A man who was convicted of using threatening or abusive behaviour at the GPO in Dublin has withdrawn his appeal, telling a court that he had other convictions and that it "wouldn't make a difference". Gerry Carrick (52), who is currently serving a jail sentence for a separate matter, told the court that he wished to withdraw the appeal. Carrick, with an address in Knowth Court, Poppintree, Dublin 11, was convicted in the District Court of using threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour or words in a public place on January 21, 2026 at the GPO on O'Connell Street, contrary to section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994. He was sentenced to two months imprisonment. Today, Carrick told the District Court Appeals Court that he had other convictions and that it "wouldn't make a difference". Carrick's case was only listed for mention today, not for hearing. Judge Ronan Munro told him that by striking out the appeal, Carrick would begin serving his sentence while in custody.
A teenager with 30 previous convictions who was caught on CCTV stamping on an unidentified man's head and using a bicycle as a weapon during a group attack has been jailed. Adam Farrell pleaded guilty to assaulting an unknown person with intent to cause bodily harm. The court heard that the victim left the scene after the assault and gardai have been unable to identify him. Farrell's defense highlighted his difficult background, including a leg injury and the loss of an older brother. The judge noted the viciousness of the attack and sentenced Farrell to two and a half years' imprisonment, with the final 12 months suspended. The ruling underscores the seriousness of the assault and the need for accountability, despite the lack of a formal complaint from the victim.
A former teenager with 81 previous convictions who was on bail when he punched a homeless man in a 'cowardly, savage attack', causing serious injuries, has been jailed for six years. Shane Murray, then 19, assaulted Damien Merrigan on a Dublin street three years ago but fled the country after being identified. Mr Merrigan, who was homeless, died in July 2025. The court heard that major force was required to fracture the skull and facial bones. Murray pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm in 2023. Judge Jonathan Dunphy noted the unprovoked nature of the attack and that the victim was vulnerable. The judge inferred that an implement was used, and that Murray left the scene, highlighting a disregard for the victim and the criminal justice system. The judge accepted Murray's expression of remorse and suspended the final two years of the eight-year sentence on strict conditions. Murray has a difficult background, including addiction issues and a history of drug offences.
Shane Murray, a teenager with 81 previous convictions, was on bail when he punched a homeless man, leaving him with fractures to his skull and face. Murray assaulted Damien Merrigan on a Dublin street in 2023, but left the country after gardai identified him. Merrigan remained in hospital for seven days and later died in 2025. Murray pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm. CCTV footage showed Murray placing something on his hand before the assault. He was identified from CCTV and returned voluntarily in 2024. His defence highlighted his troubled background, including a lack of a father figure and drug use. The prosecution argued for a sentencing range of ten to 15 years due to the unprovoked nature of the assault and the use of an implement. The defence requested a lower sentencing range. Murray's mother was in court to support him. Judge Jonathan Dunphy adjourned the case until Friday to consider the sentencing.
Detective Garda John Pirollo described being strangled by John McDonagh during an arrest at a halting site as a "deeply harrowing experience" with lasting emotional and psychological effects. McDonagh, 36, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and was jailed for two and a half years. The court heard that McDonagh had a history of 23 previous convictions, including assault and drug offenses. During the incident, McDonagh drove at the detective, attempted to pin him between his car and a patrol vehicle, and later strangled him during a struggle. The garda suffered injuries, including bruising and difficulty swallowing. McDonagh expressed remorse, wrote a letter of apology, and offered €5,000 as a token of remorse. Judge Martina Baxter noted the seriousness of the incident and the risk to the garda's life, but took mitigating factors into account, including McDonagh's guilty plea and mental health issues. She imposed a headline sentence of four years, reduced to three-and-a-half years with the final 12 months suspended on conditions.
A man with 82 previous convictions has been jailed for four years after repeatedly kicking his former partner in the head while on bail. Lee Byrne, 28, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The victim described ongoing medical issues, including anxiety, persistent concussion syndrome, and headaches. Byrne was on bail at the time of the incident and was later arrested. Gardai found evidence of injuries on Byrne's hands and blood on his feet. The victim detailed the assault, saying Byrne targeted her head with kicks. She was hospitalised over 20 times and is on medication for seizures and anxiety. She described the trauma and how Byrne's actions changed her life. Judge Elma Sheahan imposed a five-year sentence, with the final year suspended, and ordered Byrne to engage with the Probation Service. The judge noted the assault occurred in an intimate relationship and considered Byrne's guilty plea and remorse. Byrne's defence highlighted his history of drug addiction and psychiatric issues. Gardai confirmed the victim's injuries were severe, with significant damage to her face.
