The Special Criminal Court trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly, who are accused of murdering Peter Butterly at the Huntsman Inn in March 2013, continued with procedural developments regarding State witness David Cullen. Evans, McGrath, and Kelly have pleaded not guilty to the murder, while Evans and McGrath also face firearm charges. Cullen, who previously pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol and was jailed for three-and-a-half years, entered the witness box to request a consultation with his solicitor before continuing his cross-examination. Although the court initially refused, presiding Justice Deirdre Murphy ultimately granted the request, noting it was appropriate for the witness to receive legal advice on arising issues. Cullen had previously testified that he was part of a plan to pick up a gun, which he later claimed was used in the killing. He described receiving ammunition from Evans and witnessing a gun thrown from a car near Gormanston College. The court heard that Butterly was shot in the car park after being lured there. The trial, which involves a non-jury panel, was adjourned to continue on Tuesday before Justices Murphy, Heneghan, and Judge Dunne.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly, who are accused of murdering Peter Butterly at the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston on March 6, 2013, continues before a three-judge bench. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge; Evans and McGrath also face firearm offences. Former co-accused David Cullen, who pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol and was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in July, testified as a State witness. Cullen admitted requesting to give evidence behind security glass to avoid public view, citing safety concerns, though he had not yet been accepted into the Witness Protection Programme. He alleged that Kelly and an unidentified man, MD, recruited him to retrieve a gun, which was later thrown from a car near Gormanston College. Cullen stated Evans and McGrath stayed at his apartment the night before the killing, with Evans providing ammunition and McGrath bringing a bag containing a gun and disguises. The court heard Butterly was lured to the car park, where shots were fired at his vehicle and then at him as he fled. The trial is ongoing and was not adjourned or finalised during this reporting period.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence from David Cullen, a former murder accused who turned State's witness, in the ongoing trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly. The three men have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6, 2013. Evans and McGrath also face firearm offences at the same location and date. Cullen, who pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol at the scene, was jailed for three-and-a-half years in July. His plea was accepted by the DPP, resulting in a nolle prosequi on the murder count. Cullen testified that he was instructed to pick up a gun outside Gormanston College on the day of the shooting, identifying Evans and McGrath as individuals present at his apartment beforehand. He claimed Evans provided ammunition and that McGrath retrieved a bag containing the firearm and disguises. Cullen stated he was arrested immediately after picking up the gun. Under cross-examination, he denied planning the murder, stating he did not commit it and sought to avoid a life sentence. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy, warned against disruption as Cullen's evidence caused significant security arrangements and queues. The trial continues before a three-judge panel.
In the Special Criminal Court on 18 November 2014, a security operation created long queues as the court prepared to hear evidence from former co‑accused David Cullen, now a State witness. Judge Deirdre Murphy noted the high emotions in the courtroom and urged calm. The case concerns the 2013 murder of Peter Butterly, 35, shot in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston. Three men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—have pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences at the same location. Cullen, 30, had been part of the alleged murder plan but turned State witness earlier that year. He identified the accused, described being told to retrieve a gun from outside Gormanston College around 2 p.m. on the day of the shooting, and recounted the sequence of shots fired at Butterly's vehicle.
Deirdre Griffin, aged 25, was found in possession of a bar of cannabis resin worth €1,476 after her ex‑boyfriend could not pay for diesel he had added to his van. She was living in her car at the time of the offence and had a history of six road‑traffic convictions. Griffin pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court and was given an 18‑month sentence, which the judge suspended in full on strict conditions. The judge noted her efforts to turn her life around, her stable relationship with a new partner, and her drug‑free status. Her former partner, Christopher O'Toole, received a five‑year suspended sentence for possession of €26,000 of the controlled drug PVP ("snow blow") found in the van, of which Griffin had no knowledge. The court considered the circumstances of her living situation and her past caregiving role for her mother, who died of cancer in 2004.
Security arrangements are being prepared for a former murder suspect who has become a prosecution witness in the Special Criminal Court trial of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly. The accused, Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44), have pleaded not guilty to the killing of Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn on 6 March 2013. They also face firearm charges. David Cullen (30), who was allegedly part of the murder plan, has turned State's witness. Counsel for the DPP, Alex Owens SC, announced that Cullen will be called first on Tuesday, with security measures to be arranged by Gardaí and the Irish Prison Service. The court has directed that evidence from the National Surveillance Unit remain confidential, and that members of the public be excluded from the courtroom during their testimony.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on the murder of Peter Butterly, the last National Surveillance Unit officer to give secret evidence left the courtroom through the custody area. The court ordered that no evidence or identities of the NSU officers be made public and that the public be excluded from the courtroom during their testimony to protect the officers' physical characteristics and the unit's methodology. The prosecution, led by Úna Ní Raifeartaigh SC, noted that the NSU witnesses had been fully presented and no further public exclusion was required. The trial, presided over by Justice Deirdre Murphy, Justice Margaret Heneghan and Judge Cormac Dunne, also entered a voir dire to decide on the legality of the accused men's arrest, detention and vehicle searches. The case involves four men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33), Sharif Kelly (44) and David Cullen (30)—who pleaded not guilty to the murder and related firearm offences.
