Thomas Dannevig, a 21-year-old from Donabate, pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary during the Dublin riots in November 2023. He admitted to entering multiple stores, including Foot Locker and Lifestyle Sports, and stealing items. Dannevig claimed he was not involved in the riots and acted on his own, though he was part of a larger group of looters. He was not charged with criminal damage. The court heard that Dannevig had no criminal intent and described his actions as a stupid decision. He was given a suspended prison sentence of two and a half years, 100 hours of community service, and placed under probation for 18 months. Judge Pauline Codd noted that Dannevig's actions, though minor, contributed to significant losses for the retailers. CCTV footage showed Dannevig moving between stores and stealing items. The court was informed that the total losses from the stores were substantial, with significant damage and lost revenue. Dannevig expressed remorse and apologized for his actions. His mother and stepfather supported him in court, and he has started a pre-apprenticeship course.
Oumar Dao received a fully suspended sentence for stealing €3,764.70 from an elderly man by impersonating an AIB official. Dao, who has 30 previous convictions, including one for money laundering, pleaded guilty to theft. The victim, aged 78 at the time, was tricked into sharing his bank details after clicking on a phishing link. Dao met the victim and collected his card, which was later used to withdraw money and buy food. CCTV footage and car registration details led to Dao's identification. His defence highlighted his educational background and current studies in welding and mechanical engineering. Judge Patricia Ryan described the crime as a "sneaky" and premeditated offence against a vulnerable person. Dao was sentenced to 18 months, suspended on strict conditions, and was required to pay €2,000 to the victim as a practical expression of remorse.
Shop workers described the fear and trauma they experienced during the Dublin riots, with one of the perpetrators, Thomas Dannevig (21), pleading guilty to burglary. Victims from Footlocker and Lifestyle Sports stores recounted the panic and lasting psychological effects of the riots, including nightmares and anxiety. Dannevig was identified through CCTV footage and admitted to taking items from the shops, though he claimed he was not involved in the riots themselves. The court heard that Dannevig acted alone but was part of a larger group. He expressed remorse and apologized for his actions, acknowledging the impact on the shop workers. The judge noted Dannevig's youth and prosocial background, and recommended a probation report to assess his suitability for community service. Dannevig is willing to carry out community service and has offered to increase his contribution if given more time.
DHL has been ordered to pay €18,000 in redundancy compensation to Oscar Solano Fernandez, a warehouse worker who lost his job after refusing a transfer that would have required a five-hour commute. The Workplace Relations Commission upheld his complaint under the Redundancy Payments Act 1967, finding the relocation offer unreasonable. Mr Solano, who had worked at the Clondalkin warehouse for 15 years, argued that the new commute would interfere with his family responsibilities. DHL had offered a relocation package, including a €1,000 bonus and €5,000 in Perx vouchers, but the WRC ruled that the alternative job was not reasonable. The adjudication officer found that Mr Solano was entitled to a redundancy payment based on his weekly wages and years of service. The company denied claims that it sought to avoid redundancy payments by keeping workers nominally employed. The decision rejected claims of unfair dismissal and discrimination based on family status.
The Special Criminal Court has sentenced three defendants convicted of murder and three others for violent disorder arising from the Christmas Eve 2023 killing of Tristan Sherry at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown. Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo sentenced David Amah (19) and an unnamed 18-year-old accomplice to 12 years' imprisonment, with the final three years suspended. Both were 17 at the time of the offence, meaning they were not subject to the mandatory life sentence, a position supported by recent Supreme Court rulings. Michael Andrecut (23), who was an adult at the time, was previously sentenced to the mandatory life term. For the violent disorder convictions, Brandon Hennessy (22) received four-and-a-half years, with the final six months suspended for one year. Jonas Kabangu (19) was sentenced to four years, with the final 12 months suspended for two years. An unnamed 18-year-old received two years and four months, with the final year suspended for two years. The judge noted the lack of premeditation and that the victims were disarmed when attacked, while emphasizing the need to deter unlawful violence.
At the Central Criminal Court, Michael Andrecut (23) of Sheephill Avenue, Blanchardstown, was sentenced to a mandatory life term for the murder of Tristan Sherry. David Amah (19) of Hazel Grove, Donabate, and a third man from Blanchardstown, who was 17 when charged, were also convicted of murder but are not subject to the mandatory sentence; their sentences are due to be finalised at a later stage. Separately, the Workplace Relations Commission ruled that San Siro Ltd, the operating company of Browne's Steakhouse, breached employment laws by failing to pay statutory redundancy to six former employees when the restaurant closed on Christmas Eve 2023. Adjudicator Catherine Byrne upheld complaints from general manager Vjola Ajredini, waitress Adisa Ajredini, and assistant manager Amanda Ajredini, awarding them sums between €1,032 and €6,154 for unpaid notice and compensation for working time breaches. The WRC also confirmed redundancy entitlements for kitchen porter Gedeminas Urbasius and head chef Ruslan Pazuschin. In total, the orders secure over €100,000 in payouts for employment rights breaches, including redundancy lump sums exceeding €86,000.