A thief who threatened to shoot a taxi driver during a Christmas Eve hold-up has been jailed for an offence described as having a 'particular meanness' to it. David Delaney (26) pleaded guilty to theft at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. He had 13 previous convictions and was on bail at the time of the incident. The taxi driver was targeted in the early hours of December 24, 2023, when Delaney demanded €90 or threatened to shoot him. Delaney also took the taxi driver's dash cam. His defense highlighted his difficult background and current efforts in custody. The judge noted the impact on the taxi driver, who suffered anxiety and stress, and imposed a two-year sentence with six months suspended. Delaney's sentence will be consecutive to his current two-year term for robbery.
A judge has given a 21-year-old man a second chance after he led gardai on a high-speed chase through Dublin with juveniles in his car. Judge Sinéad Ni Chúlacháin imposed a three-year sentence on Craig McKeon, with the final 18 months suspended on the condition that he complies with strict rehabilitation measures. The judge acknowledged McKeon's efforts to address his issues and noted that he has a supportive family and girlfriend. McKeon pleaded guilty to two counts of endangerment after a chase that involved driving on the wrong side of the M50, through red lights, and at excessive speeds. During the chase, other vehicles had to take evasive action, and gardai deployed a stinger to stop him. McKeon avoided the device by driving onto a curb and making a U-turn before continuing towards Ballymun. He was not insured and did not have a driving licence. The judge said McKeon's actions placed his passengers, the gardai, and the public at risk. She noted that McKeon had previous convictions for dangerous driving and that his evasive actions were impulsive.
Luke Gilligan was jailed for eight and a half years for participating in a feud-related attack that resulted in a 14-year-old boy being stabbed in the chest with a 'Rambo First Blood II zombie' knife. The attack was part of a tit-for-tat feud that has not yet abated. The victim suffered a collapsed lung but has since made a full recovery, though he still suffers from ongoing psychological problems. Gilligan pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary, and the court heard that the feud involved shootings, IUDs on doorsteps, and attempts at arson. The judge considered the serious nature of the weapons used and the impact on the victim, but also took into account Gilligan's age and his own history of being attacked as part of the feud. She imposed a nine-year sentence, with the final six months suspended on conditions.
An e-bike rider, Carl Tyrell, who forced a garda to restrain him on a footpath in Ballymun, had his conviction for dangerous driving downgraded to careless driving and his driving ban lifted on appeal. Tyrell was fined €300 and given a two-year disqualification for dangerous driving and no insurance. He appealed, arguing that the conviction was too severe. The garda testified that Tyrell was speeding on the footpath, forcing the officer to jump aside and restrain him. Tyrell's lawyer asked for the charge to be reduced, and Judge Ronan Munro agreed, reducing the charge to careless driving and lifting the disqualification. The judge also dismissed the no insurance charge under the Probation of Offenders Act. Tyrell was placed on a bond for three years with conditions not to ride a bike or motorbike faster than 25km/h. The judge described the incident as an outrage but acknowledged the need for Tyrell to have his licence for his job.
Two men who were high on laughing gas and randomly attacked a woman have been told by a judge that some crimes cannot be walked away from. The attack occurred on Seamus Ennis Road, Finglas, where the woman was pushed to the ground and assaulted. The victim suffered injuries and had her phone stolen. CCTV footage captured the attackers, identified as Craig Mains (28) and Shane Daly (27). Both pleaded guilty to assault and related charges. Judge Ronan Munro described the attack as savage and an outrage. Mains received a three-year sentence with the final 18 months suspended, while Daly received a three-month suspended sentence. Both were placed under probation supervision. The victim was commended for her resilience. The defendants expressed remorse and offered financial compensation. Mains has a history of drug use and is in treatment, while Daly is drug-free and has no recent convictions.
A man who led gardai on a high-speed chase across Dublin and County Meath has been jailed for five years. Dziugas Odinas (25) was driving dangerously, including on the wrong side of the road and through traffic. The chase involved 12 patrol cars and an air support helicopter. Odinas was later found with drugs and a knife. He pleaded guilty to possession for sale or supply of drugs and dangerous driving. His previous convictions include road traffic offences. Judge Sarah Berkeley acknowledged his drug addiction and noted his efforts to turn his life around. She imposed concurrent sentences of five years, suspending the final 12 months on condition he engages with the Probation Service. He was also disqualified from driving for five years.