On 13 November 2014, the Special Criminal Court heard secret evidence from members of the National Surveillance Unit (NSU) regarding the murder of Peter Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, County Meath, on 6 March 2013. The court directed that no NSU evidence or identities be made public and that the public not be present during NSU testimony. Two NSU members gave evidence and left through the custody area to avoid identification. The trial, day 27, involves three men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33), and Sharif Kelly (44)—who pleaded not guilty to Butterly's murder and to firearm offences at the same location and time. A fourth man, Dave Cullen (30), is a State witness. Prosecuting counsel, Úna Ní Raifeartaigh SC, described how Butterly was lured to the car park, shot at his vehicle, and later found collapsed by a lone Garda, dying shortly thereafter. The trial continues.
In Balbriggan District Court, Clinton McCahey, aged 31, pleaded guilty to blackmail and extortion after sending threatening letters to his ex‑girlfriend's grandmother, Mrs. Eileen Reynolds, demanding €10,000 on 7 and 8 May. McCahey admitted he wrote the letters while "off his head on drink and Valium" and denied any intention to carry out the threats. He has since visited Mrs. Reynolds' home, offered an apology, and shared a cup of tea with her. The court noted that the second letter was accidentally posted by McCahey's mother and that a mobile phone used to contact Mrs. Reynolds was found during a search of his house. McCahey is currently undergoing drug rehabilitation at North Dublin Community Care and the case was adjourned to 22 January for a Probation and Welfare Report and submission of the letters to the court.
At Balbriggan District Court, Judge Dermot Dempsey handled several matters. Martin Daly pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour. He was remanded on continuing bail until January 22nd for a Probation Report and urine analysis, with the Judge warning that failure to provide satisfactory results would result in custody. Derek Gildea, charged with unlawful possession of a combat knife, was remanded on continuing bail until December 4th to enter a plea or fix a hearing date. Shane Howard pleaded guilty to stealing a Nokia Lumia phone. He was remanded on continuing bail until February 5th to pay €300 compensation and undergo a Probation report to assess suitability for 200 hours of community service in lieu of a three-month prison sentence. Deborah Byrne pleaded guilty to stealing €53 worth of items; she was convicted and fined €100. Finally, James Marry and Jonathan Marry, both charged with threatening and abusive behaviour and intoxication, had their cases adjourned until January 8th as further charges may be brought.
The Special Criminal Court has ruled that the arrest of three men accused of the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly in Co Meath in 2013 was lawful. The court heard that the three accused, Dean Evans (24), Dublin Edward McGrath (33), and Sharif Kelly (44), were detained by members of the National Surveillance Unit shortly after the fatal shooting. Defence lawyers had argued that the arrest and detention of the men was unlawful and that their constitutional rights were breached. However, Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy stated that there had been no infringement of the constitutional rights of the three accused. The judge said that Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act was properly invoked and that the men were correctly arrested in or around 2.05 pm on March 6th, 2013. The three men have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly and firearm offences at the same address on the same date. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), was allegedly part of the murder plan but has become a State's witness. The trial is continuing.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, the court considered the seizure of a mobile phone from David Cullen, a former murder suspect who has become a prosecution witness. Cullen, aged 30 and formerly of Balbriggan, had been part of the alleged murder plan for Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old dissident republican shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013. He now testifies against three men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—who plead not guilty to the murder and related firearm offences. The court rejected the defence's request to disclose recordings of Cullen's phone calls, citing that no State agency had been identified and that relevant telephone conversations had already been disclosed. The hearing also addressed whether evidence of the accused men's arrest, detention and vehicle searches could be admitted, with a ruling expected next week. The case will resume on Tuesday before the same panel of judges.
