A man who robbed a service station on Valentine's Day in 2013 was charged eight years later after he was caught attempting to rob the same location again. Brian Comiskey (46) was initially arrested in 2013 after the robbery was featured on RTE's Crimecall, but there was not enough evidence to charge him. In 2021, he was spotted by an off-duty detective entering the same service station with a hammer and face covering. He was apprehended before he could take any money and confessed to the 2013 robbery, though this confession was not admissible. Comiskey pleaded guilty to the 2013 charges and was sentenced to one year in jail for the 2021 robbery. He was released in 2023 and has 45 previous convictions. Sergeant Bernard Dunne detailed the 2013 robbery, where Comiskey stole €700 from the service station and a screwdriver from a nearby store. His defense claimed he has since made significant personal improvements, including sobriety and steady employment.
James McMahon, aged 31, of Riversdale Road, Clondalkin, has been sentenced to six years and nine months imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, with the final two years suspended. McMahon pleaded guilty to stealing six vehicles from homes in his local community between February and April 2020, along with possession of stolen property including a laptop, e-scooter, car keys and a handbag. He also admitted using a cloned credit card at a Dublin retailer in May 2019. The court heard McMahon employed a bamboo device fitted with magnets to facilitate vehicle thefts and that evidence of the crimes, including photographs and discussions about stolen cars, was recovered from his mobile phone. One stolen vehicle had previously belonged to the Lord Mayor of Dublin. All vehicles were subsequently recovered, though two sustained damage. McMahon has 114 previous convictions for drug dealing and road traffic offences. Judge Sinéad Ní Chulachain imposed strict conditions on the suspended portion of the sentence.
Riad Bouchaker, charged with assaulting a care worker and attempting to murder three children on Parnell Square in Dublin, is alleged to be unfit to stand trial due to a mental disorder, according to his defence lawyers. A consultant forensic psychiatrist testified that Bouchaker, who has a complex medical history, suffered a brain injury during the incident and had prior brain surgery. The psychiatrist stated that if Bouchaker is deemed unfit, he would be reviewed every six months by the mental health criminal law review board. Bouchaker, 51, faces multiple charges, including attempted murder and assault. The incident occurred on November 23, 2023, and involved a chaotic scene with multiple stab wounds to children and a care worker. The psychiatrist noted that Bouchaker has a history of epilepsy, a brain tumour, and partial blindness in his right eye. She found that he has moderate dementia and impaired judgment, making it difficult for him to understand the charges or mount a defence.
A 64-year-old man who sexually abused and raped two of his sisters, his niece, and his own two daughters has failed in his attempt to overturn his convictions. At the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy ruled that there was no prejudice to Richard O'Brien by the trial judge allowing the victims to give evidence via video link. The court also rejected O'Brien's argument that there was no evidence of a lack of consent from some of the complainants. O'Brien was convicted unanimously by a jury in 2023 following a trial in the Central Criminal Court. His five victims, including his sisters, niece, and daughters, waived their right to anonymity so he could be named. The abuse occurred at his family home in Ballyfermot and continued until the women ran away as teenagers. The women described physical abuse and emotional torture at his hands. O'Brien also abused his own daughters, leading to their removal into care. One daughter later told her foster mother about the abuse, prompting others to come forward.
A driver who collided with a motorcyclist who claimed he was 'filtering' through traffic had a charge of careless driving dismissed after a judge criticized the motorcyclist's dangerous behavior. Judge Anne Watkin noted that the motorcyclist had overtaken cars in their own lane, which was illegal and highly dangerous. The collision occurred during heavy traffic, and the motorcyclist claimed he was filtering through the congestion. However, the judge stated that the motorcyclist had no right to overtake in that manner and that his actions were breaking the law. The motorcyclist was found to have a cut and swelling from the collision but declined hospital treatment. The judge ruled that the driver, Ms Arta Kroni, could not reasonably have been expected to see the motorcyclist or anticipate his actions, leading to the dismissal of the charge of driving without due care and attention against her. Arta Kroni pleaded not guilty.
A mother and daughter were found in possession of €1.3 million in gold bullion and hundreds of thousands in cash during garda raids, leading to their convictions for the possession of proceeds of crime. Svethana Bahtijeva (39) and her mother Jelene Idele (59) pleaded guilty to multiple charges, with Bahtijeva receiving a five-year prison sentence and Idele receiving a four-year suspended sentence. During the raids, 18kg of gold bullion, €399,000 in cash, and drugs were discovered in their homes. Bahtijeva's husband, who is believed to have fled the country, was identified as the main figure in the criminal activities. The court heard that Bahtijeva was under her husband's control and facilitated his criminal activities, while Idele was unaware of the drugs in her home. The judge noted that the main culprit was not present in court and that Bahtijeva's actions were influenced by her husband's criminal behavior.