The Special Criminal Court adjourned sentencing for three men convicted of the murder of Tristan Sherry, who was fatally beaten after shooting Jason Hennessy Senior at Browne's Steakhouse on Christmas Eve 2023. Michael Andrecut (23) was sentenced to mandatory life imprisonment. David Amah (19) and an unnamed 18-year-old, both 17 at the time of the offence, were also convicted of murder but are not subject to the mandatory life sentence; their sentencing was adjourned to May. Brandon Hennessy (21) and Jonas Kabangu (19) were convicted of violent disorder arising from the incident, with their sentencing also adjourned. Separately, Jaures Kumbu (19) pleaded guilty to a firearms offence for removing the sub-machine gun used in the shooting. He was sentenced to three years in prison, with the final year suspended for two years. The court noted Kumbu had no prior convictions and acted under exceptional circumstances, though the weapon was never retrieved. The hearing included victim impact statements from Sherry's mother and sister, who described their ongoing fear and trauma. Counsel for the defendants highlighted their youth, lack of weapons, and brief involvement in the disorder. The matter was adjourned and not concluded.
In a non-jury trial, Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo found Noah Musueni (18), David Amah (19), and Michael Andrecut (23) guilty of the murder of Tristan Sherry. The court rejected defence arguments of provocation and loss of self-control, citing CCTV evidence of deliberate, composed violence inflicted after Sherry was disarmed. Sherry died from traumatic brain injuries and 27 sharp force wounds. The judge noted Andrecut's actions were considered, while Amah and Musueni displayed control despite their ages. Musueni, previously on bail, was ordered into custody. Separately, Brandon Hennessy (21), Jonas Kabangu (19), and Diarmuid O'Brien (18) were convicted of violent disorder. The court found their claims of self-defence unreasonable, noting Hennessy struck Sherry with a dustpan and brush, while O'Brien and Kabangu attacked a defenceless victim. The judge ordered reports for the violent disorder defendants. The matter was adjourned, with the court to mention the case on March 10th and a sentencing hearing scheduled for April 7th.
A 27-year-old fitness instructor from Donabate has been sentenced to six and a half years' imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following his conviction for drug trafficking. The man pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis on 26 May 2023 in the Balbriggan area of North Dublin. An intelligence-led garda operation led to his arrest after he collected a hired van from a gym in Finglas and travelled to Cavan, where he collected drugs before being stopped by gardaí near Balbriggan on his return journey. Approximately 186 kilograms of cannabis herb and 291 bars of cannabis resin, valued at just under €3.9 million, were recovered from the vehicle. The defendant, who had no previous convictions, told gardaí he had experienced financial difficulties and accepted a one-off payment to transport the van, claiming ignorance of the quantity involved. Judge Martin Nolan departed from the mandatory minimum ten-year sentence, citing the defendant's early plea, cooperation, employment history, and low likelihood of reoffending.
Three men—Noah Musueni, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut—will be judged next month on whether they murdered Tristan Sherry, who fatally shot Jason Hennessy Snr in Browne's Steakhouse on Christmas Eve 2023. The Special Criminal Court adjourned the case to 17 February, stating it cannot yet deliver a judgment. The trial heard that Sherry entered the restaurant on 24 December, shot Hennessy, and was then dragged to the ground and beaten to death. The prosecution claims Sherry died from blunt force injuries and stab wounds delivered while he lay on the ground after being disarmed. Defence lawyers argue the accused acted out of fear, self‑defence, or provocation, citing Sherry's opening fire on a group that included children. All three men have pleaded not guilty. Additionally, Jonas Kabangu, Diarmuid O'Brien, and Brandon Hennessy are charged with violent disorder at the same event, and have also pleaded not guilty. The court will decide the outcome on 17 February.
The Special Criminal Court concluded its six‑week trial of six men charged in the killing of gunman Tristan Sherry on Christmas Eve 2023. Sherry and a second gunman entered Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown on 24 December, where Jason Hennessy Snr and about 30 others were celebrating. Sherry shot and fatally wounded Hennessy Snr before being dragged to the ground and beaten to death. The three men charged with Sherry's murder are Noah Musueni (18), David Amah (18) and Michael Andrecut (23). Jonas Kabangu (18) and Diarmuid O'Brien (18) are charged with violent disorder, as is Brandon Hennessy (21). All pleaded not guilty. The prosecution argued that Sherry was subjected to a sustained, controlled and continuous attack, beaten to death, spat on, photographed and left to die in a pool of blood, constituting murder. The court adjourned the matter until 20 January 2025.
The Special Criminal Court trial of six men accused of murder and violent disorder arising from a shooting at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown on December 24 last year is ongoing. David Amah, Noah Musueni, and Michael Andrecut, all of whom pleaded not guilty to the murder of Tristan Sherry, face charges following the fatal wounding of Jason Hennessy Snr by Sherry. Counsel for Amah argued he lost self-control in reaction to the horror of seeing his friend shot, rejecting prosecution claims his actions were calm. She urged the court to consider his age and lack of prior convictions. In closing submissions for Jonas Kabangu, who pleaded not guilty to violent disorder, counsel argued he returned to the scene fearing a live threat from a second gunman and could not have known Sherry was no longer a danger. The court heard pathologist evidence that Sherry died from blunt force trauma to the head. The trial was adjourned and will resume on Monday when lawyers for Brandon Hennessy and Diarmuid O'Brien, both of whom deny violent disorder, deliver their closing speeches. All accused remain on trial, with no verdicts or sentences recorded at this procedural stage.
