Riad Bouchaker, charged with assaulting a care worker and attempting to murder three children on Parnell Square in Dublin, is deemed fit to stand trial by a State psychiatrist, despite suffering from a serious neurocognitive disorder. The psychiatrist stated that Bouchaker can understand the charges against him and can participate in the trial process, although he may require closed questions and an interpreter. The defense psychiatrist, however, argued that Bouchaker is unfit to stand trial due to his memory issues and inability to weigh choices. The court is assessing Bouchaker's fitness to stand trial, with the State psychiatrist concluding that he is capable of understanding the legal process. The case involves serious charges, including attempted murder and assault, and the court will continue to hear evidence on the matter.
Stephen Carberry, 48, pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court to charges of assisting an offender and facilitating the murder of Keane Mulready-Woods. He admitted to transporting and disposing of the teenager's body parts between January 13 and 15, 2020, while on bail for drug offences. The court heard victim impact statements from Keane's parents, who described the "cruelty and inhumanity" of the disposal. Carberry, who has 77 previous convictions, was alleged to have collected two sports bags from Rathmullan Park, Drogheda, and dumped one in Moatview, Dublin. His co-accused, Gerard Cruise, 51, also pleaded guilty to facilitating the murder under Section 72 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006. In February 2023, co-accused Paul Crosby was sentenced to ten years for the same offence, while Cruise received seven-and-a-half years with the final six months suspended for two years. Ms Justice O'Connor adjourned Carberry's case to Monday, March 9, for sentencing, noting the panel could not imagine the depth of the family's pain.
Cian Fitzpatrick (28), an unemployed money mule, was jailed for 21 months after allowing €188,000 of illicit money to pass through his accounts. Fitzpatrick, of Ashlawn Park, Ballybrack, Co Dublin, pleaded guilty to possession of the proceeds of criminal conduct. Gardai found that Fitzpatrick had no legitimate employment and did not pay tax or register for tax during the four-year period. He received disability allowance and had €74,000 in cash lodged into his AIB account and €123,479 through his Revolut account. Fitzpatrick admitted to controlling his co-accused's Revolut account and transferring funds. He claimed part of his income was from breeding bulldogs and working as a cleaner. The court heard that Fitzpatrick had 26 previous convictions and that he had mental health and substance abuse issues. Judge Martin Nolan noted the large amount of illicit money and handed him a 21-month sentence.
A Central Criminal Court judge has accepted that he cannot review the sentence imposed on Boy B, who murdered schoolgirl Ana Kriegel when he was 13 years old. The judge, Mr Justice Paul McDermott, noted that the Supreme Court ruled that sentencing courts do not have jurisdiction to review terms of detention for child offenders. Boy B was sentenced to 15 years' detention with a review after eight years, but the Supreme Court found that life sentences for child murderers should only be imposed in exceptional cases. Boy B's lawyers withdrew his appeal against his conviction, and the court heard details of the murder, where Boy B lured Ana to a derelict house, knowing that Boy A intended to kill her. Boy A was sentenced to life imprisonment with a review after 12 years, and he will appeal his sentence in light of the Supreme Court's ruling.
Lawyers for Sean McGovern, who was extradited from the United Arab Emirates to face charges of murder and directing a criminal organization, have told the Special Criminal Court that they are not in a position to indicate whether a trial date will be required. McGovern's defense counsel, Sean Guerin SC, stated that significant progress has been made in the case but that they are not yet ready to determine if a trial date is necessary. McGovern, who is charged with the murder of Noel Kirwan and directing a criminal organization, appeared via videolink. The court adjourned the matter to February 23, with McGovern to appear again by videolink. His lawyers have raised concerns about the legality of his extradition, and the court will continue to hear evidence on the matter.
The son of veteran criminal Eamon Kelly, who was shot dead over a decade ago, attempted to murder his former wife's friend, blaming her for the breakup of his marriage, the Central Criminal Court heard. Matthias Kelly (42) suffered a brain injury in 2016 and another head injury in a fall two days before the attack on Fiona Timmermans. His lawyers argued that a neuropsychologist report is needed to assess how his injuries affected his behavior, but none are willing to work for the legal aid rate. The judge requested the Minister for Justice to address the issue and adjourned the sentencing until February 16. Kelly sent threatening messages to Ms Timmermans before breaking into her home and attempting to stab her. She fought back and sustained serious injuries, but survived. Kelly expressed remorse and claimed he was not in his right frame of mind at the time. He pleaded guilty to attempted murder and other charges.
Darragh Quigley (26) was sentenced at the sentence hearing for the attempted murder of Gretta McCullough (64) on November 16, 2023, at Chatham Row, Dublin 2. Quigley pleaded guilty to the charge, having admitted to the offence. The court found him not guilty by reason of insanity, as expert psychiatric evidence concluded he did not meet the legal criteria for that verdict despite suffering from schizophrenia and drug-induced psychosis. Mr Justice Paul Burns described the attack as totally unprovoked and random, noting Quigley had travelled to the city centre with a plan to hunt someone. The judge set a headline sentence of 14 years and six months. In mitigation, the court considered Quigley's guilty plea, his expression of remorse, and his lack of previous convictions. Quigley was sentenced to 13 years in prison, with the final year suspended for a period of five years. The sentence was backdated to November 17, 2023. The judge recommended a psychiatric assessment two months prior to release to determine if secure medical treatment is required. The matter was concluded with this sentencing order.
