A tribunal has ruled that the 'beep test' used by Cork Fire Brigade to assess aerobic fitness for prospective firefighters discriminates against women and benefits younger candidates. The test, which has been in use for 40 years, was challenged by Terézia Foott, a part-time firefighter in her 40s who failed to advance in a recruitment competition for a full-time position in November 2023. Ms Foott, a qualified sports therapist and personal trainer, passed all other elements of the fitness test but did not meet the required score on the beep test. The tribunal found that the test's 'one-size-fits-all' standard was indirectly discriminatory against women and gave younger candidates an advantage. Ms Foott argued that she met the required standard for her age and gender, and she later achieved a higher VO2 max score in a separate test. The tribunal ruled that the use of the beep test without adjusting for age and gender was discriminatory and ordered Cork Fire Brigade to pay €8,000 in compensation, €4,000 for gender discrimination and €4,000 for age discrimination.
Conor O'Brien (29), of Kilpatrick, Ardee, Co Louth, pleaded guilty in the Special Criminal Court to facilitating a criminal organisation's importation of restricted weapons between February 2023 and July 2024, and to five counts of possessing firearms components in suspicious circumstances. The court heard evidence that O'Brien and co-accused Mark McCourt procured military-grade firearms and ammunition in America, which were smuggled into Ireland in component parts for reassembly and distribution to criminal gangs in Derry, Armagh, Dublin, and Limerish. Detective Inspector Shane McCartan stated that O'Brien was vital to the organisation's operations. Defence counsel argued O'Brien acted under pressure and fear. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, presiding over the non-jury court, adjourned the matter to March 16 for sentence, with O'Brien remanded in custody until then. His co-accused, Mark McCourt (34), of Edenreive, Newry, Co Down, was previously jailed for 12 years by the Special Criminal Court after pleading guilty to facilitating the organisation's efforts to import restricted weapons and possessing firearms components during the same period.
Conor O'Brien, 29, of Ardee, Co Louth, pleaded guilty in the Special Criminal Court to facilitating a criminal organisation's importation of restricted weapons between February 2023 and July 2024, and to five counts of possessing firearms components in suspicious circumstances. The court heard evidence that O'Brien and co-accused Mark McCourt procured military-grade firearms and ammunition in America, which were smuggled into Ireland in component parts for reassembly and distribution to criminal gangs. Detective Inspector Shane McCartan stated that O'Brien was central to the organisation, describing a "symbiotic relationship" with McCourt, who was directing operations. While defence counsel argued O'Brien acted under pressure, the prosecution highlighted communications referencing sales to "Ireland's top criminals" and the discovery of working firearms in a shed rented by O'Brien. O'Brien has no previous convictions. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, presiding over the non-jury court, adjourned the matter to March 16 for sentence, with O'Brien remanded in custody until that date. His co-accused, Mark McCourt, 34, of Newry, Co Down, was previously sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment after pleading guilty to similar charges of facilitating the importation of restricted weapons and possessing firearms components.
A Canadian tourist, Neno Dolmajian, was brutally beaten to death on a Dublin street by a Romanian national, Ionut Danca, who was described by the victim's sister as having 'treated my brother's head like a football'. The victim's sister, Maral Dolmajian, spoke at the Central Criminal Court about her brother's character, describing him as a 'good person, kind, funny, thoughtful and a joy to be around'. Danca pleaded guilty to the unlawful killing of Dolmajian, who was assaulted on June 23, 2024, and died nine days later. The court heard that Danca delivered a 'running kick straight to the face' of the deceased. Danca's co-accused, Madalin Ghiuzan, pleaded guilty to assaulting Dolmajian. The court will deliver a sentence on February 17. Danca's defence argued that he was initially trying to act as a peacemaker and that he has no previous convictions. The victim's family asked for a sentence that reflects the violence suffered and acknowledges their loss.
The Workplace Relations Commission has dismissed Ellie Dunne's disability discrimination complaint against the National College of Art and Design (NCAD). Dunne, the first student with Down Syndrome to enrol in NCAD's fine art degree, alleged the college failed to provide necessary supports during her 2023 first semester, leading to her failure in a crucial module. The adjudicator rejected the claim primarily because formal notice was not served until April 2024, exceeding the statutory two-month limit. Additionally, the adjudicator found that requiring Dunne to re-sit the module was an inherent element of academic standards, not discrimination. Evidence included testimony from Dunne, her mother Katy McGuinness, and NCAD director Professor Sarah Glennie. McGuinness claimed NCAD was "ableist" and that her daughter's support worker, Nathalie Scharwatt, was excluded from educational support. NCAD denied discrimination "in the strongest possible terms" and cited a breach of protocol regarding a disability assessment document. The matter was concluded with the claim dismissed on both procedural and substantive grounds.
