Court archive
2026-03-25 · Dublin
The Central Criminal Court fixed November 2 as a notional trial date for a Somali national accused of murdering 17-year-old Vadym Davydenko. The accused cannot be identified while the case proceeds on the basis that he is a minor, and legal issues around his age continue.
2026-03-18 · Dublin
The State is still trying to establish whether a Somali national accused of murdering Ukrainian teenager Vadym Davydenko is a juvenile. The unidentified accused, whose case is proceeding on the basis that he is a minor, appeared by video link at the Central Criminal Court after being sent forward for trial. Tusla is still trying to determine his age and the matter was adjourned to later this month.
2026-01-19 · Dublin
Darragh Quigley (26) was sentenced at the sentence hearing for the attempted murder of Gretta McCullough (64) on November 16, 2023, at Chatham Row, Dublin 2. Quigley pleaded guilty to the charge, having admitted to the offence. The court found him not guilty by reason of insanity, as expert psychiatric evidence concluded he did not meet the legal criteria for that verdict despite suffering from schizophrenia and drug-induced psychosis. Mr Justice Paul Burns described the attack as totally unprovoked and random, noting Quigley had travelled to the city centre with a plan to hunt someone. The judge set a headline sentence of 14 years and six months. In mitigation, the court considered Quigley's guilty plea, his expression of remorse, and his lack of previous convictions. Quigley was sentenced to 13 years in prison, with the final year suspended for a period of five years. The sentence was backdated to November 17, 2023. The judge recommended a psychiatric assessment two months prior to release to determine if secure medical treatment is required. The matter was concluded with this sentencing order.
2025-12-16 · Dublin
Darragh Quigley, 26, of Carndonagh Road, Donaghmede, pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of Gretta McCullough, 64, on November 16, 2023, at Chatham Row, Dublin 2. At the sentence hearing in the Central Criminal Court, the court heard that Quigley followed Ms McCullough and her husband from the Powerscourt Centre before striking her from behind with a seven-inch knife. The blade passed through the back of her head, entering on the left and exiting on the right. Ms McCullough, who was watching the Christmas lights switch-on, removed the knife herself and handed it to her husband. She described the attack as random and unprovoked, stating it permanently altered her sense of safety. Quigley, who has no previous convictions but a history of mental health issues, told gardai the act was random and he had gone into town with a knife. Defence counsel Padraig Dwyer SC submitted that Quigley had ceased taking his antipsychotic medication and suffered from bipolar affective disorder. Mr Justice Paul Burns described the incident as a truly shocking and extremely serious offence. He remanded Quigley in custody today until January 19, when he will be sentenced.
2025-11-10 · Dublin
A 26-year-old man from north Dublin has pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to attempted murder. Darragh Quigley of Carndonagh Road, Donaghmede, admitted the charge relating to an incident on Chatham Row, Dublin 2 on November 16, 2023. Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned proceedings to December 16 for the hearing of evidence and a victim impact statement. The case carries connections to Carndonagh in County Donegal through the defendant's address registration.
2025-10-28 · Dublin
Jason Desmond, 32, of Donaghmede, was denied bail after being charged with hijacking a taxi, false imprisonment and theft. On 25 July 2025, at about 1.21 am, he allegedly entered a taxi on Malahide Road, demanded to be taken to Circle K, and after the driver stopped, a group entered the shop and stole nearly €1,000 worth of alcohol and energy drinks. Desmond is accused of producing a kitchen knife to intimidate the driver, refusing to pay the €40 fare, and taking the stolen goods to a property in Priorswood, where Gardaí found the men asleep with the items strewn across the apartment. He was arrested at Coolock Garda Station and admitted to theft‑related offences. The judge cited the seriousness of the allegations, strong evidence, potential custodial sentence and risk of further offences, and sent the case to the Circuit Court for trial.
2025-10-13 · Dublin
Evan Moore, aged 20, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to rioting, setting fire to a Luas tram and damaging its windows on 23 November 2023. The incident followed a stabbing of a five‑year‑old in Parnell Square and led to a 24‑hour suspension of Luas services and an estimated €5 million in tram damage. Court hearings revealed CCTV footage of Moore's involvement from 7.05 pm to 7.40 pm, including moving burning material onto the tram. Moore, who had no prior convictions and was 18 at the time, was found to have been influenced by anti‑immigrant sentiment and social media. Judge Orla Crowe imposed a headline sentence of eight years, reduced to four years with the final year suspended, requiring good behaviour and probation supervision. The sentence reflects the seriousness of the riot and the damage caused.
2025-09-10 · Dublin
David Fagan, 40, with 131 prior convictions, was convicted in the District Court for stealing €1,300 from the same shop on three occasions. He pleaded guilty to three counts of theft under the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act, 2001, and received two concurrent six‑month sentences plus a concurrent ten‑month term. On appeal, Judge Jonathan Dunphy upheld the two six‑month sentences but suspended the ten‑month term for the €700 theft on 7 May 2024 for a full two years. The suspension is conditional on Fagan being supervised by the probation services upon release, attending all meetings and referrals, and keeping away from the service station in Portmarnock. The court noted that the other offences were non‑violent and that Fagan had shown remorse and had no disciplinary record while in custody. The appeal was based on the claim that the original sentences were manifestly excessive.