A member of the Hutch family, Sammy Hutch (50), was jailed for six and a half years for a robbery at a Dublin Dealz store where he was armed with a hammer. He was convicted following a trial last October, despite claiming he was not the person on CCTV. DNA evidence linked him to the crime. The court heard that the victim suffered psychological trauma and that Hutch has 102 previous convictions. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the victim's distress and reduced the headline sentence of seven and a half years to six and a half years. Hutch denied involvement, claiming he sold the helmet and may have had a broken ankle. The victim described the incident as the most traumatic experience of her life, leading to ongoing psychological issues. Hutch's defense highlighted his PTSD from witnessing a cousin's shooting and his drug addiction history.
Daniel Kearney (37) was jailed for two years for his role in a burglary where seven e-bikes worth over €20,000 were stolen from a Dublin store. He pleaded guilty to taking two of the bikes valued at €7,300. The burglary caused significant damage to the shop, and only one of the stolen bikes was later recovered. The business owner described the impact on his professional and personal life. Kearney has 13 previous convictions and is homeless with a history of drug addiction. He is now drug-free and has a job offer upon release. Judge Orla Crowe set a headline sentence of four years but reduced it to two years and eight months, suspending the final eight months on conditions.
Robert O'Donnell, 37, of Corduff Gardens, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to two counts of possessing drugs under S15A of the Misuse of Drugs Act. The court heard that gardaí intercepted O'Donnell on the M7 in Laois on July 11, finding two kilos of cocaine in his vehicle. A subsequent search of his mother's home revealed additional cocaine, ketamine, cannabis, and heroin, with a combined street value of €2.1 million. O'Donnell, who has no previous convictions, alleged he was transporting the substances to settle a drug debt. Judge Orla Crowe accepted that he acted at the behest of others but noted he was sufficiently trusted to hold the drugs. Although the offence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, the judge departed from this requirement due to mitigating factors, including his early guilty plea and lack of prior record. She set a headline sentence of 12 years, reduced it to eight years, and suspended the final four years on conditions, including that O'Donnell be of good behaviour for that period. Consequently, he faces four years of effective custody.
A criminal who took part in an unprovoked, "vicious and sustained" late night city centre attack in Dublin, kicking and punching the victim as he lay on the ground, has been jailed for 18 months. Tony Grimes (26) was with two other young men when they set upon the victim in the Wexford Street area of Dublin after socialising until the early hours of the morning on February 29, 2024. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that the victim fell to the ground in the first 30 seconds of the assault, but the three men continued to punch and kick him as he lay defenceless on the path. After passers-by pleaded with the attackers to stop, they left the scene but not before Grimes returned to kick the man to the head one more time. Grimes, of Goatstown Close, Dundrum, Dublin 14, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to the man. It is an offence which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years. He has 29 previous convictions including criminal damage, public order and road traffic offences.
An uninsured motorist who believed he was covered when stopped by gardaí has avoided a driving ban after appearing before Tallaght District Court. Claudius Dsouza (44), of Marybrook Village, Portlaoise, Co Laois pleaded guilty to driving without insurance and failing to produce an insurance certificate. The court heard that Mr Dsouza was stopped by gardaí on Garter Lane, Saggart, on March 9, 2025. Garda checks showed the 2009-registered car was not insured at the time. Mr Dsouza was unable to produce an insurance certificate at the roadside and did not later produce one at a garda station. Gardaí told the court the defendant later accepted he had no insurance on the vehicle on the day in question. Solicitor Jeremiah Breen, for Mr Dsouza, said his client had believed he was insured and expressed regret for the incident. The court heard he is married with two children and works part-time in a garage. It was confirmed he has no previous convictions.
Darren Hayes, 50, was sentenced at the procedural stage of sentence for a series of offences in the Baggot Street area. The defendant pleaded guilty to 10 counts of burglary and seven counts of criminal damage committed between September 6 and October 15, 2023. The court heard that Hayes, who was on bail at the time, carried out these acts at unoccupied office premises, forcing entry and causing damage or stealing property. On September 6, he allegedly stole €21,929 worth of laptops and iPhones from a Haddington Road office with another man, who has since fled the jurisdiction. On October 15, he allegedly ransacked a hair salon and damaged other businesses, including a gym and doctors' offices. Judge Orla Crowe noted Hayes's extensive criminal history, including 140 previous convictions, one for rape, and two for failing to inform gardaí of a change of address under the Sex Offender's Act. She described the theft of devices and the destruction of equipment as requiring separate marking. The judge imposed a sentence of three years and four months, with the final year suspended, on those specific offences and took the remaining counts into consideration. Defense counsel highlighted Hayes's chronic drug addiction and housing difficulties, noting his intention to enter residential treatment upon release. Hayes is currently serving a sentence for other burglaries.