A homeless man who stole €15 worth of food from a Spar store in Dublin due to 'desperation' has received a suspended sentence. Amiran Zaalishvili, 33, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to stealing groceries from the Spar store at Leopardstown Valley Shopping Centre on 14 May 2021. He admitted selecting goods valued at €15.75 and leaving without paying. The items were not recovered. His defence counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, explained that Zaalishvili was effectively homeless at the time and had no money to buy food, with the theft being a result of desperation. The court heard that Zaalishvili has 26 previous convictions, including drug-related offences, assault, and traffic violations. Judge Conor Fottrell noted the small value of the stolen goods but highlighted the defendant's extensive criminal history. The judge imposed a two-month custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months, with the condition that Zaalishvili enter into a €200 bond to keep the peace and be of good behaviour.
A woman who was drunk and disruptive in the accident and emergency department at Tallaght University Hospital has been given a suspended sentence. Kimberly Riordan (33), of Shancastle Lawns, Clondalkin, Dublin 22, pleaded guilty at Tallaght District Court to a public order offence. On 10 December last year, she was abusive towards security staff, was intoxicated, unsteady on her feet, and slurring her words, leading to gardaí being called. The court heard that Riordan has around 120 previous convictions, many alcohol-related, and is currently in custody serving a sentence for public order and theft offences, with a release date in May. Defence counsel said she was remorseful and had not consumed alcohol since being in custody. Riordan told the judge she was feeling shaky due to the lack of alcohol. She had previously engaged with the Simon Community and residential treatment but relapsed after a temporary release. She remains welcome to return to treatment. Counsel said she had worked in pubs, which contributed to her alcohol issues, and she would not return to that type of work.
A man who participated in the arson of a car to warn the owner to pay a drug debt has been sentenced. Dylan Deegan pleaded guilty to damaging the car by fire in a parking lot. He had 22 previous convictions for offenses including robbery and assault. Judge Martin Nolan noted that Deegan was involved due to his own drug debt and under coercion. The arson posed no significant danger to others. Deegan received a 21-month sentence, backdated to when he went into custody. CCTV footage showed Deegan breaking the car window and pouring accelerant. His defense highlighted his difficult childhood, poor mental health, and drug addiction, asking the court to consider his guilty plea and the psychological report submitted.
A jury is deliberating in the trial of Stephen O'Sullivan, a Limerick car dealer accused of giving €20,000 to a garda detective in exchange for information about a Criminal Assets Bureau investigation into his business. O'Sullivan has pleaded not guilty to the charge of corruption. The trial has reached its final stages, with both prosecution and defense having made closing speeches. Surveillance footage showed O'Sullivan giving the money to Detective Garda David Bourke. O'Sullivan also claimed that senior gardai were involved in extorting money from him. Chief Superintendent Michael McNulty testified that warrants were sought for phone records and that a cash safe was found during searches. The jury has gone home to deliberate and will resume on Monday.
Patrick McDonagh, aged 25, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison after he threw a carton of chips at pensioner Michael Whitfield and then struck him with his car on Clonshaugh Road on 3 November 2021. Whitfield, now 66, suffered a catastrophic head injury that left him unable to walk, with severe speech difficulties and requiring full‑time care. He spent five weeks in an induced coma, ten months at Beaumont Hospital, five months at the National Rehabilitation Hospital and is now a full‑time patient in a specialist brain‑injury care setting. McDonagh pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm; the court noted his lack of previous convictions at the time but recorded 17 prior convictions thereafter. The sentence was set to run consecutively with a seven‑year term for false imprisonment, assault, threats to kill and burglary, with six months suspended on conditions including Probation Service supervision.
A man has been jailed for two years at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following an assault on an Irish Rail inspector aboard a Dublin to Sligo train at Connolly Station. Gerry Nevin (32), of Mostrim Road, Ballymahon, Co. Longford, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm on 21 September 2024. The incident occurred after the inspector requested Nevin remove alcohol from the train. Evidence presented to the court showed Nevin engaged in a verbal dispute with the inspector, then assaulted him by pushing him against a door, punching him repeatedly and placing him in a headlock. The inspector sustained a fractured lip, facial cuts and broken glasses, and required hospital treatment. In a victim impact statement, the injured party described ongoing psychological effects and anxiety about returning to work. Judge Martina Baxter imposed a headline sentence of three and a half years, reducing it to two and a half years to reflect mitigating factors including Nevin's early guilty plea. The final six months were suspended on condition he comply with probation supervision and undertake offence-related courses.
A 45-year-old man with a long criminal record has been jailed for six and a half years for hijacking a car and threatening a woman with violence. Joseph Rafferty, identified by a port-wine birthmark, was sentenced by Judge Orla Crowe after pleading guilty to multiple offences, including stealing a woman's iPhone and dental veneers during the hijacking. He also admitted to robbing a service station and attempting another robbery later that evening. The judge described the incidents as a series of violent crimes by a repeat offender. She noted the terror inflicted on the victim, who was cleaning her car when Rafferty threatened her with death. The woman was forced to jump from the moving vehicle, and her personal items were not recovered. Rafferty, who has 61 previous convictions, including lengthy prison sentences, was also found to have a history of drug addiction and a difficult upbringing. His defence highlighted his remorse and intention to rehabilitate. The judge imposed a seven-and-a-half-year sentence, with the final year suspended.
