A 52-year-old man from Donegal has been sentenced to eight years imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court for the rape and sexual assault of his former partner's daughter over a five-year period. Mr Justice Paul McDermott imposed concurrent sentences of eight years for rape, seven years for each count of sexual assault, and seven years for producing child pornography. The man pleaded guilty on the scheduled trial date in April to one count of rape occurring in 2006 when the victim was four years old, six further counts of sexual assault between 2008 and 2011, and one count of child pornography production. A video recording discovered during a separate investigation provided evidence in the case. The now teenage victim provided a detailed account to gardaí detailing abuse that typically occurred during overnight weekend visits. The abuse came to light in 2014 following concerns raised by the victim's school principal. The man has been registered as a sex offender and is subject to five years post-release supervision with conditions prohibiting contact with the victim.
A 66-year-old man from Donegal has been sentenced to seven years imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court following his conviction for sexual offences against his grand-niece committed between 1992 and 1994. The man was found guilty after jury trial of three counts of sexual assault and two counts of rape that occurred at locations in Donegal and Dublin when the victim was a child. Justice Margaret Heneghan described the offences as an "enormous and gross breach of trust", noting the defendant had exerted significant control over a young, vulnerable victim. The judge observed he had demonstrated no remorse. The woman's victim impact statement detailed lasting psychological harm including panic attacks, anxiety and depression, with effects extending to her family relationships and ability to work. The defence had submitted testimonials regarding the defendant's previously unblemished character and referenced his wife's health difficulties and dependence upon him. The unnamed 66-year-old pleaded not guilty.
Michael Lyons, aged 55, of Currin, Glencolmcille, County Donegal, has had his prison sentence reduced on appeal at the Court of Appeal. Lyons pleaded guilty at Letterkenny Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing serious harm following an incident at Quiggs bar, Carrick, on 12 October 2013. He was originally sentenced to four years imprisonment in June 2016. The Court of Appeal has now reduced his sentence to two years and three months. Mr Justice John Hedigan found that the sentencing judge had erred in law by assessing the offence as falling within the lower end of the middle range but then imposing a sentence equivalent to six years. The court agreed the offence fell within the lower middle range, equivalent to four years. The victim sustained a serious and permanent traumatic brain injury as a result. Mitigating factors included Lyons' guilty plea, remorse, lack of previous convictions, cooperation with gardaí, and his immediate assistance to the injured party.
A woman who endured sexual abuse as a child has described feeling imprisoned by the trauma throughout her life. The victim gave evidence at the Central Criminal Court following the conviction of a 66-year-old man on five offences committed in county Donegal and Dublin between 1992 and 1994. The man was found guilty of three counts of sexual assault and two counts of rape after a jury trial. In her victim impact statement, the woman outlined how the abuse began when she was approximately ten years old and escalated to rape when she was twelve. She told the court of enduring panic attacks, anxiety, depression and flashbacks in adulthood, which have affected her relationships and employment. The woman also described becoming hypervigilant regarding her own children's safety. Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan adjourned the case to 19 May for sentencing. The defence presented character references and highlighted the defendant's lack of previous convictions and his wife's health dependence on him. The unnamed 66-year-old pleaded not guilty.
On 4 February 2015, Robert Faherty, 63, was driving without headlights when Grainne Duncan's bicycle struck his car, leaving her in a coma for two months. Faherty, who had no prior convictions and a clean driving record, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious harm. Judge Pauline Codd, noting the absence of speed, alcohol, or road fault, described the incident as a momentary lapse rather than reckless behaviour. She imposed a nine‑month suspended sentence, citing Faherty's remorse, psychiatric report, and daily reliance on his vehicle. No driving ban was imposed. Duncan, 45, remains in a vegetative state, requiring full assistance, and her husband has pursued civil action for medical costs estimated at €540,000. The court acknowledged the profound impact on Duncan's life and her family's suffering.
Martin O'Hara, a 31-year-old defendant with a previous conviction for rape, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for assaulting his former girlfriend in Tallaght on July 28, 2016. O'Hara pleaded guilty to the charge of assaulting the woman causing her harm. Judge Karen O'Connor described the incident as violent and aggressive behaviour that occurred in the presence of the couple's six-month-old baby. The judge noted that while the physical effects were at the lower end of the scale, the victim suffered psychological trauma. O'Connor acknowledged O'Hara's remorse and recent efforts at rehabilitation and counselling. The court imposed a 12-month prison term. Prosecution evidence detailed that O'Hara punched the woman after an argument, subsequently left with the baby without her consent, and assaulted her sister and partner while they attempted to retrieve the child. The baby was returned uninjured. Defence counsel highlighted O'Hara's history of anger issues and drug abuse, noting he had taken steps towards rehabilitation for the first time. The judge considered his guilty plea and remorse when determining the sentence.