Edward McGregor, 55, was jailed for nine years for sexually abusing his two young cousins over eight years, from 1986 to 1993. The victims, Frances McGregor and Caitriona Carr, expressed frustration with the lengthy and difficult court process. McGregor pleaded guilty to multiple counts of sexual assault and attempted rape. Justice Eileen Creedon noted the abuse's severe impact on the victims' mental health and trust. She reduced the headline sentence of 13 years to 10 years, considering mitigating factors. The victims hope the case will lead to changes in how such cases are handled, emphasizing the need for victim support and reducing delays. McGregor's defense highlighted his lack of previous convictions and his remorse, requesting a sentence that allows for rehabilitation. The prosecution emphasized the severity of the offenses, including the breach of trust as a babysitter and the prolonged nature of the abuse.
Dubliner Michael Mooney (41) was sentenced to six years' imprisonment today by Judge Roderick Maguire for harassment between June 26, 2024, and January 18, 2025. Mooney pleaded guilty to the charges and admitted to making a threat to kill or cause serious harm on January 15, 2025. The judge described Mooney's actions as 'pernicious offences that left a trail of devastation in his wake' in relation to his ex-partner Nicola Sweetman. Ms Sweetman, who is not a convicted person, alleged that Mooney harassed her during the specified period. The court heard that Mooney placed a complex tracking device on Ms Sweetman's car and sent her threatening texts, including messages about harming her family members and others. Ms Sweetman testified that she lived in constant fear and was terrified of Mooney's threats. She stated that she avoided stopping her car anywhere without lighting or cameras for fear of being seriously harmed. Mooney, who has 62 previous convictions, including multiple threats to kill and breaching barring orders, was noted by the judge to have limited insight into his offending. The judge set a headline sentence of seven-and-a-half years, which was reduced to six years, taking mitigating factors into account. The sentence will start from today, reducing Mooney's time in custody for a previous threat to kill sentence. The matter was not adjourned and is now at the validated procedural stage of sentence.
A prisoner who stole €200 from a south Dublin supermarket has been sentenced to 10 months in prison. David Cummins (37), who is currently serving a sentence at Cloverhill Prison, pleaded guilty to theft at SuperValu, Knocklyon Shopping Centre, on April 16, 2023. Gardaí said Cummins took the money from the till by putting his hand behind the counter. He was identified following inquiries after reports of a suspicious male in the area. The court heard that Cummins has over 80 previous convictions and that he had a difficult upbringing in Ballymun. His father died suddenly in 2004, and he suffered a serious road traffic accident that left him with a brain injury and ongoing side effects affecting his decision-making. He turned to drugs and is currently in prison. His defence asked the court to be as lenient as possible, noting his guilty plea. Judge John King imposed a 10-month sentence, backdated to May 8, to run concurrently with his current sentence.
Clayton McLoughlin, 19, of Ballymun, Dublin 11, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for assault causing harm. He pleaded guilty to acting as a lookout during an attack at the Applegreen Service Station in Santry on September 28, 2024. The court heard that McLoughlin, then 17, stood at the door holding a hockey stick while a co-accused, who remains at large, assaulted the victim with a hurley. The victim sustained a concussion, serious eye swelling, and permanent hearing loss. Judge Jonathan Dunphy noted that while McLoughlin did not inflict the injury, he was charged on the basis of joint enterprise and armed himself, limiting the victim's chance of escape. The judge described the incident as a planned, cowardly attack linked to a drug debt, which subsequently sparked a local feud. Aggravating factors included McLoughlin's failure to assist the convulsing victim and his subsequent flight from the jurisdiction, for which he was later remanded in custody. Mitigating factors included his early guilty plea, his age at the time of the offense, and his self-reported detoxification. Judge Dunphy imposed a sentence of four years and six months, with the final 18 months suspended on strict conditions for two years. The sentence was backdated to October 2025, when McLoughlin entered custody.
Dylan Mills has been jailed for four years for burglarizing the home of an 80-year-old man and stealing vehicles. Mills, 23, has 16 previous convictions, including criminal damage, assault, and drug misuse. The court heard that Mills broke into the home of an elderly man, stole a carving knife, and later stole a car that was involved in a crash. Mills was in foster care from age 12 to 18 and has struggled with drug addiction. His defense highlighted his early guilty plea and his efforts in custody to address his issues. Judge Martin Nolan noted the mitigating factors, including Mills' remorse and his progress in custody, but warned that if he reoffends, sentences would increase. The judge suspended the final year of the sentence for one year and placed Mills under probation supervision for one year post-release.