A security company, BGS Security Ltd, accused of the 'systematic exploitation' of vulnerable migrant workers, has been likened to a 'modern slavery' operation by trade union SIPTU. Former employees, including James Ajibola, have brought complaints against the company, which is now in liquidation. The company was found to have systematically failed to pay wages to mainly migrant workers from Africa and Asia, while white Irish or European employees in supervisory roles were paid. SIPTU representatives argued that the company's actions constituted racial discrimination. The liquidator, Thomas Musiol, said there were over 50 similar cases and that the company's director had disappeared. The tribunal was told that some workers had no social welfare contributions, creating ambiguity about whether unpaid wages could be paid from the Employers' Insolvency Fund. The case is ongoing, with the adjudication officer to write to the parties with his decision in due course.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing on 6 February 2026, 32‑year‑old Martin McDonnell pleaded guilty to producing a knife and dishonestly appropriating a cigarette on Wellington Quay on 13 June 2024. The court heard that McDonnell, who has a history of violent incidents and a permanent scar from a past axe attack, approached a worker who had just finished a night shift at 8 am. After the victim refused to give him a cigarette, McDonnell pulled a large knife from his trousers, then, once the cigarette was handed over, hugged the victim and kissed him on the back of the neck. McDonnell was sentenced to two years' imprisonment, with the final 10 months suspended, and was ordered to be supervised by the Probation Service for 18 months after release. The judge noted McDonnell's guilty plea and expressions of remorse as mitigating factors.
A Dublin man died from a stab wound to the neck less than two months before his partner gave birth to their child, the Central Criminal Court heard. Natanya Comerford testified that the deceased, Michael Ryan, had lost his mother to cancer six weeks before his death. She stated that Mr Ryan was taking a prescribed dose of Zopiclone to help him sleep and that the €4,000 found in his gym bag was from a loan for home improvements. Ms Comerford said she had never heard of Mr Ryan selling sleeping tablets. Joseph Lawlor, who denies murdering Mr Ryan, was questioned about the money in the gym bag, to which she replied that Mr Ryan was an 'eejit'. The trial heard that Mr Ryan and Mr Lawlor were drinking together and had a physical altercation. Mr Ryan was arrested for drink driving but was later released. He returned to Mr Lawlor's home where the fatal encounter occurred. Joseph Lawlor pleaded not guilty.
A Spanish businessman, Christian Munoz Sanchez (35), who came to Ireland to make 'easy money' from the drug trade, has been jailed for seven years. He pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply, having transported nearly €1.43 million worth of heroin and other drugs. Munoz Sanchez, who has a wine business in Barcelona and is also a part-time DJ, was arrested after gardai found 19 packages of drugs in his suitcase during a surveillance operation. He admitted to being paid €5,000 for the job and stated he had come to Ireland solely for the purpose of mixing and delivering the drugs. Munoz Sanchez had no previous convictions in Ireland or Spain. His defence highlighted his co-operation with the investigation and his lack of a drugs debt, which the court acknowledged. Judge Ní Chúlacháin noted the significant quantity of drugs involved and the deliberate nature of his actions, but reduced the headline sentence of 12 years to seven years, with the final two years suspended.
A former competitive rugby player and scholarship recipient has been jailed for 18 months after being caught with a machete on a Dublin street. Michael Ibrahim, a 21-year-old father of one from Balbriggan, pleaded guilty to possession of a machete with a sharply pointed blade on Shelbourne Road on July 2. Gardai noticed Ibrahim and another male acting suspiciously and found a broken nail scissors on Ibrahim during a search. When asked for an explanation, Ibrahim did not provide one and was arrested. During the arrest, a black machete was found concealed under his clothing. The court heard that Ibrahim has 26 previous convictions, including drug dealing. His barrister highlighted his bright prospects as a young rugby player and scholarship recipient, noting that he had fallen in with a bad crowd after an injury. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the case and the need for a custodial sentence, stating that it was fortunate the gardai had been alert. Ibrahim was sentenced to 18 months in prison.
A whistleblower claim by Detective Superintendent Brian O'Reilly is being heard in private at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). The case, which involves allegations of penalisation under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, was set for a hearing at the WRC. The State applied for the hearing to be held in private, and the media was excluded from the room. Adjudication officer Davnet O'Driscoll confirmed the motion was granted. The case had previously been outlined in a preliminary hearing in November. In addition to the WRC complaint, Supt O'Reilly had sought an injunction in the Circuit Court regarding his sick pay classification. His application for interim relief was denied by Judge John O'Connor in November 2025. Supt O'Reilly alleged he was subjected to oppressive management, had firearms training withheld, and was denied professional development and acting-up allowances. He also claimed he was undermined and ostracised at work. The State's legal team highlighted a duplication of proceedings, while Supt O'Reilly's solicitors are considering challenging the judge's decision. The case was adjourned for new legal papers.
