The Special Criminal Court has been asked to direct a finding of not guilty for three men charged with murdering Peter Butterly after privileged information was disclosed in the trial. The men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—were charged with the murder of the 35‑year‑old father of two, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013. Evans and McGrath also pleaded not guilty to firearm offences. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), who had previously testified against the trio, was already serving a three‑and‑half‑year sentence for lesser offences. The court had ruled that Evans and McGrath were lawfully before the court, but the defence amended their application after a previously redacted portion of Cullen's statement was disclosed. The statement, made to Gardaí in July, indicated that Cullen had distanced himself from McGrath and had never really liked him.
Samuel McGuinness, a 24‑year‑old GAA player from Brookfield Park, Rush, pleaded guilty to assaulting Patrick Butterly outside a chip shop on 5 October 2013. Butterly suffered a broken jaw, nine stitches to his eyebrow, three staples to the back of his head, six cracked teeth requiring crowns, and lost 10 kg of weight because he could not eat. He has incurred €42,791 in medical costs, including physiotherapy and bi‑weekly psychologist visits for post‑traumatic stress. McGuinness has complied with the Restorative Justice Programme and has no further Garda contact. He currently has €1,000, which is below Butterly's claim. Judge Dermot Dempsey ordered McGuinness to pay €2,500 in compensation by 26 March; failure to do so will result in a conviction and a €500 fine. The court noted the seriousness of the injuries and the defendant's engagement with the programme.
In a Balbriggan District Court hearing on 22 January 2015, a 27‑year‑old man named Kevin Powney had his case struck out after he completed a community service order. Powney had pleaded guilty to using threatening and abusive behaviour at Rush Train Station on 16 September 2014. The court noted that he had already completed 200 hours of community service for another offence and had 86 hours remaining. Judge Dermot Dempsey had ordered an additional 20 hours of community service in lieu of seven days in prison. Upon completion of the 20‑hour order, the judge struck the case out. The hearing also covered two other cases: Derek Gildea, aged 51, was adjourned for a plea or hearing regarding unlawful possession of a combat knife, and Catherine Joyce, aged 42, was remanded on continuing bail for a case involving assault on Garda Nicholas Duane and intoxication. The court scheduled a further hearing for Joyce next week.
The Special Criminal Court will hear legal applications from the defence tomorrow in the trial of three Dubliners charged with murdering Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath on 6 March 2013. The accused are Dean Evans (24) of Raheny, Edward McGrath (33) of Tallaght, and Sharif Kelly (44) of Balbriggan, all of whom have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and to firearm offences. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), who had been part of the alleged murder plan, turned State's witness and is currently serving a three‑and‑half‑year sentence for lesser offences. The court has ruled that Evans and McGrath were lawfully before the court, and the defence has received new material and will make further applications on Thursday morning.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Paulius Taracvius, a 34‑year‑old Lithuanian mechanic from Finglas, pleaded guilty to possession of stolen property. He admitted that he had delivered a stolen Audi Q3 to a yard on Flemington Road, Balbriggan, where a Garda raid recovered four high‑end vehicles worth €100,000, including an Audi A5, the Q3, a Nissan Qashqai and a BMW 3‑series. The cars had been stolen from homes in Rathmines, Rathgar and Celbridge in September 2013, with keys often taken from letterboxes. Judge Martin Nolan, after hearing the case, suspended a two‑year prison sentence, noting that Taracvius's role was limited to delivering the Audi. The court also noted that other individuals involved in dismantling and shipping stolen vehicles had received weekly payments and faced separate sentences. The case highlighted the broader investigation into the dismantling and export of stolen high‑end cars from Ireland to Eastern Europe.
The Special Criminal Court is set to rule tomorrow on a defence application to direct a finding of not guilty for three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co. Meath, on 6 March 2013. The accused are Dean Evans (24) of Raheny, Edward McGrath (33) of Tallaght, and Sharif Kelly (44) of Balbriggan, all of whom have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and, in the case of Evans and McGrath, to firearm offences. The trial, now in its 52nd day, also involves David Cullen (30), who was alleged to have been part of the murder plan but has turned State's witness and is currently serving a three‑and‑half‑year sentence for lesser offences. Cullen has provided evidence implicating the three men.
The Special Criminal Court has adjourned the trial of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, until tomorrow. Butterly was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, Co. Meath, on 6 March 2013. The accused are Dean Evans (24) of Raheny, Edward McGrath (33) of Tallaght, and Sharif Kelly (44) of Balbriggan, all of whom pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. They also pleaded not guilty to firearm offences. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), who had been involved in the murder plan, turned State's witness and is serving a three‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence for other offences. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy, heard applications for a not‑guilty finding and will continue the hearing tomorrow. The trial is in its 51st day.