2025-07-01 · Dublin
Caithlin Balmer, 26, voluntarily reported herself to Gardaí after engaging with a Snapchat user who offered her "quick cash" and asked her to allow the man to use her bank account. She pleaded guilty to three charges of possessing proceeds of criminal conduct totalling €21,400, with €16,409 transferred or withdrawn from the victim's account. Balmer admitted she withdrew some funds and handed cash to the man, who paid her €175. She claimed no role in gathering victim information or taking money from the account. The court accepted her pleas on the basis of recklessness, noting her remorse and cooperation. Judge Pauline Codd set a headline sentence of two and a half years, then imposed a 12‑month sentence suspended in full on strict conditions, citing her genuine remorse and employment as a nursing care assistant. The sentence reflected her being "highly naïve" and "highly reckless" in the offence.
2025-05-27 · Dublin
Evan Moore, aged 20, was remanded in custody pending sentencing on 13 October after pleading guilty to rioting and fire damage to a Luas tram during the Dublin riots of November 2023. The court heard that Moore, who was 18 at the time, had been "swept up in anti‑immigrant sentiment" and that his mother was "disgusted and ashamed" of his actions. CCTV footage showed him moving burning material onto the tram and damaging its windows between 7.05 pm and 7.40 pm. The tram suffered nearly €5 million in damage, and the Luas service was suspended for 24 hours. Moore had no prior convictions, had admitted his involvement during a May 2024 protest, and had completed an online anti‑racism course. The judge revoked his bail and ordered a probation report before sentencing.
2025-05-16 · Dublin
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, 47‑year‑old builder Francis Halpin pleaded guilty to three offences stemming from a garden shed dispute. He admitted producing a Samurai‑style sword and causing criminal damage at the neighbour's house on 20 November 2021, and to abusive behaviour in a public place after waving a hammer on 7 July 2021. The incidents involved verbal and racial abuse, a threat of violence, damage to a front door and a van windscreen costing €200. Halpin, who suffers from a rare back condition and uses a wheelchair, had no prior convictions except two minor traffic offences. The judge, citing mitigating medical circumstances, imposed a two‑year sentence suspended in full, noting the behaviour was irrational and threatening but not warranting imprisonment. The victims have since moved house.
2025-04-01 · Dublin
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Lee Roche, aged 33, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and criminal damage on 15 December 2023. The assault took place at his then‑partner's home in Donaghmede, where Roche dragged her headfirst down the stairs, pulled out her hair extensions, grabbed her breast, pushed into her ribs and struck her on the head, causing her ear to ring. He also hit her again after a brief conversation. Roche had no prior convictions and was reported to have a cocaine‑use problem, which he was addressing. He has since cared for his children and grandfather, and set up a running club in Coolmine. Judge Martin Nolan, citing a letter from the victim praising Roche's current contributions to family and community, imposed a four‑year suspended sentence, fully suspending the custodial term. The sentence was not read aloud in court. The victim's impact statement was submitted but not read.
2025-03-31 · Dublin
Rachel Redmond, 34, was found guilty by a jury of impeding the Garda investigation into the murder of drug dealer Jordan 'Jordo' Davis. The jury heard that Redmond collected the shooter, Wayne Cooney, from a bus stop minutes after he killed Davis and later checked him into the Clayton Hotel near Dublin Airport. Redmond denied knowing Cooney had committed murder, claiming she was unaware of his criminality and that she had only helped him because she loved him. The prosecution described her testimony as "risible" and argued that she knowingly obstructed the investigation. The judge remanded Redmond in custody pending a sentencing hearing on 12 May. No other charges or outcomes were reported in this article.
2025-03-20 · Dublin
The Central Criminal Court heard evidence in the trial of Rachel Redmond, who is accused of assisting her then-partner, Wayne Cooney, to evade prosecution for the murder of Jordan Davis. Ms Redmond has pleaded not guilty to two counts of impeding apprehension or prosecution. The prosecution contends that Davis was killed on May 22, 2019, following acrimony with drug dealer Robert Redmond, the accused's brother. Detective Garda Kevin Farrell presented WhatsApp messages from May 3, 2019, sent from a number saved as 'Rew' to Davis, which included threats such as "very soon bang bang." The State alleges Robert Redmond, who pleaded guilty in May 2013 to possessing heroin worth almost €37,000 and was jailed for five years, was involved in the conflict. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul Burns and a jury of three men and nine women.
2025-03-14 · Dublin
The Central Criminal Court trial of Rachel Redmond, 34, continues before Mr Justice Paul Burns. Ms Redmond, from Coolock, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting Wayne Cooney to evade prosecution for the murder of Jordan Davis on May 22, 2019. The prosecution alleges she drove Cooney from the scene and checked him into the Clayton Hotel near Dublin Airport. Evidence presented includes testimony from Ashling McNally, former partner of Robert Redmond, who stated she collected Robert from Belcamp Lane at 4:13 pm, minutes after the shooting. Robert Redmond, Ms Redmond's brother, previously pleaded guilty in May 2013 to possessing heroin worth almost €37,000 and was sentenced to five years in prison. Detective Garda Shane Kelly identified Cooney in CCTV footage, while hotel staff confirmed a booking under Ms Redmond's name. The jury is tasked with determining if Ms Redmond knew or believed Cooney committed the murder. The trial was adjourned and is scheduled to continue on Tuesday.
