George Simpson, 30, was sentenced later in July after a post office raid in Rush on 28 November 2016. He attempted robbery, possessed an imitation firearm, produced a weapon, threatened to kill or cause serious harm, and caused criminal damage. Simpson entered the post office armed with an air pistol and a hatchet, threatened a female staff member that he would chop off a customer's head if she did not hand over cash, and smashed a glass panel in front of the tills. He shouted "fuck this" and fled. Garda Ross Rowan reported that the staff member hid in the back office, pressed the panic alarm, and did not return until a customer informed gardaí that Simpson had left. Simpson was remanded in custody pending sentencing on 21 July and chose to go to prison. He apologized to staff and customers, admitted the threat, and acknowledged that he would face further punishment. George Simpson pleaded guilty.
David Mahon, aged 46, will appeal the seven‑year sentence imposed for the manslaughter of Dean Fitzpatrick, 23, his partner's son. The incident occurred on 26 May 2013 when Mahon stabbed Fitzpatrick in the abdomen outside the apartment shared with Fitzpatrick's mother, Audrey, on Burnell Square, Northern Cross, Malahide Road, Dublin. The trial, held over two weeks, found Mahon not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter, with the State arguing he was drunk, angry and intent on killing. Mahon claimed the death was accidental or a possible suicide, asserting Fitzpatrick had walked into the knife during an argument. Justice Margaret Heneghan sentenced him on 13 June 2016. In the Court of Appeal, Justice George Birmingham set 23 October as the date for Mahon's appeal against the sentence. Mahon was represented by Tony Collier Solicitors and two trial counsel, and had been granted legal aid for the appeal. David Mahon was found guilty.
Alesandrs Rodjukovs, 36, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to producing a realistic imitation firearm at Lower Main Street Rush on 7 March 2015. He pointed the gun at a motorist after driving aggressively behind him, causing the victim to fear he would be shot. Rodjukovs claimed fatigue from long work hours and a sleepless baby as the cause of his actions. The judge, Karen O'Connor, noted his illness from Chernobyl radiation exposure, a childhood car‑accident injury that killed his mother, and the death of three close relatives in recent months. She described the offence as a "once off incident" and, after hearing he would not re‑offend, imposed an 18‑month sentence suspended in full on strict conditions. Garda Gerard Maloney reported that a blank semi‑automatic pistol, recovered from Rodjukovs' car, was not capable of firing bullets. The pistol had been brought from Latvia. Rodjukovs cooperated with Gardaí and made full admissions.
Jonathan Coyle, 33, was sentenced to three and a half years in prison for recklessly colliding with Philip Woodcock's car, an act that caused both vehicles to be damaged. The collision followed a violent altercation between the occupants of the two cars, during which Woodcock punched Coyle and an unidentified man stabbed a man who had been with Woodcock's group, killing former soldier Warren O'Connor, 24. Coyle pleaded guilty to endangerment and was already under a ten‑year driving disqualification. Judge Cormac Quinn imposed the sentence, suspended the final 18 months, ordered 18 months of probation supervision from release, and disqualified Coyle from driving for ten years. The court noted Coyle's prior convictions, including five‑year and ten‑year driving bans, robbery, assault and burglary. The hearing was held in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, with the O'Connor family present. The case did not involve any charges against Woodcock or others for the killing.
Two men, Declan Duffy, 43, and Daniel Kane, 27, are set to be tried at the Special Criminal Court on 3 October next year for three counts of false imprisonment at The Towers, Garters Lane in Saggart, and for violent disorder. The trial, scheduled by Mr Justice Tony Hunt with Judges Martin Nolan and Cormac Dunne, is expected to last four weeks. Both men remain in custody awaiting the hearing. Their co‑accused, Christopher Maguire, 37, who has been ill, was not present at the hearing and his case is to be mentioned on 29 November.
In 2016, David Mahon, aged 45, was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment for manslaughter after killing Dean Fitzpatrick, 23, the older brother of missing teenager Amy Fitzpatrick. The incident occurred on 26 May 2013 when Mahon, who had been in a 12‑year relationship with Dean's mother Audrey Fitzpatrick, stabbed Dean in the abdomen outside the apartment they shared on Burnell Square, Northern Cross, Malahide Road. Mahon claimed the death was accidental or a possible suicide, asserting that Dean had walked into the knife during an argument. A jury at the Central Criminal Court found him not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter. On 13 June 2016, Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan imposed the seven‑year sentence. Mahon has now applied for legal aid to appeal the severity of that sentence in the Court of Appeal, where the application was granted without contest. The case remains at the appeal stage, with no further outcome reported. David Mahon was found guilty.
Gary Ryan and Theresa Ryan, trading as Woodland Creche and Montessori in Lusk, secured a temporary High Court injunction against Petrogas Group Limited, trading as Applegreen, over alleged noxious smells. The applicants claim waste water from the M1 service station causes foul odours that threaten the health and safety of 80 children and 12 staff. Counsel stated that an outfall manhole adjacent to the creche releases gases when the station's tanks pump waste into the main sewer. Although previous 2014 proceedings resulted in undertakings to restrict pumping to 11pm to 4am, the applicants alleged the smells returned recently, causing parents to raise concerns. Counsel noted that Gary Ryan and an engineer found the odour so repulsive they had to leave the premises. Mr Justice Paul Gilligan granted the interim injunction on an ex-parte basis, restraining the defendant from permitting the escape of noxious gases. The judge noted the risk to children and staff but stated it remained to be seen if the order would force the station to close. The matter was adjourned to Friday.