Swords District Court heard five matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Mark Sheehan pleaded guilty to driving without insurance. The matter was adjourned until March 9th for a Probation & Welfare report to assess suitability for 240 hours of community service in lieu of a four-month prison sentence. Kevin Carroll pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage to a restaurant. He was remanded on continuing bail to provide €215 in compensation, with the facts of the case to be heard on March 2nd. David Lawrence, who was absent, had a guilty plea entered for being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour. He was convicted and fined €200. William Whelan pleaded guilty to holding a mobile phone while driving. He was convicted and fined €100. Marc Savage pleaded guilty to parking a lorry on a footpath. He was convicted and fined €100.
The Special Criminal Court will hear the closing submissions of the three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, on Monday. The trial began in September and has lasted almost four months. The defendants – Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44) – have pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), who was involved in the planning, turned State witness and gave evidence in November implicating the three. The court has considered evidence including Cullen's testimony, clothing, fingerprints and forensic samples taken from Evans and McGrath after their arrest. The proceedings will be heard by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy, Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan and Judge Cormac Dunne. The case is set to conclude with the court's decision on the admissibility of the evidence and the final judgment.
In a case heard at Balbriggan District Court, a 33‑year‑old man named Vatalie Raru of Rush, Co. Dublin, is alleged to have possessed a nunchuck on 17 December and to have used threatening and abusive behaviour towards Gardaí. According to Sergeant Tony Tighe, when Gardaí entered Raru's home, he allegedly emerged with the nunchuck—a wooden piece with a chain used in martial arts—and swung it at the officers. Judge Dermot Dempsey accepted jurisdiction and adjourned the case to 5 February.
Li Lian, owner of China Garden takeaway on Drogheda Street, Balbriggan, pleaded guilty in Balbriggan District Court to three counts of employing two foreign nationals without work permits on 21 October 2013, 8 November 2013 and 10 April 2014. An inspector from the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation found the two Chinese chefs working without valid permits. One chef had applied for a permit between 2012 and early 2014 but was refused; he now holds a permit since September 2014. The other chef has since left. Ms Lian was fined €1,700, below the maximum €4,000 per offence.
In a Balbriggan District Court hearing on 15 January 2015, Olivia Weldon, aged 40, pleaded guilty to theft after taking €55.56 worth of items from a Tesco Extra on 11 December 2014. She claimed she was under pressure due to her daughter's birthday and the upcoming Christmas. The judge fined her €150. A separate case involved Thomas Gaffney, 19, charged with multiple thefts including a car, bicycle, truckster, and chicken fillet rolls. His hearing was scheduled for 2 February at Swords District Court. Anthony Handley, 63, faced a dangerous driving charge; the book of evidence would be served in March, and he remained on bail until 5 March. Kevin Harmon, 26, was charged with assault causing harm to Darren O'Donovan; he was remanded on continuing bail and given an alibi caution, with a next appearance set for 30 January at the Criminal Courts of Justice. Olivia Weldon was convicted.
The State has closed its case in the Special Criminal Court trial of three Dubliners charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, outside a Meath pub. The incident occurred on 6 March 2013 in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston. The accused—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—had pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), had previously testified against them. The prosecution's evidence, including testimony that Butterly was lured to the car park by a man who fired shots from a Toyota Corolla, was fully presented. With all evidence called, the State has formally closed its case, and the trial will continue before the judges on Friday. The summary is based solely on the article text.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 14 January 2015, Sharif Kelly, 44, denied that the clothing found in his car after the murder of Peter Butterly was a change of clothes for the killer. Kelly said he had been driving from tending his horse when his engine light came on and the car conked on Flemington Road. He claimed to have restarted the vehicle before Gardaí approached and arrested him. He also denied any knowledge of the murder or of following the murder vehicle. Kelly stated the duvet cover in his boot was to keep the car clean while collecting hay, not for forensic purposes. DNA evidence linked tracksuit clothing to Dean Evans, a balaclava and gloves to Evans, and a wig to Edward McGrath. The trial was in its 48th day, with prosecution evidence to finish on Thursday. Sharif Kelly pleaded not guilty. Dean Evans pleaded not guilty. Edward McGrath pleaded not guilty.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, forensic evidence was presented linking firearms residue to the clothing of two of the three men charged with the 2013 murder of Peter Butterly. Dr John O'Shaughnessy testified that a grey jumper worn by Dean Evans and a grey jacket worn by Edward McGrath contained gunshot residue. DNA analysis of items linked to Sharif Kelly's wife's vehicle revealed a match to Evans on a tracksuit, a balaclava and gloves, and a match to McGrath on a black wig. The court heard that DNA can be transferred between individuals and persist for long periods. The trial, now in its 47th day, is expected to conclude with the prosecution's evidence on Wednesday, before a three‑judge panel presided by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy. The defendants remain not guilty on all charges.