2025-03-13 · Dublin
The Central Criminal Court trial of Rachel Redmond (34) continues before Mr Justice Paul Burns. The State alleges that Redmond, who has pleaded not guilty to two counts of impeding the apprehension or prosecution of Wayne Cooney for the murder of Jordan Davis, drove Cooney away from the scene and later checked him into a hotel. Prosecution evidence presented includes "tick lists" found at addresses linked to Robert Redmond, Rachel's older brother. Detective Garda Alan Roche testified that a list found in Kinsealy listed the nickname "Jordo" owing €153,000, while another list found at Woodview Close in Donaghmede showed "Jordo" with €70,000 and the words "not yet." The court heard that in May 2013, Robert Redmond pleaded guilty to the possession of heroin worth almost €37,000 and was jailed for five years. Sergeant Shane Behan also testified that he observed Robert Redmond and Jordan Davis on Grafton Street in August 2018, where Davis handed over cannabis. The jury, comprising three men and nine women, is tasked with determining whether Rachel Redmond knew or believed Cooney committed the murder. The matter was adjourned and the trial continues tomorrow.
2025-02-11 · Dublin
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing on 11 February 2025, Jamie Reid, aged 33, pleaded guilty to endangerment, dangerous driving, driving without insurance and without a licence after he jumped into an idling council litter van on Parliament Street and drove it at high speed through the capital. Reid, who later admitted he was a "cokehead", drove erratically, broke red lights, and pursued by gardaí. The pursuit ended when the van crashed through a level‑crossing barrier at Sutton, striking a woman who was running and causing her leg injuries. Reid himself also suffered leg injuries. He has 39 prior convictions and was sentenced to three years and nine months' imprisonment, with a five‑year driving disqualification, and the sentence was back‑dated to July 2024. No serious injuries were reported among the gardaí involved.
2024-11-27 · Dublin
Two brothers, Denis Burns (42) and Gavin Burns (33), were sentenced by Judge Martin Nolan in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for attacking a homeless man who had been lured back to their home at The Beeches, Donaghmede, on 15 June 2023. The brothers, along with a third unnamed man, trapped the victim inside the house, where Denis used a kitchen knife to repeatedly slash the victim's head. The incident lasted about 10 to 15 minutes and left the victim with heavy head bleeding requiring stitches. Both brothers pleaded guilty—Denis to assault causing harm and affray, Gavin to assault causing harm. Judge Nolan imposed a two‑year sentence on each, suspended in its entirety, and ordered them to pay €1,000 each to the victim. The case stemmed from a prior dispute over missing lawnmower and electronic equipment and alleged threats to the brothers' sister.
2024-05-16 · Dublin
Robert Redmond (35) was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court for conspiring to murder Jordan Davis in 2019. Redmond, who is already serving a life sentence for the murder of Barry Wolverson, pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge. Mr Justice Paul McDermott imposed a seven-year term, which runs consecutively to Redmond's existing 12-year sentence for firearms possession. This results in a total of 19 years' imprisonment to be served concurrently with his mandatory life sentence. The judge rejected defense arguments that the consecutive structure constituted a disproportionate 'quasi-life sentence,' citing Redmond's 'deep involvement' in the 'cold-blooded' killing and his 99 previous convictions. Evidence presented included threatening text messages from Redmond to Davis regarding a €70,000 drug debt and 'tick lists' found at addresses linked to Redmond. Wayne Cooney (33), who was convicted of the actual murder of Davis in July 2022, is currently serving a life sentence. The court noted that Davis was shot while pushing his infant son in a pram near a school in Darndale.
2024-04-12 · Dublin
Sinead Byrne, 46, pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply and to knowingly permitting her home to be used for the sale, supply or distribution of a controlled drug, as well as possession of cocaine, all on 19 December 2021. A Garda search found 1.5 kg of cannabis in an ensuite, 10 kg in the attic, a metal safe with €248 of cocaine, a digital scale and €1,200 cash. Byrne was not present during the search; she later contacted Gardaí, was arrested by appointment, and admitted knowledge of the cannabis in the ensuite but denied knowledge of the attic stash. She claimed the money was to pay rent and was under pressure from a drug debt. Judge Orla Crowe imposed a three‑year prison sentence, fully suspended on strict conditions, including 18 months of probation supervision.
2024-02-28 · Dublin
In the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Brian Lucey (44) was sentenced for illegally possessing a submachine gun at the M11 Shankill roundabout on March 7, 2020. Lucey, of Ashford, Co Wicklow, initially took a trial date but later pleaded guilty. Judge Martin Nolan accepted that Lucey, a 'gilly' expecting to collect cannabis, was 'completely taken by surprise' when an unknown individual threw the firearm into his car. The judge noted Lucey's low culpability and 'agony of the moment,' resulting in a four-year fully-suspended sentence. The court heard that Lucey was used by co-accused to move the weapon. In related proceedings, Robert Redmond and Jamie Gray pleaded guilty to possessing the firearm for an unlawful purpose and were jailed in July 2023. Redmond, who denied the charge of murdering Barry Wolverson in January 2020, was sentenced to life imprisonment in December 2022. His co-accused, Bernard Fogarty, was also sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Mr Wolverson. Separately, Fogarty pleaded guilty to possession of the submachine gun in 2020 and was jailed for five years by the Special Criminal Court.