A Dublin father, Michael Ryan (51), died from a single stab wound to the neck that severed a branch of the carotid artery and the jugular vein, according to evidence presented at the Central Criminal Court. Joseph Lawlor (39), of Hampton Wood Road in Finglas, Dublin 11, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mr Ryan, who was killed in a carpark near the accused's home on June 20, 2024. The trial heard that Mr Lawlor and Mr Ryan had been drinking together throughout the day and had a first physical altercation at 8.30pm. A second altercation occurred just after 9.30pm, leading to Mr Ryan being arrested for drink driving. After being released, he returned to Mr Lawlor's home where the fatal encounter took place. An audio recording captured Mr Ryan moments after being stabbed, saying: "You fucking c**t you, you dirtbird, Joey. You stabbed me in the artery, you f**king eejit." State pathologist Dr Yvonne McCartney testified that Mr Ryan had 57 scratches and bruises on his head, arms, legs, and torso.
A serial offender, Andrew Murphy, was convicted and fined €750 after claiming that CCTV footage of a bicycle thief was '100% not me'. Murphy had pleaded not guilty to unlawfully taking a bicycle from a bike rack outside a store in Dublin. The victim reported that his bicycle was stolen, with the broken lock left behind. The CCTV footage showed a man removing a bicycle from the rack, and Garda Dylan Higgins identified Murphy as the individual in the footage. Murphy denied being the person in the footage, claiming he did not have the clothes depicted and was dealing with addiction issues at the time. The defence argued that the prosecution failed to establish a proper chain of custody for the CCTV footage and relied on Garda recognition evidence, which could be subject to honest mistake. However, the judge accepted Garda Higgins' identification and found Murphy guilty beyond reasonable doubt. Murphy has a significant criminal history, including 23 theft convictions, and the judge noted his difficult past before imposing the fine.
A Dublin man, Joseph Lawlor, is on trial for the murder of his friend, Michael Ryan, who was fatally stabbed in the neck. The trial heard that hours before the stabbing, Ryan told his friend, 'If you are going to stab me, stab me now.' The two men had been drinking together and had a series of altercations. An audio recording captured Lawlor calling Ryan a 'snitch' and a 'supergrass,' with Ryan responding that he had saved Lawlor's life. The recording also included Lawlor threatening to stab Ryan with his own knife. A bloodstained knife was found in Lawlor's home, and it was presented as the murder weapon. The prosecution argued that Lawlor's actions were premeditated, while the defence suggested that neither man had a knife during the immediate altercation. The trial continues with the jury considering the evidence presented. Joseph Lawlor pleaded not guilty.
A serial roads offender, Owen Comerford (35), of Balally Drive, Dundrum, Dublin 16, has been sentenced to four months in prison and disqualified from driving for 10 years after being caught driving for a third time while banned. Comerford pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to driving without insurance and without a valid licence in Sandyford Village, Dublin 18, on 16 January last. The court heard that Comerford was driving a black 2010 Vauxhall Insignia in a public place while uninsured and without a valid licence. Judge Anne Watkin noted that Comerford has 99 previous convictions, including multiple charges for driving without insurance, driving without a licence, and various other offences. He has been disqualified from driving on three previous occasions, with this being his third conviction for driving while disqualified. The court was informed that Comerford had most recently been disqualified in November and was already subject to a 10-year driving ban at the time of the offence.
Nathan Walsh and Lee Cunningham, both aged 29, have pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to charges arising from an assault on a man in Dublin City Centre on 23 May 2023. Walsh, of Ballyshannon Road, Beaumont, admitted theft and assault causing harm. Cunningham, of Park Lawn, Mount Prospect Avenue, Clontarf, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm. The victim, now 41, was attacked on Temple Lane South at 3am and robbed of his mobile phone and wallet. CCTV footage showed Walsh initiating the assault with punches and kicks to the head before searching the victim's pockets, while Cunningham's involvement occurred at the assault's conclusion. A third defendant, Brian Delahunty, was previously sentenced to 18 months imprisonment for his role in the same incident. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned sentencing of Walsh and Cunningham to 30 April to allow the Probation Service to prepare reports on both men.
A man who claims he was extorted into giving a detective garda €20,000 in exchange for a tip-off about a raid on his car dealership told officers that he did not inform the Garda ombudsman. Stephen O'Sullivan (43) is accused of giving or agreeing to give to Detective Garda David Bourke a monetary gain as an inducement to reveal confidential information concerning an investigation being carried out by (CAB) in relation to Stephen O'Sullivan, trading as Stephen Bawn Motors. Mr O'Sullivan, of Farrehy, Broadford, Co Limerick, is a director of the business and has pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to a single count of corruption at Bruree, Co Limerick on December 22, 2018. Mr O'Sullivan was arrested on January 23, 2019, by the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (NCBI). The court has already heard an audio recording of Stephen O'Sullivan giving €20,000 to Detective Garda David Bourke.
Brian Grendon, a convicted criminal, was given a fully suspended sentence for failing to pay income tax on over €27,000 in cash seized from his home. Grendon denied being a 'main player' in an organised crime group and claimed the cash was legitimate. The court heard that the cash was found in envelopes in his bedroom and that Grendon had a history of criminal convictions, including 18 for road traffic offences. The prosecution argued that the cash was the proceeds of crime, but Grendon maintained it was from his car business. The court accepted a plea deal, and Grendon was sentenced to 18 months, which was suspended for three years. The judge noted that the offence was at the lower end of the scale and did not warrant a custodial sentence. Brian Grendon pleaded guilty.