Patrick Fitzgerald, aged 40, of Glenties Park, Finglas, Dublin, has avoided a custodial sentence following an incident on River Road, Castleknock, County Dublin. On 18 August 2014, following a serious motor collision in which a vehicle overturned, Fitzgerald entered a parked car without consent and directed the driver to transport him to Ashtown. The driver repeatedly asked him to leave but continued driving approximately 500 metres before refusing to proceed further, at which point Fitzgerald exited the vehicle. He pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to interfering with the control of a car by threat of force or intimidation. Judge Melanie Greally suspended a two-year prison sentence conditional on Fitzgerald keeping the peace for that period. The court heard evidence of his previous convictions, including 49 road traffic offences, and noted his efforts to address historical alcohol difficulties.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Robert Faherty, 63, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious harm after his car collided with cyclist Grainne Duncan on February 4, 2015, on Malahide Road. Faherty was driving without lights on; speed and alcohol were not factors. Duncan, wearing a high‑visibility jacket, helmet and bike light, was cycling left‑hand side and turning right at a junction when the collision occurred. She remained in a coma for two months, later regaining awareness but suffering severe brain damage that left her unable to speak, walk or hear, and requiring depression treatment. Faherty's daughter expressed deep remorse. The case involves pending civil proceedings and medical costs estimated at €540,000. Judge Pauline Codd reserved judgment until May 5, citing Faherty's compliance, remorse and poor health, and requested no jail sentence. The charge carries a maximum of two years imprisonment.
The owner of a meat processing plant in Lifford, County Donegal, has given a sworn undertaking to the High Court that he will vacate the premises. Liam McGavigan, who owns the facility formerly operated by Edenmore Farm Meats Ltd, made the commitment before Mr Justice Paul Gilligan on Tuesday following a lengthy dispute over possession of the plant. AIB appointed a receiver to the property after alleging Mr McGavigan failed to repay substantial loans, with the bank securing a judgment against him for approximately €1.9 million. The plant ceased operating in October following an occupation by individuals disputing the receiver's appointment. Mr McGavigan, representing himself, claimed the occupation was undertaken to ensure local farmers were paid amounts allegedly owed by Edenmore and disputed AIB's allegations of conspiracy. He had sought additional time to remain on the premises, but the judge refused this application. The court has directed that Mr McGavigan be permitted to remove personal items from the plant.
A man arrested in County Donegal on a European Arrest Warrant appeared at the High Court in Dublin in connection with the murder of David Black, a Northern Ireland prison officer shot dead on the M1 motorway in November 2012. Damien Joseph McLaughlin, aged 40 and with an address in Belfast, faces charges of aiding and abetting the murder and possession of an article suspected for use in the killing. He is also charged with engaging in conduct in preparation for acts of terrorism and membership of a proscribed organisation. Detective Sergeant Padraig Boyce of the Special Detective Unit outlined the arrest made in Donegal on Thursday. The defence argued excessive force was used during apprehension and challenged the validity of the arrest. Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly rejected the application, noting the serious nature of the terrorism allegations and that the accused had previously breached bail conditions in Northern Ireland. She found the arrest lawful and proportionate. Mr McLaughlin was remanded in custody with the case listed for mention on 20th March.
At the Central Criminal Court, the State entered a Nolle Prosequi in the case against a 53-year-old man from Magherennan, Raphoe, County Donegal, discontinuing a murder charge. The defendant had been accused of the murder of a 67-year-old man at a residential address in Churchill, Donegal on 16 and 17 June 2012. The case was scheduled for trial before Justice Patrick McCarthy when the prosecution, represented by Brendan Grehan SC, formally withdrew the charge, indicating the State would not proceed further with the prosecution.
A man from Letterkenny, Co Donegal, has been jailed for 12 months following conviction on a charge of sexually exploiting a child. Donnchadh McGinley, then aged 34, met a 15-year-old girl through a youth mental health messaging application in late 2014. The pair subsequently met on several occasions before McGinley invited the teenager to an apartment in Dublin in January 2015. During that visit, they watched a film together before engaging in sexual activity in the bedroom. McGinley attempted sexual intercourse but the girl was unable to proceed due to fear and physical discomfort. At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, McGinley, now 36, pleaded guilty to one count of sexually exploiting a child between January 3 and 4, 2015, with a second count of meeting a child for exploitation purposes taken into account. Judge Melanie Greally imposed the 12-month custodial sentence, noting the activity was age-inappropriate but that no evidence suggested predatory intent. She considered McGinley's guilty plea, remorse, personal difficulties at the time, and absence of previous convictions.
A 36-year-old man from Donegal pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to sexually exploiting a 15-year-old girl he met on a youth mental health messaging application in late 2014. The court heard the accused initiated contact with the teenager on Talklife, an online peer-support platform, and the pair subsequently met on several occasions in Kildare and Dublin. In January 2015, he invited the girl to a Dublin apartment where they watched a film before he attempted sexual intercourse with her. The girl's family reported her missing and gardaí were notified. She was collected from a bus stop near the apartment the following morning. A second count of meeting a child for exploitation purposes was taken into account. The defence described the man as vulnerable with limited social skills, suffering from depression and anxiety. He has no previous convictions. Judge Melanie Greally adjourned sentencing to February 17.
