The jury in the trial of two 14‑year‑old boys accused of murdering 14‑year‑old Ana Kriegel has paused its deliberations for the week and will return to the Central Criminal Court on Monday. After spending seven hours and fifteen minutes over three days, Mr Justice Paul McDermott told the eight men and four women that they could go home for the weekend, warning them not to discuss the case with anyone outside the jury or to follow media reports. The foreman of the jury sent a note to the judge requesting seven discs containing videos of Boy B's interviews with Gardaí in May and July 2018, and asked for a larger screen for viewing the DVDs on Monday. Mr Justice McDermott agreed to provide a larger screen. The unnamed 14-year-old pleaded not guilty.
In a trial for the murder of Ana Kriegel, Judge Paul McDermott instructed the jury that the prosecution's case hinges on the injuries inflicted on Ana, which they argue demonstrate the accused's intention to kill or cause serious injury. The jury, after more than four hours of deliberation, has been shown various exhibits, including a blood‑stained stick, gloves with Ana's blood, Tescon insulation tape found around her neck, and CCTV footage. Mr Justice McDermott explained that intent can be inferred from preparation, citing Boy A's bringing a mask and other items to the scene. He emphasized that the prosecution believes intent is established through pathology and forensic evidence, and that the natural consequence of such injuries is serious injury or death. The accused, both 14, have pleaded not guilty to murder and to an aggravated sexual assault charge. The jury will return tomorrow to continue deliberations.
The jury in the trial of two 14‑year‑old boys accused of murdering schoolgirl Anastasia Kriegel began deliberations at the Central Criminal Court on 12 June 2019. Eight men and four women were sent out at 12.35pm, returned thirty minutes later, and were instructed by Mr Justice Paul McDermott to suspend deliberations for the day and resume at 10am the next day. The judge explained that each of the three murder counts against Boy A and Boy B must be decided unanimously, with only two possible verdicts per count: guilty or not guilty. For Boy A's aggravated sexual assault charge, the jury could return a guilty or not guilty verdict. Mr Justice McDermott emphasized that each count must be considered separately, that reasonable doubt requires acquittal, and that the jury should focus on the evidence relating to the events of 14 May, the day of the murder.
In a 2019 trial at the Central Criminal Court, Mr Justice Paul McDermott warned a jury that people may lie for reasons such as shame or to hide disgraceful behaviour. He explained that the jury could rely on alleged lies only if the prosecution proved there was no innocent explanation. The case involved two 14‑year‑old boys accused of murdering 14‑year‑old Anastasia Kriegel. Boy A was also charged with aggravated sexual assault; Boy B was charged with aiding and abetting the murder. The judge instructed the jury to consider each boy's case separately, to assess intent to kill or cause serious injury, and to evaluate circumstantial and forensic evidence. He emphasised that presence at a crime scene does not equal participation, and that the jury must acquit if any reasonable doubt about intent or knowledge remains. The judge concluded his charge the following morning. The unnamed 14-year-old pleaded not guilty.
In a murder and aggravated sexual assault trial, the defence counsel for a 14‑year‑old accused of killing and assaulting Anastasia Kriegel argued that no witness had shown the boy intended to kill. Patrick Gageby SC asked the jury whether any evidence proved the boy's intent to kill or to kill Kriegel. He also highlighted the boy's lack of prior legal contacts and the immaturity of teenagers, urging jurors to consider the boy's age. Gageby noted that the prosecution's case relied largely on circumstantial evidence, including DNA and forensic findings, but questioned whether any evidence proved pre‑meditation. He warned against inferring intent from the boy's actions or from the presence of a bag and its contents. The defence maintained the boy's plea of not guilty and urged the jury to weigh the evidence carefully, especially given the boy's age and the seriousness of the allegations.
In the Central Criminal Court, Brendan Grehan SC presented the prosecution case against two 14‑year‑old boys accused of murdering 14‑year‑old Ana Kriegel. He argued that Boy A was the principal perpetrator, citing an "overwhelming forensic case" linking him to the scene, including DNA from Ana's body and items found in his home. Grehan described Ana's violent death, detailing injuries, blood spatter, and forensic evidence that she fought for her life. He contrasted this with Boy B, for whom he said there was no forensic evidence but relied on Garda interviews that he had assisted the killer and helped conceal the crime. Grehan emphasized that both boys lied to Gardaí and that Boy B's statements were inconsistent, concluding that the evidence warranted conviction for murder and aggravated sexual assault. The case was set to proceed with Patrick Gageby representing Boy A. The unnamed 14-year-old pleaded not guilty.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing on 6 June 2019, the family of Bryan Cassidy, who was stabbed to death by his 21‑year‑old stepson Adam Nolan, presented a victim impact statement. The statement criticised the Irish mental health system for failing two families, noting that Nolan had been sent home from Tallaght Hospital after an A&E visit where he claimed he had to kill Cassidy. Despite a family history of mental illness and a diagnosis of drug‑induced psychosis, Nolan was discharged and later stabbed Cassidy on 7 February 2018. Nolan pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity and was committed to the Central Mental Hospital pending a report. The court, with counsel Sean Gillane SC and defence Brendan Grehan SC, heard statements and medical testimony, and Justice Eileen Creedon ordered Nolan's commitment under the Criminal Law Insanity Act.