Danny Heyneman, a 32-year-old man from Kilnavart, Ballyconnell, County Cavan, has been charged with the murder of Annie Heyneman and the attempted murder of Henk Heyneman. The alleged offences are said to have occurred at the family home in Kilnavart on January 11, 2025. Heyneman is currently accused of these crimes, and the charges remain alleged or contested. The matter is at the pre-trial stage, with no plea entered, finding made, or sentence imposed. The case is listed for trial at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin on April 13. A mention date has also been scheduled for February 18 at the same court. No finalisation, adjournment, or disposal has been recorded for this procedural stage. All allegations are attributed to the charges brought against the accused, and no conviction has been established. The report reflects the current status of the case as it proceeds toward trial.
A Limerick car dealer on trial for alleged corruption has claimed that senior gardai were involved in extorting money from him, a trial has heard. Stephen O'Sullivan (43) is accused of giving or agreeing to give Detective Garda David Bourke a monetary gain as an inducement to reveal confidential information concerning an investigation by the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) into his business. He has pleaded not guilty to the single count of corruption at Bruree, Co Limerick, on December 22, 2018. During the trial, David Gilmore, a former detective sergeant, testified that he arrested O'Sullivan in January 2019. O'Sullivan claimed he was being set up and that gardai were trying to extort €120,000 from him. He alleged that Detective Garda Bourke and a superintendent were involved in the CAB investigation and could influence its outcome. O'Sullivan said he felt under extreme pressure and feared reprisals if he made a formal complaint. He also claimed that gardai followed and harassed him, and that the superintendent appeared at his regular eateries.
Eoghan Peavoy, a 54-year-old Dublin man with a diagnosis of schizophrenia, pleaded guilty to harassing a female barrister and another woman. He was in custody for breaching the conditions of a suspended sentence, which included no contact with the victim. Peavoy was released from in-patient psychiatric care in October 2025 but quickly resumed contacting the barrister. His defense argued that Peavoy requires treatment at the Central Mental Hospital, but no beds are available. The court was asked to adjourn the case for further reports on Peavoy's mental health and potential support in custody. Judge Martin Nolan noted the risk of re-offending but agreed to the adjournment. Peavoy's behavior included sending hundreds of emails and letters, some with sexual content, and posting letters to the victim's workplace. The victim did not wish to make a victim impact statement and wanted to move on from the incident. The court considered Peavoy's mental health and the need for ongoing support to prevent re-offending.
A judge has sentenced Dean Hayes, a prolific offender with 129 previous convictions, to ten years in prison for a violent home invasion where he stabbed a doctor multiple times. Mr Justice David Keane noted the extreme violence used and the victim's survival as a matter of luck. Hayes, who spent 90% of his life in custody, burgled a neighboring bungalow in 2009, which the judge called an aggravating factor. The victim, Waleed Mustafa, described the attack as a miracle he survived and suffered severe psychological harm. Hayes was armed with a knife and attacked the doctor in his bedroom while he was watching YouTube. The judge imposed concurrent sentences of 12 years, with the final two years suspended, on the conditions that Hayes engage in a residential drug treatment and a victim empathy programme. Hayes had a chronic drug addiction and a history of recidivism, which the judge highlighted as significant factors in the sentencing. Dean Hayes pleaded guilty.
Niall Syms, a 70-year-old pensioner with a background in IT, was jailed for three years for possessing and distributing over 55,000 images and videos of child sexual abuse material. Syms pleaded guilty to possession and distribution charges, with the distribution arising from the use of BitTorrent technology. The court heard that the material included serious sexual abuse of children as young as four. Syms had no previous convictions but had attended over 400 hours of therapy. His defense highlighted his remorse and rehabilitation efforts, noting that he had lost his marriage and family due to his actions. Judge Orla Crowe noted the sheer number of images as an aggravating factor and the technical proficiency Syms had in distributing the material. The sentence was backdated to January 23, 2026, and the court acknowledged the delay in the case due to a backlog in analysis. Syms' defense argued that the distribution was unintentional due to residual software activity, but the judge emphasized the need for a custodial sentence despite Syms' efforts at rehabilitation.
Lorcan Murphy, a former garda, was sentenced today at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for two counts of assault causing harm under section 3 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997. Murphy had pleaded not guilty to the charges, but a jury returned a unanimous guilty verdict last July. The incidents occurred on June 1, 2021, involving a 17-year-old victim on Essex Street and subsequently at Pearse Street Garda Station. Judge Pauline Codd described the force used as "unjustifiable" and "excessive," noting the victim sustained a fractured skull and brain contusion. In mitigation, the judge acknowledged Murphy's willingness to engage in restorative justice, though the victim declined to participate. She also accepted his remorse, references to his character, and the fact that he has since completed a law degree. Judge Codd imposed a three-year custodial sentence, with the final two years suspended for two years on strict conditions. The court made no order regarding €10,000 offered by Murphy to the victim, citing concerns about the victim's addiction. The judge emphasized that while Murphy acted recklessly rather than intentionally, his conduct was highly reckless and left his career in tatters.