Stephen Crosbie (44) was jailed for five and a half years after attacking a fellow homeless services user with a knife and hatchet during an incident of 'harrowing violence' in Peter McVerry House in Dublin last year. The victim suffered severe injuries, including a laceration to his head and a punctured kidney. Staff members tried to de-escalate the situation, but Crosbie threatened them as well. When armed gardai arrived, they found blood spatters along the corridor. The victim required emergency surgery. Crosbie had 120 previous convictions and was on bail for another offence at the time of the attack. Judge Orla Crowe described the attack as 'deeply serious, brutal' and noted the 45-minute incident of brutality. She reduced the headline sentence of nine years to six years, taking into account mitigating factors, including Crosbie's early guilty pleas. The court heard the dispute started when the victim repaid Crosbie €100 from a €200 debt, leading to the attack.
Dean Whittaker (33), an appellant with an address in Ballymun, Dublin, has appealed against the severity of his ten-month prison sentence for possessing cocaine and diamorphine for the purpose of unlawful sale and supply, contrary to section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. Whittaker was initially charged with possession of controlled drugs and obstructing or impeding a garda member on March 28, 2023. He was convicted in the District Court and later lodged an appeal. Garda Pierce O'Dwyer testified that Whittaker initially resisted arrest before being restrained and later admitted to dropping off drugs for sale and supply, while possessing a burner phone. Whittaker has 84 previous convictions, including drug-related, assault, and obstruction offences. Defence counsel stated that Whittaker has taken significant steps to change his behaviour, including engaging with the Star Project and the job centre, and has been clean of substances for 12 months. She requested the judge to consider suspending the jail term to provide motivation for Whittaker to turn his life around. Judge Cephas Power noted that the offending was at the 'top end' of the District Court level and was not inclined to interfere with the sentence at this stage. The case was re-mentioned for Whittaker to provide additional letters and urine analysis. The matter was adjourned for further mention in the new court term.
Former prison officer Aaron Sheridan received a fully suspended sentence after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of prescription drugs for sale or supply and having proceeds of criminal conduct. Gardaí found more than 900 Alprazolam tablets and cash at his Ballymun home. A separate allegation concerning €118,000 in allegedly unexplained bank-account movements was taken into consideration without a plea. Judge Orla Crowe imposed two years, suspended for four years on strict conditions, and called it a chance of a lifetime.
Solicitor Joseph McNally told the Workplace Relations Commission that staff shortages after a law-firm merger left him dealing with upset clients instead of business development. Ferrys partner Barry O'Donoghue disputed McNally's account, while Ferrys Solicitors LLP denies the alleged sham redundancy; the complaint under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 was adjourned to May.
The Workplace Relations Commission heard evidence in an unfair dismissal claim brought by solicitor Joseph McNally against Ferrys Solicitors LLP. McNally alleges he was subjected to a "sham" redundancy following his termination in October 2024, arguing he was told he had "no future" in the firm. Giving evidence, Ferrys partner Barry O'Donoghue stated that the firm had allocated a total of €180,000 to a personal injuries marketing initiative, comprising a €60,000 annual Google Ads budget, a €40,000 salary for McNally, and €80,000 in fees to his company, Venus Bell Ltd. O'Donoghue claimed the venture failed because the budget was not spent for months and the website was not ready by the fourth quarter of 2024. He noted that the firm had incurred €100,000 in costs with "nothing to show for it" and that the website generated non-fee-earning inquiries. Ferrys terminated its commercial agreement with Venus Bell Ltd on 20 September 2024 for "failure to deliver," and McNally was made redundant the following month. McNally's counsel, Tiernan Lowey BL, submitted that the redundancy was a "sham" and that the appeal process was "unfair and prejudicial." The case is continuing.
A 19-year-old who was a juvenile when charged pleaded guilty after reaching more than 180 km/hr during a garda pursuit and crashing into a heavy goods vehicle. Judge Orla Crowe referred him to the Probation Service for assessment and adjourned sentencing while he remains on continuing bail.
Michael McDonagh and Georgina McCarroll were sentenced after pleading guilty to demanding money with menaces from a German tourist in Temple Bar. McCarroll also admitted stealing his iPhone. Judge Sinead Ni Chulachain imposed three years and six months on McCarroll and three years on McDonagh, suspending 18 months of each sentence and placing both under Probation Service supervision.