2023-07-24 · Dublin
At the Special Criminal Court, Robert Redmond (35) and Jamie Gray (27) were sentenced for possessing a RAK PM-63 submachine gun at M11 Southbound, Shankill, Dublin, on May 7, 2020. Both pleaded guilty to charges under Section 27A(1) of the Firearms Act 1964. Mr Justice Paul Burns sentenced Redmond, who is serving a life sentence for murder, to six years imprisonment. This sentence runs from October 5, 2021. Gray received a sentence of five years and three months, with the final year suspended for three years, running from July 10, 2023. The judge noted the weapon was in poor condition, missing components, and had an erased serial number. Redmond has 97 previous convictions, while Gray has 91, mostly for road traffic offences. The court acknowledged both men sourced the weapon for others without intent to use it. Separately, Bernard Fogarty (34) was previously sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Barry Wolverson and jailed for five years in 2020 for possessing a similar firearm on March 7, 2020. Fogarty was involved in the initial handover of the weapon in Clondalkin. The judge described the prevalence of such firearms as a dangerous scourge on society.
2023-07-10 · Dublin
Two men pleaded guilty in the Special Criminal Court to unlawful possession of a RAK PM-63 submachine gun recovered during a garda operation on the N11 in Shankill, Dublin on 7 March 2020. Robert Redmond, aged 35, and Jamie Gray, aged 27, were charged under the Firearms Act 1964. Evidence revealed that Redmond and co-accused Bernard Fogarty transferred the firearm to a driver in Clondalkin, with Gray directing operations via text messages from a separate location in Bray where he had met with the others. The weapon, deliberately reactivated after prior deactivation, bore no serial number. Redmond is serving a life sentence for murder; Fogarty was previously sentenced to life for the same offence and five years for separate firearm possession. Gray has 91 previous convictions, mostly traffic offences. In mitigation, his counsel noted his long-standing gambling addiction, recent employment, and rehabilitation efforts at Coolmine Therapeutic Lodge. The Director of Public Prosecutions assessed the matter at mid-range seriousness. Mr Justice Paul Burns remanded both men in custody pending sentencing on 24 July.
2023-05-19 · Dublin
Bernard Fogarty, aged 35, was sentenced by the Special Criminal Court to 15 years' imprisonment for the attempted murder of Mark Ivers during a shooting on Donaghmede's Streamville Road on 6 September 2019. Fogarty pleaded guilty, a plea that the judge, Mr Justice Tony Hunt, said earned a five‑year reduction from the headline 20‑year sentence. The court noted Fogarty's history of 54 convictions, including a life sentence for murder, and his involvement in the 2020 gun‑murder of Barry Wolverson and assault on Gerard Wildman. Evidence presented included eyewitness accounts of a balaclava‑clad gunman approaching Ivers' house, gunshot wounds to Ivers' femur, abdomen and liver, and CCTV footage of the suspect's vehicle. Fogarty was arrested on 22 October 2020 and entered custody on 12 July 2021. The sentence is to run from the date of the hearing.
2023-05-12 · Dublin
At the Special Criminal Court, Paul Murphy (61) and Jason Bonney (52) were sentenced for participating in the 2016 murder of David Byrne by providing getaway vehicles. The three-judge panel found both men guilty of contributing to the killing by facilitating the removal of two gunmen from the scene. Ms Justice Tara Burns, sitting with Judges Sarah Berkeley and Grainne Malone, described their assistance as intentional and organised, noting they acted in concert with four other vehicles in a planned operation. The court rejected defence arguments that their role was minor, finding they knew a serious criminal event was planned. Murphy, who has 67 previous convictions, received a nine-year sentence backdated to March 17. Bonney, who has no prior record, was sentenced to eight and a half years, backdated to April 14. The judge set a headline sentence of ten years for both, reducing it based on personal circumstances. Separately, Gerard "The Monk" Hutch was acquitted of the murder charge in the same case. The court found it could not rely on the unsupported evidence of a witness to convict him. These sentences conclude the sentencing phase for the convicted defendants, while Hutch remains free following his acquittal.
2023-05-08 · Dublin
Gerard Hutch, who was acquitted last month by the Special Criminal Court of murdering Kinahan Cartel member David Byrne at the Regency Hotel, has applied to recover his legal costs from the State. The State has indicated it will oppose the application, which is scheduled to be heard on Friday. The hearing will occur alongside the sentencing of Paul Murphy and Jason Bonney, both convicted of acting as getaway drivers during the February 2016 hotel attack. Murphy, a taxi driver from Swords, and Bonney, a builder from Portmarnock, were each found guilty of participating in or contributing to Byrne's murder by providing access to motor vehicles. During sentencing submissions at the Special Criminal Court, defence counsel emphasised Murphy's long involvement in the taxi business and advanced age, and highlighted Bonney's previously unblemished record, community contributions, and voluntary work with boxing clubs. Ms Justice Tara Burns, presiding with two other judges, adjourned sentencing to Friday at ten o'clock.
