DUBLIN, Ireland: A detective garda accused of helping an organized crime gang, taking bribes, and possessing over 100 rounds of ammunition has been released on bail while prosecutors prepare the evidence.

Eoghan Clerkin, 51, is one of five Dublin-based gardaí charged last month after a major corruption investigation. The group includes an inspector and a retired superintendent. He appeared in Dublin District Court on Monday.

At first, he was held in custody due to the seriousness of the case, but the High Court later granted him bail. When he returned to court on May 15, the judge agreed to give the State more time to prepare the evidence. Clerkin did not speak in court and must return in four weeks.

His lawyer said he is applying for legal aid, but the judge delayed a decision on that request to allow further checks.

The court previously heard that he gave no reply when charged with three offenses. He is accused of trying to get a bribe in 2018 while working as a garda. He is also accused of illegally having a rifle and 9mm ammunition at a home in west Dublin. In addition, he is charged with helping a criminal organization between 2018 and 2019. He has not yet entered a plea.

Other accused include retired superintendent John Murphy and three serving gardaí. They are set to face trial and will return to court in June.

Murphy, 65, and Detective Aidan Stratford face allegations of several years of involvement in criminal activity. Murphy also faces seven bribery charges and other charges of interfering with justice.

Stratford, 50, faces around 170 charges, including sharing confidential information and accepting bribes. He has denied all the charges.

Another officer, Garda Manus Keane, 46, is accused of sharing confidential information in 2014 in a way that could cause harm.

Inspector Brian Roberts, 51, is also accused of illegally sharing confidential information in 2018.