Prezemyslaw Kutak, 42, was arrested on 29 October for drink driving while en route to an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting in Balbriggan. He was driving a silver BMW with a breath alcohol level of 103mg/100ml. Kutak also pleaded guilty to two separate thefts of wine bottles from a Lusk supermarket: six bottles worth €48 on 22 September and two bottles worth €16 on 27 September. He was convicted of drink driving and the two thefts at Balbriggan District Court. Judge Dermot Dempsey sentenced him to a four‑month prison term, suspended for two years, and disqualified him from driving for three years. He was fined €300 in total for the wine thefts. Kutak, a Polish national who has lived in Ireland for 13 years, has one prior road‑traffic conviction and is seeking treatment for alcohol problems. The judge noted his severe alcohol issue and his attempt to attend an AA meeting the following morning.
The Special Criminal Court convened early on 6 November 2014 to hear submissions about the admissibility of evidence in the murder trial of Peter Butterly. The accused—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—had pleaded not guilty to the killing of Butterly (35) and to related firearm offences. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), had previously turned State witness. The court entered a voir dire to decide on the legality of the arrests, detentions and vehicle searches. Judges Deirdre Murphy, Margaret Heneghan and Cormac Dunne were to rule on the evidence next Tuesday. Discussions were to be held with counsel regarding Cullen's testimony. Public members were excluded when National Surveillance Unit officers testified, but were later allowed back to hear Emergency Response Unit evidence, which may still be inadmissible. The trial will resume tomorrow before the same judges.
The Special Criminal Court convened later than scheduled to consider the admissibility of evidence in the trial of three men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33), and Sharif Kelly (44)—who have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly (35) and to firearm offences at the Huntsman Inn car park on 6 March 2013. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), who had been part of the murder plan, turned State witness earlier in the year. The court entered a voir dire to examine the legality of the arrests, detentions, and vehicle searches. Judges Deirdre Murphy, Margaret Heneghan, and Cormac Dunne will decide on the admissibility of evidence, including that from National Surveillance Unit officers whose identities and methods are protected. Public access was initially restricted to safeguard the officers' physical characteristics and the unit's methodology, but was later restored for evidence from the Emergency Response Unit. The case will continue tomorrow in the non‑jury court.
The Special Criminal Court has begun hearing final submissions from defence counsel on the admissibility of evidence against three men charged with murdering dissident republican Peter Butterly. Dean Evans (24), of Grange Park Rise, Raheny, Edward McGrath (33) of Land Dale Lawns, Springfield Tallaght and Sharif Kelly (44), of Pinewood Green Road, Balbriggan have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly (35) who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, at Gormanston Co Meath on March 6 2013. Mr Evans and Mr McGrath have also pleaded not guilty to firearm offences at the same address, on the same date. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), with a last address in Balbriggan, was allegedly "part of the murder plan himself" but turned State's witness against his former co-accused earlier this year.
Swords District Court heard several matters. Dwaine O'Connell, 26, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of €3,000 worth of cannabis resin for sale or supply and €350 of cannabis herb. Judge John Coughlan sentenced him to eight months in prison, but O'Connell appealed the sentence after recognisance was fixed. Jandean Hyland, 26, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm, but the case was adjourned until December 1st because the victim was not in court and jurisdiction issues needed resolution. David Bennett, 32, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm; his case was adjourned until November 11th for Judge Dermot Dempsey to determine compensation to avoid a prison sentence. Andrew Cooley, 21, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a specimen and was disqualified from driving for four years and fined €75; a separate charge of making off without payment of a taxi fare was struck out. Kevin Harris, 24, is alleged to have driven under the influence of an intoxicant; his case was adjourned until December 22nd for hearing.
On 31 October 2014, the Special Criminal Court heard further evidence in the trial of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly. Officers from the National Surveillance Unit had been giving evidence, but members of the public were excluded to protect the officers' identities and the unit's methodology. Garda D was escorted through the courtroom custody area because lawyers for the State said he could not walk "out into the public as normal." Public members were again allowed to enter the non‑jury court to hear continuing evidence from the Emergency Response Unit, though that evidence may not yet be admissible. The trial focuses on the legality of the arrests. The accused—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly (35), who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013.
In the Special Criminal Court, the legality of the arrest of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly was a key issue. The defendants—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—had pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences at the same scene. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), had turned State's witness. The court heard that Butterly, aged 35, was lured to the car park of the Huntsman Inn on 6 March 2013, where a Toyota Corolla entered and shots were fired at his vehicle and as he fled. Prosecutor Úna Ní Raifeartaigh SC reported Butterly was found collapsed and pronounced dead. The case, involving a tracking device on the Corolla, will continue tomorrow before the panel of judges. The public was allowed to re‑enter the courtroom after a surveillance garda was escorted through the custody area. The evidence of the Emergency Response Unit remains potentially inadmissible.