In the trial for the murder of 14‑year‑old Anastasia Kriegel, the father of one of the accused boys, aged 14, testified that his son was "not capable of doing anything like that" and that the boy had lied to Gardaí and his parents out of fear of his co‑accused. He described how his son was seen with Ana on the day she disappeared, how the boy later claimed he was afraid of Boy A and that he would not speak to adults for fear of being punished. The father also recounted attempts to get his son to recall details of the night, noting the boy's reluctance and lack of trust. He added that his son had made weapons such as a bow and arrow and that the boy was arrested and held overnight for questioning. The prosecution's evidence was completed, the defence did not call witnesses, and the jury will return on Thursday. The unnamed 14-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A 21‑year‑old man, Adam Nolan, was found not guilty by reason of insanity for the murder of his mother's partner, Bryan Cassidy, 52, on 7 February 2018. Nolan had been admitted to Tallaght Hospital after a visit to A&E where he said he had to kill the man. He was diagnosed with drug‑induced psychosis, sent home, and advised to seek treatment for drug misuse. Two weeks later he stabbed Cassidy to death. The Central Criminal Court heard that the original diagnosis was later replaced with schizophrenia, a condition for which Nolan had a genetic vulnerability. During the trial, forensic psychiatrists testified that Nolan was acutely psychotic at the time of the killing and that he had homicidal ideations. The jury, after 27 minutes of deliberation, returned a unanimous verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity, and Nolan was committed to the Central Mental Hospital for treatment.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court case, Vasile Marin, 24, was found guilty of robbing an 81‑year‑old woman's purse on 10 September 2016. The victim, who had recently had a pacemaker fitted, was targeted while shopping at Eurospar; Marin, seen on CCTV, approached her from behind, seized her purse containing €300, and fled. Marin had previously been convicted of theft twice, had no employment history, and was receiving disability allowance for hearing issues and depression. He claimed a gambling debt as his motive. Judge Melanie Greally sentenced him to three years' imprisonment, suspending the final 18 months, a decision upheld by the Court of Appeal. The judge emphasised that protecting vulnerable elderly people and ensuring deterrence were key reasons for the custodial sentence. The appeal was dismissed.
In a Dublin murder trial, Adam Nolan, aged 21, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity for stabbing Bryan Cassidy, 52, to death on 7 February 2018. The prosecution argued that Nolan, who had previously been taken to A&E after claiming he had to kill his stepfather, was diagnosed with drug‑induced psychosis and later schizophrenia. Nolan had a history of illicit drug use, including cannabis from age 15, and had been treated for drug misuse. He was found at the scene, covered in blood, and behaved erratically, claiming voices told him to kill the deceased. A forensic psychiatrist testified that Nolan was genetically vulnerable to schizophrenia and that his delusions prevented him from understanding the wrongfulness of his act. The case is before Justice Eileen Creedon and a jury of twelve.
During the Central Criminal Court hearing, a minor witness, referred to as Boy B, claimed that his co‑accused, Boy A, was attempting to set him up for the murder of 14‑year‑old Anastasia Kriegel. Boy B described seeing Boy A place Ana in a headlock and attempt to force her to the ground, while Ana fought back by punching and kicking Boy A's arms and legs. Another child witness recalled that Boy A was "agitated and fidgety" after Ana's disappearance, whereas Boy B appeared calm. Both accused boys, aged 14, have pleaded not guilty to the murder and to Boy A's additional charge of aggravated sexual assault. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Paul McDermott, continues with a jury of eight men and four women. The court heard five child witnesses in total.