The Special Criminal Court has adjourned sentencing for five men until March 25. Jason Hennessy (29), Brandon Hennessy (22), Kenneth Fitzsimons (45), Dean Fitzsimons (25), and Devon Hennessy were originally charged with causing serious harm and false imprisonment, offences carrying potential life sentences. After victim Barry Moore (34) declined to testify due to fear, the State accepted guilty pleas to assault causing harm, a maximum ten-year offence. Devon Hennessy pleaded guilty to falsely imprisoning Moore and assisting a criminal organisation to inflict serious harm. Counsel for Devon argued he was the least culpable, having intervened to prevent further violence. The other four defendants expressed remorse and apologised to the victim. The court heard that Moore was waterboarded, beaten with a metal bar, and branded with the word 'RAT' seven times on his face and torso. He suffered a fractured elbow and multiple stab wounds. The judges, Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, Judge Sarah Berkeley, and Judge Fiona Lydon, adjourned the matter to March 25 for sentencing.
Ruadhan Tracey, a 44-year-old man who caused the death of a 14-year-old boy in a hit-and-run accident, will have his driving license restored early despite opposition from the victim's family and gardai. Tracey received a 20-month jail sentence in 2014 for careless driving causing death and failing to remain at the scene. The court heard that the disqualification from driving was the only penalty he faced, as his prison term ran concurrently with another sentence. Judge Orla Crowe noted the tragic circumstances of the case and the loss of the 14-year-old boy, but ruled that it was appropriate to restore Tracey's license in May 2027. Tracey, who has since rehabilitated and has not been in trouble since 2018, argued that the license would help him in his new job. The victim's family expressed their opposition, with the father describing the loss as a tsunami that destroyed their lives. The court acknowledged the family's pain but ruled in favor of restoring the license, emphasizing Tracey's efforts at rehabilitation and his current good conduct.
Lawyers for Trinity College have stated they will present statistics to demonstrate that the university is not racist, as they defend an academic's workplace equality claim. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) is set to hear a complaint under the Employment Equality Act 1998 from Dr Abhijit Sarkar, a historian who has written on the late colonial period in India. Dr Sarkar claimed that the university's lawyers were attempting to 'gag' him by seeking a direction that he not share legal documents related to his case. Counsel for the university, Clíona Kimber SC, argued that the allegations against Trinity were 'very sweeping' and should not be published widely. She stated that the university would show 'chapter and verse' that it is not a racist institution. Dr Sarkar countered that the email was related to an academic post in modern South American history and that those involved in the hiring process needed to be aware of the legal proceedings. The case was adjourned with the university given until later this month to file submissions.
Jamie Berry and Stephen Mulvey, a recidivist criminal and his nephew, have been sentenced to a combined total of ten years and nine months for conspiring to murder a teenager in Dublin four years ago. Mr Justice Paul McDermott noted that both men were deeply involved in the planning of the ambush, which failed only due to medical intervention. The victim suffered life-threatening injuries from gunshot wounds to his lower cheek, neck, and thigh. Both men pleaded guilty and received reduced sentences of six and a half years, with portions suspended. The judge highlighted the serious nature of the conspiracy, the procurement of a firearm, and the reckless indifference to public safety. Mulvey, with 91 previous convictions, and Berry, with six, were found to have a high level of culpability. The court also noted that the victim, who was 17 at the time, declined to make a victim impact statement. The case was retried after an initial acquittal was overturned on appeal.
A dangerous driver who crossed four lanes of traffic before jumping from his moving car and fleeing from gardai on foot has had his four-month jail sentence reduced by a month on appeal. Patrick O'Keefe was convicted of dangerous driving, failing to produce insurance, and driving without a licence. He was given a custodial sentence of four months and a driving ban of 15 years. His appeal was based on his addiction issues, residential treatment, and a good relationship with his children. Judge Ronan Munro reduced the sentence to three months, noting that O'Keefe had made some strides but was still 'floating along'. The appeal court heard that O'Keefe had 80 previous convictions and that the garda who witnessed the incident described the dangerous driving as severe.
A former employee of DID Electrical, Magdi Ba, has been sentenced to two years in prison for stealing over €129,000 worth of electronic items from the company over a three-year period. Ba, who had access to the warehouse, sold the stolen goods to a second-hand shop, CEX. The court heard that suspicions were raised when a warehouse manager noticed missing items, and CCTV footage showed Ba in the vault at the time. A detailed investigation by gardai revealed that Ba had sold 371 items, with the total loss to DID Electrical amounting to €129,651. Ba had initially denied the theft but later admitted to taking the items. Judge Orla Crowe described the offense as a 'consistent breach of trust' and emphasized the need for a custodial sentence. Ba had forfeited €67,000 from two bank accounts and his car before being sentenced.