In a Balbriggan District Court hearing, two women, Eileen McDonagh (36) and Carolyn Ward (29), pleaded guilty to stealing €1,782.35 worth of children's clothing from a Tesco Extra store on 25 October. The items were taken by filling a trolley and leaving without payment; security detained them and recovered the goods. Both had no prior convictions. Their solicitor described the theft as an unplanned, desperate act, noting the defendants were on social welfare and had children. Judge Grainne O'Neill expressed concern over the value but acknowledged the lack of sophisticated planning. She remanded them on continuing bail until February, requiring each to donate €300 to a charity. If the donations are made by that date, the judge will apply the Probation Act, potentially sparing them a conviction.
At Balbriggan District Court, Jevgenijs Zurila (32) of Navan pleaded guilty to trespassing and the theft of two containers of diesel worth €150 from Bently Bros Ltd in Lusk on August 14th. Judge Grainne O'Neill convicted him, noting his previous conviction for theft, and fined him €250 for trespass and a further €250 for the theft, warning that a future offence would result in a prison sentence. Joseph McGovern (39) of Donabate pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour towards gardai at Macari's Takeaway in Donabate on May 22nd. Despite mitigation regarding his mother's recent death, Judge O'Neill convicted him and imposed a €300 fine. Catherine Joyce (42) of Balbriggan, who is alleged to have been intoxicated and used threatening and abusive behaviour on October 2nd, had her case adjourned until January 8th as further charges, including an alleged assault on a garda, may be brought. Neil Phipps (29) of Balbriggan, alleged to have assaulted Brian Cranny causing harm on May 9th, had his case adjourned until November 27th pending DPP directions. John Fleming (30) of Skerries, alleged to have driven without reasonable consideration on January 22nd, had his case adjourned until December 4th to seek legal advice.
The trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly for the murder of Peter Butterly and associated firearm offences continued in the Special Criminal Court. All three defendants, who are alleged to have shot Butterly dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6, 2013, have pleaded not guilty. Evans and McGrath also face firearm charges for the same incident. The court heard evidence from National Surveillance Unit gardaí, who exited the courtroom via the custody area to protect their identities and operational methodology. Defence counsel Gaillíosa O'Lideadha SC argued that the storage of these witnesses in a shared room before testimony compromised the integrity of the process, a claim the prosecution rejected as a logistical necessity. The court has also heard that a fourth man, David Cullen, allegedly part of the murder plan, turned State's witness. Evidence indicated Butterly was lured to the scene, where shots were fired at his vehicle and as he attempted to flee. The prosecution noted this is the first case in the State's history involving a tracking device on a vehicle. The matter was adjourned and continues before a three-judge panel.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 29 October 2014, two surveillance gardaí—identified only as Garda C and Garda F—gave evidence in the murder trial of three men charged with the killing of dissident republican Peter Butterly. The court ordered that neither the identities nor the evidence of eleven gardaí from the National Surveillance Unit be published, citing concerns that disclosure could compromise future surveillance operations and the unit's methodology. The trial involves Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33), and Sharif Kelly (44), all of whom pleaded not guilty to Butterly's murder, a 35‑year‑old who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013. The court also heard that a Toyota Corolla entered the car park shortly before the shooting and that a tracking device was sought for the vehicle. The case was set to continue before Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy, Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan and Judge Cormac Dunne.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 28 October 2014, four surveillance gardaí gave evidence in the murder trial of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old dissident republican shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013. The defendants – Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44) – pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences committed at the same address and date. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), had earlier turned State witness. The court excluded the public to protect the methodology of the National Surveillance Unit (NSU) officers, who were identified only as Garda A, Garda E, Garda H and Garda W. The judges ordered that the officers' names be withheld from publication and that none of their evidence be published. The trial continued the next day with the same panel of judges. The case remains in the non‑jury court.
In a trial before the Special Criminal Court, three men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—were charged with the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly (35), who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co. Meath, on 6 March 2013. The defendants pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and to firearm offences at the same address. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), had earlier turned State witness against his co‑accused. 18‑year‑old Sean Brennan, a sixth‑year secondary school student, testified that he was waiting for a bus opposite the Inn when he heard a noise, saw a man with a gun, and heard two to three shots. He described the gun as in the man's right hand and the shots as sharp and quick.
Clifford Whitehouse, 39, of Knockbrack Downs, Drogheda, pleaded guilty to violent disorder at Chapel Street, Balbriggan, on 11 November 2013. He will be sentenced at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on 24 February 2015, when the full facts will be heard.