Edward Hanrahan faced the Court of Appeal in January 2017 following the dismissal of his judicial review proceedings in the High Court. Originally charged with three burglaries in Galway District Court in December 2009, Hanrahan absconded before his scheduled March 2010 hearing. He evaded gardaí for several years across multiple counties before being apprehended in a Donegal village in November 2014 whilst allegedly attempting to cross the border. Upon his recapture, two charges were withdrawn but one remained. The Director of Public Prosecutions subsequently directed trial in the Circuit Court rather than summarily. Hanrahan contested this decision as unfair and sought judicial review. The High Court rejected his application, finding no procedural breach. The Court of Appeal unanimously upheld this judgment, with Mr Justice George Birmingham stating the uncertainty surrounding the original District Court proceedings could not benefit Hanrahan, who bore sole responsibility for his flight and consequent circumstances.
A man convicted of murder in connection with a fatal shooting in County Donegal has had his conviction upheld by the Court of Appeal. Martin Kelly, aged 42, from Strabane, County Tyrone, was found guilty of the murder of Andrew Burns at Donnyloop, Castlefin on 12 February 2008. The non-jury Special Criminal Court imposed a mandatory life sentence in January 2012. Mr Burns was shot twice in the back in a church car park by a gunman associated with a dissident republican organisation. Kelly's legal team argued he had agreed only to facilitate a punishment shooting, unaware the incident was planned as a deliberate execution. Mr Justice George Birmingham rejected this argument, finding Kelly guilty of murder based on his intention to cause serious harm, even without proof of intent to kill. The court noted that Irish law has long established that intention to cause serious injury resulting in death constitutes murder. The judgment acknowledged the appeal raised novel legal questions of clear importance. An application to the Supreme Court is being considered. Martin Kelly pleaded not guilty.
The High Court has heard that orders directing the vacation of a Letterkenny building housing Donegal County Council's water testing laboratory have not been complied with. Mr Justice Tony O'Connor was told the premises remain occupied despite High Court orders issued the previous week. The building's occupation poses significant risks to public safety, the court was informed. Lawyers for a bank-appointed receiver argued that occupiers have threatened to dispose of hazardous chemicals used in the laboratory, potentially endangering the public. The council's inability to access the premises and conduct water quality testing also presents a substantial risk to the environment and public health. The receiver sought the orders following an alleged occupation by approximately twenty people who changed locks and erected barricades. Mr Justice O'Connor issued directions for one of the alleged occupiers to be arrested by An Garda Síochána and brought before the court for alleged contempt. Neither of the defendants appeared to contest the receiver's application.
Mr Justice Paul Gilligan at the High Court adjourned a dispute concerning the Lifford meat plant to next week. The case involves AIB and its receiver, Luke Charleton, who are seeking orders to prevent interference with their ability to run and dispose of the premises as part of proceedings to recover debts owed by Liam McGavigan. Counsel for the receiver alleged that Liam McGavigan, his brother Ciaran, and others had illegally barricaded themselves into the plant, effectively shutting down operations. In response, counsel for Edenmore Farm Meats Ltd, the tenant, stated that the company's 55 employees were not working and had been subjected to threats and intimidation. The judge agreed to make Edenmore Farm Meats Ltd a notice party to the receiver's High Court action. Additionally, following an application by Stephen Walsh BL, the court allowed the applicants to serve notice of the proceedings on the McGavigans by email. The judge expressed concern for the employees' futures but did not issue a final determination on the merits of the occupation. The matter was adjourned to next week for further proceedings.
An unemployed courier from Glenties Road, Finglas, Dublin has been sentenced to six years imprisonment following his conviction for drug and firearms offences. Ken McDermott, aged 47, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession for sale or supply of controlled drugs and unlawful possession of firearms on 27 May 2015. Gardaí arrested McDermott after he collected two rucksacks containing a .32 Colt revolver, a .38 Remington revolver with ammunition, cocaine valued at approximately €219,104, and ecstasy tablets estimated at €256,820. Additional controlled substances were recovered from a vehicle at the Finglas location. The total estimated street value of drugs seized exceeded €483,000. Judge Melanie Greally noted McDermott's guilty plea and family circumstances as mitigating factors but stated he failed to consider the community impact of his actions. The judge recommended Mountjoy Prison for his detention to facilitate family contact.
An unemployed man from Glenties was remanded for sentencing after pleading guilty to serious drugs and firearms offences at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Ken McDermott, aged 47, admitted possession for sale or supply of controlled drugs and unlawful possession of firearms following his arrest in Finglas on May 27, 2015. Gardaí intercepted a vehicle at Dublin Port acting on confidential information about a planned firearms importation. McDermott was observed transferring rucksacks from a car to a van, which officers then stopped. A search recovered two revolvers and ammunition, along with cocaine and ecstasy tablets with an estimated street value exceeding €483,000. McDermott told gardaí he had agreed to participate in the importation to support his family following the collapse of his courier business. Judge Melanie Greally adjourned the case to November 16 for consideration of sentence.