John Dunne, 35, of Ballymun, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to aggravated burglary, assault causing harm, trespass, and criminal damage to nine vehicles on September 5, 2024. Judge Orla Crowe described the incident as a violent violation of a family home, noting Dunne armed with a lump hammer and threatening the homeowner with a knife. The judge stated the aggravated burglary warranted an 11-year headline sentence but imposed eight years, considering Dunne's guilty plea and difficult background. Concurrent four-year sentences were imposed for the other offences. The final nine months of the eight-year term were suspended on strict conditions, requiring Dunne to engage with the Probation Service for 18 months upon release. Dunne has 43 previous convictions, and his defence counsel attributed the offending to addiction following the loss of his family home. The court accepted his apology to the victims, who included a young child present during the attack.
Derek Smith received a three-year sentence after pleading guilty to burglary, criminal damage and theft at a Ballymun building site. Judge Orla Crowe suspended the final three months for a year after hearing that the tools had been recovered following a search of Smith's address.
Dziugas Odinas pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and endangerment after a high-speed pursuit involving 12 garda vehicles and the Garda national air support unit. He also pleaded guilty to possession for sale or supply of MDMA, Ecstasy tablets and Alprazolam tablets. Judge Sarah Berkeley adjourned the case to May 11 for finalisation and remanded him in custody.
Daniel O'Neill was sentenced to three years in prison after pleading guilty to assaulting a woman causing her harm. Garda Thomas Conneely found O'Neill strangling her outside her home. Judge Orla Crowe suspended the final three months for two years and ordered him to have no contact with the injured party.
A man has been sentenced to seven years in prison at the Central Criminal Court after pleading guilty to conspiracy to murder. Joseph Richards, aged 35 and from Lanesborough Square in Finglas, was convicted in connection with the death of Robert Sheridan, 45, who was shot at his front door in Ballymun on 5 October 2018. Mr Justice Paul McDermott found the killing was meticulously planned and involved considerable coordination to lure the victim to answer the door. Richards, who initially faced a murder charge, will serve the seven-and-a-half-year sentence, with six months suspended, after completing his current prison term, resulting in an effective sentence exceeding twelve years. The judge noted Richards has ninety-nine previous convictions and acknowledged his guilty plea and efforts to address drug addiction while imprisoned. The victim's family delivered impact statements describing the lasting trauma caused by his death.
A drunk man who was found asleep halfway out of a car in a church car park and later urinated in a station cell has had his three-month jail term fully suspended on appeal. Ross Giffney (37) was convicted of obstruction of a peace officer, using threatening language, and criminal damage for urinating in the custody area. He was sentenced to four months in custody with one month suspended. On appeal, Judge James O'Donoghue decided to fully suspend the sentence for two years, telling Giffney that if he stepped out of line, the sentence would be activated. The judge also said Giffney must pay the invoice for the cleaning of the garda cell. Defence counsel said her client was remorseful for his actions and had drink on him on the night. Garda Ben Grimes told the court that Giffney had to be roused from sleep by gardai and that he was a danger to himself and others.
Joseph Richards, 35, pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to conspiring to murder Robert Sheridan, a 45-year-old father-of-two who was fatally shot at his Ballymun home in October 2018. Prosecutors alleged that Richards, who has 99 previous convictions, was "crack crazy" and acted for payment, enlisting someone known to the victim to lure him to the door. Sheridan, who had received a Garda Information Message warning of threats to his life, sustained fatal gunshot wounds to the face. The court heard that Richards is currently serving a prison sentence of six years and five months. In mitigation, his counsel cited a traumatic upbringing, chronic drug addiction, and recent bereavement. Victim impact statements described the killing as a "cold-blooded execution" and detailed the lasting psychological trauma suffered by Sheridan's children. Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned the case to February 24 for finalisation.
Patrick McDonagh, aged 25, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison after he threw a carton of chips at pensioner Michael Whitfield and then struck him with his car on Clonshaugh Road on 3 November 2021. Whitfield, now 66, suffered a catastrophic head injury that left him unable to walk, with severe speech difficulties and requiring full‑time care. He spent five weeks in an induced coma, ten months at Beaumont Hospital, five months at the National Rehabilitation Hospital and is now a full‑time patient in a specialist brain‑injury care setting. McDonagh pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm; the court noted his lack of previous convictions at the time but recorded 17 prior convictions thereafter. The sentence was set to run consecutively with a seven‑year term for false imprisonment, assault, threats to kill and burglary, with six months suspended on conditions including Probation Service supervision.