A 26-year-old Dublin man will become the fourth accused to face trial for the alleged murder of Tristan Sherry at a Dublin steakhouse on Christmas Eve. Wayne Deegan, of Linnetsfield Avenue, Phibblestown, Dublin 15, pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder. His trial was previously delayed while he awaited specialist reports. Michael O'Higgins SC, representing Mr Deegan, informed the Special Criminal Court that his client is ready to proceed. Justice Kerida Naidoo set a trial date for April 28 next year and ordered that a transcript of the current trial be made available to Mr Deegan's legal team. Currently, three other men are on trial for the alleged murder of Mr Sherry: Noah Musueni, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut. Additionally, three others are accused of violent disorder arising from the same incident: Jonas Kabangu, Diarmuid O'Brien, and Brandon Hennessy. All accused have pleaded not guilty. Closing speeches are being heard this week in relation to the six individuals currently before the court. The matter regarding Mr Deegan is not yet concluded, as his trial is scheduled for next year.
The Special Criminal Court trial concerning the Christmas Eve shooting at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown continues, with counsel for Noah Musueni arguing his client acted in shock and fear. Mr. Musueni, 18, is accused of murdering Tristan Sherry, who fatally shot Jason Hennessy Snr. Defence barrister Seamus Clarke SC contended that Musueni's actions, lasting 41 seconds, were an instinctive reaction to the 'unimaginable scene,' suggesting a total loss of self-control. He urged the court to find a verdict of manslaughter due to provocation, stating the prosecution failed to disprove this defence. The trial, ongoing for over a month, involves three men accused of Sherry's murder: Musueni, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut. All have pleaded not guilty. Additionally, three others, including Brandon Hennessy, are charged with violent disorder arising from the incident; they have also pleaded not guilty. Closing speeches for David Amah and the defendants charged with violent disorder are scheduled for Friday and Monday. The matter remains at the trial stage, with no final verdict or sentence delivered.
A trial is ongoing in the Special Criminal Court regarding the death of Tristan Sherry, who was allegedly beaten to death, spat on, and photographed by his attackers following a vigilante revenge attack at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown on Christmas Eve. Prosecution counsel Fiona Murphy SC described the attack as a 'sustained, controlled and continuous attack' on Sherry, who was disarmed and left in a 'foetal position' on the ground. She called for the conviction of three men for murder and three others for violent disorder. The accused include Noah Musueni, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut, who are charged with murder, and Jonas Kabangu, Diarmuid O'Brien, and Brandon Hennessy, who are charged with violent disorder. All accused have pleaded not guilty. Defence speeches are continuing, with the three judges to consider their verdicts after the closing speeches. The trial has heard that Sherry shot and fatally wounded Jason Hennessy Snr before being dragged to the ground and beaten to death. The accused charged with murder may argue that provocation by Sherry's actions led to a sudden and total loss of self-control, which could result in a manslaughter conviction rather than murder. The trial is expected to continue with closing speeches from the remaining accused over the coming days.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, three men—Noah Musueni, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut—are on trial for the murder of gunman Tristan Sherry, who fatally shot Jason Hennessy Snr at a Christmas Eve party in Browne's Steakhouse, Blanchardstown, on 24 December. The court will hear closing speeches next Wednesday, with the Director of Public Prosecutions presenting her case and the defence arguing that the accused were provoked by Sherry's shooting, potentially reducing the charge to manslaughter under provocation law. The trial is adjourned until then. Separately, Jonas Kabangu, Diarmuid O'Brien, and Brandon Hennessy are charged with violent disorder for the same event. The proceedings remain at the pleading stage, with no verdict yet announced.
The Special Criminal Court heard an application by counsel for Michael Andrecut (23) to argue provocation as a partial defence to the murder charge against him. Andrecut, along with Noah Musueni (18) and David Amah (18), is on trial accused of murdering Tristan Sherry. The defence submitted that Andrecut suffered a total loss of control after Sherry allegedly shot Jason Hennessy Snr, described by Andrecut as a father figure, during a Christmas Eve party at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown. Counsel argued that the alleged "cold-blooded" assassination provoked Andrecut into the violent actions attributed to him, potentially reducing the charge to manslaughter. The court has heard that Sherry was disarmed and beaten to death following the shooting. Andrecut, Musueni, and Amah deny the murder charges. Counsel for the other two accused indicated they will make similar applications when the trial continues. Separately, Jonas Kabangu (18), Diarmuid O'Brien (18), and Brandon Hennessy (21), the son of the deceased, are on trial accused of violent disorder at the same location and date. All three deny these charges. The matter is currently at the trial stage before a three-judge, non-jury court.