Gerrit Plug, the Dutch skipper of the vessel Annelies Ilena, formerly known as the Atlantic Dawn, has lost his appeal against conviction for breaching EU fishing regulations. Plug, who pleaded not guilty to five counts, two of which were withdrawn from the jury for legal reasons, was found guilty by a jury at Letterkenny Circuit Criminal Court. The charges related to failing to record discards, discarding quota species, and exceeding permitted gaps in water separators between November 22 and 25, 2011. He was fined €105,000 by Judge John O'Hagan on March 27, 2015. In dismissing the appeal, Mr Justice Alan Mahon, sitting with Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan and Mr Justice John Edwards, ruled that the recording and transmission obligations were distinct duties. The court rejected arguments regarding the evidence of fish being returned to sea and the timing of the separator bar measurements, noting no evidence suggested interference after the vessel's detention. The Court of Appeal described the trial as conducted in an exemplary fashion. The matter was not concluded as the Director of Public Prosecutions has lodged an application for review of sentence on grounds that Plug's penalty was unduly lenient.
A 74-year-old man has been granted bail by the Special Criminal Court following his arrest in County Donegal on charges relating to the 2006 killing of Denis Donaldson, a Sinn Féin member and alleged MI5 agent. The accused, with an address in Glasgow, Scotland, is charged with withholding information concerning another person's involvement in Mr Donaldson's unlawful killing at Cloghercor, County Donegal, and failing without reasonable excuse to disclose that information to gardaí. The alleged offence occurred between April 2006 and July this year. The Special Criminal Court imposed strict bail conditions, including surrender of travel documents, residence in County Donegal, weekly sign-on at Letterkenny Garda Station, and a nightly curfew. He was released on his own bond of €6,600 and two independent sureties. The case is listed for mention on 26 October.
A 74-year-old man appeared before the Special Criminal Court on Thursday charged with withholding information relating to the 2006 killing of Denis Donaldson, a Sinn Féin member exposed as an MI5 agent. Patrick Gillespie, with an address in Glasgow, Scotland, was arrested on Main Street, Dunloe, County Donegal, on Wednesday evening. He is accused of possessing information about another person's involvement in Mr Donaldson's unlawful killing at Cloghercor, County Donegal, and failing to disclose it to gardaí between April 2006 and July this year. Detective Sergeant Barry Doyle of Ballyshannon Garda Station gave evidence of the arrest and detention at Letterkenny. Mr Gillespie's solicitor challenged the lawfulness of the arrest, submitting that a warrant should have been obtained before his re-arrest following initial release. Mr Justice Paul Butler dismissed the application. Mr Gillespie was remanded in custody pending a bail hearing on Friday.
Shane Rowan, aged 39, from Forest Park, Killygordan, County Donegal, has been sentenced to seven and a half years' imprisonment at the Special Criminal Court for possession of three assault rifles and ammunition discovered in his vehicle in Slane, County Meath on 9 March 2016. He received an additional four-year sentence for membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army, with both sentences to run concurrently. Rowan pleaded guilty to possessing a Chinese Type 56, Romanian PM63, and Zastava M70 rifle, along with associated magazines and 153 rounds of assorted ammunition. He also admitted to IRA membership. The court heard gardaí had monitored his movements as he collected the firearms in Dublin before travelling through Northern Ireland to Donegal. Mr Justice Paul Butler noted Rowan's early guilty plea to all counts as a mitigating factor, describing such cooperation as unusual. The sentences were backdated to the date of his arrest.
A 39-year-old man from Killygordan in County Donegal has pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court in Dublin to multiple charges including possession of three assault rifles and ammunition. Shane Rowan admitted to possessing a Chinese Type 56 rifle, a Romanian PM63 rifle, and a Zastava M70 rifle, together with associated magazines, discovered at a location in County Meath on 9 March 2016. He further pleaded guilty to two counts of possessing ammunition: 75 rounds of 7.62 by 39mm calibre rounds and 78 rounds of 9mm parabellum calibre rounds. Rowan also admitted to membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army. The three-judge panel remanded him in custody pending sentencing on 27 July 2016.
A Dublin man has been convicted of harassing a garda sergeant through approximately 50 online posts and harassing phone calls over a two-year period. Sean Carraher, aged 55, was found guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of harassing Sergeant Conor Gilmartin between March 2009 and May 2011. The posts, made on legal profession websites, included allegations that the sergeant had withheld evidence and claims regarding his personal conduct. Carraher had pleaded not guilty but was convicted by jury following deliberation. He claimed the posts constituted protected freedom of expression and that he was acting as a whistleblower exposing alleged garda corruption. The court heard no findings of wrongdoing have been established against Sergeant Gilmartin. Following conviction, Carraher was remanded in custody despite the prosecution not objecting to bail. He is due for sentencing on 27 July, when a victim impact report from Sergeant Gilmartin will be presented to the court.