Three men—Declan Duffy (43), Daniel Kane (27) and Christopher Maguire (37)—were returned to the Special Criminal Court for trial. They face three counts of false imprisonment for an incident at The Towers, Garters Lane in Saggart on 9 June last year, and Duffy and Kane also face a charge of violent disorder for the same event. The court, presided over by Justice Paul Butler with Judges Alison Lindsay and Flann Brennan, ordered that the men be tried before the three‑judge, non‑jury court. The case is scheduled for mention again on 8 June.
Dubliner David Mahon, 45, was found guilty of manslaughter for the death of his stepson, Dean Fitzpatrick, 23, who was stabbed outside the apartment shared with Mahon's partner, Audrey Fitzpatrick, on 26 May 2013. The jury returned a majority verdict of 10 to 2 after eight hours and 16 minutes of deliberation, concluding that Mahon was not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter. The prosecution argued that Mahon, who was drunk, angry and agitated, thrust a knife into Fitzpatrick with deadly intent. Mahon claimed the death was accidental or a possible suicide, stating that Fitzpatrick had walked into the knife while they were arguing. The case was remanded for sentencing on 30 May 2016. The trial did not address any subsequent appeals or sentencing outcomes.
In the Central Criminal Court, 46‑year‑old David Mahon stands trial for the murder of Dean Fitzpatrick, who was stabbed on 26 May 2013. The prosecution presented text messages exchanged between Mahon, Fitzpatrick and Sarah O'Rourke in the days before the killing. O'Rourke testified that Mahon had threatened to stab her and urged her to contact Fitzpatrick, who had earlier claimed he had taken a bicycle part from Mahon. Mahon allegedly returned with a knife, and Fitzpatrick was stabbed in the abdomen outside Mahon's apartment on Burnell Square. Witness Karl O'Toole described Mahon's agitation and the presence of a whiskey bottle and tablet packets in the flat. The jury heard that Mahon claimed he had stabbed Fitzpatrick after a confrontation over the bicycle part. The case is before Justice Margaret Heneghan and a twelve‑person jury.
During the second day of the trial of 46‑year‑old David Mahon, the Central Criminal Court heard testimony from Sarah O'Rourke, the girlfriend of Dean Fitzpatrick. O'Rourke said that on 25 May 2013, hours before the alleged murder, Mahon called her and threatened to stab her in the neck if she did not arrange for Fitzpatrick to call Mahon. She described the call as aggressive and said Mahon demanded she go to a shop, buy credit, and call Fitzpatrick, threatening to drive to Lusk and stab her if she refused. O'Rourke then hung up, called her sister, and texted Fitzpatrick to explain the situation. The court has also heard that Fitzpatrick was the older brother of Amy Fitzpatrick, who disappeared in Spain in 2008. The trial continues. David Mahon pleaded not guilty.
Mark McCann, 23, pleaded guilty to robbery of a taxi driver's phone and car keys outside Swords Garda Station on 1 May 2012. He had 13 prior convictions. The driver, who had undergone heart surgery, was concerned about his pacemaker when McCann and accomplice Claire Lawlor (26) attempted to rob him. McCann grabbed the driver in a choke hold and punched him, then fled with the driver's keys and phone. McCann was arrested in March 2013 and claimed memory loss due to drug use. Judge Melanie Greally, noting McCann's genuine efforts to reform, imposed a four‑year sentence suspended for four years. Lawlor received a two‑and‑a‑half‑year suspended sentence the previous year. The court highlighted both defendants' recent positive changes and their disassociation from each other. The case was heard at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
Christian Coffey, aged 38, was sentenced to four and a half years in jail for storing cannabis worth €64,658, two Russian semi‑automatic pistols, and 16 rounds of ammunition at a rented container in Lusk, north County Dublin. He pleaded guilty at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on 17 October 2013. Coffey had gambling debts exceeding €50,000, including amounts owed to banks and money lenders, and had been described by a judge as a "fully reformed gambler" and a "remarkably decent man". The judge, Martin Nolan, noted Coffey's lack of prior convictions, early guilty plea, strong work record over 20 years, and community contributions through his GAA club. Despite the Director of Public Prosecutions recommending seven to eight years, the judge imposed the four‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence, citing Coffey's mitigation and remorse.
In Swords District Court, Mark Sheehan (25) pleaded guilty to driving without insurance and had his case adjourned until April 13th following a request from the Probation Service for further assessment. Sheehan has 15 previous convictions and was previously given a six-month suspended sentence and a six-year driving disqualification. Michael Reilly (21) pleaded guilty to stealing a remote controlled car and was convicted in his absence. As he did not appear to pay the €250 compensation, Judge Dempsey imposed a default order and fined him €250. Helen McDonnell (25) pleaded guilty to using a false driving licence and stealing groceries. Her case was adjourned until March 30th for a repayment meeting with the furniture store and to provide proof of arrangements. Adrian O'Reilly (50) pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour. Judge Dempsey ordered him to make a charitable donation of €250 to Pieta House and applied Section 1.1 of the Probation Act.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Noreen McDonagh (21) pleaded guilty to theft and was sentenced to 150 hours of community service in lieu of a one-month prison term. Artur Pietrynka (40) pleaded guilty to urinating in public, intoxication, and threatening behaviour; the case was remanded until April 9th for him to liaise with Probation Services. Niall Skelly (42), charged with failing to comply with gardai, threatening behaviour, obstructing gardai, and theft, was remanded on continuing bail until March 26th, with conditions prohibiting entry to a specific Tesco. Mark Kelly (35), charged with trespass and criminal damage, was refused bail and remanded in custody to Cloverhill to appear on February 25th. Additionally, Vatalie Raru (33), alleged to have swung a nunchuck at gardai, had his case adjourned to March 5th for a hearing date.