During the Central Criminal Court hearing, a copybook found in the home of one of the 14‑year‑old boys accused of murdering 14‑year‑old Anastasia Kriegel was presented. The book, titled "Drawing," contained a "Satanic pledge drawing," pentagrams, and a list of names that included the two accused. Rules in the book forbade speaking of Jesus or God, allowed only pledge hosts to give pledges, and instructed members to act normally. Boy A, also charged with aggravated sexual assault, pleaded not guilty to both counts. Boy B was interviewed by Garda Donal Daly, who explained the book's contents and his reference to a "satanist" homework club. Daly denied that Garda procedures were disingenuous and stated that Boy B was given opportunities to speak truthfully. The trial is proceeding before Mr Justice Paul McDermott with a jury of eight men and four women.
A 21‑year‑old man, Adam Nolan of Burgh an Ri Walk, Balgaddy, Lucan, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of Bryan Cassidy, 52, on 7 February 2018 at the same address. He stood in a navy suit and tie when arraigned before the Central Criminal Court. The judge, Justice Michael White, noted the plea was a special matter and that the trial would be brief. A jury of twelve was sworn in; Sergeant Declan O'Sullivan and two forensic psychiatrists were to give evidence.
In May 2019, Boy B, a 14‑year‑old, told Gardaí that his co‑accused, Boy A, had said he was planning to kill Ana Kriegel, a 14‑year‑old schoolgirl. Boy B claimed he did not believe Boy A was serious and did not know what Boy A intended to do. He also admitted lying to Gardaí about Ana's disappearance because he feared being framed by Boy A. Both boys are minors and have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Ana Kriegel at Glenwood House, Lucan, and Boy A has also pleaded not guilty to an aggravated sexual assault charge. Gardaí have reviewed 16 hours of Boy B's interviews, during which he described seeing Boy A wearing gloves, a mask and other items, and witnessing Boy A "flip" Ana and choke her while removing her clothes.
During the Central Criminal Court hearing, Boy B, a 14‑year‑old, told Gardaí that he witnessed his co‑accused, Boy A, raping Ana Kriegel, the 14‑year‑old schoolgirl who was murdered. Boy B said he fled when he realised what was happening. Both boys, who are minors, have pleaded not guilty to the murder. Boy A is also charged with aggravated sexual assault involving serious violence. The jury, composed of eight men and four women, has been viewing video footage of Boy B's interviews from July 2018. In the second interview, Boy B described entering the abandoned house, observing the interior, and then seeing Boy A and Ana in a room where Boy A allegedly choked Ana while removing her clothing. Boy B claimed he ran away after witnessing the assault. The trial is proceeding before Mr Justice Paul McDermott.
In the Central Criminal Court, a 14‑year‑old boy (Boy B) testified that he witnessed his co‑accused (Boy A) assaulting Ana Kriegel at an abandoned house. Boy B described seeing Boy A "flip" Ana, choke her, and strip her of her clothes while Ana repeatedly cried "No, no, don't do this." He claimed he fled the scene after seeing Boy A's actions. Boy B drew a picture of the incident and signed it for detectives. The boy, who was arrested in May 2018, gave a changing account of the events, stating he had initially followed the pair but left when Boy A told him it was fine. The testimony was presented to a jury of eight men and four women, with the trial proceeding before Mr Justice Paul McDermott. The accused boys, both 14, have pleaded not guilty to murder and to aggravated sexual assault. The case remains in progress.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, two 14‑year‑old boys accused of murdering 14‑year‑old Ana Kriegel gave conflicting statements to Gardaí. One boy, who denies the murder, said he left Ana at an abandoned house with the other boy, fearing that the other would handle the situation because he was "big, strong, tall." He claimed to have heard Ana scream, ran away, and later returned to the house, where he heard a strong scream that was muffled. The other boy denied that Ana's blood was found on the first boy's shoes and insisted he was not in the house where Ana's body was discovered. Both boys remain in court, pleading not guilty, and the trial continues before Justice Paul McDermott and a jury.
Michael Doherty, a 39‑year‑old former wine and school‑lunch delivery businessman, was sentenced in October for an armed robbery of a Maxol petrol station in Lucan. On 31 March 2017 he entered the station, threatened staff with a claw hammer, demanded the till be opened, struck it when it did not, and stole about €400. He fled in a black car that Gardaí linked to him, leading to his arrest. Doherty pleaded guilty to the robbery of Kim Heffernan. Prosecutor Diana Stuart noted his 24 prior convictions were mainly traffic offences, while defence counsel Sarah‑Jane O'Callaghan argued the robbery was out of character, citing the collapse of his marriage, drug abuse, and business failure as contributing factors. Judge Melanie Greally ordered a Probation Service report, adjourned sentencing to 16 October, and remanded Doherty on continuing bail until that date.