Three judges of the Special Criminal Court admitted that a technical glitch of their own making has delayed the delivery of a ruling in the murder trial of Peter Butterly. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy, Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan and Judge Cormac Dunne, will hear from its first witness tomorrow. The case involves three men—Edward McGrath (33), Dean Evans (24) and Sharif Kelly (44)—who have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn on 6 March 2013. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), turned State witness. The court has ordered that members of the public be excluded while eleven National Surveillance Unit officers give evidence, and that none of the officers' evidence be published to protect their methodology.
The Special Criminal Court will hear the first witness in the trial of three Dublin men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013. The accused – Edward McGrath (33), Dean Evans (24) and Sharif Kelly (44) – have pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences at the same address. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), who was part of the murder plan, turned State witness earlier this year. The court has heard that Butterly was lured to the car park by an unknown man, a Toyota Corolla entered the premises, and shots were fired at Butterly's vehicle and when he tried to flee. Gardaí used a tracking device on the vehicle, a first in State history. The court also dealt with pre‑trial applications, the transformation of Cullen into a prosecution witness, and the protection of surveillance evidence.
Rachel Breen, 46, of Skerries, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to dangerous driving that caused serious bodily harm to a six‑month‑old baby on Naul Road, Balbriggan, on 6 October 2012. Judge Desmond Hogan remanded her on continuing bail for sentencing on 18 December 2014.
The Special Criminal Court heard the trial of three Dublin men—Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22), and Sharif Kelly (43)—charged with the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly (35) on 6 March 2013. Butterly was lured to the Huntsman Inn car park, where a Toyota Corolla entered and shots were fired at his vehicle and again when he tried to flee. The men pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences. The court also considered the use of a tracking device on the Corolla, the first time such a device has been mentioned in a State case. A senior Garda explained the device's deployment was protected to safeguard investigative methods from potential misuse by the IRA or other hostile groups. The court will rule on the disclosure of redacted surveillance material tomorrow. The hearing is set to continue with Judges Margaret Heneghan and Cormac Dunne presiding under Justice Deirdre Murphy.
Swords District Court heard several matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Brian Clarke, 28, pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage to Swords Educate Together School. He was convicted and sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for two years. The court ordered him to reside at his sister's address, notify gardai of any change, and pay €200 compensation by February. Dean Whelan, 27, pleaded guilty to theft from a shop. The case was adjourned until December 15th for a Probation report and urine analysis; the judge warned of custody if the report is unsatisfactory. Tracey Brookes and Karen Dooley, accused of theft from three stores, elected trial by jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. They were remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on December 2nd for service of the Book of Evidence. Adam Meehan, 21, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cocaine and methoxyphenamine tablets. The case was struck out after he complied with an order to pay €400 to charity and complete 240 hours of voluntary work, avoiding a conviction. David Lawrence, 19, charged with intoxication and threatening behaviour, had his case adjourned until November 17th pending receipt of CCTV footage.
The Special Criminal Court has outlined its reasons for excluding the public during testimony from National Surveillance Unit (NSU) gardaí in the ongoing trial of Edward McGrath, Dean Evans, and Sharif Kelly. The three men, who have pleaded not guilty to the 2013 murder of Peter Butterly at the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, Co Meath, face additional firearm charges. Presiding Judge Deirdre Murphy stated that the exclusion order protects the safety of surveillance officers and future state intelligence operations, noting that repeated public exposure of their physical characteristics could compromise their work. While the court permitted the defence to receive the officers' professional names and addresses, it restricted publication of their identities and NSU methodologies. In a separate ruling, the court allowed one minor witness to testify via video link but denied the request for two adult witnesses, citing legislative limits. The prosecution intends to call David Cullen, a former accused who turned state witness, as a key witness. The court ordered the disclosure of seized electronic devices containing keywords related to the case and confirmed whether Cullen was a garda informant, while refusing to disclose his psychiatric records or privileged legal advice. The trial continues on Tuesday before the non-jury court.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Damien Costello pleaded guilty to the theft of €20 of petrol from Topaz on the Ballymun Road on May 10th, 2013, and the theft of €20 of petrol from Applegreen Service Station on the M1 at Lusk on July 22nd, 2013. The Judge stated he would consider Costello for 200 hours of community service in lieu of a two-month prison sentence if Probation Services deem him suitable. Costello was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on December 11th. Jevgenijs Zurila is charged with the theft of two containers of diesel valued at €150 from Bently Bros Ltd in Lusk on August 14th, and trespass at the same business on that date. The case was adjourned until October 30th. Stephen Nyantakyi is charged with being intoxicated at Hamlet Lane in Balbriggan on September 18th. This matter was adjourned until October 23rd. Przemyslaw Kutak is charged with the theft of six bottles of wine valued at €48 from Supervalu in Lusk on September 22nd, and the theft of two bottles of wine valued at €16 from the same store on September 27th. A bench warrant was issued for his arrest. Additionally, seven vehicles, 25 airbags, seven Eco units, and one car radio were forfeited to the State under the Police Property Act following a search in Balbriggan.