Nathan Walsh and Lee Cunningham, both aged 29, have pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to charges arising from an assault on a man in Dublin City Centre on 23 May 2023. Walsh, of Ballyshannon Road, Beaumont, admitted theft and assault causing harm. Cunningham, of Park Lawn, Mount Prospect Avenue, Clontarf, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm. The victim, now 41, was attacked on Temple Lane South at 3am and robbed of his mobile phone and wallet. CCTV footage showed Walsh initiating the assault with punches and kicks to the head before searching the victim's pockets, while Cunningham's involvement occurred at the assault's conclusion. A third defendant, Brian Delahunty, was previously sentenced to 18 months imprisonment for his role in the same incident. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned sentencing of Walsh and Cunningham to 30 April to allow the Probation Service to prepare reports on both men.
A court heard that Craig Mains (28) of Hazelcroft Park, Finglas, Dublin 11, and Shane Daly (27) of Woodhazel Close, Ballymun, Dublin 11, were high on laughing gas when they carried out a random unprovoked assault on a woman on Seamus Ennis Road, Finglas, north Dublin, on the evening of July 18, 2021. The woman was pushed to the ground and suffered injuries including a split lip, cuts to her knee, blood on her face and clothing, and a fractured elbow. One of the men took her mobile phone and damaged it. CCTV footage from a nearby funeral home captured the incident. Both men pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and criminal damage of an iPhone. Daly also pleaded guilty to assault. The robbery charges were dropped by the Director of Public Prosecutions. Daly has 23 previous convictions, including one for affray with a suspended prison sentence earlier this month. Mains has five previous convictions, all for road traffic offences. The victim submitted a victim impact report, which the judge said he would take into consideration. Both defendants expressed remorse and offered apologies. Daly handed over €2,000, and Mains brought €1,000 to court. The matter was adjourned to May 12, 2025, for finalisation, with both men remanded on continuing bail to that date.
The owner of a Dublin city head shop caught selling cannabis herb had a "mistaken belief" she wasn't breaking the law, a court has heard. Charlene Flynn (37) was present during the search and told gardai she was the owner of the shop, which was part of a franchise that also operated a premises in Cork city. She was arrested in September 2022 and interviewed. She told gardai that cannabinoid oil and CBD products, which she said were regulated under EU food law, were seized by gardai on the day of the search. Ms Flynn said that the products had a level of THC, the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis, of under 0.2 per cent and said that "to my knowledge the products are within the legal requirements". Flynn of Hollytree Square, Ballymun later pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of drugs for sale or supply at 'Funky Skunk' on June 2, 2022.
A garda has received a suspended three-month sentence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for assaulting his then-wife, a fellow member of An Garda Síochána, in County Mayo in October 2012. Trevor Bolger (48), previously attached to Ballymun Garda Station, pleaded guilty to the assault under the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act. Judge Martina Baxter suspended the sentence in full on strict conditions, including engagement with the MOVE (Men Overcoming Violent Emotions) programme. The court heard the assault occurred during a family gathering when Bolger became angry that his wife spoke with her family rather than remaining at his side. The victim described the incident as terrifying and protracted, and ended the marriage the following day. Judge Baxter noted Bolger held a position of trust as a serving garda and that alcohol aggravated the offence. She acknowledged his six years of sobriety, genuine remorse, and engagement with rehabilitation services, finding him at low risk of reoffending. Bolger is currently suspended from An Garda Síochána.
A 34-year-old man from Finglas has admitted to conspiring to murder a Dublin father-of-two who was fatally shot at his home in 2018. Joseph Richards, with an address at Lanesborough Square, pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to conspiracy to murder Robert Sheridan, aged 45, who died following a shooting at Poppintree Crescent, Ballymun, on October 5, 2018. Richards was charged with the offence in 2024. Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned the case to February 16 for sentencing.
Christopher O'Neill has been sentenced to six years imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following his guilty plea to the manslaughter of Martin Lynn on 30 July 2023. The 31-year-old punched Mr Lynn once to the head in an unprovoked attack outside the victim's home in the Larkhill area. Mr Lynn, who was returning from socialising in Dublin city centre, was taken to hospital where he died two days later from catastrophic brain injuries. Judge Martin Nolan stated the assault appeared to stem from a temper outburst, noting no provocation was evident. The court heard victim impact statements from Mr Lynn's family, including his sister who described enduring 899 days of nightmare following his death. Mr Lynn, originally from Donegal and Mayo family roots, had recently begun employment at Santry Sports Clinic. O'Neill, from Whitehall, Santry, has 24 previous convictions.