In May 2019, a 14‑year‑old boy (Boy B) told Gardaí that he had lied in earlier interviews about the day Ana Kriegel disappeared. He claimed he fabricated a "fake story" because he could not remember the events and was scared and nervous. Boy B said that after reflecting he could not change his statement, so he "kept to the story." He later recounted that he had met Ana and Boy A at a BMX track, watched Ana's phone show 5.14 pm, let Ana talk with Boy A, then left after feeling bored. He also described seeing a woman who he thought was Ana in black and heels, but she did not respond. The Gardaí had previously recorded a different account and urged him to tell the truth. The case remains before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury. The unnamed 14-year-old pleaded not guilty.
During the Central Criminal Court hearing, Boy B, a 14‑year‑old accused of Ana Kriegel's murder, told Gardaí that he viewed Ana as a lonely, outcast girl and a "weirdo" he should not be around. He described Ana as different, mature, taller, with a goth style, and said she was not popular because she was anti‑social. Boy B recounted that Boy A had called him to arrange a meeting with Ana in a park, but Boy A did not attend, allegedly because he was shy or feared negative backlash. Boy B also explained that Ana had shown him a "scary photo" of herself strapped to a chair and that they had walked together discussing vaccines. The court noted that Boy B's statements could only be used as evidence in his own case, not in Boy A's. The trial continues before Mr Justice McDermott and a jury. The unnamed 14-year-old pleaded not guilty.
Mansoor Uddin, a 41‑year‑old taxi driver from Castleway, Adamstown, Lucan, pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual assault committed in January and February 2016. He was sentenced by Judge Sinéad Ní Chulacháin to three years' imprisonment for each count, with the last two sentences running concurrently but consecutive to the first. The final year of the two later sentences was suspended for two years under strict conditions, giving an effective custodial term of six years with one year suspended. Uddin was credited for time already spent in custody. The court heard that he sexually assaulted three young women, all under 21, during two weeks, using his position as a taxi driver to exploit their vulnerability.
In the Central Criminal Court, a forensic scientist presented a mixed DNA profile from semen stains on a Penney's vest top found at the scene of Anastasia Kriegel's murder. The profile matched the DNA of one of the two 14‑year‑old boys accused of the killing, Ana's DNA, and an unidentified third person. The scientist argued it was a thousand million times more likely that the DNA came from Ana, Boy A and an unknown individual rather than from three unrelated people. The vest top was torn and could not be worn in its condition, and the scientist noted force was required to cause the damage. The court also heard Boy B's interview, in which he described his movements on the day of the disappearance, including a conversation with Boy A that led to him agreeing to call Ana's house. The hearing continued under Justice Paul McDermott. The unnamed 14-year-old pleaded not guilty.
During the Central Criminal Court hearing, forensic evidence showed that blood matching Ana Kriegel's DNA was found on a backpack, mask, gloves and knee pads seized from the home of one of the two 14‑year‑old boys accused of her murder. John Hoade of Forensic Science Ireland presented the mask to the jury, noting that DNA on its inside matched both Ana and the accused known as Boy A. He also reported that DNA matching Boy A was found on Ana's neck and on tape wrapped around her neck when her body was discovered. The DNA evidence was collected from items in Boy A's bedroom, including a mask described as a "half mask" with a jagged mouth and simulated blood, as well as gloves, knee pads and a snood. Blood on the mask's inside and outside matched Ana's DNA, and a mixed profile of Ana's and Boy A's DNA was found in the mouth area. The unnamed 14-year-old pleaded not guilty.
In a trial before the Central Criminal Court, two 14‑year‑old boys accused of murdering 14‑year‑old Anastasia Kriegel were examined. Data from Boy A's i‑Phone 6 was presented, showing a search for "abandoned places in Lucan" and a video titled "15 most gruesome torture methods in history." The court heard that Boy A claimed his co‑accused was lying after a statement from Boy B was read to him. Boy A also faces a charge of aggravated sexual assault involving serious violence. Both boys pleaded not guilty. The proceedings are being heard by Justice Paul McDermott with a jury of eight men and four women. The case remains ongoing.
In the Central Criminal Court, two 14‑year‑old boys are charged with the murder of 14‑year‑old Ana Kriegel. Boy A, who is also charged with aggravated sexual assault, was questioned by Garda officers after they told him Ana's blood was found on his boots. He replied, "are you joking me?" and asked if they were serious. The court heard that Garda officers had shown him CCTV footage, discussed the definition of murder, and explained the difference between truth and lies. Boy A denied being in the room where Ana was assaulted and said he was not with her in the lead‑up to her disappearance. He also denied that the male in the footage was him. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul McDermott with a jury of eight men and four women. The unnamed 14-year-old pleaded not guilty.