A teenager who used "extreme violence" in kicking a defenceless man to death has been given more time to bring an appeal against his life sentence following a landmark Supreme Court decision. The youth was 16 when he murdered Romanian national Claudio Robu (39) on a laneway off Madison Road, South Circular Road, Dublin 8 on September 14, 2020. He pleaded guilty in 2021 and was sentenced to life detention with a review after eight years. He had been due to come back before the Central Criminal Court in June 2028 to review his progress and to allow the court to consider whether he could safely return to society. However, last March the Supreme Court ruled that a sentencing court does not have jurisdiction to review terms of detention imposed on child offenders.
A garda has received a suspended three-month sentence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for assaulting his then-wife, a fellow member of An Garda Síochána, in County Mayo in October 2012. Trevor Bolger (48), previously attached to Ballymun Garda Station, pleaded guilty to the assault under the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act. Judge Martina Baxter suspended the sentence in full on strict conditions, including engagement with the MOVE (Men Overcoming Violent Emotions) programme. The court heard the assault occurred during a family gathering when Bolger became angry that his wife spoke with her family rather than remaining at his side. The victim described the incident as terrifying and protracted, and ended the marriage the following day. Judge Baxter noted Bolger held a position of trust as a serving garda and that alcohol aggravated the offence. She acknowledged his six years of sobriety, genuine remorse, and engagement with rehabilitation services, finding him at low risk of reoffending. Bolger is currently suspended from An Garda Síochána.
A 34-year-old man from Finglas has admitted to conspiring to murder a Dublin father-of-two who was fatally shot at his home in 2018. Joseph Richards, with an address at Lanesborough Square, pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to conspiracy to murder Robert Sheridan, aged 45, who died following a shooting at Poppintree Crescent, Ballymun, on October 5, 2018. Richards was charged with the offence in 2024. Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned the case to February 16 for sentencing.
Christopher O'Neill has been sentenced to six years imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following his guilty plea to the manslaughter of Martin Lynn on 30 July 2023. The 31-year-old punched Mr Lynn once to the head in an unprovoked attack outside the victim's home in the Larkhill area. Mr Lynn, who was returning from socialising in Dublin city centre, was taken to hospital where he died two days later from catastrophic brain injuries. Judge Martin Nolan stated the assault appeared to stem from a temper outburst, noting no provocation was evident. The court heard victim impact statements from Mr Lynn's family, including his sister who described enduring 899 days of nightmare following his death. Mr Lynn, originally from Donegal and Mayo family roots, had recently begun employment at Santry Sports Clinic. O'Neill, from Whitehall, Santry, has 24 previous convictions.
Erick Roa, a hospitality worker at the Marker Hotel in Dublin, alleged that his manager, Matt Sherlock, repeatedly asked invasive questions about his sexuality and country of origin, creating a toxic work environment. Roa began covertly recording his manager to gather evidence of the alleged discrimination. He claimed that Sherlock asked inappropriate questions about his partner's gender and made fun of his accent. Roa resigned in February 2025 after feeling the workplace was not addressing his concerns. The hotel's legal team denied the allegations, stating that Roa's claims were not credible. The tribunal heard that Roa had made multiple complaints, but the HR manager did not follow up. The case was adjourned, with a resumption of the hearing scheduled for March.
A 41-year-old man has been jailed for 12 months for making threats to petrol bomb his ex-partner's home and break her father's knees. The man pleaded guilty to three counts of making threats to kill or cause serious harm in May and June 2023. The threats were made during a period of separation from his ex-partner, with whom he had a long-term relationship. The court heard that the man threatened to petrol bomb the house and break the father's knees, causing significant distress to the victim and her family. The woman's child overheard some of the threats, which were described as 'incredibly serious' by the judge. The man has a history of minor convictions and was experiencing mental health issues and substance abuse at the time. The judge imposed an 18-month sentence, suspended for six months, with conditions to stay away from the injured parties and maintain good behaviour.
A 22-year-old man, Reece Byrne, has been sentenced to six years in prison for possession of heroin, cocaine, and diazepam, with the final six months suspended. Byrne pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply and money laundering at his home in Ballymun. During a search, Gardaí found large amounts of cocaine, heroin, and diazepam, with a total market value of €48,000. Byrne initially claimed the drugs were not his and that he had a drug debt, but the court did not accept this. Judge Martina Baxter noted Byrne's cooperation and lack of previous convictions but emphasized his role in the drugs trade. Byrne's co-accused, Laura Smith, received a two-and-a-half-year suspended sentence for allowing her home to be used for drug preparation. The court acknowledged Smith's cooperation and her status as a mother of three, deeming it unlikely she would reoffend.