A 35-year-old man who violently attacked his mother in a 'meltdown' over a cigarette has been handed a fully suspended sentence. Keith Walsh pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to his mother, Maura Walsh, and was sentenced to three-and-a-half years, suspended for five years. Judge Martina Baxter noted the unprovoked and protracted assault, during which Walsh used his mother like a 'punch bag'. She directed Walsh to engage in anger management and addiction courses and to be under the supervision of the Probation Services for 18 months. The court heard that Walsh had a history of addiction and mental health issues and had attended a rehabilitation centre. The case was adjourned with the judge emphasizing the need for Walsh to address his issues and provide proof of his rehabilitation.
Camila Nascimento Machado, a finance director, has been awarded €30,000 in compensation for unfair dismissal after her employer, Academic Bridge Ltd, presented her with a new contract cutting her pay by 60% four days after she informed her new boss of her pregnancy. The Workplace Relations Commission found that the pay cut was not a genuine redundancy and that the dismissal was unfair. The tribunal ruled that the employer had not followed proper procedures in the selection process and that the pay cut was not a serious alternative. The new owner of the school, Shafikul Islam, had taken over the company and faced significant financial liabilities. Machado was informed of the pay cut and refused to accept it, leading to her termination. The tribunal found that her pregnancy had no bearing on the decision but noted that the employer should have been more cautious in managing her exit. The ruling emphasized that the dismissal was not a genuine redundancy but a retaliatory measure in response to her concerns and pregnancy.
The corruption trial of Stephen O'Sullivan, a Limerick car dealer, has heard covert recordings of conversations between O'Sullivan and Detective Garda David Bourke. O'Sullivan is accused of giving Bourke €20,000 in exchange for information about an ongoing investigation by the Criminal Assets Bureau into Bawn Motors. The trial revealed that the investigation, codenamed 'Operation Glacier,' was highly sensitive and confidential. Audio surveillance recorded in December 2018 showed O'Sullivan and Bourke discussing the investigation, with Bourke warning O'Sullivan that authorities were planning searches. Bourke also mentioned that the investigation was still ongoing and that there were concerns about a garda leaking information. The court heard that Bourke was not part of the investigation and that the two business partners had supplied cars to the company. The trial continues with further evidence being presented to the jury. Stephen O'Sullivan pleaded not guilty.
A murder trial in Dublin has heard that a father, Michael 'Chino' Ryan, was fatally stabbed in the neck by his friend Joseph Lawlor during a physical altercation following a day of drinking. The jury viewed CCTV footage of the incident, which occurred in a carpark near Lawlor's home on June 20, 2024. Ryan, who had previously been arrested for drink driving, returned to Lawlor's home after being released from custody. In the audio recording, Ryan can be heard screaming at Lawlor, calling him a 'dirtbird' and accusing him of stabbing him in the artery. Lawlor has pleaded not guilty to the murder. Detective Garda Ronan Kelly testified that he reviewed the CCTV footage and audio recordings multiple times. The trial continues before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath and a jury.
The Workplace Relations Commission has ordered Ryan's Investments Unlimited Company, trading as Hertz Rent-A-Car, to pay €10,000 in compensation and issue an apology to applicant Kim Murphy. The adjudicator upheld Murphy's complaint of disability discrimination under the Equal Status Act 2000, finding that the franchisee's policy of imposing a €150 valet charge for hair shed by her guide dog, Django, placed her at a particular disadvantage. The tribunal determined that the company's refusal to waive the fee, despite being notified of the guide dog's presence, was unreasonable and failed to accommodate the needs of a person with a disability. Murphy alleged that her husband, Anthony Murphy, was charged for "damage" upon returning a rental vehicle from the Dublin Airport branch in April 2024, despite the dog being a trained service animal. The adjudicator directed the respondent to update its rental policies to accommodate similar customers. Sean Beatty BL represented the applicant, while Eve Bolster BL appeared for the franchisee. The decision constitutes a finalised sentence ordering the specified financial compensation and formal apology.
A jury will hear evidence that a secret recording captured a Limerick businessman accused of corruption giving a detective garda €20,000 in exchange for information relating to a Criminal Assets Bureau investigation. Stephen O'Sullivan, 43, has pleaded not guilty to one count of corruption at Bruree, Co Limerick, on December 22, 2018. The prosecution alleges that O'Sullivan met with Detective Garda David Bourke in a Citroen Berlingo van and made the payment. The court heard that Bourke, who was transferred to Limerick in 1998, was involved in the CAB investigation called 'Operation Glacier'. The jury was told that O'Sullivan met with Gardai in 2022 and claimed he was intimidated or extorted into paying the money. The trial, expected to last up to three weeks, will resume with Judge Sinéad Ní Chúlacháin presiding.
A woman who stole over €1,200 worth of clothing from Marks and Spencer has been fined €1,500 by a judge at Dún Laoghaire District Court. Susan McCullough, 41, pleaded guilty to the theft, which occurred on April 23, 2025. The court heard that the stolen items were of significant value and consisted of various pieces of clothing. Defence counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, explained that McCullough had recently started a new job and was dealing with personal difficulties, including caring for her grandfather, mental health struggles, and grief following the death of her grandmother. The court was informed that McCullough had issues with alcohol at the time and accepted that she had no good excuse for the theft. A letter from her GP outlined her struggles with anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. Judge Anne Watkin acknowledged the seriousness of the offence but noted the steps McCullough had taken since, including engaging with counselling services.