A man charged with harassing a garda sergeant considers himself a whistleblower exposing police corruption, Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard. Sean Carraher, aged 55, of Stradbrook Hill, Blackrock, Dublin, has pleaded not guilty to harassing Garda Sergeant Conor Gilmartin between March 2009 and May 2011. The prosecution alleges Mr Carraher posted approximately 50 messages on websites including Rate-Your-Solicitor and Victims of the Legal Profession, accusing Sergeant Gilmartin of corruption and evidence tampering. He is also accused of making between ten and twenty calls to the sergeant. The defendant claims the contact followed a complaint he made to the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission regarding alleged assaults on his sons. No findings of wrongdoing have been established against Sergeant Gilmartin. Mr Carraher stated he was exercising freedom of expression rights and invoked comparison with the McBrearty family case in Donegal. The trial continues before Judge Patrick McCartan and a jury.
A 39-year-old man from Killygordan in County Donegal has been charged with unlawful possession of ammunition before the Special Criminal Court. Shane Rowan was charged with possessing 78 rounds of 9mm parabellum ammunition at his Forest Park address on 9 March this year. The charge was brought before the court on 7 July following a caution. Rowan faces three additional charges arising from the same date: possession of three assault rifles and associated magazines at a separate location in County Meath, possession of ammunition of different calibre at that same address, and membership of an unlawful organisation. The book of evidence for all charges was served on the accused today. Justice Paul Butler, sitting with Judges Alison Lindsay and Cormac Dunne, remanded Rowan in custody pending his next hearing on 19 July.
A harassment charge against a garda from Bundoran, County Donegal has been withdrawn at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Garda Donal Maguire, aged 40, had previously been found not guilty by reason of insanity on two counts of harassment following a trial last month. The jury returned that verdict after hearing evidence that he had sent a Valentine's card, emails and a social media friend request to a married female sergeant despite being instructed by superiors to cease contact. Mr Maguire, who suffers from early onset dementia, was committed to the Central Mental Hospital following the trial. The Director of Public Prosecutions entered a nolle prosequi on the additional harassment charge, relating to conduct between February and March 2014, resulting in its withdrawal.
Gerrit Plug, a 59-year-old Dutch national, has appealed his conviction for breaching European Union fishing regulations in Irish waters. Plug was found guilty by jury at Letterkenny Circuit Criminal Court of failing to record estimated discards exceeding 50 kilograms, discarding quota-restricted species, and exceeding maximum spacing requirements in water separators aboard the Annelies Ilena between November 22 and 25, 2013. He was sentenced to a fine of €105,000 in March 2015. At the Court of Appeal in Dublin, Plug's counsel challenged the conviction on multiple grounds, questioning whether the prosecution had proven the fish were discarded into the sea rather than merely present on the vessel, and arguing the trial judge erred in legal interpretations regarding logbook offences and water separator regulations. The Director of Public Prosecutions defended the conviction, citing substantial evidence including photographic material and witness testimony from Sea Fisheries Protection Officers. The three-judge panel reserved judgment. The prosecution has separately applied for review of sentence, contending the fine was unduly lenient. Gerrit Plug pleaded not guilty.
At the Central Criminal Court in Dublin on 5 July 2016, Krzystof Grzegorski, aged 22, was found guilty of the murder of Bogdan Michalkiewicz, 41, at Westside Apartments, Letterkenny, County Donegal on 13 May 2013. Grzegorski had pleaded guilty to manslaughter, but the prosecution rejected the plea. The jury reached a unanimous guilty verdict following five hours of deliberation. Justice Patrick McCarthy imposed the mandatory sentence of life imprisonment, backdated to 26 May 2014. The prosecution established that Grzegorski inflicted 46 wounds to the victim's head and face, along with 17 stab wounds to the abdomen, and dropped a television on the victim's head. Pathologist evidence indicated the victim sustained severe injuries including nine stab wounds to the tongue and defensive injuries, indicating he endured significant suffering. A second defendant, Dariusz Weckowicz, 51, was acquitted by direction of the trial judge, having been present at the scene but not proven to have participated in the attack.
The jury in the trial of Krzystof Grzegorski (22) will return tomorrow to continue deliberating on its verdict. Grzegorski is accused of murdering fellow Polish man Bogdan Michalkiewicz (41) at Westside Apartments in Letterkenny, Co Donegal, on May 13, 2013. The defendant pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder. Although he offered a plea of guilty to manslaughter, the State did not accept this plea. Following a trial that lasted almost three weeks at the Central Criminal Court, Justice Patrick McCarthy instructed the eight men and four women on the jury that they could return a verdict of guilty of murder, or not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter. The jury spent nearly three hours deliberating today before being adjourned until tomorrow morning to continue their consideration. The matter remains at the trial stage, with no final verdict or sentence yet determined.