A man has been charged with criminal damage after allegedly kicking a car during a protest outside the Iranian Embassy in south Dublin. The incident occurred on Mount Merrion Avenue, Blackrock, on Tuesday at around 1.40pm. The damage, estimated at €2,000, was caused to a grey 2020 Mercedes that was being driven at the time, with no injuries reported. Saeid Khosroabadi (41), of Seville Place, Dublin 1, was charged with criminal damage. Garda Niall McGraynor stated that Mr Khosroabadi allegedly kicked the car three times during the protest. Gardaí arrived at the scene after the incident and later arrested Mr Khosroabadi at his home. He spent the night in custody and was fully co-operative with gardaí. Judge Conor Fottrell accepted jurisdiction in the case. Mr Khosroabadi was released on bail with conditions to stay away from the embassy and the Blackrock area. The defence requested CCTV footage, and an application for legal aid was granted. The case was adjourned to April 13 at Dún Laoghaire District Court.
The owner of a discount store, Anthony Walsh, has been fined €5,000 for selling untaxed cigarettes and tobacco. Walsh, 66, pleaded guilty to keeping for sale products without the relevant Irish tax stamps in his shop, 'Dominics Crazy Deals'. Revenue officers found 44,560 cigarettes and 2.75 kg of hand-rolled tobacco during a search of his shop in May 2022. The estimated loss to Revenue was €27,786. Walsh has previous convictions for selling illegal products and failing to file tax returns. The judge acknowledged his community contributions but noted his criminal activity deprived the state of revenue. Walsh did not contest the confiscation of €78,000 in cash found in his shop. The court heard testimonials from the community highlighting his generosity and support for local initiatives.
A Canadian drugs mule, Mohamad Alaha (20), was jailed for three years after being caught 'literally red-handed' with €400,000 worth of vacuum-packed cannabis at Dublin Airport. He was arrested after customs officers noticed suspicious behaviour during a flight from Canada. Alaha admitted to importing 20 kilograms of cannabis into Ireland on April 26, 2025, and had no previous convictions. His defence, Marc Thompson SC, explained that Alaha was fleeing Syria with his family when he was 11 and moved to Canada. He suffered from mental health issues and developed a drug addiction, which led him to seek treatment in Egypt. However, he accumulated debt and relapsed. To settle his debts, Alaha sold personal items and eventually agreed to transport drugs. His defence argued that his choices were limited. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged his guilty plea and noted that drug trafficking is a societal scourge. She accepted that Alaha was cooperating and had been doing well in custody, but sentenced him to three years in prison, backdated to the day of his arrest.
Karl Murphy, 40, of Blanchardstown, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for witness intimidation. He pleaded guilty to intimidating Lyndsey Doyle on September 1, 2023, by sending threatening voice notes. Judge Orla Crowe described the messages as vile and menacing, noting Doyle's vulnerability as the principal witness in the trial of Keith Smithers and Peter White for the unlawful killing and robbery of Brian Hogan in Finglas. Murphy, who has 66 previous convictions and is currently serving a burglary sentence, received an 18-month jail term with the final six months suspended. His then-partner, Sinead White, 39, also pleaded guilty to witness intimidation and was jailed for 21 months in November 2024 by Judge Martin Nolan. In the underlying trial, Smithers, 41, pleaded not guilty but was convicted of both charges and sentenced to nine years last June. Peter White, 40, also pleaded not guilty; he was acquitted of the unlawful killing but convicted of robbery and jailed for four and a half years. The court acknowledged Murphy's remorse and progress in custody, including reduced methadone intake, while emphasizing the seriousness of interfering with justice.
A woman from Kingscourt, Co Cavan, has been convicted and fined €750 following an assault at a concert venue in Dublin. Sarah Callan, aged 37, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to a Section 2 assault that occurred on 20 June 2024 during a Pink concert at the Aviva Stadium. The court heard that Callan punched a 17-year-old attendant, mistakenly believing he was responsible for an earlier incident involving her husband. The teenager sustained facial injuries requiring medical treatment at the scene. Callan made admissions to gardaí on the night and expressed remorse. Her defence counsel submitted the assault was out of character and consisted of a single punch. Judge Conor Fottrell described the circumstances as concerning and alarming, noting the victim had been a minor performing his duties. He convicted Callan and imposed the fine with seven months to pay. Legal aid was granted.
Sharon Shadiya (22), of Drumcairn Avenue, Tallaght, Dublin 24, pleaded guilty to a money laundering offence arising from an incident on June 15, 2023. The court heard that €1,700 was credited to Shadiya's Revolut account before being transferred on to another account. Shadiya admitted allowing the proceeds of criminal conduct to pass through her Revolut account, contrary to section 7(1)(a)(ii), section 7(1)(b) and section 7(3) of the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010. Detective Sergeant Mick Ormsby informed the court that the two injured parties had since been reimbursed by their banks. Defence solicitor, Michael Hennessy, stated that Shadiya was 20 years old at the time of the offence and has no previous convictions. He said Shadiya was taken advantage of by a male friend, who told her he needed to use her Revolut account to make a purchase online. Mr Hennessy said the matter before the court was one of recklessness rather than knowledge, and that his client had no awareness of the wider fraud involved. He said Shadiya had made a full admission to her limited role, was fully co-operative and had shown genuine remorse, offering an unreserved apology to those who lost money. The court heard that Shadiya works as a care assistant in private home-care and is of good character with a strong work ethic and good prospects for the future. Judge Karen Dowling accepted jurisdiction in the case and adjourned it to April 13 next for the preparation of a probation report.