In a trial before the Special Criminal Court, Brandon Hennessy, aged 21, denies a charge of violent disorder linked to the December 24, 2023, shooting at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown. Hennessy, who was present at the restaurant with his father, claims he acted in self‑defence and was provoked by the gunman, Tristan Sherry, who fatally shot his father and was later beaten to death. Hennessy criticises Gardaí for their delayed response and alleges they failed to protect his family. He also accuses the police of not arresting the second gunman. The court heard CCTV footage and Hennessy's statements, but he maintains his innocence and has pleaded not guilty. The trial continues with other accused individuals also pleading not guilty.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, 18‑year‑old David Amah denied murdering Tristan Sherry, claiming he was frightened when Sherry entered a restaurant on Christmas Eve, pointed a gun at him and shot James Hennessy Senior. Amah said he still felt Sherry was a threat several minutes after being disarmed, describing his head as "f**ked" and noting that women and children were crying. He recorded Sherry lying on the ground with his phone, insisting the threat remained. 18‑year‑old Noah Musueni also denied the murder, stating he struck Sherry with a chair in self‑defence after seeing a gun pointed at him and that he feared Sherry could still harm him. Both men have no prior convictions and have pleaded not guilty. The trial continues tomorrow before three judges.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the trial of six men accused of offences arising from an incident at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown on December 24. Michael Andrecut, Noah Musueni, and David Amah are charged with the murder of Tristan Sherry, while Jonas Kabangu, Diarmuid O'Brien, and Brandon Hennessy face charges of violent disorder. All accused have pleaded not guilty. Prosecution witness Detective Sergeant Mark Murphy detailed Andrecut's arrest and his statements to gardai, in which he described Jason Hennessy Senior, who was fatally shot during the incident, as a father figure. Andrecut told detectives he reacted out of a "fight or flight" instinct when he saw Hennessy Senior wounded. The court also heard that gardai attempted to use a special provision to draw inferences from Andrecut's failure to answer questions regarding a black metal bar, a wooden chair, and knives allegedly used in the assault. Andrecut's counsel, Dominic McGinn SC, is expected to argue tomorrow that these inference interviews should not be admitted into evidence. The matter is currently at the charge or pre-trial stage, with the trial overseen by Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo, Judge Elma Sheahan, and Judge James Faughnan. No finalisation or sentencing has occurred, and the proceedings remain ongoing.
During a party at Browne's Steakhouse on Main Street, Blanchardstown, on Christmas Eve 2023, gunman Tristan Sherry was shot in the shoulder and stabbed 16 times before being beaten to death. State Pathologist Dr. Heidi Okkers testified that Sherry's death was caused by traumatic blunt‑force injuries combined with 27 sharp‑force injuries, including 16 stab wounds and 11 incised wounds. The single gunshot entered his left shoulder and exited the back, causing only superficial damage and not contributing to his death. Sherry had recently used cocaine and cannabis, but drug use did not contribute to his death. Three men—Noah Musueni, David Amah and Michael Andrecut—are charged with Sherry's murder, while Jonas Kabangu, Diarmuid O'Brien and Brandon Hennessy are charged with violent disorder. All accused plead not guilty.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence regarding the December 24, 2023, shooting of Tristan Sherry at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown. Three men—Noah Musueni, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut—are on trial for his alleged murder, while Jonas Kabangu, Diarmuid O'Brien, and Brandon Hennessy face charges of violent disorder. All accused have pleaded not guilty. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo and two other judges, continues. Prosecution witness Det Gda Dermot Sloan testified that CCTV footage showed O'Brien hiding under a table during the initial gunfire before emerging to strike in Sherry's direction. Hennessy, the victim's son, was also described as using a dustpan and brush to strike at Sherry after the gunman was disarmed. Defense lawyers indicated they would challenge the accuracy of this evidence. The matter remains at the trial stage with no final determination reached.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence from Detective Garda Dermot Sloan regarding the murder of Tristan Sherry at Browne's Steakhouse on December 24, 2023. Sloan presented CCTV footage detailing alleged attacks by Michael Andrecut (22), David Amah (18), and Noah Musueni (18), all of whom deny the murder charge. The detective described Andrecut stamping on Sherry, striking him with glasses, a bar, and a chair, and holding a phone over his head before a final kick. Amah was alleged to have stamped, kicked, and struck Sherry with a chair. Musueni was described as stamping on Sherry's head, delivering jabbing motions, and throwing a chair that hit him. Jonas Kabangu (18), charged with violent disorder, allegedly ran to the carpark, returned to kick Sherry twice, and helped remove the victim's body. Brandon Hennessy (21) and Diarmuid O'Brien (18) are also charged with violent disorder. All accused have pleaded not guilty. The trial is ongoing before Justice Kerida Naidoo, Judge Elma Sheahan, and Judge James Faughnan, with Sloan's evidence scheduled to continue.
The Special Criminal Court heard eyewitness testimony from two sisters regarding the fatal shooting of Tristan Sherry at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown on Christmas Eve 2023. Adisa Ajredini and Amanda Ajredini described the terror as a masked attacker, whom they identified as holding a long firearm, entered the busy restaurant. Adisa stated she dragged her mother under a table after hearing what sounded like machine-gun fire, while Amanda fled to the kitchen believing the gunman intended to shoot everyone. The sisters testified that the restaurant was left wrecked and the attacker was found lying in blood. This evidence forms part of the ongoing trial of three men accused of murdering Sherry: Noah Musueni, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut. All three have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Additionally, Jonas Kabangu, Diarmuid O'Brien, and Brandon Hennessy are charged with violent disorder arising from the same incident; all have also pleaded not guilty. Prosecution counsel previously alleged that a group attacked the disarmed Sherry with savage violence. The trial continues before Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo, Judge Elma Sheahan, and Judge James Faughnan. No verdicts or sentences have been delivered, and the matter remains at the trial stage.