2023-04-17 · Dublin
Two men have been found guilty at the Special Criminal Court of providing getaway vehicles during the 2016 Regency Hotel attack in Dublin, in which Kinahan Cartel member David Byrne was killed. Paul Murphy, aged 61, of Swords, County Dublin, and Jason Bonney, aged 52, of Portmarnock, Dublin 13, were convicted of participating in or contributing to the murder by making their vehicles available to the Hutch Criminal Organisation on February 5, 2016. Justice Tara Burns delivered judgment, finding that Murphy's Toyota Avensis taxi and Bonney's black BMW X5 were part of a six-vehicle convoy that collected gunmen from St Vincent's GAA club following the shooting. The court rejected defence claims that Bonney's deceased father had driven the jeep, finding he remained at home that afternoon. Both men will be sentenced on May 8.
2023-04-17 · Dublin
The Court of Appeal has issued a ruling in the case of Patrick Dowdall, the appellant in the Regency Hotel shooting trial. Dowdall had previously pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of facilitating the shooting of David Byrne. The specific allegation was that he participated in activity intending to facilitate a serious offence by a criminal organisation, namely the murder of Byrne, by making a room available at the Regency Hotel in Drumcondra, Dublin 9, on February 4, 2016. Following his initial conviction, Dowdall was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment. However, after successful appeals, he was re-sentenced to seven years and 11 months. The current appeal resulted in a further reduction, with Dowdall now sentenced to four years' imprisonment. The procedural stage is an appeal, and the matter has been finalised with this revised sentence. Co-accused Jason Bonney was also involved in the proceedings, though specific details of his plea or sentence are not detailed in this summary. The court emphasized that the allegations against Dowdall were based on his admission of guilt to facilitating the crime, rather than direct participation in the shooting itself. The decision reflects the appellate court's review of the sentencing and charges, resulting in a reduced term of custody for the appellant.
2023-03-30 · Dublin
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Bernard Fogarty, 35, pleaded guilty to attempting to murder Mark Ivers on 6 September 2019. Witnesses, including a taxi driver and a woman, reported seeing Fogarty in a balaclava with a large black gun approach Ivers' house on Streamville Road. The woman warned others before shots were fired. Ivers was shot twice in the femur and lower abdomen, sustaining a liver laceration, and was taken to hospital. CCTV and forensic evidence linked Fogarty to the scene, including a Nissan Almera that was later set alight. Fogarty was arrested on 22 October 2020 and has 54 prior convictions, including a life sentence for murder. He was remanded in custody pending sentencing on 19 May.
2023-02-23 · Dublin
Bernard Fogarty, 35, of Coolock, Dublin 5, pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of Mark Ivers at a Special Criminal Court hearing. The incident occurred on September 6, 2019, at Streamville Road, Donaghmede, where Mr Ivers sustained gunshot wounds to his leg and abdomen. Mr Justice Tony Hunt adjourned the sentencing hearing to March 30 to allow time for a victim-impact statement to be prepared. Fogarty had previously been convicted of the murder of Barry Wolverson and assault causing harm to Gerard Wildman. In December 2021, the Special Criminal Court found both Fogarty and Robert Redmond, 35, of Kilbarrack, Dublin 5, guilty of the murder of Mr Wolverson, who died in February 2021 after a 13-month coma following a shooting in Swords, Co Dublin. Both men had pleaded not guilty to the murder charge, which was upgraded from attempted murder after Mr Wolverson's death. They were also found guilty of assault causing harm to Mr Wildman, who was shot in the lower back during the same incident. Both convicted men received mandatory life sentences for the murder. The court heard a victim impact statement from Lindsay Wolverson, who stated the family's lives had changed forever and that Mr Wolverson's children now live without their father.
2023-02-02 · Dublin
Michael Campbell, 31, was jailed for three and a half years after being caught driving a Ford van that contained €600,000 worth of cannabis. He had been pressed by third parties to transport the drugs after accruing a drug debt of €1,000 to €2,000. Campbell pleaded guilty to possessing almost 30 kilos of cannabis for sale or supply when stopped at the Ballymun exit of the M50 on 22 June. He claimed he was the "lowest of the low" in the operation and had no knowledge of the quantity of drugs he was asked to transport. Gardaí found six black plastic bags of cannabis in the van's back. Campbell had no prior convictions, had voluntarily relinquished bail in September, and was described as having an excellent work record and a good family background. The sentence was back‑dated to 12 September 2022.
2023-01-25 · Dublin
The appeal stage of the case involving Gerard Hutch, Paul Murphy, and Jason Bonney, who are accused of participating in or contributing to the murder of David Byrne by providing access to motor vehicles on February 5, 2016, is ongoing. All three have pleaded not guilty to the charges. Patrick Dowdall, who was previously convicted of facilitating the murder by making a room available at the Regency Hotel, has admitted guilt and was later re-sentenced to 7 years and 11 months and four years imprisonment after successful appeals. The prosecution has presented evidence, including secretly recorded conversations between Gerard Hutch and Jonathan Dowdall, which allegedly show Hutch's central involvement in the Regency Hotel attack. The trial has heard that three AK-47 assault rifles were found in the boot of a car following an intervention by gardai. The case has been adjourned and is not yet concluded.