Martin Stokes, a 32-year-old man from Clondalkin, Dublin, who was previously banned from driving and had no insurance, had his three-month jail sentence overturned on appeal. He was initially convicted of driving under the influence, driving without insurance, and possessing a sword, which led to a three-month custodial sentence and a five-year driving ban. Stokes' appeal highlighted his mental health issues and his support for his family. The judge, Christopher Callan, decided to suspend the sentence for two years, provided Stokes keeps the peace and avoids further legal trouble. The original disqualifications and fine remain in place. Sergeant Shay Leonard testified that Stokes was found with a sword in his vehicle and had a blood alcohol level of 171mg per 100ml. Stokes has 20 previous convictions, but his last offense was in 2017, and he has maintained a clean record since 2022.
An Indian business student, Rishabh Mahajan, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to four counts of offensive conduct of a sexual nature and one count of sexual assault. The incidents occurred in October and November 2024, where Mahajan sexually assaulted a woman and masturbated in public. Garda Patrick Hynes told the court that the incidents were captured on CCTV and were "quite brazen" and took place in "quite an exposed part" of the city. The complainant outlined the effects of the offending in a victim impact statement. Garda Stephanie Traynor stated that Mahajan was identified and arrested in early November. Mahajan told gardai that he couldn't remember carrying out the offence. His defence counsel, Patrick Flynn BL, said Mahajan had arrived in Ireland a month earlier to study at the Smurfit business school and was now in homeless accommodation. He offered an apology on his client's behalf to all victims. Judge Baxter adjourned sentencing to May 19 and remanded Mahajan on continuing bail, ordering him to provide the Probation Service with his contact details.
A taxi driver, William O'Keeffe, accidentally struck a woman during a melee, leaving her with a permanent scar on her chin and requiring plastic surgery. O'Keeffe pleaded guilty to one count of affray at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The incident occurred in January 2022 when an altercation broke out with a group of younger people. During the course of the second interaction, O'Keeffe was knocked unconscious for about eight minutes. He regained consciousness and swung his arms, accidentally striking the woman's partner. The woman was left with a significant injury to her face, requiring plastic surgery and leaving her with a vertical scar from her lower chin to her chin. Judge Orla Crowe noted that the woman was "an utterly blameless innocent person" and that the injury had a "profound impact" on her. O'Keeffe expressed sincere remorse and offered €5,000 to the woman within six months. Judge Crowe set a headline sentence of three years but suspended it in full on the condition that O'Keeffe pay the woman €5,000 within six months.
Keith Smithers and Peter White, both with extensive criminal records, were sentenced for their roles in a fight outside a Dublin shopping centre three years ago. Smithers, who had previously been convicted of murder and robbery, received a nine-year sentence, while White, with over 270 convictions, was given four and a half years. Both were later sentenced to two years for affray. The incident involved a fight between Smithers, White, and a third man, with the use of a steel pole. CCTV footage showed the altercation, and both men expressed remorse. Smithers has 98 previous convictions, and White has 274. Both have drug addiction issues and are making efforts to address them. Judge Orla Crowe noted the CCTV evidence and the men's efforts to deal with their addictions before imposing the two-year sentences. Keith Smithers pleaded guilty. Peter White pleaded guilty and was acquitted.
Three men convicted of the kidnap and torture of Quinn Industrial Holdings director Kevin Lunney have had their conviction appeals dismissed by the Court of Appeal. Alan Harte, Alan O'Brien, and Darren Redmond, all from East Wall, Dublin, were found guilty by the Special Criminal Court in 2021 of false imprisonment and intentionally causing harm to Mr Lunney at Ballinagh, Co Cavan on 17 September 2019. Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, sitting with two fellow judges, rejected all grounds of appeal, including challenges to the admissibility of DNA evidence from a van used by the kidnappers, phone records obtained via warrant, and CCTV footage. The court found no error in the trial court's decisions on these matters. Harte received a 30-year sentence, O'Brien 25 years, and Redmond 18 years with the final three suspended. All three men confirmed they intend to appeal their sentences, with the matter listed for case management on 13 February.
A serial offender with 165 previous convictions, Gary Herbert (43) from Tallaght, Dublin 24, had his ten-month jail sentence replaced with a fully suspended sentence on appeal. Herbert was convicted in the District Court of two counts of entering the curtilage of a building as a trespasser with intent to commit an offence, and of getting into a mechanically propelled vehicle without authority. He was given a six-month jail sentence for the first offence and a four-month term consecutive to that for the second offence. Garda David Devaney testified that Herbert was identified on CCTV entering vehicles in Templeogue and Terenure, where items had been rummaged through. Defence counsel confirmed that nothing was taken but highlighted Herbert's mental health issues and his need for stable accommodation. Judge Christopher Callan decided to fully suspend both sentences for two years, on the condition that Herbert keeps the peace, engages with probation services, and continues his medication. The judge emphasized the importance of Herbert taking his medication, noting his considerable number of previous convictions.