Balbriggan District Court heard three matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Jonathan Fitzpatrick, 26, of Balbriggan, pleaded guilty to using threatening and abusive behaviour on Drogheda Street in October last year. He was convicted and fined €200. The judge warned Fitzpatrick that he is sailing close to a custodial sentence and that further convictions would result in custody. Fitzpatrick claimed he could not remember the incident due to intoxication, though the judge noted no apology was recorded in garda files. Alan Boardman, 31, of Lusk, is alleged to have been in possession of cannabis for sale or supply, valued at over €13,000, and to have unlawfully possessed cannabis and PVP in Lusk last August. The Director of Public Prosecutions has directed trial on indictment. The matter was adjourned until April 9th for the service of the Book of Evidence, with Boardman remanded on continuing bail. Nicholas Hampson, 43, of Liverpool, is alleged to have assaulted Edward Connolly causing harm on New Year's Day in Lusk. The State is awaiting medical records to determine DDP directions. The matter was adjourned until April 9th, with Hampson remanded on continuing bail.
Sean McAuley, 20, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of Ketamine, MDMA, and cannabis for sale or supply. Following the completion of voluntary work and a positive Probation Report, Judge Dermot Dempsey struck out the case. In a separate matter, John Butterly, 39, pleaded guilty to assaulting Peter Thompson and producing a baseball bat. Lorraine Butterly, 34, is charged with assaulting three individuals and producing a rolling pin. Peter Thompson, 41, pleaded guilty to assaulting John Butterly. All three were remanded on continuing bail until April 13th for a hearing at Swords District Court. Zacheaus Odinga, 45, pleaded guilty to driving without insurance on Drogheda Street in Balbriggan. Judge Dempsey convicted him, fined him €400, and declined to invoke disqualification under special circumstances. The report also notes that David Cummins, 25, is charged with attempting to steal cash and a can of Coke; his case is scheduled for March 30th. Jade Gannon, 32, pleaded guilty to theft and non-payment of a taxi fare, receiving fines of €100 and €75 respectively. Andrea Bunce, 44, is alleged to have stolen stock and cash; she was remanded on continuing bail until February 12th. John Maxwell, 36, is charged with possession of cannabis; his case was adjourned until March 12th for the service of the Book of Evidence.
In a Balbriggan District Court hearing on 22 January 2015, a 27‑year‑old man named Kevin Powney had his case struck out after he completed a community service order. Powney had pleaded guilty to using threatening and abusive behaviour at Rush Train Station on 16 September 2014. The court noted that he had already completed 200 hours of community service for another offence and had 86 hours remaining. Judge Dermot Dempsey had ordered an additional 20 hours of community service in lieu of seven days in prison. Upon completion of the 20‑hour order, the judge struck the case out. The hearing also covered two other cases: Derek Gildea, aged 51, was adjourned for a plea or hearing regarding unlawful possession of a combat knife, and Catherine Joyce, aged 42, was remanded on continuing bail for a case involving assault on Garda Nicholas Duane and intoxication. The court scheduled a further hearing for Joyce next week.
Swords District Court heard five matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Mark Sheehan pleaded guilty to driving without insurance. The matter was adjourned until March 9th for a Probation & Welfare report to assess suitability for 240 hours of community service in lieu of a four-month prison sentence. Kevin Carroll pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage to a restaurant. He was remanded on continuing bail to provide €215 in compensation, with the facts of the case to be heard on March 2nd. David Lawrence, who was absent, had a guilty plea entered for being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour. He was convicted and fined €200. William Whelan pleaded guilty to holding a mobile phone while driving. He was convicted and fined €100. Marc Savage pleaded guilty to parking a lorry on a footpath. He was convicted and fined €100.
In a Balbriggan District Court hearing on 15 January 2015, Olivia Weldon, aged 40, pleaded guilty to theft after taking €55.56 worth of items from a Tesco Extra on 11 December 2014. She claimed she was under pressure due to her daughter's birthday and the upcoming Christmas. The judge fined her €150. A separate case involved Thomas Gaffney, 19, charged with multiple thefts including a car, bicycle, truckster, and chicken fillet rolls. His hearing was scheduled for 2 February at Swords District Court. Anthony Handley, 63, faced a dangerous driving charge; the book of evidence would be served in March, and he remained on bail until 5 March. Kevin Harmon, 26, was charged with assault causing harm to Darren O'Donovan; he was remanded on continuing bail and given an alibi caution, with a next appearance set for 30 January at the Criminal Courts of Justice. Olivia Weldon was convicted.
Swords District Court sentenced four defendants. Jamie Cunningham (18) of Balbriggan, who pleaded guilty to failing to comply with a garda directive, was sentenced to one month in prison after failing to complete a previous 100-hour community service order; a second charge of obstructing the Gardai was struck out. Genadijs Ogurcous (45) of Lusk pleaded guilty to theft after cutting security tags from items in a Swords department store and received a six-month suspended sentence. Ishtiag Ahmad (33) of Coolock, who pleaded not guilty to permitting a child under three to travel without appropriate restraint, was convicted after Judge Dermot Dempsey accepted garda evidence over his defence; he was fined €150. Kevin Harris (24) of Clarehall, who pleaded not guilty to driving under the influence of cannabis, was found guilty following a collision at Hearse Road; the court imposed a four-year driving ban and a €1,000 fine. All matters were finalised at the sentencing stage.