2023-01-24 · Dublin
At the Special Criminal Court on 24 January 2023, a defence witness testified that Jason Bonney, accused of participating in the murder of Kinahan Cartel member David Byrne at the Regency Hotel on 5 February 2016, was working north of the hotel approximately 15 minutes after the attack. The witness also gave evidence that she observed Bonney's deceased father driving a BMW X5 jeep, which the prosecution alleges was used to transport a raider from the scene. Under cross-examination, the State contended that Bonney's father had not driven the vehicle that day. A second defence witness corroborated seeing the father operating the jeep. Bonney, aged 52, of Drumnigh Wood, Portmarnock, Dublin, pleads not guilty to participating in the murder by providing access to motor vehicles. His co-accused Gerard Hutch and Paul Murphy likewise deny involvement. The prosecution concluded its case after 13 weeks of evidence.
2023-01-24 · Dublin
The State concluded its prosecution case after thirteen weeks at the Special Criminal Court in Dublin against Gerard Hutch, charged with murdering Kinahan Cartel member David Byrne at the Regency Hotel on 5 February 2016. Hutch's two co-accused, Paul Murphy and Jason Bonney, face charges of participating in the murder by providing vehicle access. Presiding Judge Tara Burns, sitting with Judges Sarah Berkeley and Grainne Malone, ruled licence plate evidence inadmissible, finding the court could not be satisfied as to its provenance or reliability. Hutch's defence indicated they would not call evidence or have their client testify. Murphy's legal team stated they would not call evidence but wished to make a jurisdictional submission. Bonney's counsel indicated he may call witnesses. The trial, now in its fiftieth day, continues before the three-judge court. Gerard Hutch pleaded not guilty. Paul Murphy pleaded not guilty. Jason Bonney pleaded not guilty.
2023-01-23 · Dublin
The Special Criminal Court trial of Gerard Hutch, Paul Murphy, and Jason Bonney, who are accused of participating in the murder of David Byrne at the Regency Hotel on February 5, 2016, is nearing the conclusion of the State's case. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to charges of providing access to motor vehicles for the attack. Prosecutors indicated they expect to close their case tomorrow, with senior counsel Fiona Murphy delivering closing submissions. Defence counsel for Hutch and Murphy stated they do not anticipate calling evidence, while counsel for Bonney confirmed his client would give evidence. The court will also rule on a challenge by Murphy regarding the admissibility of license plate evidence. The prosecution alleges that a tactical team, including three men disguised as gardaí, shot Byrne during a boxing weigh-in and escaped using vehicles, including a BMW X5 allegedly driven by Bonney. Bonney has denied involvement, claiming his father drove the vehicle that day. The matter remains at the trial stage and has not been finalised.
2023-01-20 · Dublin
The Regency Hotel trial continued in the Special Criminal Court with Senior intelligence analyst Sarah Skedd testifying regarding phone records. Skedd stated there is no clear evidence supporting Jonathan Dowdall's claim that he met Gerard Hutch in a Whitehall park to hear a confession about the murder of David Byrne. While a cell site potentially covering the park was used on February 7, 2016, at 3.16pm, Dowdall's phone connected to a mast in Finglas just 4.5 minutes later, suggesting insufficient time for the meeting. Skedd confirmed no records support a meeting on February 8. Dowdall, who pleaded guilty to facilitating the murder by booking a room at the Regency Hotel, was previously sentenced to four years' imprisonment. His father, Patrick Dowdall, also admitted to the facilitation offence and was jailed for two years. Gerard Hutch, 59, of Clontarf, Dublin 3, and co-accused Paul Murphy, 61, of Swords, and Jason Bonney, 52, of Portmarnock, have all pleaded not guilty to participating in or contributing to the murder of Byrne by providing access to motor vehicles on February 5, 2016. The defence, led by Brendan Grehan SC, challenged Dowdall's credibility, arguing his account was inconsistent with the digital evidence presented by the State.
2023-01-19 · Dublin
The Special Criminal Court trial of Gerard Hutch, Paul Murphy, and Jason Bonney, all accused of participating in the murder of David Byrne at the Regency Hotel in February 2016, continues before Ms Justice Tara Burns. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to charges including providing access to motor vehicles and facilitating the offence. Today, defence counsel for Mr Bonney stated it is their case that his father, not Mr Bonney, drove the BMW X5 alleged to have been used in the attack. Prosecution evidence from Garda Michele Purcell and Senior Intelligence Analyst Sarah Skedd detailed vehicle movements, including a Toyota Avensis taxi driven by Mr Murphy and the BMW X5, which allegedly transported a man in a flat cap from the scene. The court also heard evidence regarding Jonathan Dowdall, a former co-accused who turned State's witness. Mr Dowdall, a former Sinn Fein councillor, previously pleaded guilty to facilitating the murder by making a hotel room available and was sentenced to four years' imprisonment. His father, Patrick Dowdall, also pleaded guilty to the same facilitation charge and was jailed for two years. The trial will continue tomorrow with further evidence from Ms Skedd.