A 22-year-old man, Reece Byrne, has been sentenced to six years in prison for possession of heroin, cocaine, and diazepam, with the final six months suspended. Byrne pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply and money laundering at his home in Ballymun. During a search, Gardaí found large amounts of cocaine, heroin, and diazepam, with a total market value of €48,000. Byrne initially claimed the drugs were not his and that he had a drug debt, but the court did not accept this. Judge Martina Baxter noted Byrne's cooperation and lack of previous convictions but emphasized his role in the drugs trade. Byrne's co-accused, Laura Smith, received a two-and-a-half-year suspended sentence for allowing her home to be used for drug preparation. The court acknowledged Smith's cooperation and her status as a mother of three, deeming it unlikely she would reoffend.
A woman who scammed her pensioner friend out of €30,000 over a five-year period by falsely claiming to be investing in a Lanzarote pub was sentenced to make restitution. Geraldine McGrath, who pleaded guilty to three counts of deception, had misled her friend into making regular cash payments. The victim, now in her early 80s, has no real savings and has been unable to afford a headstone for her son's grave. McGrath, who has no previous convictions, was ordered to repay the money and had already put aside €3,000 in court. The court heard that McGrath had health issues and was on disability allowance, making it difficult for her to repay the full amount. Judge Jonathan Dunphy said the court would give her more time to make repayments and ordered that €3,000 be handed over immediately with a further €1,000 by Friday. McGrath was also remanded on continuing bail until March 23. The court heard that the victim had been deceived for years and that McGrath had written a letter of apology to the injured party.
A 59-year-old man from Silloge Park, Ballymun, Dublin 11, who claimed he found a bag containing over €19,000 worth of cannabis and three shotgun cartridges in a local park, has been given a fully suspended three-year sentence. Anthony White pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply and unlawful possession of the shotgun cartridges. He told gardai he found the items in an area where bikes are burned and hid them to avoid his brother discovering them. However, Garda Tommy Kinneally stated he did not believe White's explanation. Judge Martin Nolan noted that White was holding the drugs for some small reward and considered his low level of culpability, as well as his personal circumstances. The judge said White was a mature man who would have known his actions were wrong but concluded there was little use in sending him to prison. White has no previous convictions and has been working on a Community Employment scheme.
An unlicenced, uninsured driver, John McDonagh, aged 20, was jailed for 32 months for dangerous driving after striking a 60‑plus‑year‑old victim on Ballymun Road on 6 July 2023. The victim, a supervisory worker on the Dublin light rail project, was wearing protective gear and was crossing the road toward the grass meridian when McDonagh collided with him. The victim sustained serious head injuries and fractures, spent almost a year in hospital, and is now a wheelchair user requiring constant assistance. McDonagh pleaded guilty, failed to remain at the scene, and later admitted to smoking cannabis, which tested positive. He had no licence or insurance, and the court noted no evidence of excessive speed. The judge imposed a 32‑month sentence and a five‑year driving disqualification. The victim's impact statement highlighted the life‑changing injuries and the emotional toll on his family.
Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced three former soldiers to fully suspended terms for a violent attack outside The Living Room bar in February 2024. Jordan Kavanagh (24), Jerome Kavanagh (23), and Jason Keating (24) each pleaded guilty to one count of assault causing harm and one count of violent disorder. All three resigned from the army prior to entering their pleas. Judge Sinéad Ní Chúlacháin imposed a four-year sentence, suspended for five years, on Jordan Kavanagh and Jason Keating. Jerome Kavanagh received a two-year, eight-month sentence, suspended for three years. The court ordered the men to pay €6,666 each to the victim as an expression of remorse. The judge noted the defendants were suitable candidates for restorative justice and described the sentences as a "Sword of Damocles." The victim, who suffered a concussion, broken teeth, and scarring, stated the attack changed his life. The judge emphasized that while the men showed real remorse and had no previous convictions, their actions were "completely appalling" and they had thrown away their potential.