Shop workers described the fear and trauma they experienced during the Dublin riots, with one of the perpetrators, Thomas Dannevig (21), pleading guilty to burglary. Victims from Footlocker and Lifestyle Sports stores recounted the panic and lasting psychological effects of the riots, including nightmares and anxiety. Dannevig was identified through CCTV footage and admitted to taking items from the shops, though he claimed he was not involved in the riots themselves. The court heard that Dannevig acted alone but was part of a larger group. He expressed remorse and apologized for his actions, acknowledging the impact on the shop workers. The judge noted Dannevig's youth and prosocial background, and recommended a probation report to assess his suitability for community service. Dannevig is willing to carry out community service and has offered to increase his contribution if given more time.
A mentally ill passenger who aggressively wielded a bible and assaulted a garda at Dublin Airport will be released from custody after his prison sentence was suspended. Gavin Risden (48), of no fixed abode in the United Kingdom, pleaded guilty to assaulting Garda Conor Neill on June 3 last. Air traffic control had alerted gardai to an unruly passenger on a transatlantic flight from Newark. Risden was aggressive, waving a bible and claiming to be royalty with royal blood. When gardai asked him to step off the plane, he refused and punched the garda eight times, causing him to be dazed and suffer facial bruising. Another garda pepper sprayed Risden, but this was deemed a suboptimal approach as it occurred inside the plane. Some passengers were also affected by the spray. Risden escaped initially but was eventually arrested in Terminal 2. He has no previous convictions and has been in custody since the incident. His defence highlighted his mental health issues and lack of medication.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Karl Fish (53) was convicted on two counts of rape and two counts of indecent assault, all committed between November 1988 and November 1990 when he was 16 or 17 and the victim was 14 or 15. The victim, a woman who was raped as a teenager by her cousin, testified that Fish had twisted the truth and tried to conceal his actions. Justice Karen O'Connor sentenced Fish to ten years for the rape offences, reduced to five years because of his age at the time, and further to four years to account for the delay in prosecution. The sentence reflects the seriousness of the offences and the impact on the victim, who expressed gratitude for the court's decision and her support network. No further legal outcomes are mentioned in the article. Karl Fish pleaded not guilty.
A man who poured petrol on a shop counter and threatened to burn it has been jailed for 33 months. Darragh Kane (26) told gardai he had been beaten the night before the robbery and needed money to pay off a drug debt. He threatened shop staff with a lighter and a knife, demanding cash before stealing €466 from the till. Kane pleaded guilty to robbery and has previous convictions for drug and traffic offences. The judge noted the severity of the crime, which occurred in broad daylight and terrified staff and customers, including a woman with a baby. Kane expressed remorse and acknowledged the impact of his actions, but the judge emphasized the need for justice for the victims. Kane's sentence was suspended for 12 months on strict conditions, including engaging with the Probation Service. His defense highlighted his difficult background and requested time for drug treatment.
An accountant with a prior conviction for theft stole nearly €30,000 from Foxrock Golf Club, a court has heard. Cheryl Robinson (49) from Rathdrum, Co Wicklow, pleaded guilty to ten charges of theft between October 2018 and July 2020. She previously served a two-year jail sentence in 2010 for stealing €125,000 from a former employer, using the name Cheryl Byrne. Garda Padraig Nagle explained that staff at the golf club noticed discrepancies in the accounts and initiated a forensic investigation, which revealed that Robinson had redirected supplier payments to her own account. Although she did not admit to the theft during garda interviews, the transactions were easily identifiable. Robinson's defense, led by Ronan Kennedy SC, highlighted her personal circumstances, including her separation in 2022, sole care of her three children, and financial difficulties. She has no financial support from her ex-husband and is in arrears on her mortgage. Kennedy stated that Robinson is deeply ashamed and acknowledges her mistakes, emphasizing her efforts to support her children.
A Dublin man who was suffering from a severe relapse of schizoaffective disorder when he killed his girlfriend was found not guilty by reason of insanity. Austin Mangan (53) was found not guilty of the murder of Maud Coffey (41) after a psychiatric evaluation concluded that he was unable to refrain from committing the act. The court heard that Mangan had a long history of mental illness, including bipolar disorder and schizoaffective disorder, and had been treated with electroshock therapy. He had stopped taking his prescribed medication and had been drinking heavily before the incident. Mangan told psychiatrists that he believed the deceased was the devil and that he heard Lucifer laughing at him. The court accepted the defense's argument that Mangan was unable to control his actions due to his mental state. The jury spent over seven hours deliberating before delivering the verdict. The judge committed Mangan to the Central Mental Hospital for inpatient care and ordered a psychiatric assessment.
A father-of-four was found guilty of manslaughter for killing an 'intruder' who had stolen from his unlocked van and entered his partner's car. Patrick Murphy (35) was not found guilty of murder but was convicted of manslaughter. The jury heard that Murphy stabbed 20-year-old Jordan Ronan, who had stolen a Revolut card from Murphy's van. Murphy claimed he was acting in self-defense, but the court found that the force used was excessive. The prosecution argued that Murphy's actions were disproportionate, as he armed himself with a knife and deliberately stabbed Ronan in the chest. The defense claimed Murphy acted out of panic after his property was violated. The jury viewed CCTV footage showing Ronan entering Murphy's van and partner's car before Murphy ran out with a knife. The court accepted that the Revolut card found on Ronan belonged to Murphy. The judge will sentence Murphy in January 2026, and the Ronan family will be invited to make statements. The jury spent over seven hours deliberating before delivering the verdict.