A man has been sentenced to three years imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for his role in two violent car-jackings committed on the same night in April 2014. David Thomas, aged 32, of Glenties Avenue, Finglas, Dublin, pleaded guilty to unlawful seizure of a vehicle at Shankill, Dublin. The court heard that Thomas and another man pulled the driver from his car, assaulted him, and threatened to shoot him after he witnessed their faces. The stolen vehicle was subsequently abandoned on the N11 near Wicklow. Thomas went on to forcibly remove a second driver from a van in the vicinity. Judge John Aylmer imposed a concurrent sentence, stating the Shankill incident was the more serious offence. The victim reported experiencing significant fear and psychological distress following the attack. The defence argued the incidents constituted a chaotic, alcohol-fuelled episode, with no actual firearm involved.
A Polish man has been released from custody at the Central Criminal Court after three years in detention. Justice Patrick McCarthy directed the jury to acquit Dariusz Weckowicz (51) of the murder of Bogdan Michalkiewicz (41) at Westside Apartments, Letterkenny, County Donegal on 13 May 2013, ruling the prosecution evidence insufficient to place him before a jury. Mr Weckowicz had pleaded not guilty to the charge. Separately, Krzysztof Grzegorski (22) remains on trial for the same murder. He has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, a plea the prosecution rejected. The court has heard evidence regarding the circumstances of the death, including multiple injuries sustained by the deceased. Justice McCarthy has instructed the jury on the legal burden of proof, emphasising that intention formed while intoxicated constitutes the same basis for conviction as intention formed while sober. The jury will begin deliberations on Monday.
The trial of Krzystof Grzegorski and Dariusz Weckowicz for the murder of Bogdan Michalkiewicz (41) in Letterkenny, Co Donegal, has heard evidence regarding the accused's background. Grzegorski, who pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, was described as having started drinking at age 14 after moving from Poland. His co-accused, Weckowicz, pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. The State did not accept Grzegorski's manslaughter plea. Detective Garda Alfie McHale testified that Grzegorski had a history of public drunkenness, including a 2010 conviction at age 16. On the weekend of the killing, Grzegorski was seen on CCTV stealing vodka from supermarkets in Letterkenny, including an incident after 6pm on May 13, 2013, when the prosecution states Michalkiewicz was already deceased. Grzegorski was arrested with Weckowicz after security guards called gardai. The trial continues before Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury of eight men and four women.
Krzystof Grzegorski (22) made a video confession from England after learning his co-accused had been arrested for a killing he carried out, the Central Criminal Court heard on Monday. Mr Grzegorski has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter for the death of Bogdan Michalkiewicz (41) at his home in Letterkenny, Co Donegal on May 13, 2013. The State did not accept the guilty plea. His co-accused, Dariusz Weckowicz (51), has pleaded not guilty to murder. During interview at Ronanstown Garda Station in March 2014, gardai heard Mr Grzegorski describe recording the video while in England, stating he would not allow a friend to serve time for the offence. In the video, he confessed to inflicting all deadly wounds and asserted Mr Weckowicz's innocence. Mr Grzegorski told detectives he could not recall specifics of the incident due to heavy drinking but remembered stabbing the deceased in the chest following a dispute. The trial before Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury continues on Wednesday.
A garda from Bundoran, County Donegal, has been committed to the Central Mental Hospital following a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The officer was found not guilty on two counts of harassment against a married female sergeant after a jury determined he was suffering from a mental disorder at the time of the offences, which occurred between February 2012 and February 2013. Medical evidence established that the garda had frontotemporal dementia, diagnosed as early onset, which impaired his judgment and impulse control. The court heard the harassment caused significant distress to the complainant and affected her work and family life. Judge Elma Sheahan ordered the garda's detention at the Central Mental Hospital for inpatient care and treatment, following a clinical assessment indicating he required ongoing treatment at a designated centre.
At the Central Criminal Court, Dariusz Weckowicz has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Bogdan Michalkiewicz on 13 May 2013 at Westside Apartments in Letterkenny, County Donegal. His co-accused, Krzystof Grzegorski, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, a plea the State rejected. During garda interviews on 17 June 2013, Mr Weckowicz told officers he was drinking heavily and could recall only "flashbacks" of the day in question. When presented with CCTV evidence placing him in the area with Mr Grzegorski, he stated he was surprised by his presence there and could not explain it. Gardai noted blood found on his clothing and told him he must have been present when the deceased was killed. Mr Weckowicz maintained he would have intervened had he witnessed violence against his friend and denied knowledge of events. The trial continues before Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury.
Two men stand accused of murdering Bogdan Michalkiewicz on May 13, 2013, at Westside Apartments in Letterkenny, County Donegal. The Central Criminal Court heard that Dariusz Weckowicz, aged 51, told gardaí following his arrest in June 2013 that he was "more than 100 per cent sure" he did not kill the deceased. Weckowicz has pleaded not guilty to murder. His co-accused, Krzystof Grzegorski, aged 22, also from Letterkenny, initially pleaded guilty to manslaughter but not guilty to murder; the State rejected this plea. Grzegorski was initially arrested the day of the alleged killing for an unrelated shoplifting matter at a local store. Gardaí noted what appeared to be dried blood on his clothing upon arrival at the station. The trial before Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury continues before the Central Criminal Court.