At Balbriggan District Court, Judge Dermot Dempsey struck out cases against Thomas and Alan Larkin after they paid €500 to St Vincent de Paul. Thomas Larkin (36) pleaded guilty to assaulting a youth causing harm, while Alan Larkin (33) pleaded guilty to producing a wheel brace. The court heard the brothers reacted to youths throwing rocks at their car, which contained a baby. Judge Dempsey warned them they cannot take the law into their own hands. Keith Daly (21) pleaded guilty to handling stolen property, specifically a red Carrera mountain bike. He was placed on a 12-month Probation Bond, ordered to comply with Probation Services recommendations, engage in Offence Focus work, and be assessed for training and employment. Julian Donnelly (28) pleaded guilty to possession of €20 of cannabis resin. He was convicted and fined €300. Judge Dempsey noted he had no evidence Donnelly had stopped using drugs since March and warned he was sailing close to a prison sentence. Damien Costello (35) pleaded guilty to stealing €20 of petrol from two service stations. He paid €100 in compensation and was placed on a 12-month Probation Bond. Meanwhile, cases for John Scott (36), charged with dangerous driving and having excessively worn tyres, and Grainne Kealy (56), charged with driving without due caution and attention, were adjourned until January 8th for a plea or to fix a hearing date, as solicitors awaited outstanding statements and photographs.
Swords District Court heard four matters. Jandean Hyland pleaded guilty to assault causing harm after allegedly headbutting a victim at a nightclub. Judge Dempsey ordered Hyland to pay €1,250 in compensation by February 23rd to avoid a conviction. Keith Hammond pleaded guilty to using violent and threatening behaviour at a Garda station. The case was remanded until January 15th to assess suitability for an Adult Caution. Arthur Creedy pleaded guilty to theft for using a receipt to refund stolen runners. Judge Dempsey sentenced him to one month in prison, stating he would not increase his current sentence. Patrick Clarke was found guilty of driving without a licence and no tax after the judge proceeded in his absence. He was fined €200 for no tax and €100 for driving without a licence. A charge of no insurance was dismissed. All proceedings were handled by Judge Dermot Dempsey.
In a Balbriggan District Court hearing on 27 November 2014, Adam Erity, aged 21, received a nine‑month suspended sentence and a three‑year driving disqualification after pleading guilty to unlawfully taking a Mazda 323 from a house at Chapel Farm, Lusk, on 14–15 October 2012. Erity, who admitted substance abuse at the time, had 23 prior convictions and was arrested and fully admitted the offence. The judge, Dermot Dempsey, imposed the suspended sentence and disqualification. The court also adjourned a separate case involving Charles Hunt, 28, charged with unlawful possession of ketamine, to 11 December 2014. Additionally, Przemyslaw Kutszal, 45, was convicted and fined €250 for assaulting his ex‑girlfriend and €100 for criminal damage, and ordered to pay €400 to Charles Reid for property damage. Noel Drummond, 45, was convicted and fined €200 for holding a mobile phone while driving, with the court noting the fine exceeded the standard fixed penalty.
Anthony Hannon, 39, was sentenced to three years in prison, with the final 18 months suspended, for stabbing Joanne Teeling and Leanne Gleeson over a €50 debt owed by his partner. The attacks occurred on Wellview Avenue, Ladyswell, on 2 February 2011. Hannon claimed self‑defence, saying Teeling had attacked him with a glass bottle and pulled him into her garden. Garda Ciara O'Brien reported that Gleeson lost her spleen and suffered a punctured lung, while Teeling was left with numbness in her left small finger and a stab wound to her arm and stomach, requiring surgery. Hannon had no prior convictions. Judge Mary Ellen Ring imposed the sentence, back‑dated to February, and suspended the final 18 months on strict conditions, including 12 months of probation supervision after release. Anthony Hannon pleaded guilty.
Swords District Court handed down sentences to four defendants. Adam Errity, 21, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis herb for sale or supply. Judge Dermot Dempsey sentenced him to three months in prison, noting his 21 previous convictions. Robert Nolan, 46, pleaded guilty to a hit and run, failing to report the incident, and failing to remain at the scene. He was convicted and fined €100, avoiding disqualification. Ehigie Omoruyi, 44, pleaded not guilty to breaching a safety order and stabbing his ex-partner in the right arm. The court convicted him and suspended a six-month prison sentence. Martin Power, 58, pleaded not guilty to drink driving. Judge Dempsey convicted him, fined him €400, and disqualified him from driving for two years. All matters were finalised at the sentencing stage.
Prezemyslaw Kutak, 42, was arrested on 29 October for drink driving while en route to an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting in Balbriggan. He was driving a silver BMW with a breath alcohol level of 103mg/100ml. Kutak also pleaded guilty to two separate thefts of wine bottles from a Lusk supermarket: six bottles worth €48 on 22 September and two bottles worth €16 on 27 September. He was convicted of drink driving and the two thefts at Balbriggan District Court. Judge Dermot Dempsey sentenced him to a four‑month prison term, suspended for two years, and disqualified him from driving for three years. He was fined €300 in total for the wine thefts. Kutak, a Polish national who has lived in Ireland for 13 years, has one prior road‑traffic conviction and is seeking treatment for alcohol problems. The judge noted his severe alcohol issue and his attempt to attend an AA meeting the following morning.