Leonardo Fernandez, 29, of Coolock, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to assaulting a security worker and a public order offence on 30 December 2024 at Meta's Ballsbridge premises in Dublin 4. The defendant, a former kitchen porter, admitted to the charges after Gardaí alleged he lingered on the site before running towards the pedestrian entrance. Prosecution evidence stated that when a security officer attempted to speak to him, Fernandez swung his arms towards the worker, causing the officer to fall and hit his head. Fernandez was subsequently restrained by staff. Defence solicitor Patricia Camilon submitted that Fernandez believed he had arranged to meet a former colleague, who allegedly used his photograph without consent to create a false dating profile intended to control him and tarnish his image. She argued he reported the matter to Gardaí previously and attended the premises as a last resort. Judge Anne Watkin described the case as "very strange" and noted that the defendant's behaviour resulted in injury to the security worker. The court heard Fernandez has no previous convictions. The matter was adjourned for a probation report and a victim impact statement from the injured party to 27 April at Dún Laoghaire District Court for finalisation.
A woman who set fire to a bus during the 2023 Dublin riots, causing nearly €500,000 in damage, was sentenced to six years in prison. Leanne Kelly (34) told the judge to 'fuck off' and refused to provide a urine sample. She pleaded guilty to criminal damage after throwing a piece of cardboard, which she had set alight using a nearby burning garda car, onto the bus. The bus was empty but completely destroyed. Kelly, who was homeless and addicted to drugs at the time, was identified through 17,000 hours of CCTV footage. She had 66 previous convictions and was on bail for other offences. The court heard that the riots began after a stabbing incident earlier that day. Dublin Bus employees described the events as violent and threatening, with the company suffering a loss of about €1.9 million. Kelly's defence argued she had no political motivation and was under the influence of drugs. Judge Baxter noted Kelly's actions were 'gratuitous' and 'breathtaking' and that she fed into the 'mob mentality' of the riots.
A woman who scammed her pensioner friend out of €30,000 over a five-year period by falsely claiming to be investing in a Lanzarote pub was sentenced to make restitution. Geraldine McGrath, who pleaded guilty to three counts of deception, had misled her friend into making regular cash payments. The victim, now in her early 80s, has no real savings and has been unable to afford a headstone for her son's grave. McGrath, who has no previous convictions, was ordered to repay the money and had already put aside €3,000 in court. The court heard that McGrath had health issues and was on disability allowance, making it difficult for her to repay the full amount. Judge Jonathan Dunphy said the court would give her more time to make repayments and ordered that €3,000 be handed over immediately with a further €1,000 by Friday. McGrath was also remanded on continuing bail until March 23. The court heard that the victim had been deceived for years and that McGrath had written a letter of apology to the injured party.
A serial arsonist, Colm Dowling (68), was jailed for 15 months after attempting to set a garda's car on fire using vegetable oil and causing over €7,000 in damage to a commercial premises. Dowling pleaded guilty to two counts of criminal damage and has eight previous convictions, including four for arson. He was found with a lighter and vegetable oil near the garda's car, which had charred tissue and vegetable oil on the windscreen. In another incident, he repeatedly drove a van into a gate, causing damage to the registration plate and wing mirror. The business owner found the damage suspicious and checked CCTV footage. Dowling was identified through the footage and later returned to retrieve the broken registration plate. He has a history of alcoholism and mental health issues, including major depressive disorder. His defence argued that his actions were due to a relapse and a sense of grievance. The judge noted the targeted nature of his offending and imposed a two-year sentence with nine months suspended.
Meta has been granted permission to challenge a potential fine of up to €430 million from the Data Protection Commission (DPC) over data processing issues. The company argues that the DPC acted outside its powers by expanding the investigation beyond the original complaint to all Facebook users. Meta Platforms Ireland Ltd applied for judicial review, and the court granted a stay on the fine until next year. The case stems from a 2018 complaint about access to personal data stored in a 'Hive' digital warehouse. Meta claims the DPC overstepped by suggesting the complainant's request had a 'general application' for other users. The court will hear the case again in January. Meta seeks a declaration that the DPC acted beyond its powers and a quashing of the draft decision. The judge ruled in favor of Meta, putting a stay on the DPC's findings pending the outcome of the case.
A 64-year-old man, Richard O'Brien, who sexually abused and raped his sisters, niece, and daughters, is appealing his conviction, arguing that allowing victims to give evidence via video link was unfair. O'Brien was convicted of 63 counts of rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault against five victims between 1975 and 2011. His appeal focuses on the fairness of allowing some victims to give evidence by video link, as the defence claims the jury was deprived of seeing the witnesses in person. O'Brien's counsel argued that the medical reports did not justify the use of video link for some victims and that the lack of consent for certain rape counts was not adequately established. The prosecution countered that the judge had discretion in allowing video evidence and that the jury had an adequate opportunity to assess the witnesses' demeanour. The court will reserve judgment on the appeal.