2023-01-12 · Dublin
The Special Criminal Court heard that no further steps will be taken regarding a 'curious' document disclosed to the defence in the Regency Hotel murder trial. Prosecution counsel Sean Gillane SC stated the matter requires investigation, while defence counsel Brendan Grehan SC noted it must wait for another day. Gerard Hutch, 59, denies the murder of David Byrne on February 5, 2016. Co-accused Paul Murphy and Jason Bonney, both pleading not guilty to facilitating the murder by providing vehicles, face a ruling tomorrow on the admissibility of CCTV footage. Murphy's defence argued the footage breached privacy rights under the Data Protection Act, while the prosecution contended it was manifestly relevant and admissible. The court also heard evidence from Inspector Padraig Boyce regarding a coordinated operation that seized AK-47 rifles from Shane Rowan and searched the home of Jonathan Dowdall. Dowdall, who pleaded guilty to facilitating the murder by making a hotel room available, was sentenced to four years imprisonment. His father, Patrick Dowdall, also pleaded guilty to the same facilitation charge and was jailed for two years. Both men had previously been sentenced for the false imprisonment of Alexander Hurley, with sentences later reduced on appeal. The trial continues before Ms Justice Tara Burns.
2022-11-09 · Dublin
A garda has given evidence at the Special Criminal Court trial of three men accused of involvement in the murder of Kinahan Cartel member David Byrne at the Regency Hotel in February 2016. The officer told the court that a BMW X5 belonging to Jason Bonney, seized in Donaghmede on 20 February 2016, appeared to have been recently valeted and cleaned, with a fresh smell detected inside the vehicle. Bonney, aged 51, of Drumnigh Wood, Portmarnock, Dublin, has pleaded not guilty to participating in or contributing to the murder by providing access to motor vehicles. Co-accused Gerard Hutch and Paul Murphy have also denied involvement. Detective Sergeant Patrick O'Toole gave evidence regarding searches of addresses in Dublin, including Champions Avenue and Buckingham Village, during which various items were recovered. The court heard that a Ford key observed during an initial search of Champions Avenue was not seized in error, requiring gardaí to obtain a second warrant. The trial continues before Ms Justice Tara Burns and two other judges.
2022-11-08 · Dublin
The Special Criminal Court heard submissions in a voir dire regarding the admissibility of garda interviews in the trial of Gerard Hutch, Paul Murphy, and Jason Bonney. All three defendants, who pleaded not guilty to participating in or contributing to the murder of David Byrne at the Regency Hotel on February 5, 2016, face charges related to providing access to motor vehicles. Defence counsel for Mr. Bonney argued that his initial interview on February 21, 2016, was conducted without a caution, rendering it and the subsequent detention on May 27 inadmissible. Similarly, counsel for Mr. Murphy contended that his February 22 interview should be excluded due to the failure to caution. Prosecuting counsel Sean Gillane SC rebutted these claims, describing the exchanges as non-custodial and voluntary, and argued that the defence had legally overreached by suggesting the lack of caution contaminated all subsequent evidence. The prosecution maintained that ample independent material justified the detentions. The three-judge panel, presided over by Ms Justice Tara Burns, will rule on the admissibility of the interviews on Monday. The trial continues.
2022-10-20 · Dublin
A Special Criminal Court in Dublin heard evidence on 20 October 2022 regarding three AK-47 assault rifles recovered in County Meath approximately one month after David Byrne was fatally shot at the Regency Hotel in Dublin on 5 February 2016. Inspector Padraig Boyce testified that a vehicle was intercepted near Slane on 9 March 2016 and the weapons were discovered in its boot, wrapped in a rug and white shirts. Ballistics evidence later matched cartridge cases recovered from the Regency Hotel to the seized rifles. The trial concerns Gerard Hutch, aged 59, from Clontarf, Dublin, who denies murdering Mr Byrne during a boxing weigh-in. Two co-accused, Paul Murphy and Jason Bonney, deny participating in or contributing to the murder by providing vehicle access. Detective gardaí provided CCTV evidence tracing movements of vehicles on the day of the incident. The trial, presided over by Ms Justice Tara Burns with two other judges, is expected to continue for approximately 12 weeks. Paul Murphy pleaded not guilty. Jason Bonney pleaded not guilty.
2022-07-27 · Dublin
John Woodlock, 42, was given a suspended three‑year sentence for harassing a solicitor over a three‑month period from 17 August to 18 November 2021. He had approached the woman near her home, repeatedly called and emailed her, and visited her street, sometimes pointing at a wall with her initials and handing her a document he claimed was a charge sheet. He sent her private messages, tagged her in tweets, and called her a "bitch" in an email. The woman documented the harassment with screenshots and forwarded them to Gardaí. Woodlock was arrested in November 2021, detained under the Mental Health Act, and later released on bail. He pleaded guilty, expressed remorse, and has complied with bail conditions. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a suspended sentence, requiring Woodlock to raise €3,000 for the woman within 18 months and forbidding any contact with her forever. If he contacts her again, the suspended term may be re‑activated.