Thomas Dennis, 21, was found guilty of failing to report an incident in which a woman's finger was severed when she was caught in the door of his car after leaving a Balbriggan nightclub. Dennis admitted he did not realise the finger was trapped until the following morning, when he discovered the tip stuck in the passenger side of the door. He called his father for advice and later contacted the gardai about three hours after finding the severed finger. The court noted that Dennis had no prior convictions and that he had been in shock when he discovered the injury. Judge John Coughlan convicted Dennis and fined him €100, stating that a driver is legally responsible for the actions of his passengers and that Dennis deliberately chose not to return to the scene. The decision was made at Swords District Court. The victim, hairdresser Shauna Weldon, has lost the top of her finger and is still receiving physiotherapy. Thomas Dennis pleaded not guilty.
Swords District Court sentenced four defendants. Jamie Cunningham (18) of Balbriggan, who pleaded guilty to failing to comply with a garda directive, was sentenced to one month in prison after failing to complete a previous 100-hour community service order; a second charge of obstructing the Gardai was struck out. Genadijs Ogurcous (45) of Lusk pleaded guilty to theft after cutting security tags from items in a Swords department store and received a six-month suspended sentence. Ishtiag Ahmad (33) of Coolock, who pleaded not guilty to permitting a child under three to travel without appropriate restraint, was convicted after Judge Dermot Dempsey accepted garda evidence over his defence; he was fined €150. Kevin Harris (24) of Clarehall, who pleaded not guilty to driving under the influence of cannabis, was found guilty following a collision at Hearse Road; the court imposed a four-year driving ban and a €1,000 fine. All matters were finalised at the sentencing stage.
The Special Criminal Court has adjourned the trial of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, until the New Year. Butterly was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, Co. Meath, on 6 March 2013. The accused are Dean Evans (24) of Raheny, Edward McGrath (33) of Tallaght, and Sharif Kelly (44) of Balbriggan, all of whom pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and to firearm offences on the same day. The trial, which entered its 45th day, also heard that David Cullen (30), who had previously been involved in the plan, had turned State's witness and is serving a three‑and‑half‑year sentence for other offences. Justice Deirdre Murphy announced that the case would resume on 13 January.
The Special Criminal Court will decide on the admissibility of a set of evidence in the trial of three men accused of murdering Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co. Meath, on 6 March 2013. The defendants – Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44) – have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and to firearm offences. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), who had been involved in the murder plan, turned State's witness and is serving a three‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence for lesser offences. The trial has heard that Butterly was lured to the car park by an unknown man, shots were fired at his vehicle and again when he tried to flee, and he was found collapsed by a lone Garda and pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Paul McGee, 21, was placed on a 12-month Probation Bond at Balbriggan District Court after pleading guilty to causing criminal damage and breaching a protection order. The charges relate to an incident on July 22nd at Selskar Avenue, Skerries, where Garda Anthony O'Connor alleged McGee kicked in a door and used threatening behaviour. Judge Dermot Dempsey ordered McGee to comply with Probation Services requirements. In a separate matter, Derek Gildea, 51, is charged with the unlawful possession of a combat knife allegedly found at Balbriggan Garda Station on October 24th. His case was adjourned to January 15th for a hearing. Additionally, Thomas Weldon, 32, is alleged to have committed burglary and assault causing harm in Brega on June 14, 2014. His case was adjourned to February 9th at Swords District Court. Finally, Daniel Michalow, 28, is alleged to have breached a protection order in Rush on December 7th by assaulting a woman. Sergeant Tony Tighe requested an adjournment to seek directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding potential further charges. Judge Dempsey adjourned Michalow's case until February 26th.
Artur Pietrynka, 40, of Convent Lane in Rush, pleaded guilty at Balbriggan District Court to urinating on Upper Main Street in Rush on November 22nd. He also admitted to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour on the same date. Sergeant Tony Tighe testified that Garda Robert Dillon observed Pietrynka urinating in public at 8.45pm, forcing two females to cross the road. Pietrynka allegedly became abusive, shouting at the garda and providing only his first name before walking off. Although Pietrynka has no previous convictions, he received an Adult Caution in 2012 for similar offences. Defence solicitor Donagh McGowan stated that Pietrynka has limited English, claimed he was "caught short," and asserted he was not very drunk. Judge Dermot Dempsey rejected the suggestion that language barriers excused the conduct, remarking that it made the situation worse that the defendant claimed he was not very drunk. The judge described the actions as "animalistic behaviour" in a civilised society. The matter was adjourned until February 12th. The court ordered a Probation Report to assess Pietrynka's suitability for 240 hours of community service in lieu of a two-month prison sentence.