A printer, Declan Walsh, has claimed he was unfairly dismissed from his job at Labelcraft in Tallaght, Dublin 24, after he called for the sacking of a colleague for alleged aggression and a 'ghetto attitude' towards him. Walsh, who earned €48,000 annually, was terminated in September 2024 following a disciplinary investigation. His employer, Poolville Ltd, argued that Walsh made a 'false allegation' about his manager looking through his bag, leading to a breakdown of trust. During the tribunal, Walsh stated that his manager, Mr M, had been aggressive towards him, including an incident where he was confronted on the factory floor. Walsh claimed that other employees were plotting against him due to his superior performance and that Mr M had secured his job through a supervisor from the same Dublin neighbourhood, Clondalkin. Walsh also mentioned that Mr M had a 'confidant' from Clondalkin who would give him lifts to work. He expressed that he found it offensive when Mr M referred to him with a 'ghetto attitude'.
Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) has paused an investigation into its chief executive, Kenny Jacobs, following a High Court challenge to his suspension. Jacobs was suspended on December 23 after allegations of discriminatory behavior, which he described as "baseless." He claims he was "ambushed" and "humiliated" when told to leave work and not communicate with staff. DAA is resisting legal action from Jacobs, who is seeking to overturn his suspension and halt the investigation. The case is set for an urgent hearing, with both sides agreeing to file affidavits. Jacobs claims the stress from the suspension has been "immense" and that he was left "shell-shocked" after the meeting with the board. The High Court will determine the next steps in the legal dispute.
A High Court judge has praised a woman who was sexually abused by her uncle for her victim impact statement, which she said would help other survivors 'find their voices'. Justice Karen O'Connor told the woman that she should be proud of what she had done to help other victims. The woman's uncle, now aged 63, had pleaded not guilty to a number of charges but was convicted by a jury following a trial last year on three charges of indecent assault. The offences occurred between February 1988 and December 1988 in the child's grandmother's home, where the uncle was living. The court heard that the then 25-year-old man would regularly get into bed with the then five-year-old child naked and rub his body against her. Ms Justice O'Connor remanded the man in custody and adjourned sentencing to later this month. She spoke directly to the complainant and thanked her for her 'very eloquent and detailed report'.
A 15-year-old driver, now 18, broke a garda's hand during a struggle as he was being removed from a stolen car during a high-speed chase on the M50. The incident occurred on August 24, 2023, when the teenager drove dangerously, including on the wrong side of the motorway and ramming a patrol car. The garda, Detective Garda Kate Gilligan, described the danger posed to road users and herself during the pursuit. The defendant pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including reckless endangerment, assault, and damaging a garda vehicle. Judge Orla Crowe noted the danger of the driving and commended the gardai for their evidence. The judge imposed suspended custodial sentences of 18 months and required the defendant to engage with the Probation Service. The garda sustained two broken bones in her hand and was out of work for 11 weeks. The defendant expressed remorse and cooperated with gardai, though he claimed he did not steal the car. His legal team highlighted his maturity and cooperation with the investigation.
A 24-year-old man has pleaded guilty to a range of terrorism-related charges, including the arson of a pub owned by Conor McGregor and a knife attack on gardai in Dublin city centre. Abdullah Khan, who cannot have his address disclosed due to a court order, appeared before the Special Criminal Court and was arraigned on eight counts. His defence counsel, Michael Bowman SC, highlighted a 'complex psychological background' and requested a report on the defendant. Khan admitted to charges that include arson at the Black Forge Inn on July 25, 2025, and a knife attack on gardai on July 29, 2025, at Capel Street. He was also charged with two counts of endangerment and two counts of engaging in terrorist activity. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, adjourned the case for victim impact statements and scheduled a further hearing for March 23. Khan was remanded in custody.
The WRC reported on two distinct employment matters involving applicants Ali Izzy and Fernando Oliveira. In September, Ali Izzy, a former software salesman at Solar Winds Software Europe DAC, alleged he was dismissed for insubordination after his ex-boss approved a €500,000 discount in a side deal with a supplier described as having a history of corruption. Izzy claimed he was left without work and resorted to food delivery. The WRC is currently considering his case. In October, Ryanair lawyers challenged the filings of flight attendant Fernando Oliveira, pointing to phantom legal rulings potentially generated by AI. Oliveira initially denied this but later acknowledged he may have used AI. The tribunal deemed the phantom citations egregious and an abuse of process. Following this, the WRC published guidelines stating parties must take full responsibility for submissions and that AI tools should not be relied upon as legal advice. In a separate October case, a chef who admitted using ChatGPT to draft a statement was found to have made a misrepresentation regarding a sexual harassment complaint, which was rejected. These rulings highlight the tribunal's scrutiny of AI-assisted legal submissions and the ongoing adjudication of complex employment disputes.