The Special Criminal Court has directed that the public be excluded from the courtroom while National Surveillance Unit gardaí give evidence in the trial of Edward McGrath, Dean Evans, and Sharif Kelly. The three men, who have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly, shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn at Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6th, 2013, face additional firearm charges. The court ruled that the officers' professional names and addresses must be provided to the defence but restricted from publication, balancing safety concerns with the right to a fair trial. The prosecution intends to call David Cullen, who pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol at the same location and date, and was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison in July. The court ordered the disclosure of certain records regarding Cullen's credibility, including confirmation on whether he was a garda informant and PULSE records, while refusing to disclose his psychiatric records. Access to a seized laptop was granted to a defence expert. The court deemed an application to disclose legal notes between Cullen and his lawyers premature. The full trial hearing is expected to commence on Tuesday before Judges Heneghan, Dunne, and Murphy.
The Special Criminal Court, a non‑jury court, is set to decide on several legal matters in the trial of three men—Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22) and Sharif Kelly (43)—who have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly (35). Butterly was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013. The defendants also face firearm charges. The court will consider the State's request to allow surveillance officers to give evidence anonymously, citing a 1996 law that permits such testimony when public interest and safety warrant it. The prosecution seeks to erect a screen between surveillance officers and the public to protect the witnesses' identities. The case also involves forensic evidence, firearm residue, DNA, and testimony from David Cullen (30), who was previously jailed for unlawful possession of a pistol and whose role in the murder plan is contested. The court will rule on these matters tomorrow.
The Special Criminal Court is hearing a prosecution application to allow nine National Surveillance Unit gardaí to give evidence anonymously in the trial of Edward McGrath, Dean Evans, and Sharif Kelly. The three defendants, who have pleaded not guilty to the 2013 murder of Peter Butterly at the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, Co Meath, face additional firearm charges. Prosecution counsel argued that the non-jury court's statutory powers permit witness protection to address safety concerns for the officers and their families, citing the court's mandate to control its own procedures. Defence counsel for Evans contended that the court lacks jurisdiction to grant anonymity, describing such a ruling as an extraordinary departure from common law and the right to know one's accuser. He noted that one witness, referred to as Garda A, had already been identified in statements in error. The presiding judge, Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy, highlighted the significant legal implications of setting aside the right to know the identity of an accuser. The court, consisting of Judges Margaret Heneghan and Cormac Dunne, is scheduled to deliver its ruling on the anonymity application tomorrow.
Swords District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Sean Brennan, 32, pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour outside Wright's Cafe Bar on June 7th. He was ordered to complete 240 hours of community service work in lieu of a two-month prison sentence. Thomas Nicholson, 23, was charged with the theft of an €18,000 mini digger from Balbriggan on March 6th. The matter was sent forward for trial at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, and Nicholson was remanded on continuing bail. Gary Daly, 25, pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of PVP, valued at €1,300, found at his home on November 16th last year. The court adjourned the case until December 15th to allow for a Probation and Welfare report to assess his suitability for a 240-hour community service order in lieu of a four-month prison sentence. James Egan, 29, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a blood, urine, or breath sample at Ballymun Garda Station on December 12th last year. He was convicted, fined €600, and disqualified from driving for four years, with the disqualification postponed for five months until March 30th. Aldona Pastuhova, 42, was charged with having a dog off its lead in a public place. The case was adjourned until November 17th due to the unavailability of the prosecuting garda.
The Special Criminal Court will rule next week on whether nine National Surveillance Unit officers can give evidence anonymously in the trial of Edward McGrath, Dean Evans, and Sharif Kelly. The three men, who have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly and unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol at the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6th, 2013, face a non-jury hearing. The DPP has applied to withhold the officers' identities and erect a screen to protect their physical characteristics, citing risks to their safety and the security of Garda operations. The prosecution intends to rely on forensic evidence and testimony from David Cullen, who pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of the same firearm and was jailed for three-and-a-half years in July. Cullen, described as part of the murder plan, alleges he was tasked with collecting the gun after the shooting. Defence counsel for McGrath, Evans, and Kelly have sought disclosures regarding Cullen's credibility, including his medical records, witness protection application, and legal notes. Presiding Judge Deirdre Murphy noted the significant interference with cross-examination rights inherent in the anonymity application. The court will deliver its ruling on Tuesday afternoon, when the case resumes before Judges Dunne and Heneghan.