Rachel Breen, a 46‑year‑old Dublin‑based occupational therapist, pleaded guilty in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm after she drove through a poorly marked junction on Naul Road, Balbriggan, on 6 October 2012. The incident left a two‑year‑old boy with permanent facial scars. Breen was found at the scene administering first aid and was later disqualified from driving for four years. Judge Desmond Hogan described her as a "decent woman" who made a "serious error of judgement" and imposed a €5,000 fine, noting that no aggravating factors such as speed or intoxication were present. The court did not impose a custodial sentence, and all injured parties were compensated through Breen's insurance. The judge highlighted that the fine would impact Breen's working life due to her driving ban.
The Special Criminal Court is hearing submissions on the admissibility of a tranche of evidence in the non‑jury murder trial of three men charged with the killing of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co. Meath on 6 March 2013. The defendants – Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44) – have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and to firearm offences. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), who had been involved in the murder plan, turned State's witness and is serving a three‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence for lesser offences. The court has heard that Butterly was lured to the car park by another man, shots were fired at his vehicle and again when he tried to flee, and he was found collapsed by a lone Garda and pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Gillian O'Donnell, 38, received a four‑year suspended sentence for aggravated burglary at an Artane house on 19 April 2013. She pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court and admitted she was driven to the home by a third person who suggested the burglary would repay a debt. O'Donnell claimed she had no knowledge of the violence that would occur and that her ex‑boyfriend, Alex Harris, had 52 prior convictions and was later sentenced to six years for the same offence. The judge noted O'Donnell's drug addiction and her plans for residential treatment, accepted her lesser role, and suspended the sentence under strict conditions. O'Donnell expressed remorse, described duress and a lack of anticipation of Harris's actions, and stated she would not have participated had she known the extent of the violence.
Mark Allen, 36, of Mulhuddart, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for falsely imprisoning Ciaran Noonan on October 20, 2011. Allen pleaded guilty to this charge, as well as destroying phone evidence. The court noted that Allen was not charged with the victim's death, though Judge Patrick McCartan stated Allen's actions ultimately led to Mr Noonan's death. Allen received a nine-year prison sentence. Co-accused Daniel Quinn, 24, of Balbriggan, pleaded guilty to unlawfully killing Mr Noonan between October 20 and November 4, 2011, and destroying phone evidence. Lynn Issacson, 34, of East Wall, pleaded guilty to destroying phone evidence on October 20, 2011, and received a three-year suspended sentence. The court heard that Mr Noonan, a father-of-one, was abducted from Russell Avenue, East Wall, after owing Allen drugs money. His body was found near Trim on November 4, 2011. A post-mortem revealed neck compression as the cause of death. Allen had previously skipped bail conditions and was arrested in Holland earlier this year. The judge expressed sympathy for the Noonan family, describing the victim as a young man who was dearly loved and whose departure left his family deeply traumatised.
Joseph Lawrence, 21, of Gardiner's Hill, Balbriggan, was sentenced to four years in prison for arson at McNeil Hall apartment complex on 9 April 2012. He admitted setting the fire deliberately while drinking alcohol and taking cocaine. Lawrence and friends had entered a vacant apartment by breaking a patio door, and after leaving, he and another man set chairs on fire for "the buzz." The blaze spread to the balcony, causing €115,000 of damage, accelerated by turpentine. He has 35 prior convictions. The court noted he was the only one to admit his role and that he is no criminal mastermind. Judge Martin Nolan backdated the sentence to 12 September 2013, the date of his first custody, and suspended the final 16 months. The sentence reflects the seriousness of setting fire in a built‑up area. Joseph Lawrence pleaded guilty.
In a murder trial in Dublin, a former co‑accused turned State witness, David Cullen, testified that his former co‑accused were "screwed" because of the evidence against them. The Special Criminal Court found Cullen's evidence admissible. The case concerns the 2013 shooting death of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston. The accused are Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44), all of whom pleaded not guilty to murder and, for Evans and McGrath, to firearm offences. Cullen, aged 30, had previously been involved in the murder plan and is now serving a three‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence for other offences. Gardaí and the Prison Service implemented extra security for his testimony, which caused long queues outside the Criminal Courts of Justice.