The Special Criminal Court has ruled that Garda Dermot Sloane may narrate CCTV footage of the fatal shooting of Jason Hennessy Snr at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown on Christmas Eve 2023. Presiding Judge Kerida Naidoo determined that the garda, described as an "ad hoc expert" due to his familiarity with the footage, is entitled to provide a descriptive narrative to highlight relevant aspects, while emphasizing that the three-judge panel will determine the facts. The trial involves Noah Musueni, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut, who are accused of murdering gunman Tristan Sherry after he shot Mr Hennessy. All three pleaded not guilty. Wayne Deegan is also charged with murder but is awaiting a neuro-psychologist report for a later trial. Jonas Kabangu, Diarmuid O'Brien, and Brandon Hennessy are charged with violent disorder, all pleading not guilty. Jaures Kumbu previously pleaded guilty to removing the sub-machine gun used in the killing, which has not been retrieved. The court adjourned the trial to Monday to allow parties time to consider potential edits to the garda's narrative before it is heard.
The Special Criminal Court is currently hearing the trial of Noah Musueni, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut, who are charged with the murder of Tristan Sherry at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown on December 24, 2023. All three accused pleaded not guilty. Wayne Deegan, also charged with murder, is awaiting a neuro-psychological report and will be tried later. Jonas Kabangu and Brandon Hennessy, the son of shooting victim Jason Hennessy Snr, are on trial for violent disorder arising from the same incident; both pleaded not guilty. Jaures Kumbu previously pleaded guilty to removing the sub-machine gun used in the killing, a weapon that has not been retrieved. During the trial, the court viewed CCTV footage allegedly showing Sherry being disarmed and beaten to death by a group. Prosecution counsel described the attack as involving savage violence, including kicking and striking with chairs. Defence counsel objected to the prosecution providing a narrative of the footage, arguing the visuals are self-evident. While five of the six accused accepted their identification in the footage, Brandon Hennessy's legal team raised an objection to his alleged identification. Garda witnesses testified to arriving at the scene to find a male with multiple injuries. The trial continues before a three-judge panel.
The Special Criminal Court heard that Tristan Sherry was subjected to 'savage levels of violence' at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown on December 24, 2023. Prosecution counsel Fiona Murphy SC alleged that after Sherry fatally shot Jason Hennessy Snr, he was disarmed and attacked by a group using chairs and kicks. Sherry died from blunt force trauma, while Hennessy died from gunshot injuries. Noah Musueni, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut, all charged with murder, entered not guilty pleas. Their lawyers admitted their clients were present, that Sherry died from the violence, and that they were correctly identified on CCTV. Wayne Deegan, also charged with murder, is awaiting a neuro-psychologist report and will be tried later. Jonas Kabangu, Diarmuid O'Brien, and Brandon Hennessy, charged with violent disorder, also pleaded not guilty. Their counsel accepted Sherry's death resulted from the incident's violence. Jaures Kumbu previously pleaded guilty to removing the sub-machine gun used to kill Hennessy, which remains unretrieved. The trial, presided over by Justice Kerida Naidoo, Judge Elma Sheahand, and Judge James Faughnan, was adjourned to continue tomorrow.
The trial of six men accused of offences relating to the murder of Tristan Sherry was adjourned at the Special Criminal Court. The proceedings, presided over by Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo, were originally scheduled to begin on Monday but were postponed to allow the prosecution time to consider a series of admissions prepared by defence counsel. Prosecution counsel Fiona Murphy SC informed the court that these admissions would shorten the trial process, and she stated she would prepare her opening speech accordingly. The court agreed to adjourn the opening until the following day. Four defendants are charged with the murder of Mr Sherry, who allegedly shot a man dead at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown on 24 December 2023. The accused are Noah Musueni, Wayne Deegan, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut. Jonas Kabangu is charged with violent disorder at the same location and date. A sixth defendant, a minor from Blanchardstown, is also charged with violent disorder but has not been identified in the media. All charges remain alleged or contested, and no pleas, findings, or sentences have been recorded. The matter was adjourned and is not concluded.
In the Special Criminal Court, Jaures Kumbu, 18, pleaded guilty to a firearms offence arising from the Christmas Eve 2023 shooting at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown. Kumbu was charged with possessing a sub-machine gun in circumstances giving rise to the reasonable inference that he did not have it for a lawful purpose. The State's case, presented during a previous bail hearing at the Court of Appeal, alleges Kumbu removed the weapon from the scene where Tristan Sherry was killed after fatally shooting Jason Hennessy Senior. Gardaí stated they currently have no idea where the firearm is. Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo, presiding in the three-judge court, adjourned sentencing until November 4. Kumbu was originally scheduled to stand trial with six others accused of various offences related to the incident. Those trials are expected to begin later this year. Among the co-accused, five individuals are charged with Sherry's murder. Additionally, Jonas Kabangu and an unnamed young man who turned 18 after being charged are accused of violent disorder at the same location on that date. The matter regarding Kumbu's sentence remains pending due to the adjournment.
The Special Criminal Court will hold a trial in November for seven men charged in the murder of Tristan Sherry, a gangland assassin, at Browne's Steakhouse on 24 December 2023. The court, presided over by Mr Justice Tony Hunt, has announced that an early guilty plea entered before 31 July will result in a 25 percent reduction of the headline sentence. The prosecution, represented by Maddie Grant BL, is prepared to proceed, and the trial is expected to last about four weeks, concluding between 4 November and 21 December. The accused include Noah Musueni (18), Wayne Deegan (26), David Amah (18), Michael Andrecut (22), Jonas Kabangu (18), an unnamed 18‑year‑old, and Jaures Kumbu (18). Their charges range from murder and violent disorder to possession of a submachine gun. Sherry, aged 26, was killed after shooting Jason Hennessy Senior on Christmas Eve 2023. The court will determine the final sentences once the trial concludes.