Balbriggan District Court heard multiple matters. Keith Daly pleaded guilty to handling stolen property but was remanded on continuing bail pending a probation report, with the case adjourned to December 11. Lorna Daly, John Scott, and Grainne Kealy were remanded on continuing bail; Daly faces alleged charges of making off without paying and using a false plate, while Scott and Kealy face alleged dangerous driving and careless driving charges, with their cases adjourned to December 11. Denise Creagh pleaded guilty to theft and was convicted, fined €100, and warned of potential custody for future offences. James Whelan pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis and failing to display L-plates; the unaccompanied driving charge was struck out, and he was fined €175. Roberts Trascenko pleaded guilty to drink driving, was convicted, fined €400, and disqualified for two years. Chris Lyaba pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage, and his case was adjourned to January 22 to allow time for compensation. Genadijs Ogurcovs was charged with theft from two shops, and his case was adjourned to October 23 for a plea or hearing date.
The Special Criminal Court is set to rule on a disclosure application in the trial of Edward McGrath, Dean Evans, and Sharif Kelly. The three men have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn at Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6th, 2013. McGrath and Evans also face firearm offences at the same address and date, while all three are charged with the unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol. The prosecution intends to rely on the testimony of David Cullen, who previously pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of the same firearm and was jailed for three-and-a-half years. Cullen's plea was accepted by the DPP, resulting in a nolle prosequi on the murder count. Defence counsel have sought extensive disclosures regarding Cullen's credibility, including medical records, his witness protection application, and confirmation of whether he was a garda informant. The DPP described these requests as an attempt to impugn Cullen's character, while defence lawyers argued the disclosure process was unsatisfactory. The court will also rule on a DPP application to screen nine National Surveillance Unit gardaí to protect their identities. The matter was adjourned for the court's decision on these procedural issues.
In the Special Criminal Court, three men—Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22), and Sharif Kelly (43)—pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly (35), who was shot in the car park of the Huntsman Inn on 6 March 2013. The court heard that Butterly was lured to the car park by an unnamed man and that shots were fired from a Toyota Corolla. The prosecution will present forensic, firearm residue, DNA evidence and testimony from David Cullen (30), who was involved in the murder plan. Cullen, who had previously pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol, was jailed for three‑and‑a‑half years and later became a prosecution witness. He stated he wanted no more to do with the case and sought to separate himself from the accused.
In the Special Criminal Court, three men—Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22), and Sharif Kelly (43)—remain not guilty on charges of murdering Peter Butterly (35) and related firearm offences. The court heard that a former co‑accused, now a prosecution witness, supplied Gardaí with information about a prior fatal shooting, events in Portlaoise Prison, and IRA structure. Witness protection liaison officer reported that David Cullen (30) offered testimony on 25 June, with a security discussion the next day. The Garda liaison explained that witnesses must commit to a new lifestyle and receive retraining. Senior Garda Thomas Maguire confirmed Cullen's willingness to give evidence on the Butterly shooting, other murders, prison happenings, and IRA structure. The court has yet to rule on privilege and screening applications. The case proceeds tomorrow before Judges Cormac Dunne and Margaret Heneghan, with Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy presiding.
David Lee, 32, pleaded guilty to breaching a protection order and threatening to smash a house in Swords on 19 August 2013. He was convicted and fined €100 by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Lee, who has 25 previous convictions, apologized and has not been near the house since. His defence solicitor, Fiona D'Arcy, said he hopes to get a job as a bicycle courier. Paul McGee, 21, pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage and breaching a protection order at his parents' home on 22 July. He was adjourned until 18 December for a probation report; he has five previous convictions and is attending counselling. Geoffrey Melia, 24, pleaded guilty to stealing a bottle of vodka from a Balbriggan supermarket in March. He was fined €200; he has four previous convictions and has stopped drinking. Lisa Jenkins, 41, pleaded guilty to three thefts from a Swords department store, totalling over €800.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence regarding the transformation of David Cullen from a co-accused to a prosecution witness in the trial of Edward McGrath, Dean Evans, and Sharif Kelly. The three men have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn at Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6th, 2013. McGrath and Evans also face firearm offences at the same address and date, to which they have pleaded not guilty. Cullen, who admitted to the unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol at the scene, pleaded guilty to that charge. In July, he was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison, with a nolle prosequi entered on the murder count. Detective Inspector Alf Martyn detailed how Cullen's solicitor contacted gardaí in June to propose immunity in exchange for information identifying the masterminds and those involved with the stolen car and gun. Cullen sought witness protection, financial maintenance, and relocation. The DPP approved engagement with Cullen on June 29. The court is currently considering an application by gardaí to erect a screen for nine National Surveillance Unit officers, citing risks to their safety and operational security. The three-judge panel will rule on this and other legal matters next week, with the case continuing in the non-jury court.