At the Central Criminal Court, a former Detective Sergeant gave evidence regarding statements made by a man accused of murder. Michael Carroll told the court that he arrested Dariusz Weckowicz, aged 51, in Letterkenny, County Donegal on 16 June 2013. Following caution, Mr Weckowicz stated he did not kill the alleged victim and expressed certainty of his innocence. Mr Weckowicz and co-accused Dariusz Grzegorski, aged 22, both of Letterkenny, face murder charges relating to the death of Bogdan Michalkiewicz on 13 May 2013 at Westside Apartments in Letterkenny. Mr Grzegorski has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter; the State declined to accept this plea. Mr Weckowicz has pleaded not guilty to murder. The trial, before a jury of twelve, continues.
A consultant pathologist with 28 years' experience told the Central Criminal Court that she had never encountered injuries of the type found on a man discovered dead at his Letterkenny home in May 2013. Dr Alison Armour gave evidence at the trial of Krzystof Grzegorski, aged 22, and Dariusz Weckowicz, aged 51, both of Letterkenny, charged with the murder of Bogdan Michalkiewicz. Mr Grzegorski has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, a plea rejected by the State. Mr Weckowicz has pleaded not guilty. Dr Armour identified at least 46 injuries to the head and face, including stab wounds and injuries consistent with blunt force trauma. She documented multiple stab wounds to the stomach, two penetrating the liver, fractured ribs, and severe fractures to the skull and facial bones. The deceased bore a severed throat and nine stab wounds to the back of the tongue, which she described as extraordinarily unusual. She concluded that three separate injuries would have been sufficient to cause death, with the overall assault being sustained and violent.
At the Central Criminal Court, a forensic expert testified that blood found on clothing and a shoe belonging to Dariusz Weckowicz matched that of Bogdan Michalkiewicz, who died on 13 May 2013 at his home in Westside, Letterkenny, County Donegal. Dr Alan McGee of Forensic Science Ireland examined items Weckowicz surrendered to gardaí four days after the alleged killing. Blood patterns on the jacket indicated Weckowicz was within two metres of the deceased while actively bleeding. Three knives recovered at the scene also bore the victim's blood. Defence counsel questioned whether the evidence established Weckowicz's involvement in inflicting injuries, with Dr McGee stating he could not rule anything in or out. A second forensic witness found bloody footprints on items at the scene that did not match Weckowicz's shoes. Weckowicz, aged 51, and Krzystof Grzegorski, aged 22, both of Letterkenny, stand charged with murder. Grzegorski pleaded guilty to manslaughter, though the State rejected this plea. Weckowicz pleaded not guilty. The trial before Justice Patrick McCarthy continues.
At the Central Criminal Court, a detective from the Garda Technical Bureau described evidence gathered at an apartment in Westside, Letterkenny, following the death of a 41-year-old man in May 2013. Detective Garda Shane Curran outlined findings from the scene, including blood spatter patterns on the ceiling, extensive staining in living areas, and a body bearing injuries to the chest, neck, head and face. He detailed items recovered as evidence, among them a table leg with blood and hair, pillows bearing bloody footprints, and three knives, two of which appeared bloodstained. Two men are before the court on charges arising from the incident. Krzystof Grzegorski, aged 22, pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter; the State did not accept this plea. Dariusz Weckowicz, aged 51, pleaded not guilty to murder. The trial, heard before Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury, continues.
Julian Cuddihy, 43, was committed to the Central Mental Hospital in Dundrum for inpatient care following a trial at the Central Criminal Court. He was accused of murdering his parents, Kathleen (73) and James (77), at their home in Churchtown, Carndonagh, Co Donegal, on October 22, 2014. Cuddihy pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, and a jury delivered a unanimous verdict after less than an hour of deliberation. Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan ordered his committal based on a report by Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist Dr Sally Lenihan, who assessed Cuddihy as suffering from paranoid schizophrenia requiring care available only at the designated centre. The court found he was suffering from a mental disorder under the 2006 Criminal Law (Insanity) Act. Evidence presented at trial detailed Cuddihy's deteriorating mental health, including paranoid delusions involving aliens and the belief that his mother was poisoning him. He reportedly believed killing his parents would send them to heaven. The State Pathologist confirmed multiple axe wounds to the victims' heads and stab wounds to James Cuddihy. The judge expressed deepest sympathies to the family, who conducted themselves appropriately during the difficult proceedings.