A young man who raped a 15-year-old girl in a field near a housing estate in north Dublin has been jailed for three years. The man, now 19, was found guilty of rape, attempted oral rape, sexual assault, and assault causing harm in March 2022. He was 16 at the time of the incident. The attack began with consensual kissing but escalated when he refused to stop touching the girl despite her repeated requests. He became aggressive, choking her and telling her, "You're mine," before proceeding to rape her. The victim reported the attack to her mother, who subsequently threw her out of the house. The girl ended up homeless and in hostels, suffering severe mental health issues. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath described the victim impact statement as harrowing, noting the catastrophic effect on the girl. He stated that if the defendant had been an adult, the sentence would have been eight years. However, considering his age, he imposed a three-year sentence, suspending the final year to encourage rehabilitation.
A 48-year-old man, Edward Colclough, was fined €700 for careless driving after pulling out in front of an e-scooter rider in Dublin 4 on March 19, 2024. Colclough, of Pearse Street, Dublin 2, had pleaded not guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court. The court heard that the e-scooter rider was travelling to work along a main road when Colclough drove out from St Patrick's Villas and began to turn right. The rider claimed he had the right of way and was travelling at an average speed. CCTV footage showed Colclough failing to stop at a stop sign before turning right. The footage did not show a collision, but the prosecution argued that Colclough's failure to stop caused the rider to react suddenly, leading to him losing control and falling off the scooter. Colclough claimed he did not see the scooter and argued the rider may have been speeding and struck a pothole. However, Judge Watkin rejected this, stating that Colclough should have ensured the road was clear before proceeding.
A repeat offender, Thomas Joyce (45), has been jailed for six weeks after entering a car parked in a private driveway in south Dublin while on probation and swallowing crack cocaine during garda custody. Joyce was sentenced at Dún Laoghaire District Court after pleading not guilty to entering a Volkswagen Touran on Anglesea Road, Dublin 4, on November 18, 2024. The car's owner saw Joyce enter the driveway and rummage through the vehicle before claiming it was his. Joyce was later arrested in a Spar shop in Ballsbridge. While in custody, he swallowed crack cocaine wraps hidden in his dentures and was taken to hospital. Judge Anne Watkin noted Joyce's 77 previous convictions, including 47 for theft and fraud, and stated that despite previous leniency, he had breached probation by committing another offence. She imposed a six-week sentence, half the maximum available, and did not order compensation as no damage was done to the vehicle.
A 76-year-old man with a record of 458 previous convictions has had two additional months added to his prison sentence for repeatedly stealing food items from a convenience store in south Dublin. Paddy McCann, who is currently serving a sentence for similar offences, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to theft, criminal damage, trespassing, and public order offences. The court heard that McCann stole various items from a Mace store in Sandymount over a five-day period in March 2025. He was also found highly intoxicated at a location in Blackrock, where he became abusive towards gardaí. The charges included criminal damage and trespass from a separate incident in Sandymount. Judge Anne Watkin described the case as a 'chronic situation' and noted that McCann's offending is cyclical. His defence highlighted that McCann is a chronic alcoholic with significant health issues and a difficult personal background. Judge Watkin stated that there was little more the court could do given previous interventions had failed.
A Northern Irish man has been jailed for 13 years for using his legitimate haulage business to smuggle over €6 million worth of drugs into the country. Padraig Casey (45) was found guilty of five counts related to the seizure of cannabis and cocaine at Dublin Port in 2020. The court heard that Casey, who was the owner and director of a haulage company, used his business to bring the drugs into the country. Judge Elma Sheahan noted that the aggravating factors included the seriousness of the offence, the nature and amount of the drugs, and the fact that Casey used his legitimate business to facilitate the trafficking. In mitigation, the court considered testimonials from Casey's family, his lack of previous convictions for this type of offence, and his long history of employment. Judge Sheahan set a headline sentence of 15 years but reduced it to 13 years, taking mitigation into account. Casey was stopped at Dublin Port upon his return from Rotterdam, where 93kg of cannabis and 60.9kg of cocaine were found in his truck.
Sarah Ryan, a victim of rape and coercive control by her former partner Nathan Grant McNulty, spoke out after he was jailed for eight years. Ms Ryan waived her right to anonymity, emphasizing the importance of speaking out against abuse. She described the experience as 'pure evil' and expressed a desire to 'turn my pain into purpose'. McNulty pleaded guilty to charges of rape and coercive control. The court heard that Ms Ryan suffered years of physical and emotional abuse, including beatings and threats. She described feeling trapped in a nightmare and suffering from severe depression and anxiety. The judge noted the aggravating factor of the relationship being intimate and domestic. McNulty received a nine-year sentence with the final year suspended under strict conditions. Ms Ryan's family, friends, and support organizations were thanked for their support. The case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help. Nathan Grant McNulty was convicted.