Lawyers for three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old dissident republican, have applied to the Special Criminal Court for disclosure of documents relating to former co‑accused David Cullen, who turned a state witness. The accused—Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22) and Sharif Kelly (43)—have pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences committed on 6 March 2013 at the Huntsman Inn car park. Cullen, who had pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol and was jailed for three‑and‑a‑half years, was later found not to be charged with murder. His medical records, psychiatric treatment history and notes with his lawyers are sought to assess his credibility. The court will decide on the disclosure applications tomorrow, with the case continuing before Judges Cormac Dunne, Margaret Heneghan and Justice Deirdre Murphy.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 1 October 2014, the court considered an application by the Director of Public Prosecution to claim legal privilege over three documents relating to the surveillance of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly. The accused – Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22) and Sharif Kelly (43) – had pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences. The court heard that a Toyota Corolla entered the Huntsman Inn car park shortly after Butterly was lured there, and shots were fired, causing Butterly to fall. The prosecution's case relied on forensic, firearm residue, DNA evidence and testimony from David Cullen, who was described as part of the murder plan. During cross‑examination, a senior Garda admitted that one of the documents sought for privilege was relevant to the defence.
In a Special Criminal Court case, the Director of Public Prosecutions has applied to erect a screen between the public and undercover Garda witnesses before they give evidence in the trial of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly. The application, made with the Garda Commissioner's knowledge, aims to protect the visual characteristics of nine National Surveillance Unit witnesses. The court will decide tomorrow. The case involves defendants Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22) and Sharif Kelly (43), all pleading not guilty to the murder and related firearm offences. The prosecution's case relies on forensic, firearm residue, DNA evidence and testimony from David Cullen, who was involved in the planning and later pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a Beretta pistol. Cullen was jailed for three‑and‑a‑half years, and a nolle prosequi was entered on the murder count.
Daniel O'Neill, 21, was sentenced to six months in prison after a three‑hour stand‑off with Gardaí in which he armed himself with a cross‑bow and two bows, barricaded himself and his 18‑month‑old child inside a house, and threatened to kill. The incident followed a domestic dispute with his partner, who had requested Gardaí to retrieve the child from the house. O'Neill pleaded guilty to possession of a cross‑bow, threatening to kill, causing criminal damage to a superintendent's car on 2 May, and violent behaviour at Balbriggan Garda Station. He had six prior convictions and spent two months in Cloverhill awaiting High Court bail. The court found no psychiatric evidence and directed O'Neill to receive psychiatric treatment while in custody, though his solicitor argued the services were ineffective. The sentence was fixed for potential appeal.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Kieran White pleaded guilty to stealing a bottle of wine from Supervalu. After making a €75 donation to the Molly McNally Trust Fund, the court applied Section 1.1 of the Probation Act. Piotr Boryslawski pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis found under his car seat. Following a €300 charitable donation, the charge was struck out. Valerie Dalton, alleged to have been drink driving, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 11th. Paul McGee, charged with criminal damage and breach of a protection order, was remanded on continuing bail for a hearing on October 6th. Eddie McDonagh and Patrick McDonagh, both alleged to have stolen a steel tube from a boat, were remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 4th. McDonagh also faces allegations of careless driving and not paying a taxi fare, while Patrick McDonagh is alleged to have not paid a taxi fare. All these cases remain at the pre-trial stage with no final sentences passed.
In a High Court hearing on 30 July 2014, Dean Evans, aged 22, was denied bail and remanded in custody. Evans, along with Edward McGrath (32) and Sharif Kelly (43), faces murder charges for the killing of dissident republican Peter Butterly, 35, at the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, County Meath, on 6 March 2013. The trio were also charged with membership of an illegal organisation claiming to be the Irish Republican Army, or Oglaigh na hEireann, on the same date. Additionally, Evans and McGrath are accused of unlawfully possessing a 9mm calibre Beretta model 9000s semi‑automatic pistol and seven rounds of 9mm parabellum ammunition at their residence, and of possessing the same weapon and ammunition with intent to endanger life at the Huntsman Inn car park.