Patrick Skipton (42) was jailed for seven years after being found guilty of demanding money with menace and harassment. He initially demanded €50,000 from a victim who had held money for him during the pandemic, which he spent on drugs. The victim, with help from family, paid the amount. Later, Skipton harassed the victim again, demanding €40,000. The victim, who had since become clean and was working, was pressured to sell his car. Skipton's associate collected €6,230 from the sale, and the victim was ordered to take out a loan. However, the victim alerted gardaí, leading to Skipton's arrest. Skipton has a history of drug use and multiple convictions. He expressed remorse and is now clean. The judge noted the victim impact statement, which described the "reign of terror" inflicted by Skipton, and sentenced him to nine years, with two years suspended.
Darragh Quigley, 26, of Carndonagh Road, Donaghmede, pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of Gretta McCullough, 64, on November 16, 2023, at Chatham Row, Dublin 2. At the sentence hearing in the Central Criminal Court, the court heard that Quigley followed Ms McCullough and her husband from the Powerscourt Centre before striking her from behind with a seven-inch knife. The blade passed through the back of her head, entering on the left and exiting on the right. Ms McCullough, who was watching the Christmas lights switch-on, removed the knife herself and handed it to her husband. She described the attack as random and unprovoked, stating it permanently altered her sense of safety. Quigley, who has no previous convictions but a history of mental health issues, told gardai the act was random and he had gone into town with a knife. Defence counsel Padraig Dwyer SC submitted that Quigley had ceased taking his antipsychotic medication and suffered from bipolar affective disorder. Mr Justice Paul Burns described the incident as a truly shocking and extremely serious offence. He remanded Quigley in custody today until January 19, when he will be sentenced.
Two men, Philip Disney (30) and Sean Carlyle (32), who were sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Vincent Parsons during a Stag night in 2019, have failed in their appeal to overturn their convictions. The attack, described as 'extraordinarily savage,' occurred near the Killinarden Inn on August 24, 2019, after Mr. Parsons became 'messy' and irritated Disney during a night out. The trial heard that following an altercation, the two men followed Mr. Parsons in a van and fatally assaulted him on a nearby green area. During the sentencing, Mr. Parsons' wife, Clare, expressed how his death had 'fallen apart' the lives of their two children. The Court of Appeal dismissed all grounds raised by Disney and Carlyle, including claims that evidence was prejudicial or that the trial judge made errors in rulings. The court upheld the conviction, noting that the CCTV footage was properly admitted and that the jury was correctly not discharged. The appeal also failed to challenge the admissibility of evidence, including statements made by the defendants during searches and interviews.
A jury is set to return to the Central Criminal Court to continue deliberations in the trial of Patrick Murphy (37), who is accused of stabbing 20-year-old Jordan Ronan to death outside his home in what he claims was an act of self-defense. Murphy has admitted to stabbing Ronan but has pleaded not guilty to murder. The jury heard that Ronan suffered a single fatal stab wound to the chest during an encounter in the early hours of July 26, 2024. CCTV footage showed Ronan entering Murphy's van and then Mr Murphy's partner's BMW, where the fatal incident occurred. Gardai found a Revolut card belonging to Murphy on the deceased's body. The prosecution argued that Murphy's use of force was disproportionate, noting that he armed himself with a knife, ran out of his house, and deliberately stabbed Ronan in the chest, with the blade penetrating 18cm into his chest cavity. The defense, however, argued that Murphy acted out of panic in the heat of the moment after his home was invaded by an intruder.
Daryl Smith (22) was jailed for seven years for arson and reckless discharge of a handgun during a feud between crime gangs. He was captured on CCTV setting a house on fire and later firing a handgun at another home. Smith's own home was later attacked in retaliation. The court heard that much of the evidence against him was found on his phone, including videos of firearms and cash. Smith's defense highlighted his difficult background and youth, arguing for a reduced sentence. The judge noted the crimes were part of a gang feud and sentenced Smith to seven years, taking into account his guilty pleas and potential for rehabilitation. Smith's co-accused, Jordan Domican, was previously sentenced to seven and a half years for facilitating the criminal organization.
A driver who crashed a car into an articulated lorry at high speed and walked away from the scene while his friend lay dead in the passenger seat was jailed for six and a half years. Jake Kelly, who was driving at 162km/h on a road with a 60km/h speed limit, was helped out of the car by the truck driver but then left the scene. The body of his friend, Ross Rice, was discovered hours later. The court heard that Kelly had no idea if Rice had survived the crash and later told gardai he thought Rice might have been in the fields nearby. The victim's family described the loss as devastating, with Rice's mother having died in 2020 and Rice having an 11-month-old baby with his partner. Judge Martina Baxter noted the tragic circumstances and the irony that Rice had been banned from driving, yet Kelly drove his car without a licence. Kelly was found to be remorseful and has been diagnosed with a major depressive disorder. Jake Kelly pleaded guilty.