At Balbriggan District Court, Jevgenijs Zurila (32) of Navan pleaded guilty to trespassing and the theft of two containers of diesel worth €150 from Bently Bros Ltd in Lusk on August 14th. Judge Grainne O'Neill convicted him, noting his previous conviction for theft, and fined him €250 for trespass and a further €250 for the theft, warning that a future offence would result in a prison sentence. Joseph McGovern (39) of Donabate pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour towards gardai at Macari's Takeaway in Donabate on May 22nd. Despite mitigation regarding his mother's recent death, Judge O'Neill convicted him and imposed a €300 fine. Catherine Joyce (42) of Balbriggan, who is alleged to have been intoxicated and used threatening and abusive behaviour on October 2nd, had her case adjourned until January 8th as further charges, including an alleged assault on a garda, may be brought. Neil Phipps (29) of Balbriggan, alleged to have assaulted Brian Cranny causing harm on May 9th, had his case adjourned until November 27th pending DPP directions. John Fleming (30) of Skerries, alleged to have driven without reasonable consideration on January 22nd, had his case adjourned until December 4th to seek legal advice.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Damien Costello pleaded guilty to the theft of €20 of petrol from Topaz on the Ballymun Road on May 10th, 2013, and the theft of €20 of petrol from Applegreen Service Station on the M1 at Lusk on July 22nd, 2013. The Judge stated he would consider Costello for 200 hours of community service in lieu of a two-month prison sentence if Probation Services deem him suitable. Costello was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on December 11th. Jevgenijs Zurila is charged with the theft of two containers of diesel valued at €150 from Bently Bros Ltd in Lusk on August 14th, and trespass at the same business on that date. The case was adjourned until October 30th. Stephen Nyantakyi is charged with being intoxicated at Hamlet Lane in Balbriggan on September 18th. This matter was adjourned until October 23rd. Przemyslaw Kutak is charged with the theft of six bottles of wine valued at €48 from Supervalu in Lusk on September 22nd, and the theft of two bottles of wine valued at €16 from the same store on September 27th. A bench warrant was issued for his arrest. Additionally, seven vehicles, 25 airbags, seven Eco units, and one car radio were forfeited to the State under the Police Property Act following a search in Balbriggan.
In a hearing at Barrack Lane in Lusk, 35‑year‑old Gillian Dunphy pleaded guilty to intoxication and endangering herself and others after lying on a blind bend. She blamed a night out with friends and too many shots for her condition, claiming she had no recollection of the incident. Judge Dermot Dempsey questioned whether she had a 'death wish' and warned her about controlling alcohol intake after a car had stopped only a few feet from her. The judge fined her €250.
Balbriggan District Court heard multiple matters. Keith Daly pleaded guilty to handling stolen property but was remanded on continuing bail pending a probation report, with the case adjourned to December 11. Lorna Daly, John Scott, and Grainne Kealy were remanded on continuing bail; Daly faces alleged charges of making off without paying and using a false plate, while Scott and Kealy face alleged dangerous driving and careless driving charges, with their cases adjourned to December 11. Denise Creagh pleaded guilty to theft and was convicted, fined €100, and warned of potential custody for future offences. James Whelan pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis and failing to display L-plates; the unaccompanied driving charge was struck out, and he was fined €175. Roberts Trascenko pleaded guilty to drink driving, was convicted, fined €400, and disqualified for two years. Chris Lyaba pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage, and his case was adjourned to January 22 to allow time for compensation. Genadijs Ogurcovs was charged with theft from two shops, and his case was adjourned to October 23 for a plea or hearing date.
In Balbriggan District Court, several cases were heard. Garreth Lokko, 23, pleaded guilty to breaching a safety order by shouting and kicking into his ex‑girlfriend's house, was fined €100 and paid €20 compensation for door damage. Hayden Holloman, 19, admitted unlawful possession of €300 worth of cannabis, was fined €300 after failing to complete voluntary work. Michael O'Brien, 19, was charged with possession of an orange emergency shatter hammer and €150 worth of criminal damage; a bench warrant was issued after he missed court. Janet Murphy, 33, was charged with intoxication and failed to appear, leading to a bench warrant. Paul Dargle, 18, faced drink‑driving and dangerous driving charges, with a hearing set for September 26. Lorna Daly, 32, was charged with petrol theft and use of a false plate; a bench warrant followed her absence. Peter Rogers, 61, was convicted of intoxication in a public place and fined €75.
Balbriggan District Court heard multiple matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Eoin Maguire, Cornelius Price, and Edward Price, accused of serious assaults and endangering a garda, were remanded on continuing bail with strict conditions to reappear on September 4th after an extension was granted for the Book of Evidence. John Butterly, Lorraine Butterly, and Peter Thompson, charged with assaults involving a baseball bat and rolling pin, were remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 25th due to the prosecuting garda's injury. Sebestian Knecht was convicted of driving without insurance and possessing a forged insurance disc, receiving a total fine of €850 and a two-year disqualification. Alan Bowe, charged with drink driving, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 26th. Thomas Gaffney, accused of theft and car theft, was remanded on continuing bail until September 11th. Kieran White, who pleaded guilty to stealing wine, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on July 31st, with the possibility of avoiding a conviction if he pays €75. Mark Donnelly, charged with cannabis possession, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 25th. Stephen Teeling, who pleaded guilty to cannabis possession, was convicted and fined after failing to bring €250 to court, with recognisance fixed for appeal.