A Somali man who used diplomatic passports to illegally bring several women into the State has been jailed for four and a half years. Abdallatif Mohamed (40), who had no previous convictions, pleaded guilty to four counts of assisting in the unlawful entry of persons into the State. The court heard that Mohamed used genuine Somali diplomatic passports to bring two women into the country at Dublin Airport in 2024. The women were not the same as those depicted in the passports, and Mohamed was found with their genuine passports and a significant amount of cash. The women confirmed that they had paid Mohamed to bring them to the country, with one paying $14,000 and the other $15,000. Mohamed claimed he was acting under pressure to help his family, but the court found no evidence to support this. Judge Dara Hayes noted that the use of diplomatic passports was an aggravating factor and that the operation was for profit.
The Court of Appeal has upheld the murder conviction of Lee Canavan, who was jailed for life by the Special Criminal Court in June 2021 for his role in the 2016 killing of David 'Daithí' Douglas. Canavan, who pleaded not guilty, was found to have participated in a joint enterprise to murder Mr Douglas at Shoestown, Bridgefoot Street, Dublin 1, on July 1, 2016. The appellate court dismissed his argument that the prosecution wrongly relied on him being the triggerman, ruling that the case was properly based on common design. Canavan was also concurrently sentenced to five years for criminal damage to a getaway vehicle. This appeal follows earlier convictions in the case: Frederick 'Fat Freddie' Thompson was sentenced to life in 2018; Nathan Foley pleaded guilty to assisting a criminal organisation and received six years in 2019; and Gareth Brophy was jailed for ten years in 2020 for acting as a getaway driver. The court affirmed that Canavan's involvement in the meticulously planned execution was established by evidence of his movements with four vehicles and his participation in the attempted arson of a stolen Suzuki Swift.
The family of Maud Coffey, a woman killed by her partner Austin Mangan during a relapse of his schizoaffective disorder, expressed devastation and disbelief over her death. They criticized the HSE Mental Health Services for not providing adequate care, as Mangan had not been taking his medication for three months before the incident. The family agreed with the jury's verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity but emphasized the need for improved mental health services. Mangan had sought help the day before the killing but was sent away with an appointment for the following week. The family described Maud as a 'loving and gentle creature' who had her own mental health struggles. They expressed the impact of her death on their family, including the loss of future plans and the difficulty in explaining her death to their children. The trial revealed that Mangan had a long-standing history of mental illness and had been admitted to mental health services on 30 occasions. The family called for changes to prevent similar tragedies and expressed their support for Mangan's recovery.
The brother of Michael Tormey, a man fatally shot by his brother-in-law Christopher Devine in his own front garden, described his sibling as a 'decent, honest man' who paid the ultimate price for meeting people involved in the drugs trade. Devine was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Mr Tormey, who was shot five times in his front garden. The court heard that Devine had a history of drug-related activity with Mr Tormey and had previously been involved in moving drugs. The jury rejected Devine's claim of diminished responsibility due to cocaine intoxication, finding that he acted deliberately. Victim impact statements highlighted the devastation caused to the Tormey family, with Mr Tormey's brother describing the murder as 'coldly' executed. Devine had no psychiatric history and had never taken psychiatric medication. The trial revealed that Devine had a history of previous convictions, mostly under the road traffic act, and had been involved in drug-related activity with Mr Tormey. Christopher Devine pleaded not guilty.
A Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) adjudicator, Séamus Clinton, has initiated a case against the State, alleging mistreatment and gender-related discrimination. He filed complaints under the Employment Equality Act 1998, the Protection of Employees (Provision of Information and Consultation) Act 2006, and the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 against the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. A preliminary hearing at Lansdowne House in Dublin heard that the dispute relates to a competition issue. Clinton, a former trade union official appointed to the WRC in 2022, presides over employment rights disputes and discrimination claims. Counsel for the State, Stephen Hanaphy BL, requested an adjournment to consider submissions filed on Wednesday, citing the case's unique nature and the enhanced version of the claim. Michael Kinsley BL, for the complainant, agreed to the adjournment, noting that the claim had been dramatically enhanced. The original complaint included age discrimination and a claim against the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER), but these have been dropped, focusing now on gender discrimination. The case also involves alleged victimisation and whistleblower penalisation.
Drug dealers made a "very nasty threat" to a money mule mother-of-three who got into a cocaine debt, a Dublin court has heard. Garda Paddy Kelleher was giving evidence at the sentence hearing at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of Anna Stewart (36) for laundering money stolen from a Kildare resident. He agreed with Kieran Kelly BL, defending, that Stewart had become addicted to cocaine after the break-up of a relationship and racked up a drugs debt. Gda Kelleher testified that Stewart came under pressure from the drug dealers, who told her she could get something taken off the debt if she gave them access to her bank account. Counsel told the court that they made a further threat "of a very nasty nature". Judge Orla Crowe noted that gardai accepted that this was a real threat and was "particularly serious". Stewart of Kiltalown Avenue, Tallaght, Dublin 24 pleaded guilty to having possession of the proceeds of crime on a date in May 2021.