refusing bail, Mr Justice De Valera said he was satisfied that the threats against the family were real and he refused bail to 33-year-old Edward Gaffey, who has an address in Dundalk.
Garry and Katie O'Donovan told the judge that while being held captive at their home in Rochestown, they were both told that they, their four children, and their unborn child would be shot if their abductors spent even one hour in custody.
Mr Gaffey faces four charges in connection with the incident, which occurred overnight on 1 and 2 May, including false imprisonment and possession of firearms and ammunition.
Detective Inspector Tom Myers told the court that Mr Gaffey was arrested outside the O'Donovan's house and that a colt 45 pistol with six bullets was found nearby.