An ex-accountant with nearly 18 years of service at a Dundalk arcade and bingo hall operator has claimed she was unfairly made redundant despite being told by her employer that the business was 'flying'. Siobhán McDonagh, who earned over €50,000 as a financial controller, is seeking nearly €40,000 in lost earnings through a complaint under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977. She alleges that her employer, James P McCann Ireland Ltd, provided no justification for her redundancy. The tribunal heard that the company, which once had interests in 12 businesses, is now in 'extreme financial difficulties' with only two arcades remaining in Dublin. Ms McDonagh said she was 'laughed at' when she asked about a redundancy lump sum, and was told to claim it from the State. She claimed the company was 'doing well' at the time of her dismissal. The company's managing director, Seoirse McCann, stated that the business was in financial trouble and that the redundancy was necessary to reduce costs. The case highlights the dispute over whether the redundancy was justified or unfair.
A serial car-jacker, Shane Ward, was jailed for three and a half years after being identified through a live-stream of his crimes. Ward, who has 63 previous convictions, committed two car-jackings in Dublin, with the second occurring shortly after his release on bail. During the first incident, Ward and his accomplices approached a couple in a parked car, claiming to be gardai, and stole their vehicle. The second incident involved a taxi driver on Dame Street, where Ward assaulted the driver and stole the vehicle. The court heard that Ward was clearly identifiable in the live-stream footage. The victims described the emotional and physical impact of the crimes, with the taxi driver suffering lasting trauma and financial loss. Ward's defense highlighted his difficult upbringing and current efforts in addiction counseling. The judge noted the severity of the offenses and imposed a five and a half year sentence with two years suspended on strict conditions. Shane Ward pleaded guilty.
Patrick Murphy, a father of four, is on trial for stabbing Jordan Ronan to death, claiming it was in self-defense. Prosecution barrister Patricia McLaughlin SC argued that Murphy used disproportionate force and took the law into his own hands. The defense, led by Ronan Kennedy SC, claimed Murphy acted out of fear for his family's safety after an intruder entered his home. The jury was shown CCTV footage showing Ronan entering Murphy's van and then his partner's BMW, where the fatal stabbing occurred. The prosecution emphasized that Murphy's actions were not justified, while the defense argued Murphy was protecting his family from a perceived threat. The judge instructed the jury on the possible verdicts, including murder, manslaughter, or not guilty, and asked them to deliberate on the intent and proportionality of Murphy's actions.
Patrick Murphy, a father of four, is on trial for stabbing Jordan Ronan to death, claiming it was in self-defense. Prosecution barrister Patricia McLaughlin SC argued that Murphy used disproportionate force and took the law into his own hands. The defense, led by Ronan Kennedy SC, claimed Murphy acted out of fear for his family's safety after an intruder entered his home. The jury was shown CCTV footage showing Ronan entering Murphy's van and then his partner's BMW, where the fatal stabbing occurred. The prosecution emphasized that Murphy's actions were not justified, while the defense argued Murphy was protecting his family from a perceived threat. The judge instructed the jury on the possible verdicts, including murder, manslaughter, or not guilty, and asked them to deliberate on the intent and proportionality of Murphy's actions.
A Dublin man, Austin Mangan, is on trial for the murder of his girlfriend, Maud Coffey, with psychiatrists differing on whether he qualifies for a not guilty by reason of insanity verdict. A defence psychiatrist testified that Mangan was suffering from a severe relapse of schizoaffective disorder and met the criteria for the insanity defence. However, a UK psychiatrist argued that while Mangan had a mental disorder, he was capable of refraining from killing. Mangan, who has a history of mental illness and multiple hospital admissions, told the psychiatrist he had stopped taking medication prior to the incident and was under the influence of alcohol. He claimed he believed his girlfriend was mocking him and that he heard Lucifer laughing at him. The psychiatrist concluded that Mangan was unable to refrain from committing the act, but the prosecution's expert disagreed. The trial continues with the court considering the expert testimonies.
The Court of Appeal has ruled that the combined sentences of 35 years imposed on a notorious rapist were justified, as the offences are at 'the highest level of gravity.' Michael Murray, who was found guilty in 2021 of making death threats against his lawyers and harassing his victim, had appealed the severity of his 16-year sentence. The court dismissed the appeal, stating that there were no mitigating factors and that the sentences were justified given Murray's re-victimisation of his rape victim, the attack on the lawyers involved, and his 'appalling criminal record.' Murray, who has 34 previous convictions, including those for common assault, carrying firearms, robbery, and aggravated burglary, was sentenced to nine years for the threat to one lawyer and seven years for the threat to another. The judge ordered that these sentences be served consecutively to each other, for an effective operative sentence of 16 years. The court emphasized that the sentences were necessary to ensure that the punishment was 'condign but proportionate' and that the totality principle was correctly applied. Michael Murray pleaded not guilty.