Marius Mihai Popa, 41, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing the death of Darren Brodigan, 35, on Poppintree Park Lane, Ballymun, on 27 November 2022. Popa was driving at 62 km/h on a 50 km/h road that was dark due to overhanging trees. He called emergency services and flagged an ambulance, but Brodigan died from massive brain injuries. The court heard no CCTV footage; investigators confirmed the speed. Popa cooperated fully, tested negative for alcohol and drugs, and was not distracted. He expressed remorse, apologised to the Brodigan family, and noted he had no previous convictions. Judge Martin Nolan imposed an eight‑month suspended sentence, disqualified Popa from driving for one year, and extended sympathies to the Brodigan family. The case highlighted the darkness of the road and the subsequent upgrade of street lighting. The sentencing was conducted in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
A former garda has been remanded for sentencing assessment following his guilty plea to assaulting his then wife, also a member of An Garda Síochána, at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Trevor Bolger, aged 48, previously stationed at Ballymun, pleaded guilty to the assault on Margaret Loftus on 25 October 2012. The incident occurred during a family visit to Balla, County Mayo. Judge Martina Baxter adjourned sentencing to allow completion of an intervention program assessment referenced in a probation report, with proceedings to resume on 16 January 2026. Ms Loftus delivered a victim impact statement describing lasting effects of the assault and the subsequent stigma she experienced within the force. Bolger, who has no previous convictions, was represented by defence counsel who highlighted his mental health treatment, compensation of €6,000 offered to the court, and testimonials to his character. The maximum penalty under the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act is six months imprisonment or a fine.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Karl Keogh, 38, admitted using forged documents—including a fake Virgin Media bill, counterfeit pay slips and a counterfeit Irish driving licence—to open an account at Ballygall Credit Union in Ballymun and borrow €19,000. The loan was never repaid, and the account fell into arrears. Keogh pleaded guilty to theft and fraud offences on 4 and 8 April 2021. The court, noting his severe gambling problem, imposed a 20‑month prison sentence.
Dean Madden, 32, of Balcurris Road, Ballymun, Dublin 11, was sentenced to 16 months' imprisonment after pleading guilty in Dublin District Court to possession, production and distribution of child pornography. The charges stemmed from a March 2024 raid on his home, where 3,832 images and 162 videos were seized. Garda Paul Higgins identified Madden through his email and username on a particular app. Of the material, 1,601 images and 151 videos were classified as the most serious category, depicting sexual activity involving children as young as two years old with other children or adults; 1,818 images were classified as child exposure images, while the remainder were animated or computer‑generated. Madden also admitted simple possession of drugs, with a small amount of cannabis seized. He had no prior convictions and had not attracted Garda attention before the arrest.
Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced Michael Tuite and Patrick Morgan for their roles in the burglary of six commercial units at Premier Business Park, Ballycoolin, and a subsequent high-speed chase. Both men entered signed guilty pleas to six counts of burglary and possession of an implement with intent. Tuite additionally pleaded guilty to endangerment, unauthorised taking of a vehicle, and unlawful escape from custody, while Morgan pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and allowing himself to be carried in a vehicle without consent. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced Tuite to six years' imprisonment and disqualified him from driving for six years. The judge noted Morgan was less culpable and imposed a five-year sentence. Both defendants were directed to receive credit for time spent in custody. The court heard that Tuite escaped custody by climbing a wall at Blanchardstown District Court, dropping 15ft, before being apprehended nearby. Morgan's detention was suspended due to his level of intoxication. The judge described Tuite's driving as "pretty disgraceful" and noted both men were aggressive during arrest. Mitigation included their guilty pleas, expressions of remorse, and efforts to address addiction issues.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court case, Noel McCabe, aged 30, pleaded guilty to possession of a realistic‑looking airgun, common assault, criminal damage and producing an article capable of inflicting serious harm. The offences occurred on 24 September 2024. McCabe first forced entry into a house at Briarwood Lawn, Mulhuddart, then struck a man in a pub at the Westend Shopping Centre, producing a gas pistol from his tracksuit. He dropped gas canisters shaped like bullets, which were not ammunition. Later that evening, Gardaí found a black revolver near him at the same address; forensic analysis confirmed it was a realistic‑looking firearm. McCabe, intoxicated and argumentative, was arrested and later restrained during transport. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a five‑year sentence, back‑dated to September 2024, without part‑suspension, citing McCabe's extensive record of 41 convictions and his expressed remorse. The sentence aims to encourage behavioural change.
Dean Teeling, 36, of Ballymun, Dublin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for violent disorder and assault causing harm arising from a Mountjoy prison incident on December 18, 2018, and a separate assault causing harm during a knife attack on Fownes Street in Temple Bar on January 8, 2022. Teeling pleaded guilty to all charges. Judge Martin Nolan described the prison assault as "pretty savage" and imposed three-year custodial sentences for each offence, ordered to run consecutively, resulting in a total of six years. The court noted Teeling's history of offending, including prior knife assaults. Brad Dempsey, 24, of Crumlin, Dublin, also pleaded guilty to affray at Mountjoy prison for his involvement in the 2018 melee, where he allegedly kicked the victim. Judge Nolan sentenced Dempsey to 18 months imprisonment for this offence. Dempsey is currently serving an eight-year term for firearms offences imposed in 2022. The sentences for both defendants were finalized at this procedural stage.