A witness at the Central Criminal Court told the jury that a man accused of murder knelt down and swore on his knees that he had not been involved in the killing. Adam Kycwaik said he encountered the accused, Dariusz Weckowicz, a few days after his friend Bogdan Michalkiewicz was discovered beaten to death at his home in Westside Apartments, Letterkenny, County Donegal on May 13, 2013. Mr Weckowicz, aged 51, and Krzystof Grzegorski, aged 22, both formerly of Letterkenny, face murder charges. Mr Grzegorski has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, a plea the State did not accept. Mr Weckowicz has pleaded not guilty to murder. The witness testified that Mr Weckowicz told him he had been present at the scene but was intoxicated and did not participate in the assault. The trial continues before Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury.
A garda from Bundoran, County Donegal, has been found not guilty by reason of insanity of harassing a married female sergeant at a Dublin garda station between February 2012 and February 2013. The 40-year-old man had sent a Valentine's card, numerous emails via the garda Pulse system, and a Facebook friend request to the woman despite repeated warnings from superiors and an oral undertaking to cease contact. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard the behaviour caused the complainant significant stress and affected her work and family life. Two forensic psychiatrists gave evidence that the accused was suffering from frontotemporal dementia, an early-onset condition causing erotomania and an inability to understand the impact of his actions or control his behaviour. The jury returned a not guilty verdict after deliberating for one hour. Judge Elma Sheahan committed the man to the Central Mental Hospital pending a report for 27 June to determine appropriate steps.
Garda Donal Maguire, 40, of Bundoran, Co. Donegal, is on trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on two counts of harassing a female sergeant between February 2012 and February 2013. He has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. Prosecution counsel Gerardine Small BL stated that while the harassment is not disputed, the jury must determine if Maguire suffered from a mental disorder at the time. Two forensic psychiatrists, Dr. Brenda Wright for the State and Dr. Conor O'Neill for the defence, testified that Maguire was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, an early-onset condition, from approximately 2010. They concluded that his disorder, which included symptoms such as erotomania and a lack of empathy, meant he did not appreciate his actions were wrong and lacked the ability to form intent under the Criminal Law (Insanity Act 2006). Both experts noted that his persistent behaviour, despite warnings from superiors, was consistent with his diagnosis. Defence counsel Ronan Kennedy BL described the case as tragic, noting Maguire's promising career was affected by his illness. Maguire is currently being treated in the Central Mental Hospital with no immediate plans for discharge. Both legal teams urged the jury to return a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. The jury, comprising three women and nine men, was addressed by Judge Elma Sheahan and is expected to retire to consider their verdict.
At the Central Criminal Court, a witness told a murder trial that one of the two accused appeared intoxicated and displayed unusual aggression on the date of the alleged killing. Przemyslaw Lyczek, from Letterkenny, described the behaviour of Krzystof Grzegorski (22) as strange and noted the smell of alcohol. The trial concerns the death of Bogdan Michalkiewicz on 13 May 2013 at Westside Apartments in Letterkenny, County Donegal. Grzegorski and Dariusz Weckowicz (51) face murder charges. Grzegorski has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter; the State rejected this plea. Weckowicz has pleaded not guilty to murder. A further witness, Petr Adamovicz, testified that he observed a stain on Weckowicz's clothing shortly after the body was discovered. The trial, heard before Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury, continues.
A garda stationed in Bundoran, County Donegal, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to two counts of harassment against a female sergeant at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The accused is alleged to have sent a Valentine's card, multiple emails and a Facebook friend request to the woman between February 2012 and February 2013, despite repeated warnings from senior officers to cease contact. The prosecution does not dispute that harassment occurred but contends the central issue for the jury is whether the accused was suffering from a mental disorder at the time. The court heard that the woman, who is married with children, had made clear her lack of romantic interest and that the unwanted contact caused her significant distress, affecting her work and family life. A consultant psychiatrist is expected to give evidence that the accused was unable to understand his actions were wrong. The trial continues before Judge Elma Sheahan and jury.
The murder trial of Dariusz Weckowicz and Krzystof Grzegorski, accused of killing Bogdan Michalkiewicz in Letterkenny in 2013, continued before Justice Patrick McCarthy. Both men face murder charges; Mr. Grzegorski pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, a plea the State did not accept, while Mr. Weckowicz pleaded not guilty to murder. Witness Tomasz Michalkiewicz testified that he discovered his brother's body in a state of severe disfigurement, surrounded by smashed furniture and blood. Another witness, Dariusz Miraszewski, described Mr. Weckowicz as a heavy drinker who was not violent, noting he was frail and often passed out. Residents Claire Friel and Nicholas Mulvaney reported hearing raised voices and furniture moving on the day of the alleged incident but did not intervene. The court heard that Mr. Michalkiewicz had struggled with alcohol and a back injury. The trial is ongoing, with further evidence scheduled for the following day.
A member of An Garda Síochána from Bundoran, County Donegal, has gone on trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court charged with harassment offences. Garda Donal Maguire, aged 40 and residing at Rock Road, Bundoran, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to two counts of harassing a woman at a Dublin location. The alleged conduct occurred across two separate periods: between 18 February and 11 March 2012, and between 1 August 2012 and 4 February 2013. The trial commenced before Judge Elma Sheahan and a jury and is anticipated to conclude within two days.