Kathleen Kiely, 31, of London, pleaded guilty to handling stolen property at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after attempting to sell €90,000 of stolen gold jewellery to a cash‑for‑gold shop in Tallaght. Garda surveillance had been placed on the shop following tips that two men would call. Kiely entered the shop the day before the offence, asking the owner how much he would pay for 18‑carat gold, claiming her husband had some to sell. She was stopped by Gardaí who found a second bag containing badly damaged gold jewellery, originally valued at €90,000 but reduced to €37,000 due to damage. The jewellery was traced to a burglary in Lucan. Kiely had no prior convictions and was influenced by her former partner, Michael Maughan, 25, who also pleaded guilty to handling stolen jewellery. Maughan was sentenced to four years' imprisonment, with the final two years suspended, and a probation report was ordered.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing on 15 May 2019, forensic scientist John Hoade presented DNA evidence linking blood found on a pair of black Timberland boots to the murdered 14‑year‑old schoolgirl Anastasia Kriegel. Hoade explained that the boots, allegedly worn by one of the 14‑year‑old accused boys, bore nine distinct blood‑stained areas that matched Kriegel's DNA. He described the stains as evidence of blood spatter and percussive contact, suggesting the wearer either assaulted or was in close proximity to Kriegel when she was attacked. Hoade also examined a charred stick and a concrete block recovered near Kriegel's body, noting blood transfer and percussive stains on the stick that matched Kriegel's DNA, while he declined to sample the block's stains as they were not considered weapon evidence. The trial, presided over by Justice Paul McDermott, continues with a jury of eight men and four women. Anastasia Kriegel pleaded not guilty.
Noel Ryan, 42, of Charleville Mall, Dublin, pleaded guilty to handling a stolen Toyota Land Cruiser and deception on 27 June 2016 and to unauthorized taking of a Ford Fiesta on 24 March 2017. He sold the stolen Land Cruiser on DoneDeal, arranging a meeting at Woodie's car park in Lucan where the buyer paid €11,600 after noticing marks on the car. The victim later learned the log book was false and that the vehicle had been stolen from Drogheda. Ryan also advertised the Fiesta on DoneDeal, met the buyer at Northside Shopping Centre, and stole the car after a test drive, taking the driver's licence and superimposing his own photo on it. He had 16 prior convictions, including aggravated burglary and robbery, and was on bail at the time of the offences. The case is pending sentencing at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, with a probation report to be prepared before the hearing on 21 June.
During the Central Criminal Court trial, two 14‑year‑old boys, Boy A and Boy B, pleaded not guilty to the murder of 14‑year‑old Anastasia Kriegel. Boy B told a garda that he arranged to meet Ana in a park because he "didn't want to be seen with her" and that Ana was wearing a "slutty top" when he brought her to the park to meet Boy A. Boy A, who is also charged with aggravated sexual assault, claimed he met Ana the previous Monday in a park and that after leaving her he was assaulted by two men. He described being knocked to the ground, kicked, and having his arms stomped on, and that Ana had "brushed him in the chest area." The trial will continue next week before Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of eight men and four women.
During a Central Criminal Court murder trial, a 14‑year‑old boy (Boy B) told a school counsellor that he had been "dragged into this mess" by his co‑accused (Boy A). He repeated this claim about ten times and insisted he was not the last person to see Ana Kriegel alive. Boy B also suggested that men who had allegedly attacked Boy A might have kidnapped Ana. The counsellor, Gerardine Small BL, noted that Boy B was calm, articulate and bright, and that he had spoken to Gardaí three times, describing the questioning as an "interrogation" and feeling pressure. Boy B said he had gone to the park with Ana on 14 May because Boy A had asked him to bring Ana, who fancied Boy A, and that Boy A had been injured later that day. He left Ana and Boy A in the park and did not consider Boy A a close friend. The unnamed 14-year-old pleaded not guilty.
Professor Marie Cassidy, the former State Pathologist, testified at the trial of two 14‑year‑old boys accused of murdering 14‑year‑old Anastasia Kriegel. She described the death as "a very horrific death", caused by blunt force trauma to the head or compression of the neck. Cassidy noted more than 50 injury sites, some possibly defensive wounds, and highlighted four separate impacts to the right side of the head consistent with a small, heavy object or the corner of something larger. Other facial injuries suggested blows from a large, long, heavy object. She found no alcohol or drugs in Ana's system and stated she was "extremely healthy" before her death. Cassidy also reported evidence of attempted vaginal penetration, but could not determine consent. She observed injuries near the door where Ana was found and noted blood staining on the wall and floor. The unnamed 14-year-old pleaded not guilty.