Swords District Court heard several matters involving defendants who pleaded guilty or faced allegations. Jason Kirwin, 27, pleaded guilty to driving without insurance, while disqualified, and without a licence. Judge Conal Gibbons noted his 79 prior convictions and ordered a Probation Report, adjourning the case to September 15th. Stephen O'Doherty and David Fagan pleaded guilty to the unauthorised taking of a car; Fagan also admitted burglary. Both were remanded on continuing bail to reappear on July 15th for sentencing. Rebotilwe Mohlala pleaded guilty to theft and received the benefit of the Probation Act after making a charitable donation. Graham Doyle pleaded guilty to theft; his case was struck out after compensation was paid. Philip Garland, alleged to be in unlawful possession of cannabis, had his case adjourned to July 21st for a plea or hearing date, with the judge remanding him on continuing bail.
Balbriggan District Court heard various matters. James Reid pleaded guilty to hit and run, failing to stop, failing to provide information, failing to keep the vehicle at the scene, failing to report the incident, and having no tax. Judge Dermot Dempsey convicted Reid, fined him €400 for the hit and run offences, fined him €100 for no tax, and disqualified him from driving for six months. Piotr Boryslawski pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis. The judge ordered him to pay €300 to the Molly McNally Trust Fund by month's end, stating the charge would be struck out if paid. Several defendants were remanded on continuing bail. James Walsh, charged with cultivating cannabis, was adjourned to September 18 for service of the Book of Evidence. Gareth Lokko, alleged to have breached a barring order and caused criminal damage, was remanded to July 24. Kevin Harmon, alleged to have assaulted another man causing harm, was remanded to September 25 for DPP directions. Lorna Daly, alleged to have stolen petrol and used a false registration plate, was remanded to July 24 for a plea. Jandean Hyland, charged with assault causing harm, was remanded to July 31. Stephane Mbama, alleged to have dangerous driving and driving without insurance, was remanded to July 31. Michael Bollard, alleged to have breached a safety order, was granted bail with conditions and adjourned to July 17.
Swords District Court heard several matters involving defendants Rebotilwe Mohlala, Keith McNamara, and Mariam Aroh. Mohlala, 39, pleaded guilty to the theft of €22.98 worth of goods from Tesco Extra in Millfield on June 21st, 2013. Judge Dermot Dempsey indicated he would consider applying the Probation Act if a €200 charitable donation was paid. The matter was adjourned until July 7th to allow the defendant time to arrange the funds. McNamara, 22, pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of €1,100 worth of cannabis herb and the drug itself, found at his home on May 18th, 2013. He claimed he was selling to friends to afford his own use. Judge Dempsey described this as a commercial enterprise. McNamara was remanded on continuing bail for an updated restorative justice report on September 8th. Aroh, 38, was charged with non-display of L-plates, having no driving licence, and giving a false date of birth. She pleaded guilty to the first two charges but contested the false details. Judge Dempsey found her guilty of giving a false date of birth. She was fined €100 for the L-plates offence and €100 for the false date of birth, with other charges taken into consideration.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Martin Lawrence pleaded guilty to the theft of €30 worth of items from a Skerries supermarket. The court applied the Probation Act and warned him to stay away from the store. Mark Donnelly, charged with unlawful possession of cannabis for sale and supply, was adjourned until June 19th pending DPP directions. Linda Hess, charged with unauthorised taking of a vehicle and driving without insurance, was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on June 5th. James Heraghty, alleged to have assaulted a garda, used threatening behaviour, and obstructed a garda, was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on June 12th. Dayne Barnwell, alleged to have assaulted a bouncer causing a fractured ankle, was remanded on continuing bail until June 26th. Additionally, Tony Thunder, charged with criminal damage, failed to appear; the case was adjourned until June 12th for gardai to caution him. All defendants were processed at the charge or pretrial stage, with no convictions recorded in this report.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters, including the sentencing of Karl Robinson. Robinson pleaded guilty to driving without insurance and while disqualified at Station Road in Lusk on June 29, 2013. Judge Dermot Dempsey ordered him to complete 240 hours of community service in lieu of a three-month prison sentence, following a Probation Services consultation. He was also disqualified from driving for four years. In separate proceedings, Patricia Ferris, alleged to have refused or failed a breath sample at Balbriggan Garda Station on April 21, was remanded on continuing bail for a hearing at Swords District Court on June 9. Emma Nevin, charged with selling counterfeit cigarettes at Balbriggan Sunday Market on April 27, was also remanded on continuing bail for a plea hearing on June 9. Debbie Whelan, alleged to have produced a wheel brace during an argument on Chieftain's Road on July 8, 2013, was remanded on continuing bail for a hearing on May 16. Finally, Bridget O'Leary pleaded guilty to the theft of €54.81 worth of groceries from Tesco in Balbriggan on October 8, 2013. She was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on June 12 for the facts of the case to be heard.
Keith Blackburn, 52, of Lusk, was found guilty of failing to comply with a Garda direction, using violent behaviour at Lusk Garda Station and threatening and abusive behaviour on 6 December 2013. He claimed to be an officer of the court and believed he had the power to arrest a Garda sergeant. Sergeant John Cannon testified that Blackburn called to enquire about a bench warrant he thought was 'live', but there was none. Blackburn repeatedly dialled 999, threatened Sergeant Cannon, set off a fire alarm and refused to leave the station. He was arrested and placed in custody. The judge described his claims as 'fictitious court orders' and ordered him to stay away from all Garda stations. Blackburn received a four‑month suspended sentence and a one‑year probation order, with a warning that any breach would lead to imprisonment.