James McDonagh, aged 22, was sentenced to two months in prison after he threw a fine at a traffic warden and verbally abused him, telling the warden to "shove it up your hole." The incident occurred on 14 May at Drogheda Street in Balbriggan, where McDonagh had been parked in a loading bay for two minutes. He approached the warden, threw the fine, and began threatening and verbally abusing the warden, who was forced to hide. McDonagh had previously pleaded guilty to using threatening and abusive behaviour. He has 11 prior convictions and was under financial pressure at the time. The judge noted that McDonagh had already served community service and did not appear to have learned his lesson, leading to the custodial sentence. The sentence was fixed with recognisance pending any appeal.
Swords District Court sentenced five defendants in separate matters. Mark Delaney, 24, pleaded guilty to possessing €300 worth of cannabis for sale or supply and unlawful possession. Judge Dermot Dempsey sentenced him to nine months in prison for sale and supply, with a concurrent three-month term for possession, noting he had exhausted all avenues. Gary Daly, 25, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of PVP. He was ordered to complete 240 hours of community service in lieu of a four-month prison sentence; the case was remanded until February for a review and updated Probation Report. William O'Brien, 58, pleaded guilty to being intoxicated. He received a six-month suspended sentence and a two-year Peace Bond with a condition of sober habits. Caroline Collins, 32, pleaded guilty to stealing €256.81 worth of children's clothes. She received a six-month suspended sentence and a two-year Peace Bond. Dean Whelan, 27, pleaded guilty to stealing €85 in cash. The matter was adjourned until March for an updated Probation Report to assess suitability for community service.
At Balbriggan District Court, Judge Dermot Dempsey struck out cases against Thomas and Alan Larkin after they paid €500 to St Vincent de Paul. Thomas Larkin (36) pleaded guilty to assaulting a youth causing harm, while Alan Larkin (33) pleaded guilty to producing a wheel brace. The court heard the brothers reacted to youths throwing rocks at their car, which contained a baby. Judge Dempsey warned them they cannot take the law into their own hands. Keith Daly (21) pleaded guilty to handling stolen property, specifically a red Carrera mountain bike. He was placed on a 12-month Probation Bond, ordered to comply with Probation Services recommendations, engage in Offence Focus work, and be assessed for training and employment. Julian Donnelly (28) pleaded guilty to possession of €20 of cannabis resin. He was convicted and fined €300. Judge Dempsey noted he had no evidence Donnelly had stopped using drugs since March and warned he was sailing close to a prison sentence. Damien Costello (35) pleaded guilty to stealing €20 of petrol from two service stations. He paid €100 in compensation and was placed on a 12-month Probation Bond. Meanwhile, cases for John Scott (36), charged with dangerous driving and having excessively worn tyres, and Grainne Kealy (56), charged with driving without due caution and attention, were adjourned until January 8th for a plea or to fix a hearing date, as solicitors awaited outstanding statements and photographs.
The Special Criminal Court will decide on Tuesday whether a prosecution witness's evidence is admissible in the trial of three Dublin men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co. Meath, on 6 March 2013. The defendants—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—have pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences. The trial, now in its 42nd day, has heard that Butterly was lured to the car park by another man, that a Toyota Corolla entered the car park and shots were fired at his vehicle, and that further shots were fired when he tried to flee. CCTV footage captured vehicles entering and exiting the car park but did not show the killing.
The Special Criminal Court is set to decide whether a prosecution witness's evidence can be admitted in the case of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston on 6 March 2013. The defendants—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—have pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences. The trial, now in its 41st day, has heard that Butterly was lured to the car park by an unknown man, that a Toyota Corolla entered the premises, and that shots were fired at his vehicle and again when he tried to flee. CCTV footage captured vehicles entering and leaving the car park but did not show the killing. A witness was heard in a 'Voir Dire' today, and the court will later rule on the admissibility of that witness's evidence.
The trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly for the alleged murder of Peter Butterly and related firearm offences continued at the Special Criminal Court. All three defendants, who are accused of killing the 35-year-old father of two in Gormanston, Co Meath, have pleaded not guilty. Evans and McGrath also face firearm charges on the same occasion. On the fortieth day of the trial, David Cullen, a former accused who turned State's witness, testified that he would have "lied through his teeth" if he had stood trial for murder. Cullen admitted to a history of dishonesty, including lying to gardai and committing thefts, but denied being prepared to commit perjury. He stated he would lie to avoid life imprisonment. The prosecution alleges Cullen was part of the murder plan before his cooperation. The court heard evidence regarding Cullen's credibility and past criminal conduct, including a faked burglary and theft of rings and a phone. The trial is ongoing, with no findings, sentences, or finalisations recorded at this stage.