Gardai discovered a 'cornucopia' of illicit drugs, cash and associated paraphernalia when they inquired into a stolen motorbike after the legitimate owner discovered it for sale online. Dylan Sheridan (23) Lissadel Avenue, Drimnagh, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to having cannabis, ketamine and tablets with a street value of €151,046 at his home on March 20, 2024. He also admitted handling the stolen motorbike, having items connected to a drug trafficking offence and having €33,350 in €50 and €100 notes, on the same date. He has two previous convictions for drug possession and drug dealing dealt with in the District Court. The court heard that the bike had been stolen the previous December and the owner had later found it online for sale. He made contact with the supposed seller of the bike and contacted gardaí. On March 19, 2024, arrangements were made to meet Sheridan opposite his home to buy the bike. During a subsequent search of his home, the bike was found in the front garden under a canvas cover.
A hit-and-run driver, Ruadhan Tracey, who was banned from driving for 20 years after causing the death of a 14-year-old boy in 2011, has applied to a court for the restoration of his license. Tracey, 44, received a 20-month jail sentence in 2014 for careless driving causing the death of Conor Hickey and failing to remain at the scene of an accident. The court heard that Tracey had borrowed his girlfriend's car and was driving with a friend to buy heroin when the incident occurred. The victim, Conor Hickey, was struck by the car and died the following day. Tracey admitted to taking his eyes off the road and driving off because he had no license or insurance. The victim's family and gardaí are opposed to the restoration of his license. Tracey, representing himself, asked the court to grant his application, stating he had not been in trouble since 2018 and had been offered a job. The case was adjourned to February 3, with the court asking for relevant case law to be presented. Ruadhan Tracey pleaded guilty.
A murder trial jury has viewed CCTV and mobile phone footage of a series of physical altercations that preceded the fatal stabbing of a Dublin father-of-three. Joseph Lawlor, 39, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Michael Ryan, 51, in a carpark near his home on June 20, 2024. The prosecution, led by Kevin White SC, stated that CCTV footage shows a series of altercations between the accused and the deceased before Lawlor stabbed Ryan in the neck. Detective Garda Brendan Kearns presented footage of the accused's home, where two ornamental Samurai swords were found on the floor. Garda Ronan Kelly compiled hundreds of hours of CCTV footage, showing Lawlor and another woman purchasing alcohol before the altercations began. The footage captured the physical confrontations between Lawlor and Ryan, which were also recorded by neighbours using their mobile phones. The trial continues tomorrow before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath and the jury, with the issue of whether the accused intended to kill or cause serious injury to the deceased remaining central to the case.
A judge has said that an Italian drugs mule who was rumbled when he went back to Dublin airport to seek out his lost luggage containing €294,000 in cannabis was 'not a criminal mastermind'. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Alfonso Turano had completed a lost luggage form in his real name and replied 'Mamma mia!' when he was told what was in the suitcase. Turano (41) arrived in Ireland the day before the suitcase, which contained 14.7kg of cannabis. The defendant, with an address in Calabro, Italy pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply on March 1, 2025 at Dublin Airport. Today, Judge Ronan Munro handed Turano a four-year sentence, with the final 20 months suspended for 10 years on strict conditions. The judge said the court accepted that Turano was 'not a criminal mastermind', but was also satisfied that the defendant would have known the suitcase contained illicit substances.
Garda Keith Lambe, a roads policing officer with 20 years of emergency driving experience, had his careless driving conviction dismissed on appeal. The District Court Appeals Court heard that Lambe was convicted in the District Court of driving without due care and attention in Clonsilla, Dublin 15, on July 4, 2023, contrary to section 52 of the Road Traffic Act, 1961. He was convicted and fined €500. Lambe subsequently lodged an appeal against this conviction. At the appeal stage, Judge Ronan Munro found that Lambe was acting in the execution of his duty when he collided with a civilian driver at a junction while responding to an emergency call. The judge determined that Lambe was not driving in this manner "for the sake of it" and could not be branded as a criminal. Consequently, the conviction was dismissed. The court noted that while the other driver sustained injuries and suffered significant distress, she had done nothing wrong. The judge commended her for her positive steps and wished her a speedy recovery, while affirming that society expects gardai to respond to emergencies and that Lambe's actions did not constitute criminal behaviour.
There is 'no reality' of a trial proceeding as planned for a Somali national charged with the murder of young mother Mary Ward last year as the accused remains 'mute' and there is still no psychiatric report from the defence, the Central Criminal Court has heard. Ahmed Abdirahman (31), originally from Somalia and with a last address at Kinlay house, Lord Edward Street, Dublin, is accused of murdering Ms Ward, who was his former partner, on September 25, 2024, at her house on Melrose Street in south Belfast. The case has come before the courts on a number of occasions, with the legal team for the defence saying that the accused had failed to engage with a psychiatrist who attempted to see him. At the Central Criminal Court this morning, counsel for the State, Antonia Boyle BL, said that the matter was listed for trial on February 23 next, but she asked the court to vacate that date as there was 'no reality to that proceeding'.