A 19-year-old, John Mulrooney Sugrue of Manorfield Green, Clonee Dublin, has initiated a High Court challenge against the mandatory life sentence law, which would prevent a judge from imposing any sentence other than life in prison if he is found guilty of the murder of Aaron Keating on Main Street, Ongar, Dublin 15 on June 13, 2023. Represented by Seamus Clarke SC, Sugrue argues that the law prevents the sentencing judge from considering that the alleged offence occurred when he was a minor. He claims this breaches his constitutional rights and rights under the European Convention of Human Rights. Sugrue seeks various orders, including an order to prevent further prosecution until sentencing provisions account for his age at the time of the alleged offence, and a declaration that the State has breached his rights by failing to have a sentencing regime that allows for such considerations. The matter was heard by Ms Justice Niamh Hyland, who granted permission for the challenge. The case, along with related matters, will be mentioned before the court later this month. Two other similar challenges have been brought by Noah Musueni and David Amah, who are also charged with murder and are awaiting trial in the Special Criminal Court.
At the Special Criminal Court, the matter was adjourned to July 16 for a mention. The court, presided over by Mr Justice Tony Hunt with Mr Justice Paul Burns and Judge Sinead Ní Chúlacháin, heard an application by State solicitor Ciara Vibien to have Brandon Hennessy tried at the non-jury court. Hennessy, 21, is accused of violent disorder under Section 15 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, allegedly using or threatening violence at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown on December 24. He is the son of Jason Hennessy Sr, who was fatally injured in the shooting and died 11 days later. Another victim, Tristan Sherry, died of blunt-force trauma. Seven others are also involved in the proceedings. David Amah, Michael Andrecut, Noah Musueni, and Wayne Deegan are charged with murder. Jaures Kumbu is charged with unlawful possession of a submachine gun at the steakhouse on the night. A 17-year-old boy and Jonas Kabangu are charged with violent disorder. The court did not record any pleas, findings, or sentences, as the case remains at the procedural stage of trial preparation. The matter was not concluded but adjourned to allow for the listing of all matters for mention on the specified date.
The Special Criminal Court adjourned several matters scheduled for July 15 due to a planned barrister strike, with proceedings rescheduled for the following day. Aaron Brady, convicted of the murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe, was due to be sentenced for attempting to pervert the course of justice. He had pleaded guilty to video-recording an interview between witness Ronan Flynn and An Garda Síochána. The matter was adjourned and is not concluded. Additionally, four men accused of the murder of Tristan Sherry at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown were scheduled to appear. Noah Musueni, Wayne Deegan, David Amah, and Michael Andrecut face murder charges; their cases were adjourned. Jonas Kabangu and an unnamed juvenile are charged with violent disorder at the same location, while Jaures Kumbu is charged with possession of a submachine gun. All these matters were adjourned to July 16. The court noted the strike dates of July 9, 15, and 24. No sentences or findings were delivered during this session.
Six men and a teenager, all aged 18 to 26, were charged in connection with the murder of gunman Tristan Sherry, who was killed on 24 December 2023 at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown. The State solicitor applied for the cases to be transferred to the Special Criminal Court under Section 49(1) of the Offences Against the State Act. The court, composed of three judges, granted the order, and all seven cases were adjourned to 1 July. The men charged with Sherry's murder are Noah Musueni (18), Wayne Deegan (26), David Amah (18) and Michael Andrecut (22). Jonas Kabangu (18) and an unnamed juvenile are charged with violent disorder at the same location. Jaures Kumbu (18) is charged with possession of a submachine gun. The Special Criminal Court handles cases where ordinary courts are deemed inadequate for effective justice and public peace. The murder occurred after Sherry shot and fatally injured Jason Hennessy Senior, who died 11 days later.
Logistics firm DHL faced a tribunal case after long‑serving warehouseman Oscar Solano Fernandez claimed the company tried to avoid paying him a redundancy lump sum by relocating him to a site four hours from his home. Solano, a stock picker from Madrid who had worked at DHL since 2008, said the new site near Donabate would require a two‑hour commute each way, compared with a 15‑minute trip to his former Oak Road site in Clondalkin. He alleged that DHL's transfer process was opaque and that the company discriminated against him as a father by not considering the impact on his family. His lawyer argued he was entitled to a statutory redundancy package of €18,300, lost earnings due to a pay cut, and compensation for discrimination.
A 17‑year‑old charged with the murder of gunman Tristan Sherry, who shot and killed Jason Hennessy Senior on 24 December 2023, was granted bail after appealing a High Court refusal. The Court of Appeal upheld the refusal of bail for two other men, David Amah (18) and Michael Andrecut (22), who were also charged with Sherry's murder. The teenager's bail is subject to conditions such as staying away from named individuals, observing a curfew from 11 am to 7 pm, surrendering his passport, signing on twice a week and residing at a specified address. Amah and Andrecut remain in custody because the court found their flight risk significant and could not be mitigated by bail conditions. The court noted that the entire incident was captured on CCTV, giving the defendants full knowledge of the case against them.