Swords District Court heard three matters. Mark O'Toole, 26, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis for sale or supply. He was sentenced to six months in prison. The judge refused to suspend any portion of the sentence, noting O'Toole had been afforded every opportunity. O'Toole immediately appealed the sentence after recognisance was fixed. Alexandra Mursean, 28, pleaded guilty to drink driving and driving without insurance. He was disqualified from driving for two years, fined €500 for drink driving, and fined a further €300 for driving without insurance. Keith McNamara, 22, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of €1,100 worth of cannabis herb. The case was adjourned until February 2nd for an updated Probation Report and urine analysis. The judge noted McNamara had complied with the Restorative Justice Programme but required further reports before finalising the sentence.
Aaron Black, aged 23, was part of a four‑man gang that robbed a Balbriggan jeweller's shop on 10 May 2013. The gang threatened staff with a claw hammer, smashed display cases and stole €15,370 worth of jewellery. Black was arrested shortly after the robbery when he was seen in a taxi on the M1, changing clothes. He identified himself on CCTV, apologised to the shop owners, the taxi driver and the Balbriggan community, and pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Judge Mary Ellen Ring sentenced him to three years in prison, suspended in full on the condition that he keep the peace for three years. He is now employed, claims to be drug‑free, and has cooperated with probation services. The court noted his moderate risk of re‑offending but that he has not attracted further Garda attention since the robbery. The jeweller's estimated economic loss was €2,800, including loss of business.
The Special Criminal Court examined CCTV footage from the car park of the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, where Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, was shot dead on 6 March 2013. Three Dublin men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—are on trial for his murder and have pleaded not guilty. Evans and McGrath also pleaded not guilty to firearm offences. The footage shows vehicles entering and exiting the car park but does not capture the shooting. Witnesses, including Detective Garda Shane Curran, were heard in a 'Voir Dire' session, and the court will decide later whether the footage is admissible. The trial continues with Justice Deirdre Murphy presiding, and McGrath's legal team will cross‑examine David Cullen, a former co‑accused who has turned State's witness. The case remains at the trial stage.
Darren Fagan, aged 20, was convicted at Balbriggan District Court for intoxication and threatening behaviour after giving a two‑finger gesture to Garda Wayne Keown on Drogheda Street. The court warned him to apologise to the Garda and to donate €100 to the Garda Benevolent Fund by 27 November to avoid conviction. Fagan admitted he had not apologised and could not raise the money. He pleaded guilty to the offence, which occurred at about 11.20 pm on 27 September. His defence solicitor noted his history of hostel stays and addiction issues, but also that he had completed a Health & Fitness course and an animation course. Judge Dermot Dempsey fined him €100 and imposed recognisance pending appeal, as he had failed to meet the court's conditions.
At Balbriggan District Court, Tom Maughan pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour. Judge Dermot Dempsey sentenced him to 150 hours of community service work in lieu of a month in prison, following a Probation Service assessment. Stephen Nyantaki, who had previously pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and non-payment of a taxi fare, failed to appear for sentencing, resulting in a bench warrant for his arrest. Niall Skelly, charged with the theft of groceries, was remanded to February 19th and granted bail with a condition to refrain from entering the relevant Tesco supermarket. Thomas Gaffney, alleged to have unauthorisedly taken a car, bicycle, and truckster, and stolen chicken fillet rolls, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on January 8th for a plea or hearing date. Derek Gildea, charged with unlawful possession of a combat knife, had his case adjourned to December 18th as he was not present in court. Additionally, Brendan Donovan, alleged to be in possession of a stolen Ford Transit van, was granted a hearing date of January 5th at Swords District Court.
The trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly for the murder of Peter Butterly is continuing before the Special Criminal Court. The three defendants, who are alleged to have murdered the 35-year-old father of two and committed firearm offences on the same occasion, have all pleaded not guilty. During cross-examination, State witness David Cullen, a former co-accused who turned State's witness, denied that joining the Witness Protection Programme would be an attractive option. Defence counsel for Sharif Kelly suggested Cullen had little to lose and that leaving Ireland would be a fresh start, citing Cullen's limited family connections. Cullen rejected this characterization, though he acknowledged a phone conversation with his father where he described going abroad as a "fresh start" to escape local issues. Cullen, who is currently serving a three-and-a-half-year sentence for lesser offences, agreed he faced a serious risk of a life sentence for the Butterly murder. He also acknowledged offering the State information on other high-profile murders to secure his deal. The trial is proceeding before a three-judge, non-jury court presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy.