Paul Mannering, 25, of Tallaght, pleaded guilty to the unauthorised taking of a vehicle and driving without insurance at The Five Road, Hedgestown, Lusk, on January 3rd. Judge Dermot Dempsey sentenced him to 240 hours of community service work in lieu of a five-month prison term and disqualified him from driving for two years. Mannering's solicitor stated he was in a 'stupid situation' after borrowing money and being asked to commit the offence. Nicholas Keane, 36, of Balbriggan, was remanded on continuing bail until May 16th regarding an alleged possession of a knife at Hamlet Lane on January 27th. The DPP directed no further charges be brought. James Ward, 43, of Balbriggan, faces seven charges for allegedly inducing victims to make lodgements totalling over €2,000 for non-existent concert tickets and mobile phones. Ward was remanded in his absence to re-appear on April 24th to furnish medical certificates following a reported stroke. Additionally, an unidentified teenager who persistently skipped school was adjourned until October 16th after the National Education Welfare Board reported 'good progress' in his attendance.
In Balbriggan District Court on 27 March 2014, David Donnelly, aged 20, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to Jennifer Coffey in Lusk Graveyard on 5 August 2012, fracturing her nose. He received a six‑month suspended sentence and was bound to the peace for two years. Donnelly also pleaded guilty to harassing Coffey's father, Michael, on 6 April 2013, and was ordered to a probation bond for 18 months and to comply with Probation Services. He was required to complete a Victim Awareness course and take prescribed medication. The court noted his high risk of re‑offending if he does not adhere to treatment. Separately, Sean Lynch, 26, was remanded on continuing bail for assault involving a lit cigarette in a victim's eye, with the case adjourned to 24 April pending further disclosure. Paul Boylan, 35, was charged with possession of false number plates; his case was scheduled for a hearing on 9 June at Swords District Court.
In Balbriggan District Court, Jackie Gallagher, aged 53, was convicted of stealing €50 from the purse of an 87‑year‑old dementia patient at Baldrumman Manor in Lusk on 18 April 2013. The theft was captured on CCTV. Gallagher, a former qualified nurse who had worked as a health‑check nurse and later as a carer, pleaded guilty. She explained that she had been struggling with depression and alcohol use, and that she had taken the money because she did not have enough for petrol. The judge described the act as despicable and imposed a fine of €750, noting that the victim was vulnerable and that the offence could not go unpunished. Gallagher has since stopped working as a carer and now sells electronic cigarettes and babysits. The conviction is final pending any appeal.
In Balbriggan District Court, Philip Dunne (28) of Woodland Court, Rush, faced charges of failing to give a blood sample, criminal damage, and dangerous driving on November 14th. His case was adjourned until March 27th following a disclosure order request by his solicitor, Fiona Darcy. Aaron Conway (20) of Aghaneen Park, Dundalk, pleaded guilty to possession of counterfeit cigarettes for sale without excise duty. His case was struck out after he made a €300 charitable donation to Balbriggan St Vincent De Paul Society. Mark Duignam (37) of Palmer Court, Rush, had his four-month suspended sentence activated after breaching bail conditions. He was previously convicted in May 2013 for theft of €57 worth of groceries from Supervalu in Lusk. Judge Coughlan sentenced him to four months in prison. Noel Orange (30) of Reynoldstown, The Naul, was charged with refusing to give a blood sample on January 31st. His case was adjourned for hearing, with a remand on continuing bail to appear before Swords District Court on March 10th. William O'Gorman (39) of Baron's Hall House, Balbriggan, was charged with theft of a track suit top from St Vincent de Paul on February 14th. His case was remanded on continuing bail until March 28th, with free legal aid granted. Balbriggan Sunday Market was an applicant in a case involving possession of counterfeit cigarettes for sale without excise duty and refusal to give a blood sample, with charges admitted and a guilty plea.
Swords District Court sentenced five defendants at the sentencing stage. Nerijus Dumbris pleaded guilty to drink driving and dangerous driving; he was sentenced to four months in prison, fined €250, and disqualified from driving for three years for drink driving and five years for dangerous driving. Florin Amarrii pleaded guilty to theft; he was convicted, fined €100, and ordered to pay €30 expenses to the security officer. Ciara Tynan pleaded guilty to theft and intoxicated, threatening, and abusive behaviour; she received a four-month suspended sentence, was placed on a one-year Peace Bond, ordered to stay away from the injured party, and fined €100. Aidan McDonnell pleaded guilty to failing to comply with garda direction and pushing a garda; he was convicted and fined €350. Daniel Betley pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of pepper spray; he was ordered to complete 200 hours of community service in lieu of a two-month prison sentence. All matters were finalised with sentences imposed.