Two men, David Amah (18) and Michael Andrecut (22), and a 17‑year‑old minor were charged with the murder of gunman Tristan Sherry (26) in Blanchardstown on Christmas Eve. Sherry shot and fatally injured Jason Hennessy Senior at Browne's Steakhouse on 24 December 2023; Hennessy died 11 days later. The three appellants appealed a High Court refusal of bail. At the Court of Appeal, Seamus Clarke SC for Andrecut argued that the judge's Section 2 bail objections were based on conjecture about future offences and a "feud" that was not supported by hard evidence. Michael O'Higgins SC for Amah highlighted the chaotic circumstances of the night and the lack of evidence that Amah might flee. Michael Bowman SC for the minor contended that the judge erred by treating the youth as a "lightening rod" for danger, ignoring the presumption in favour of bail.
Glen Conroy, 35, pleaded guilty to robbing the Triangle Coffee Shop in Donabate on 25 June 2023, using a broken glass bottle to demand money. He was arrested on 27 July 2023 after fully admitting the offence and cooperating with Gardaí. The robbery resulted in the loss of approximately €300, with no recovery of the stolen money. Conroy has 67 prior convictions, including five for robbery. Judge Patricia Ryan, hearing the case at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, noted the aggravating factor of the bottle and the impact on the two young workers present, aged 18 and 19. Mitigating factors cited were Conroy's early guilty plea, admissions, cooperation, and his background of being institutionalised from age two and incarcerated from 14. The judge imposed a headline sentence of four years, suspending the final eighteen months for three years, and placed Conroy under probation supervision for two years.
Peter McHale (38) and Robert O'Rourke (30) pleaded guilty in the District Court to burglary, false imprisonment, threats to kill, money laundering and, for O'Rourke, production of a screwdriver. The offences took place between mid‑March and 11 April 2023 when they broke into a man's home, held him for about four hours, threatened him with a screwdriver and demanded cash to satisfy a drug debt that had risen from €1,500 to €26,000. O'Rourke's partner, Nicole Munson (30), pleaded guilty to money laundering for allowing the victim's mother to transfer €5,000 to her Revolut account. The court sentenced O'Rourke to five and a half years, McHale to five years and Munson to a fully suspended sentence of three and a half years. The judge described the men as the "more serious actor" and the "lower tier" and noted the victims' fear and distress. The case was heard at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Colin Bale, 37, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm after a daytime attack at Donabate Shopping Centre on 2 February 2020. The incident began when Bale's former partner's honour was allegedly impugned, leading Bale to confront a shopper who had taken his bike. Bale punched the victim twice, causing cuts to the head and ear and a fractured finger. Garda evidence, including CCTV, identified Bale and he was arrested. Bale's defence claimed self‑defence and an apology, noting a prior minor conviction in 2013. Judge Orla Crowe, citing the victim's injuries and the aggravating nature of the assault, imposed a fully suspended 18‑month sentence for three years, hoping the suspended sentence would encourage behavioural change. No custodial term was imposed. The victim, who has facial scars and mental health concerns, was represented by a victim impact statement. No further contact between the parties has occurred since the incident.
Stephen Carberry, 45, of Sandymount Avenue, Dublin 4, was found guilty of possessing over €1.5 million worth of cocaine and ecstasy in a decade‑old drugs operation. He was convicted on five counts of possessing cannabis and ecstasy for sale and supply at The Strand, Donabate, on 23 May 2013. The trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court in April led to a headline sentence of 11 years, later reduced to nine years with the final 12 months suspended. Judge Elma Sheahan credited Carberry for over 360 days already served and back‑dated the sentence to April of the current year, giving a total custodial term of about six years and ten months. Carberry had 62 prior convictions, mainly for traffic offences, and had spent just under a year in custody before release. He was re‑charged in 2014, refused bail, and has remained in custody since the trial's conclusion.
A 51-year-old man convicted of rape has been sentenced to eight years and four months imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following an aggravated burglary committed in April 2018. Mark McAnaw forced his way into a Dublin home armed with a large kitchen knife three months after completing a nine-year prison sentence imposed in 2012 for sexually assaulting a young foreign student in County Donegal in 2010. The victim, who knew McAnaw from prior social contact, reported feeling terrified during the attack and subsequently developed PTSD, moving from her home and leaving her employment. Judge Melanie Greally imposed the final 16 months of the sentence on a suspended basis for 16 years, conditional on McAnaw's supervision by the Probation Services. The judge cited the targeted nature of the offence, the weapon used, and McAnaw's previous convictions as aggravating factors, whilst noting his guilty plea and psychiatric engagement as mitigating elements. Strict conditions have been imposed, including compliance with the Sex Offenders Act and abstinence from illicit substances.
Stephen Carberry, 45, of Sandymount Avenue, Dublin 4, was found guilty in a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court trial on 23 May 2013 of five counts of possession of cannabis and ecstasy for sale and supply. The offence involved 27.9 kg of cannabis, valued at over €559,000, and more than 96,000 ecstasy tablets, worth about €968,900, seized from a property on The Strand, Donabate. Gardaí had been surveilling Carberry when his silver BMW stopped at the property; after he left, the vehicle was stopped in Glasnevin and Carberry was arrested. During the search, a scoop, weighing scales and a phone charger bearing his DNA were found. Carberry had 62 prior convictions, mainly for traffic matters, and had spent just under a year in custody before release. He was re‑charged in 2014, refused bail, and remained in custody since the trial's conclusion.