The Special Criminal Court has ordered an examination of the communications between David Cullen, the chief prosecution witness in the murder trial of Peter Butterly, and his solicitor from 6 March 2013 to 5 June 2014. Cullen, who was a co‑accused in the case and later became a State witness in June 2014, has already been dealt with by the court for lesser offences. He has agreed to voluntarily disclose documents relating to his communications with his solicitor since 5 June 2014, but this does not waive his claim to legal professional privilege. Defence lawyers sought disclosure of all communications, but Cullen claimed privilege during cross‑examination after giving evidence implicating the three accused men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—in the murder of the 35‑year‑old Peter Butterly in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co. Meath on 6 March 2013. Dean Evans pleaded not guilty. Edward McGrath pleaded not guilty.
Swords District Court heard four matters. Jandean Hyland pleaded guilty to assault causing harm after allegedly headbutting a victim at a nightclub. Judge Dempsey ordered Hyland to pay €1,250 in compensation by February 23rd to avoid a conviction. Keith Hammond pleaded guilty to using violent and threatening behaviour at a Garda station. The case was remanded until January 15th to assess suitability for an Adult Caution. Arthur Creedy pleaded guilty to theft for using a receipt to refund stolen runners. Judge Dempsey sentenced him to one month in prison, stating he would not increase his current sentence. Patrick Clarke was found guilty of driving without a licence and no tax after the judge proceeded in his absence. He was fined €200 for no tax and €100 for driving without a licence. A charge of no insurance was dismissed. All proceedings were handled by Judge Dermot Dempsey.
The Special Criminal Court will rule on Tuesday regarding the disclosure of communications between the chief prosecution witness and his solicitor. This procedural issue arose on the 35th day of the trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly, who are accused of murdering dissident republican Peter Butterly. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the murder of the 35-year-old father of two. Evans and McGrath have additionally pleaded not guilty to firearm offences on the same occasion. The court heard that David Cullen, the State's witness, agreed to disclose documents relating to his communications with his solicitor since June 5, 2014. However, the State maintained this was not a general waiver of legal professional privilege, while defence lawyers sought disclosure of all such communications. Cullen, who is currently serving a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence, allegedly turned State's witness after being part of the murder plan. He implicated the three accused in Butterly's shooting in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6, 2013. During cross-examination, Cullen raised privilege claims and requested to speak to his solicitor, a request the court initially refused before acceding to it. The three-judge, non-jury court will consider its ruling on the disclosure matter over the weekend.
In a Balbriggan District Court hearing on 27 November 2014, Adam Erity, aged 21, received a nine‑month suspended sentence and a three‑year driving disqualification after pleading guilty to unlawfully taking a Mazda 323 from a house at Chapel Farm, Lusk, on 14–15 October 2012. Erity, who admitted substance abuse at the time, had 23 prior convictions and was arrested and fully admitted the offence. The judge, Dermot Dempsey, imposed the suspended sentence and disqualification. The court also adjourned a separate case involving Charles Hunt, 28, charged with unlawful possession of ketamine, to 11 December 2014. Additionally, Przemyslaw Kutszal, 45, was convicted and fined €250 for assaulting his ex‑girlfriend and €100 for criminal damage, and ordered to pay €400 to Charles Reid for property damage. Noel Drummond, 45, was convicted and fined €200 for holding a mobile phone while driving, with the court noting the fine exceeded the standard fixed penalty.
The Special Criminal Court heard that chief prosecution witness David Cullen has agreed to voluntarily disclose some communications with his solicitor, Mr Dominic Mc Ginn SC, to the defence. This disclosure covers documents from June 5, 2014, but does not constitute a general waiver of his claim to legal professional privilege. Prosecuting counsel Ms Una Ni Raifeartaigh SC noted that Cullen previously refused to answer cross-examination questions regarding these communications, asserting his privilege. The court is currently hearing legal submissions on the scope of this disclosure, as defence lawyers seek access to all such communications. Cullen, who is serving a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence, allegedly turned State's witness after being part of the murder plan. He implicated the three accused in the shooting of dissident republican Peter Butterly, a 35-year-old father of two, in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6, 2013. The defendants are Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33), and Sharif Kelly (44). All three have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Evans and McGrath have additionally pleaded not guilty to firearm offences on the same occasion. The trial, which is on its 34th day, is continuing.
Nerigus Flederis, 34, a Lithuanian mechanic living in a filthy caravan in Balbriggan, was sentenced to three years for stripping high‑end stolen cars for shipment to Eastern Europe. He pleaded guilty to possession of four stolen vehicles – an Audi A5, an Audi Q3, a Nissan Qashqai and a BMW 3‑series – and two petrol tanks on 20 September 2013. The judge accepted his plea on the basis of recklessness, noting he had no prior convictions and had not profited from the operation. Judge Mary Ellen Ring suspended the last 18 months of the sentence, citing his lack of profit and the successful Garda investigation. Flederis was remanded in custody after arrest, as he could not afford bail, and he has a six‑year‑old son in Lithuania. The cars were seized after a surveillance operation that traced a BMW from Celbridge to Balbriggan.