Kaide Fowler, a drug dealer who endured a 'sad life' marked by poverty and neglect, has been jailed for four and a half years for drug dealing and money laundering. Fowler, who has a history of drug use and criminality, admitted to selling heroin, cannabis, and cocaine and possessing large sums of cash believed to be from the proceeds of crime. His wife, Catriona Hyland, received a suspended sentence for her role in the drug-related activities. Fowler's defence highlighted his difficult upbringing, including drug use by his parents and significant neglect. Despite his previous convictions, the court acknowledged his efforts to rehabilitate, including being drug-free in prison and attending school. Judge Martin Nolan noted Fowler's long-standing drug-related convictions but emphasized the need for custodial sentences due to the seriousness of his crimes. Kaide Fowler pleaded guilty. Catriona Hyland pleaded guilty.
Lee Byrne and Sam Garvey, who committed a 'senseless and violent' robbery in Dublin, have been jailed for one year after reoffending despite being given a chance by a judge. Both pleaded guilty to the robbery, which involved a victim being attacked and robbed on Phibsborough Road. Judge Elva Duffy initially adjourned the case for 12 months, giving them an opportunity for rehabilitation, but after they reoffended, she imposed a custodial sentence. Byrne and Garvey were involved in assaults and criminal damage, with Byrne serving a two-year sentence and Garvey in custody until next May. The victim suffered serious injuries and continues to feel the emotional impact of the attack. Both men expressed remorse and sought to address their addiction issues, but the court ruled that their reoffending made a custodial sentence necessary. The case highlights the challenges of rehabilitation for individuals with substance abuse issues.
Derek Moore (AKA Hutch), a convicted killer with a long history of dangerous driving and drug use, was driving at 158km/h and under the influence of cannabis when he struck a Ukrainian grandmother, Valentyna Linck, in Dublin. Moore pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious harm and driving under the influence. The collision left Linck with severe injuries, including facial and head trauma, a stroke, and a brain bleed. She spent a month in a coma and requires ongoing rehabilitation. Moore's driving was described as 'completely outrageous' by the judge, who ordered a probation report and adjourned the case for further proceedings. Moore, who has 44 previous convictions, including manslaughter and assault, was disqualified from driving for five years at the time of the incident. The court heard that Moore was high on cannabis and had a history of drug use, which contributed to his reckless behavior. The victim's medical costs and loss of income were estimated at over €250,000.
Jason O'Driscoll, convicted of the murders of Anthony Burnett and Joseph Redmond in Co Louth in 2012, had his appeal reheard today before a reconstituted Court of Appeal panel. The matter was previously adjourned after it emerged that one of the original judges, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, had presided over O'Driscoll's 2017 trial. O'Driscoll, who pleaded not guilty and was sentenced to life imprisonment in October 2018, argues that the conviction is unsafe due to flawed expert vehicle identification evidence and a tweet from a prosecution expert's account. Defence counsel Seán Guerin contended that the evidence from Acuity Forensics lacked scientific validity and that the tweet, which congratulated the Gardaí on the conviction, acted as a "marketing tool" undermining the expert's independence. The prosecution, represented by Patrick Gageby SC, maintained that the vehicle identification was part of the circumstantial evidence and that the tweet did not indicate a lack of impartiality. The court has reserved judgment on the appeal.
A chef was sentenced to three years in prison after being caught with over half a million euros worth of cannabis. Lin Yan, 40, pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply in March 2025. Gardai received information from customs that a drugs detection dog had detected cannabis in a pallet. The pallet was delivered to an address in Palmerstown, but no one was there to receive it. Yan answered a call and signed for the delivery. Gardai kept him under surveillance and found cannabis in the pallet. Yan was arrested and the drugs were analyzed, revealing a total value of €571,000. Yan has no previous convictions and was employed as a chef in Ireland. His defense argued that he was on the lowest rung of the drug ladder and had been taken advantage of. The judge considered these factors and sentenced him to three years in prison.
A man was jailed for two years after being caught with nearly €400,000 worth of cannabis at Dublin Airport. Aidas Bauraitis, 25, pleaded guilty to importing cannabis for sale or supply in April 2025. Customs officers noticed Bauraitis acting suspiciously and found 19.9kg of cannabis in his bag. Bauraitis admitted collecting the bag in Bangkok and said he was in financial difficulty, supporting his family. His defense highlighted his cooperation, remorse, and lack of previous convictions. The judge noted the value of the drugs as an aggravating factor but considered Bauraitis's financial pressure and his position on the lowest rung of the drug ladder. He was given a six-year sentence with four years suspended. Bauraitis intends to return to Lithuania after his release.
A chronic drug addict with 245 previous convictions was jailed for four years after attempting to rob a shop with a knife. Carl Byrne, 37, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and possession of drugs for sale or supply. He entered a shop with another man, took items, and threatened staff with a knife. Gardai found drugs in his possession during a separate incident. Byrne's defense highlighted his long-term addiction and early guilty plea. The judge noted his extensive criminal history and chronic drug problem but considered his remorse and early plea. She sentenced him to three years and nine months for the attempted robbery and two concurrent sentences for drug possession, with the final nine months suspended for one year.