Charlie Cunningham, 24, of Kellys Bay Heights, Skerries, was sentenced to two years' imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for demanding money with menace at a garda's home in Donabate on 1 January 2021. He knocked on the door at 4.30 pm, asked for a specific person, and when the homeowner – who identified himself as Garda Sean McIllroy – denied the request, Cunningham returned and repeated the demand. He threatened that a group of men would break doors and windows and, after leaving, told the homeowner, "Now I know you're a garda, you're cooked". The homeowner followed him to the road, saw a group of six or seven men, and called the gardai. Cunningham pleaded guilty, cooperated with investigators, and apologized. He has eight prior convictions, including assault causing harm. Judge Martin Nolan noted the seriousness of the offence and the lack of sufficient mitigation to avoid custodial punishment, and imposed the two‑year sentence.
The Special Criminal Court heard that Jonathan Dowdall, a former co-accused of Gerard 'The Monk' Hutch who has turned State's witness, asked a garda 'is there any way out' and 'if him and his family could get into the Witness Protection Programme' in the days following his arrest. The status of Dowdall's Witness Protection Programme (WPP) application remains unknown, with a decision expected in the middle of this month. Gerard Hutch (59), of The Paddocks, Clontarf, Dublin 3, denies the murder of David Byrne (33) during a boxing weigh-in at the Regency Hotel on February 5, 2016. His co-accused, Paul Murphy (61), of Cherry Avenue, Swords, Co Dublin, and Jason Bonney (52), of Drumnigh Wood, Portmarnock, Dublin 13, have pleaded not guilty to participating in or contributing to the murder of Mr Byrne by providing access to motor vehicles on February 5, 2016. The court also heard that Patrick Dowdall was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment in June 2017 and later re-sentenced to 7 years and 11 months after successful appeals, following his guilty plea to falsely imprisoning Mr Hurley and threatening to kill him at Jonathan's family home on January 15, 2015. The matter was adjourned and never described as concluded or finalised.
A 19‑year‑old man, Joel Omokhudu, was jailed for six months after driving his car at pedestrians in a Dublin shopping centre on 8 December 2020. He had been ejected from the centre and, in a temper, drove erratically in the car park and onto the pedestrian area, narrowly missing a woman with her daughters and several security guards. He then reversed into a flower bed, almost hitting a guard. No injuries were reported. Omokhudu pleaded guilty to endangerment, two counts of dangerous driving, driving without insurance and criminal damage. The court heard he had previous assault convictions. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced him to 18 months, suspended the final year, and disqualified him from driving for four years.
William Scully, 49, of Donabate, pleaded guilty to possession of the proceeds of criminal activity after admitting he received €1,000 to allow his bank account to be used for a scheme that cost a victim €5,000. He also admitted possession of nine cannabis plants at his home. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a two‑year suspended sentence for the proceeds charge, taking the cannabis charge into account, and required Scully to behave well and enter a bond to keep the peace. The court found it unlikely that Scully was the author of the scheme. The cannabis plants were ordered destroyed. No victim impact statement was made, and the court noted Scully's personal difficulties and prior convictions. The sentence was suspended on the condition of good behaviour.
In a case heard by the Court of Appeal, Dmitrijs Venskovics, a 45‑year‑old Latvian farmer turned lorry driver, was denied a reduction of his eight‑year jail sentence for the importation of 36 kg of cocaine. Venskovics had pleaded guilty at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to having the drugs for sale or supply on 24 April 2020 at a Maxol service station in Donabate. He claimed he was paid €200 to place the cocaine in his lorry and that he had no serious financial gain from the contraband. His counsel argued that his client, who suffers from a heart condition and does not speak English, should have part of the sentence suspended so he could return to Latvia. The Director of Public Prosecutions maintained that the eight‑year term was within the ambit of previous sentences for similar offences.
Moira Gleeson, 62, of Donabate, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to three counts of theft and three of forgery, with offences alleged to have occurred between April 2010 and March 2015. The charges relate to the theft of approximately €47,000 from the businesses of John McQuaid, a former Olympic cyclist. Gleeson admitted to forging McQuaid's signature on cheques and cashing them, attributing the payments to invoices already settled in cash. Judge Pauline Codd sentenced Gleeson to two years' imprisonment, suspending the final 15 months on the basis that she is a first-time offender with a low risk of reoffending. She was ordered to engage with the Probation Service for 15 months post-release. The judge noted that while Gleeson expressed remorse, her failure to make any repayments rendered her apology hollow. McQuaid described the betrayal as a "kick in the face," stating the thefts caused significant financial stress and mental suffering. Although the source text mentions an appeal as the validated procedural stage, the report details the sentencing hearing where the guilty plea and sentence were imposed. No other defendants were named in the finalisation details provided.
A 45‑year‑old Latvian beef farmer, Dmitrijs Venskovics, was sentenced to eight years in prison after pleading guilty to transporting 36 kg of cocaine worth €2.52 million. He admitted that a Russian man had offered him €150‑€200 to move a consignment of boxes in his lorry, which he later handed over to a Ford Transit van. Gardaí found the cocaine in the van's concealed compartment. Venskovics claimed he never handled the drugs and that his role was purely that of a transporter. He had no prior convictions and was in custody since his arrest. The judge noted his cooperation with the investigation, his low level of involvement, and his status as a family man, but emphasised the seriousness of the offence due to the amount of drugs involved. The sentence reflects the offence's gravity while acknowledging his limited role in the wider operation.