Schoolgirl Anastasia Kriegel, 14, was found dead at Glenwood House in Lucan on 14 May 2018. The body lay on her back with a blue tape noose around her neck, which she appeared to be pulling away. The tape, identified as Tescon insulation tape, was wrapped once around her neck and knotted. Blood‑stained timber, a concrete block, and various clothing items were recovered from the scene, including a black hoodie, leggings, and boots. The accused, two 14‑year‑olds, pleaded not guilty to murder and to an aggravated sexual assault charge. The jury viewed the scene, a 3‑D reconstruction, and forensic evidence, while the trial proceeded before Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of eight men and four women. The case remains at the Central Criminal Court stage.
Mansoor Uddin, a 41‑year‑old taxi driver from Castleway, Adamstown, Lucan, pleaded guilty in February 2019 to sexual assault on three young women who had ridden in his taxi between January and February 2016. The court heard that a psychological report required for his bail conditions had not been completed, leading to a second adjournment. Uddin's licence was revoked after his guilty plea, and he was not permitted to work as a taxi driver since November of the previous year. His bail conditions included a curfew and a rule that any single passenger must sit in the back of the vehicle. The judge remanded him on continuing bail until 20 May to allow for the psychological assessment. The case remains at the hearing stage, with no sentencing or further legal outcome reported in the article.
During the trial, one of the two 14‑year‑old boys who denies murdering schoolgirl Anastasia Kriegel told a Garda that he believed the injuries the other accused claimed were inflicted by older boys were actually caused by Ana. The court heard that the boy, while giving DNA swabs, said Ana had put her hand across his shoulder and chest and that this might be helpful. Both boys, whose names cannot be disclosed because they are minors, pleaded not guilty to murder and to the aggravated sexual assault charge. The prosecution presented evidence that the boys were seen with Ana on the day she went missing and that one boy was beaten by two older youths in a local park. The trial continues before a jury and a judge.
During the trial of two 14‑year‑old boys charged with murdering Anastasia Kriegel, park ranger Norman Macken testified that on the day of her disappearance he heard a man banging on the ranger hut. The man claimed his son had been "jumped on" in the woods by "big fellas". Macken approached the boy, who appeared disheveled, with blood on his fingers and clothes, and described him as looking "like a rabbit caught in the headlights". The boy, about 16, did not engage with Macken and was later seen shaking. Macken noted the boy's father said he was capable of self‑defence. The testimony was given to the Central Criminal Court as part of the ongoing proceedings against the two accused boys, who have pleaded not guilty to murder and an aggravated sexual assault charge. The trial is before Mr Justice Paul McDermott with a jury of eight men and four women.
During the trial of two 14‑year‑old boys charged with the murder of Anastasia Kriegel, a dog walker named Gerard Redmond testified that he saw a schoolboy make a direct, 45‑degree turn from a low embankment into a ditch and then head straight toward the abandoned Glenwood House where Ana's body was found. Redmond described the boy's path as a "beeline" and suggested the boy was simply taking a shortcut home. A child witness also reported seeing Ana and one of the boys walking together in a nearby park, laughing and joking. Additional witnesses described the boy's injuries and alleged that he had been attacked by two people in the park. The court continued the hearing with a judge's order restricting reporting to a single media outlet. The trial proceeded before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury. Glenwood House pleaded not guilty.
In a trial at the Central Criminal Court, two fourteen‑year‑old boys are charged with murdering Kildare schoolgirl Anastasia Kriegel and, for one, with aggravated sexual assault. Both pleaded not guilty. Judge Paul McDermott, presiding over the case, ordered that no media reporting of evidence be allowed until the trial concludes. He reminded the jury that they must base their verdict solely on what they hear in court, ignoring any external coverage. The judge also announced that the restriction on reporting would remain in force until the trial ends or a further order is made. The proceedings continue with Mr Justice McDermott and a jury of eight men and four women. The accused cannot be named due to their minor status. The trial is ongoing.