A judge has dismissed a charge of intimidation and begging against Nutu Rostas (27), who was accused of disturbing churchgoers during a Christmas service in south Dublin. The case was heard in Dún Laoghaire District Court, where Mr Rostas appeared charged with begging and obstructing pedestrians at the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour on 29 December, 2024. Garda witnesses testified that they arrived at the scene shortly after 11am and observed Mr Rostas near the church entrance with a cup, shouting something that could not be clearly heard. Some patrons reportedly avoided him as they entered the church. However, under cross-examination, the garda admitted he could not hear exactly what was said and acknowledged that people were able to move around Mr Rostas. He also stated that his perception of the accused's aggression was based on distant observations. Judge Anne Watkin ruled that the evidence did not meet the required standard to prove intimidation or obstruction, leading to the dismissal of the charge.
A tribunal hearing involving Aer Lingus pilot Declan McCabe, who was demoted from captain to first officer following an incident on 8 June 2023, has been adjourned to the new year by Adjudicator John Harraghy. McCabe is contesting statutory complaints brought under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, and the Payment of Wages Act 1997 at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). McCabe claims the incident, which involved a failure to link up with a navigation beacon on approach to Dublin airport, was a 'non-event' and that the use of the word 'apologies' by his first officer was a reflection of his 'manners' as a 'well-educated, posh Belvedere boy'. Aer Lingus denies the complaints and has argued that McCabe failed to submit a timely air safety report and provided 'inaccurate information' to air traffic control. McCabe alleges the demotion was part of a 'predetermined' process aimed at penalising him, linked to a 2011 dispute over fatigue. The matter was adjourned and will resume in the new year.
A fire drill delayed jury deliberations in the trial of a man who stabbed his father to death during a psychotic episode. Ross O'Rourke, 31, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to murdering his father. Psychiatrists agreed he was suffering from a mental disorder and met the criteria for the special verdict. O'Rourke believed his father was involved with criminals and the IRA and heard voices telling him to kill him. He stabbed his father 18 times. His defense described his father as a kind and warm-hearted man. The prosecution argued O'Rourke intended to kill his father but the psychiatrists concluded he was unable to understand the wrongfulness of his actions due to his mental state. The jury was told to return on Monday after the fire drill.
Ionut Danca has admitted to killing a Canadian tourist, Neno Dolmajian, in Dublin City Centre in July 2024 and has been allowed to remain on bail ahead of sentencing. Danca pleaded guilty to the unlawful killing of Dolmajian, who was assaulted on 23 June 2024 and died nine days later. His co-accused, Madalin Ghiuzan, pleaded guilty to assaulting Dolmajian. The Director of Public Prosecutions has accepted the pleas. Danca, a construction worker from Romania, had previously been charged with murder, while Ghiuzan had a manslaughter charge. It is expected that the murder and manslaughter charges will be dropped at the sentencing hearing. Both men have been on bail and have complied with all conditions. The case is listed for sentencing on 9 February, with the deceased's family invited to make statements to the court.
One of the getaway drivers involved in the Regency Hotel attack, during which Kinahan Cartel member David Byrne was killed, has suffered a stroke while in custody, a court has heard. Jason Bonney (55) and his co-accused Paul Murphy (64) were tried alongside Gerard 'The Monk' Hutch in 2022. Hutch was acquitted of the murder, but Bonney and Murphy were convicted of facilitating the murder by the rival Hutch criminal organisation. Their appeals against the convictions were dismissed in November, and they planned to appeal their sentences. Their cases were listed before the Court of Appeal, but Bonney's barrister informed the court that he had suffered a stroke in custody and requested a medical report from his treating consultant. Murphy's barrister stated that both men have been in custody since April 2023 and that their legal teams are seeking a hearing date for their sentence appeals. Ms Justice Caroline Costello noted that if Bonney's stroke was relevant to the case, information from the treating doctor was needed. Paul Murphy pleaded not guilty.
Josh Tierney, a 22-year-old soccer coach from Balbriggan, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply at an address in north Balbriggan on May 31, 2024. The prosecution alleged that gardai seized several bags of suspected cannabis, valued at €17,673, during a search warrant execution. Tierney admitted to possessing the drugs to pay a debt owed to a relative. Judge Jonathan Dumphy noted that while the case reached the custodial sentence threshold, exceptional circumstances allowed for a departure from the mandatory ten-year minimum. The judge considered aggravating factors, including the seriousness of the charge, Tierney's previous convictions, and a moderate risk of reoffending, alongside mitigating factors such as his early guilty plea and admissions. Testimonials described Tierney as a valuable member of Balbriggan Football Club. The court sentenced Tierney to two years and nine months in prison, suspending the final eighteen months for two years. Consequently, he will serve fifteen months in custody. Additionally, Tierney was placed under the supervision of probation services for two years post-release.
A man who set his ex-girlfriend's car on fire has been sentenced to sixteen months in prison. Kevin Kinsella (35) of Annesley Close, Ballybough, Dublin 3, pleaded guilty to one count of arson committed in the Summerhill area of Dublin on July 2, 2024. He has 21 previous convictions. Garda Shane Costello testified that Kinsella was standing beside the car with flames coming from it and had a lump hammer in his hand. The court heard that Kinsella had a strong smell of petrol on him and had singed and burned the hair on his arms and some of his clothing. The damage caused to the car was €4,500. The injured party's insurance paid €3,000 in compensation, and Kinsella was repaying the rest of the money. His defence highlighted his guilty plea, remorse, and contributions to society. Judge Martin Nolan noted that Kinsella has a strong work history and has contributed to his local area and community. He said that there was good mitigation in the case and sentenced him to sixteen months in prison.
Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced three defendants connected to a 'jugging' theft scheme. Margarita Maughan nee McDonald, 35, pleaded guilty to four money laundering offences and possession of proceeds of crime. The court heard that approximately €192,000 passed through accounts in her name between 2013 and 2020 while she claimed jobseekers allowance. Judge Orla Crowe described the activity as a 'family enterprise' where female relatives played a vital role in surveillance and transport. Acknowledging that Maughan was not the primary target of the investigation and accepting her sincere regrets, the judge imposed concurrent sentences of 18 months on each count, suspended in full on the condition that she keep the peace and be of good behaviour for three years. Separately, Michael McDonald, 24, pleaded guilty to possession of proceeds of crime, including a Ford Focus and designer goods. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a two-year suspended sentence. Additionally, Patrick McDonald was jailed in October 2024 after pleading guilty to possessing cash that was the proceeds of crime. The prosecution alleged that male relatives carried out the thefts while female relatives assisted with surveillance and logistics. None of the stolen money has been recovered.
At the Special Criminal Court in Dublin, seven men were sentenced for their roles in a conspiracy to import controlled drugs between February 27th and March 14th, 2024, contrary to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. All defendants pleaded guilty to the charges. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, determined that the group had engaged in a serious conspiracy involving extensive planning and reconnaissance in west Cork. The judge noted the defendants had underestimated local communities and law enforcement. The headline sentence of 18 years was reduced by one-third to reflect the guilty pleas. Kiumaars Ghabiri, an Iranian national resident in the Netherlands, along with Spanish nationals Mario Angel Del Rio Sanz and Anuar Rahui Chairi, who remained on land, each received 11 years imprisonment. Spanish national Angel Serran Padilla, who took to sea, was also sentenced to 11 years. His countryman Pedro Pablo Ojeda Ortega received 10 years. Juan Antonio Gallardo Barroso and Serbian national Aleksander Milic, the youngest of the group, were each sentenced to eight years. The combined sentences total 70 years.
The Court of Appeal has adjourned sentencing appeals for two defendants convicted of murder while under 18, following a Supreme Court ruling restricting life sentences for child offenders. In the first case, a 19-year-old man was found guilty by a jury in 2022 of murdering Urantsetseg Tserendorj in Dublin in 2021, after pleading guilty to manslaughter. His counsel argued the case lacked the 'exceptional circumstances' required for a life sentence, citing lack of premeditation. The DPP countered that the attack was intentional and brutal. In the second case, a defendant who was four months shy of 18 pleaded guilty in 2020 to the murder of Cameron Blair in Cork. His lawyer argued his immaturity and lack of planning precluded a life sentence, while the DPP highlighted the use of a large knife. The Supreme Court previously ruled that life sentences for children are only appropriate in exceptional cases and that part-suspended sentences are permissible if detention continues past age 18. The three-judge court reserved judgment in both matters, meaning the appeals were adjourned rather than concluded.
A money mule who allowed scammers to channel almost €3,000 through his Revolut account during two "smishing" frauds has been directed to the Restorative Justice Programme. Josh Pope (22) of Priorsgate, Tallaght, Dublin 24, pleaded guilty to two counts of engaging in handling the proceeds of criminal conduct. The court heard that two separate "smishing" scams in April 2023 resulted in €2,946 being lodged into Pope's Revolut account. One injured party lost €711, while a second victim lost €2,235 after receiving fraudulent text messages and supplying their bank details. Pope had been offered €200 to allow his account to be used and had shown "sympathy" for the victims in his victim impact statement. He is currently studying culinary arts at Maynooth and has no previous convictions. Judge Karen Dowling directed Pope to engage with the Restorative Justice Programme and adjourned the matter to 3 April for an updated report, when the matter is expected to be finalised.
A 'blatant' thief who stole from the same Circle K garage 27 times in six months has been placed on probation at Dún Laoghaire District Court. Andrew Connors (40), of Kilbogget Grove, Cabinteely, pleaded guilty to the 27 theft offences, committed between June and late November at Circle K on the N11 in Cabinteely, Dublin 18. All charges were brought under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud) Offences Act 2001. The court heard Connors repeatedly targeted the Circle K premises, stealing alcohol on almost every occasion. Items taken included cans of Guinness, Smirnoff Ice, Malibu, Captain Morgan and Jameson Ginger. His behaviour was described as 'pretty blatant', often walking out with cans or bottles before staff realised what had happened, without any confrontation. Judge Anne Watkin noted that garages 'are easier targets' for this type of offending. Connors is currently serving a six-month sentence imposed by Judge Martin Nolan in the Circuit Criminal Court following a breach that led to the reactivation of a suspended sentence.