The Special Criminal Court has reserved its decision on whether senior counsel Dominic Mc Ginn SC has a right of audience to advise the main prosecution witness, David Cullen, during the ongoing trial. The procedural issue arose on the thirty-third day of the trial, where Cullen claimed legal professional privilege over communications with his solicitor during cross-examination. Presiding Judge Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy described the situation as unprecedented and directed that Mc Ginn be provided with relevant trial extracts to advise Cullen on the nature of the disclosure sought by the defence. The defence was ordered to supply a list of the information they seek to disclose to ensure a fair trial. The court will hear further submissions on the disclosure issue tomorrow. The trial concerns the alleged murder of Peter Butterly, a 35-year-old father of two, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6, 2013. Defendants Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly have all pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Evans and McGrath have additionally pleaded not guilty to firearm offences on the same occasion. Cullen, who allegedly turned State's witness, had previously implicated the three accused in the killing. The matter remains at the pre-trial or trial stage regarding procedural rights, with no final verdict or sentence issued.
The Special Criminal Court has ordered that two counsel be assigned to advise David Cullen, the chief prosecution witness, during his cross-examination in the ongoing trial of three men accused of murdering Peter Butterly. Presiding Judge Deirdre Murphy described the situation as unprecedented, noting a lack of superior court guidance regarding legal professional privilege. The court directed that excerpts from Cullen's previous evidence be made available to his legal team, a move opposed by the defence. Cullen, who pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol at the Huntsman Inn and was jailed for three-and-a-half years in July, turned State's witness after a nolle prosequi was entered on the murder count. He testified that he was tasked with picking up a gun outside Gormanston College, where he was arrested after it was thrown from a car. The trial continues before a three-judge non-jury court. Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly have all pleaded not guilty to murdering the 35-year-old father of two. Evans and McGrath have additionally pleaded not guilty to firearm offences on the same occasion. The matter remains at the trial stage, with the court proceeding with the cross-examination of the State's witness.
Swords District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Ivans Zinkevics, 49, pleaded guilty to trespassing, intoxication, and threatening behaviour. He was sentenced to 240 hours of community service in lieu of a two-month prison term, following a positive probation report. Mairead McRory, 34, admitted to drink driving after a collision. Judge Dempsey convicted her, fined her €750, and disqualified her from driving for three years, a disqualification postponed until March. Tom Costello, 22, pleaded guilty to theft. Despite 47 previous convictions, the judge granted him a final opportunity, convicting him and sentencing him to four months in prison, suspended for two years. Cathy Lawrence, 22, pleaded guilty to using a false driving licence to secure furniture finance. The matter was not concluded with a standard sentence; instead, she was ordered to pay €350 to The Gary Kelly Cancer Support Centre. In a separate procedural stage, Calin Scintei, 22, was charged with handling stolen brandy and possessing a foiled bag. His case was adjourned, with a hearing date set for January 26.
Emma Cowley, a 23‑year‑old Montessori worker from Swords, pleaded guilty to assaulting Garda Miriam O'Donovan on 16 August at Swords Garda Station. Cowley was intoxicated, used threatening and abusive language, and struck the Garda on the right side of her face with an elbow, causing a sore jaw. She called the Garda a "dirty lesbian slag" and told her to "go f**k yourself." The incident was reported by a taxi driver who had seen Cowley asleep in the back seat. Cowley appeared late for her hearing at Swords District Court, where Judge Dermot Dempsey postponed the case to Balbriggan District Court. After Cowley paid €500 to the Garda Benevolent Fund, the judge struck the case out, warning her to behave better in the future. The case was dismissed without further proceedings. Emma Cowley had the case struck out.
Balbriggan District Court heard five matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Jennifer Jordan pleaded guilty to driving without insurance and an NCT. She was fined €500 and €100 respectively, with disqualification waived under special circumstances. Liam Daly pleaded guilty to threatening behaviour and intoxication, receiving fines of €300 and €100. Kirian Onyeme pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis; he was convicted, fined €250, and the drugs were ordered destroyed. Jonathan Kendellan pleaded guilty to drink driving. He was convicted, fined €750, and disqualified for six years. Stephen Nyantaki pleaded guilty to intoxication and non-payment of a taxi fare. The matter was adjourned until December 4th for facts to be heard, with continuing bail granted. All defendants were represented by counsel, and recognisances were fixed where applicable.