Derek Claffey, aged 30, was sentenced to four years' imprisonment for unlawful seizure of cars in Lucan and Ardevin on 25 September 2017. The judge suspended the final year of the sentence on strict conditions and backdated the term to 20 September 2018, the date of his first custody in the matter. Claffey had discharged himself from hospital after a road‑traffic accident and had taken heroin earlier that day. He attempted to car‑jack two female drivers at knifepoint, using an eight‑inch serrated steak knife. In one incident he offered a woman €50 for her car keys; in another he cut a seat belt and threatened a woman's son. He has 64 previous convictions, including possession of knives, robbery and dangerous driving. The judge cited his guilty plea and personal circumstances as mitigating factors, while noting his history of substance abuse and the knife as aggravating factors. The prosecution requested a destruction order for the knife.
The trial of two 14-year-old boys, referred to as Boy A and Boy B, charged with the murder of Anastasia Kriegel at Glenwood House in Lucan on 14 May last year, is ongoing before the Central Criminal Court. Both accused have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Boy A additionally faces a charge of aggravated sexual assault involving serious violence, to which he also pleaded not guilty. Gardai testified that the boys provided conflicting accounts of their last meeting with the victim. Boy A alleged he declined Ana's romantic interest and was subsequently assaulted by two unidentified males, claiming injuries to his right hand and leg. Boy B stated he had 'no clue' what happened to her after she appeared upset following her interaction with Boy A. Detective Sergeant John O'Keefe noted discrepancies between the boys' statements, while Sergeant Aonghus Hussey described observing confusion and inconsistent movements during a re-enactment at St Catherine's Park. The court heard that Boy A used his left hand to initial his statement due to a right-hand injury. The matter was adjourned and is scheduled to continue on Friday morning before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury.
Anastasia Kriegel, 14, vanished on 14 May after leaving home with a boy she had known. Her father, Patric Kriegel, says he saw her walk away with the boy, now identified as Boy B, at about 5 pm, before her phone last connected to her mother's office at 5:32 pm. The State claims she was dead by that time. The trial, held at the Central Criminal Court, is the second day of proceedings against two 14‑year‑olds charged with her murder. Both accused, who cannot be named, pleaded not guilty. Boy A is also charged with aggravated sexual assault. The prosecution alleges the boys lured Ana to a derelict farmhouse where she was murdered. The case remains at the trial stage, with no verdict yet.
Two 14‑year‑old boys are on trial in Dublin for the murder of 14‑year‑old Ana Kriegel. Prosecutor Brendan Grehan told the jury that one boy lured Ana from her home to a derelict farmhouse, where he watched the other boy sexually assault and kill her. The accused boy is also charged with aggravated sexual assault. Evidence presented included a zombie‑type mask in his backpack, male DNA on Ana's neck and semen in the murder scene, and a ligature tape matching the one found on her neck. The prosecution argued that the boy had planned the murder, lured Ana to the farmhouse, and then watched the assault and killing. Ana's body was found on 17 May, naked except for socks, with severe head and neck injuries. The trial is ongoing and the boys have pleaded not guilty.
Two fourteen‑year‑old boys, whose names are withheld because they are minors, are set to go on trial for the murder of Kildare schoolgirl Anastasia Kriegel. The boys pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and one also pleaded not guilty to a separate charge of sexually assaulting the victim with serious violence. The body of Ms Kriegel was found at a derelict house in County Dublin on 17 May, three days after she was reported missing. The alleged killings took place at Glenwood House, Laraghcon, Clonee Road, Lucan on 14 May. Judge Paul McDermott swore in a jury of eight men and four women, stressing the need for an independent assessment and warning that the evidence could be upsetting. The trial is expected to last about six weeks.
Mansoor Uddin, 41, a taxi driver from Castleway, Adamstown, pleaded guilty to three sexual assault offences committed between January and February 2016. He sexually assaulted an 18‑year‑old German national, a 20‑year‑old woman, and an 18‑year‑old schoolgirl within two weeks. The first victim was forced to stay in the car, was touched and verbally abused, and later reported Uddin. The second victim was also touched and coerced, then left the vehicle. The third victim was touched and an attempt was made to touch her underwear; she resisted and tried to photograph Uddin. Gardaí used CCTV, a database of registered public service vehicles, a computer‑generated likeness, and GPS data from the HALO app to identify Uddin. The case was adjourned to May 8 for sentencing, and Uddin remains on continuing bail. Victim impact statements describe fear, isolation, and loss of trust in taxi services.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, John Roche (55) and John Brock (46) were found guilty of possessing 167 kg of explosives in the boot of a car on Naas Road, Dublin 12, on 13 April 2016. The court noted the explosives included 57 kg of ANFO and thirty‑eight 2.5 kg rolls of Kemegel industrial explosives, amounting to roughly three‑quarters of the 227 kg of ANFO used in the Omagh bombing of 15 August 2008, which killed 29 people. Detective Sergeant Tom Power compared the Naas Road bomb to other large bombs, such as a 30 kg ANFO keg found in Finnstown House hotel and a 50 kg ANFO keg in Kilcurry Church, both in May 2014. The court also heard that 18 detonators were found under the front passenger seat. Mr Brock had a prior firearms conviction from 2008, while Mr Roche had no prior convictions. The sentencing was adjourned to Friday morning. John Brock pleaded not guilty.