Balbriggan District Court heard a number of cases on various charges. David El Masri (32) of Prospect in Balbriggan, Co Dublin pleaded guilty to custody or control of equipment designed for making copies of work on October 14th, 2013 at his home address, and 10 charges of copying movies for sale or supply on the same date, namely Invictus, Avatar, Old Dogs, Body of Lies, Informant, Invention of Lying, Grown Ups, Marmaduke, Wall-E and Four Christmases. He also pleaded guilty to the theft of ten PlayStation games valued at €603 from Tesco Xpress at Millfield in Balbriggan on November 28th. The matter was adjourned until March 6th. Montes Parulea (20) of Birchwood Heights, Springfield Tallaght pleaded guilty to the theft of ten PlayStation games and was handed 240 hours community service work in lieu of a two month prison sentence. Christopher Russell (53) of Brookford Lane in Rush pleaded not guilty to assault and using threatening and abusive behaviour at Upper Main Street in Rush on August 22nd. The matter was adjourned until March 28th. Paul Boylan (35) of Minster's Road in Lusk was remanded on continuing bail until March 27th. Benjamin Whitehouse and Oliver Whitehouse (both 36) were remanded on continuing bail until March 13th. Martin Coughlan (30) of Gurteen Road in Ballyfermot was remanded on continuing bail until March 6th. Nicholas Keane (36) of Bremore, Castlegate in Balbriggan was adjourned until April 10th. Martin Maughan (30) of St McCullin's in Balbriggan pleaded guilty to refusing to give gardai his name and address on November 20th, 2012 at Pinewood Green Close and was fined €200.
At Balbriggan District Court, James Ward, 43, faced seven charges alleging he induced individuals to make lodgements totaling €2,270 into his AIB account for goods such as Electric Picnic tickets, a Samsung Galaxy phone, and an iPhone. Ward's solicitor informed Judge Dermot Dempsey that the defendant suffered a stroke and could not attend. The Director of Public Prosecutions directed trial on indictment, and the matter was adjourned until April 10th. Jackie Gallagher, 53, was charged with the theft of €50 from a house in Lusk. Sergeant Tony Tighe provided evidence of arrest and charge. Judge Dempsey granted a disclosure order and remanded Gallagher on continuing bail to appear on March 6th for a plea or hearing date. Wojtek Jedrej, 19, was charged with possessing a sharply pointed knife in Balbriggan. His solicitor requested an adjournment as further charges may be put to him. Judge Dempsey agreed to adjourn the case until April 3rd. Jerry Flynn, 25, was charged with theft of fuel, violent behaviour, and dangerous driving. His case was adjourned until May 12th to be heard at Swords District Court.
Swords District Court heard several matters involving drink driving and drug possession. Helen Ikechukwu, 35, of Lusk, pleaded guilty to drink driving on February 16, 2013, in Balbriggan. Judge Dermot Dempsey convicted her, fined her €300, and imposed a six-month driving disqualification. Darren Koohof, of Wexford, was convicted in his absence of being drunk in charge of a vehicle in Skerries on October 30, 2013. Judge Dempsey noted a previous 2007 conviction and issued a bench warrant for Koohof's arrest for sentencing. Edward Byrne, 28, of Donabate, pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis on May 2, 2013. Judge Dempsey adjourned the case until February 10 to hear the facts. Additionally, Laura Sheils, 23, of Swords, had her case adjourned until February 10 due to illness; she is alleged to have driven while disqualified and uninsured in June 2012. Keith Donoghue, 33, of Dublin 17, had his case adjourned until March 3; he is alleged to have attempted to drive while drunk and committed dangerous driving in August 2013.
David Donnelly, 20, of Lusk, pleaded guilty to assaulting Jennifer Coffey in a Lusk graveyard on 5 August 2012, fracturing her nasal bone, and to making threatening phone calls to her father Michael Coffey on 6 April 2013. He also pleaded guilty to smashing a pub window at The Strand Bar in Skerries on the same date. Sergeant Tony Tighe reported that Donnelly admitted striking Ms Coffey twice in the face. A later scuffle in a Skerries pub left Donnelly with a bloodied nose after he smashed a glass window with his elbow. Donnelly paid €220 for the window damage. Judge Dermot Dempsey remanded him on continuing bail pending a Probation & Welfare Report, ordered him to attend addiction services, and warned that a custodial sentence would be imposed if the report was unsatisfactory. The case was adjourned to 27 March.
At Balbriggan District Court, Judge Dermot Dempsey addressed several matters. Marek Laska, 27, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis for sale or supply and possession of digital weighing scales. Although Laska claimed the drugs were for personal use, the judge noted the scales were indicative of supply. Laska was remanded on continuing bail, and the case was adjourned until April 10th for a Restorative Justice Programme report. In a separate matter, the National Education Welfare Board reported that an unnamed teenager is making positive progress in school attendance. The judge adjourned the case until February 20th for review. Additionally, Sean Donnelly, 24, and Craig Donnelly, 22, pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour. Both men paid €350 to local charities, and the judge struck out the charges, avoiding convictions. Finally, Keith Blackburn, 52, was remanded on continuing bail after being charged with violent behaviour and failing to comply with garda directions. His case was adjourned until January 9th for a plea or hearing date.
Richard Coleman, a 29‑year‑old farmer from Drumlattery in Skerries, Co. Dublin, pleaded guilty in Balbriggan District Court to driving without insurance on 29 June at Rathmore Road, Lusk. He had been stopped by Garda John Lennon who confirmed he had no insurance cover at that time. Coleman claimed he had paid a premium cheque two days earlier, but the insurance company returned it because the premium was higher than quoted. He did not receive the cheque until 31 June and was stopped before it was returned. Defence solicitor Mary Arnold noted he had taken out new insurance on 1 July. Coleman explained he drove to a vet to obtain antibiotics for a sick heifer, fearing the animal would die otherwise. Judge Dermot Dempsey accepted his explanation, decided not to disqualify him, but warned that as this is his third no‑insurance conviction he will face custody if he commits a similar offence again. He was fined €500.