2022-05-05 · Dublin
Elaine Kelly, 49, of Donaghmede, pleaded guilty to driving away from an armed robbery at an off‑licence in Kilbarrack on 22 October 2018. The court heard she was a vulnerable woman struggling with drug addiction and that she drove the getaway vehicle after the raider abandoned a bicycle. Dashcam footage showed the raider and Kelly exiting a blue car that was later seen pulling into a driveway. Kelly had 13 prior convictions but had not been in contact with the Gardaí since the 2018 offence. Judge Martin Nolan suspended a two‑year prison term on the condition that Kelly keeps the peace and behaves well for two years. The judge noted that Kelly was in fear of the robber, who is serving a separate 14‑year sentence. The sentence was imposed without a custodial term.
2022-03-11 · Dublin
In March 2022 the Special Criminal Court accepted jurisdiction to hear the cases of Bernard Fogarty, 34, and Robert Redmond, 33, who were originally charged with attempted murder of Barry Wolverston. Wolverston died in hospital on 21 February 2021 after a long illness. The State solicitor applied for the charges to be upgraded to murder under Section 49 of the Offences Against the State Act, and the court agreed. The attempted murder charges were withdrawn and replaced by murder charges. Both men were also charged with assault causing harm to Gerard Wildman, and with possession of a .38/.357 calibre firearm and ammunition with intent to endanger life or cause serious injury. The original trial date of 15 June 2022 was retained. Both defendants confirmed their names in court and were served with the Book of Evidence. The case is now set to proceed under the new murder charges.
2021-12-02 · Dublin
Stephen O'Connor of Carndonagh, Dublin, has had his wholly suspended sentence upheld by the Court of Appeal. O'Connor pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of firearms contrary to the Firearms Act 1964 following the discovery of two loaded semi-automatic pistols stored inside a Henry Hoover at his address in September 2019. At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Judge Elma Sheahan imposed a four-year sentence, suspended in full, citing O'Connor's lack of previous convictions, mental health difficulties, and vulnerability to exploitation by a criminal figure. The Director of Public Prosecutions appealed on grounds of undue leniency, arguing the sentence should not have been entirely suspended. The three-judge Court of Appeal panel, led by President Mr Justice George Birmingham, rejected this application. The court found the decision to fully suspend the sentence was exceptional and appropriate given the extent of O'Connor's mental health problems, including serious suicide attempts following the deaths of two brothers.
2021-10-22 · Dublin
The Director of Public Prosecutions has appealed a suspended sentence imposed on a man convicted of unlawful possession of firearms at the Court of Appeal in Dublin. Stephen O'Connor, aged 45, of Carndonagh, was handed a four-year suspended sentence in May by Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to storing two loaded semi-automatic pistols concealed within a vacuum cleaner at his home on 7 September 2019. The State argues the suspension should not have been imposed in full, though it does not challenge the four-year term itself. The trial judge heard that O'Connor, who has no previous convictions, agreed to conceal the weapons when approached by a criminal associate during a period of gangland activity in Dublin. His legal counsel submitted that he was exceptionally vulnerable at the time, suffering serious mental health difficulties and previous suicide attempts, and had been exploited. The Court of Appeal, presided over by Mr Justice George Birmingham, reserved judgement, describing the case as very serious.
2021-10-19 · Dublin
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Dylan Cronin, aged 20, was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, after pleading guilty to three counts of demanding money with menace. Cronin and a second man had entered a family home at night, falsely claiming a child was involved in a €50,000 drug debt and demanding €25,000. The claim was proven false. The men returned twice more, damaging property and leaving threatening notes. Cronin admitted he was coerced and would receive €2,000–€3,000 for his involvement. The judge noted the offences were planned, occurred at night, and caused significant stress and fear for the family. The sentence included strict probation conditions for 18 months post‑release. The case remains under investigation.
2021-10-07 · Dublin
The State has applied to have the trial of Bernard Fogarty, 33, accused of attempting to murder Mark Ivers on September 6, 2019, heard before the non‑jury Special Criminal Court. The application, made by State solicitor Ms Ciara Vibien, was successful when Mr Justice Tony Hunt granted a certificate under Section 49 of the Offences Against the State Act. The court has set a mention date for October 18, 2021, to consider the case in the three‑judge Special Criminal Court.
2021-07-30 · Dublin
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, the Director of Public Prosecutions announced that new charges will be brought in October against Robert Redmond, 32, of Woodview Close, Donaghmede, and Bernard Fogarty, 33, of Cromcastle Court, Kilmore, Coolock, for the attempted murder of Barry Wolverson. The alleged attempt occurred on 17 January 2020 at Madigans Yard, Kileek Lane, Swords, Co Dublin. Mr Wolverson died on 21 February after a prolonged hospital stay. The court set a trial date of 15 June 2022, with the trial expected to last four weeks.
2021-07-01 · Dublin
Ciaran Murray, 27, of Killinarden Heights, Tallaght, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm after a 'sucker punch' during a soccer match at Donaghmede Park on 3 February 2020. The punch struck the victim's head while he was speaking to the referee, causing a broken jaw with fractures in two places. The victim required four days of hospital treatment, wires and braces, and suffered speech difficulties and financial loss of €480. Murray offered €1,500 to the victim, which was refused. Judge Karen O'Connor described the incident as an aberration of Murray's character, noted his cooperation with Gardaí, and imposed 240 hours of community service in lieu of prison. She directed the payment of €1,500 to Barnardos within 28 days and scheduled a follow‑up on 28 July to confirm the payment. The case was heard in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.