John Cash, 37, was sentenced to three and a half years in prison for driving at a Garda while attempting to escape arrest for burglary. He had previously been jailed for eight years in 2008 after pleading guilty to dangerous driving that caused the deaths of two French tourists, Martine Talon (54) and Martine Liotard (53), on the Kylemore Road in Dublin on 16 May 2007. Cash had been banned from driving for 20 years after that conviction. In December 2017 he pleaded guilty to burglary at Aldi, Old Lucan Road, Palmerstown Lower, and dangerous driving. During the burglary, he drove his car at Garda Barry O'Shea, smashing the patrol car's windscreen with a baton and then driving into the patrol car, forcing the Garda to jump out of the way. The court described the act as "callous" and noted Cash's prior guilty plea for dangerous driving that caused death.
Aaron Gilsenan, 38, a crack cocaine addict, was jailed for four years after a spree of robberies and attempted robberies in Dublin between December 2017 and March 2018. He used a knife to threaten staff at five convenience stores and filling stations, robbed a taxi driver of €40, and stole a total of €760. Gilsenan was identified on CCTV and used his own car to escape each time. He pleaded guilty to four robberies and two attempted robberies, admitting the crimes were driven by his addiction and the death of his daughter. He had 87 prior convictions, including 51 for road traffic offences. The court noted he was drug‑free at sentencing and had expressed genuine regret. The sentence was imposed by Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, with a suspended portion of 18 months, and he was also due for sentencing in Trim and Naas Circuit Courts for other pending cases.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing on March 8, 2019, Michael Donohue, aged 20, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm for an attack on his ex‑girlfriend on November 11, 2017. Donohue was sentenced to two years' imprisonment, with the final 12 months suspended on the condition that he keep the peace, behave well and engage with Probation Services for 12 months after release. The court described how Donohue ran toward the woman while she was walking with her sister, grabbed her around the head and neck, struck her head against a wall, kicked her in the stomach and head, dragged her by the hair, and pushed her sister to the ground when she tried to intervene. The victim's impact statement noted cuts to her legs, a lump on her head, ongoing panic attacks and reluctance to leave her house. Donohue had no prior convictions and had accepted responsibility for his "monstrous" actions, presenting himself to Gardaí.
Barry Keating, 33, of Coolock, Dublin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for drug offences. He pleaded guilty to possession of heroin for sale or supply at Harmonstown Road, Dublin 5, on June 29, 2016, and possession of cocaine for sale or supply at Shonvalley Apartments, Lucan, on August 8, 2016. Judge Melanie Greally imposed a four-and-a-half-year sentence, with the final 18 months suspended. The court noted Keating's 53 previous convictions, drug addiction, and difficult youth circumstances. Prosecution and defence agreed he was effectively "passed from pillar to post" after being abandoned as an infant and acted as a courier under the influence of others. Separately, Gerard Gerard Cleary, 34, pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine for sale or supply. He was sentenced to three years, with the final 18 months suspended, by Judge Karen O'Connor on December 1, 2017. Cleary cooperated with gardaí and made full admissions during interview. The cocaine involved in the Lucan incident had a street value of €138,837, while the heroin in the Harmonstown incident was valued at €16,190. Both defendants were arrested at the scene of the respective incidents.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Vasile Marin, aged 24, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for robbing an 81‑year‑old pensioner in Sutton on 10 September 2016. The victim, who had recently had a pacemaker implanted, was robbed of a €300 purse while she was shopping at Eurospar in Bayside. Marin, a father of two living in Foxborough Close, Lucan, pleaded guilty to robbery. He had two prior theft convictions and was motivated by a gambling debt, according to his defence counsel. Judge Melanie Greally imposed a three‑year sentence with the final 18 months suspended, noting Marin's lack of employment history and receipt of disability benefits for depression. The victim, who was terrified and unable to leave her home for six months after the incident, expressed that she had moved on but no longer uses cash and relies on home help for shopping.