Gerald McCormick (39) of Clonee, Dublin 15, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the false imprisonment of a victim at an address in Ongar, Dublin 15, on July 21, 2023. Judge Ronan Munro at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court found McCormick guilty of false imprisonment and a separate offence committed at the direction of, for the benefit of, or in association with a criminal organisation. The judge described the incident as designed to instil terror and assert dominance, noting McCormick's role involved supervision and reporting from a second car. No portion of the sentence was suspended, and it was backdated to when McCormick entered custody. The court acknowledged McCormick's previous convictions and his status as being on the run prior to the offence. In a related matter, co-accused Jamie Geoghegan (28) of Clondalkin, Dublin, received a custodial sentence of six and a half years in March 2024. Geoghegan pleaded guilty to one count of assault causing harm and one count of false imprisonment. The victim suffered multiple stab wounds, fractures to his tibia and wrists, and cuts to his leg during the incident. The judge commended Gardaí for their rapid detection and professional investigation of the complex case.
A grieving father, Daniel Hutchinson, was jailed for six and a half years after using a champagne bottle to strike a man 12 times on the head and face. The incident occurred during a three-day binge following the death of Hutchinson's 10-year-old child. Hutchinson pleaded guilty to one count of assault causing harm. The court heard that the victim was attacked on North Earl Street and woke up in Beaumont Hospital surrounded by his family. CCTV footage showed Hutchinson striking the victim while he lay on the ground. Hutchinson, who had 10 previous convictions, was unable to remember the incident due to intoxication. The injured man suffered multiple fractures, a brain bleed, and required surgery. He now suffers from anxiety and panic attacks and can no longer work in his trade. Hutchinson's solicitor said he offers a profound apology and has been in custody since the offence.
The High Court adjourned a dispute between Muhammad Amjad and Imtiaz Khan, principal of IMK Law and IMK Property Investment Ltd, to October. Mr Justice O'Connell accepted an undertaking by Mr Cormack SC for non-contact between any party, family member, or associate, either directly or indirectly. The hearing addressed concerns raised by the plaintiff regarding a WhatsApp message sent by consultant Kamal Shah, who stated the contact was personal and unrelated to the case. The court also noted that IMK Law removed photographs from its website due to adverse publicity. Mr Amjad alleged an unlawful eviction, claiming Mr Khan arrived at the property in a threatening manner with eight individuals and a hammer. Mr Khan denied these allegations, stating he attended for a peaceful handover following a lease termination notice and that the property required extensive repairs. The parties had settled the dispute last week, but the matter returned to court due to concerns over potential interference. The judge accepted the non-contact undertaking and adjourned the proceedings.
A former seamstress at a youth fashion academy, Sharon Darcy, has won €1,000 in a constructive dismissal claim against Project Fashion Ltd. She alleged the workplace was toxic, with unsafe conditions for children and inadequate staff training. Darcy claimed she was forced to dismount a machine needle to free a child whose finger was impaled and faced job stress due to high staff turnover and poor working conditions. Despite a pay increase offer, she resigned after feeling betrayed when the company later retracted the promise. The tribunal found her case 'very marginal' but awarded her the sum, citing cumulative issues as persuasive. The company denied the allegations, with founder Paul Keeley stating he did not recall discussions about child safety.
A judge has described it as 'outrageous' that solicitors who had left the criminal legal aid panel instructed another solicitor not to represent their client at a contested bail hearing. Patrick Daly (57) of Burton Park, Leopardstown Road, Dublin 18, appeared in custody before Dún Laoghaire District Court, where gardaí objected to bail on the grounds that he was a flight risk. Mr Daly faces five charges, including failing to appear in court, two counts of being intoxicated in a public place, refusing to provide his name and address to a garda, and causing €80 worth of criminal damage by urinating in the custody area at Dundrum Garda Station. Judge Watkin asked solicitor Andrew Vallely, who was present in court, to speak to the accused and consider representing him for the bail application. Mr Vallely initially told the court that he was reluctant to step in because the accused was already represented by another solicitors' firm.
Judge Anne Watkin discussed the challenge of balancing fairness with public safety as she dealt with a case where the accused had no legal representation due to ongoing industrial action by solicitors. The case involved Felipe Gonzalez Tadilha Nunez (26) of Mount Pleasant Avenue Lower, Dublin 6, who was accused of throwing two bags of suspected drugs into the Grand Canal and fleeing from gardaí. He appeared in custody before Dún Laoghaire District Court, charged with obstructing Garda Lee McEnroe under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Judge Watkin noted that Nunez had no solicitor because his was participating in the industrial action over criminal legal aid fees. She stated that she had to be more lenient in his case but also emphasized the need to ensure dangerous individuals were not released onto the streets. Nunez was granted bail on his own bond, subject to daily check-ins at Rathmines Garda station, surrendering his passport, and not applying for other travel documents. The court warned that failure to comply with these conditions would result in custody.
Graham Carey, a truck driver, will be sentenced for incitement to hatred after a livestream in which he referred to refugees as 'rape-ugees' and threatened to throw their 'bleeding corpses into the sea'. The incident followed a local allegation of sexual assault, which was later found to involve a local man. Carey's livestream led to anti-migrant protests and was recorded and shared online. He was found guilty of incitement to hatred and distribution of a recording likely to stir up hatred. During the trial, Carey claimed the alleged assault was set up to target him and that he was a 'political prisoner'. The prosecution highlighted the serious nature of his remarks and the impact on the community. Carey has previous convictions for driving offenses and threatening behavior. The unnamed woman pleaded not guilty.
The Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal against sentence by three unnamed appellants, upholding their convictions for gang rape. The court ruled that the sentences imposed by Mr Justice David Keane were not excessive and, given the circumstances, were lenient. The appellants, two of whom were 17 and one 18 at the time of the January 2016 offence, lured a vulnerable teenager to a beach in Dublin where they took turns raping her before abandoning her in an isolated location. Following a second trial in March 2022, the jury convicted all three of rape after the first trial resulted in a hung jury. The sentencing judge identified a notional adult headline sentence of 15 years but reduced it to ten years, accounting for the youth of two appellants and the mild intellectual disability of the third. Appellant A was sentenced to nine years, Appellant B to nine and a half years, and Appellant C to ten years. Senior counsel for the appellants argued the sentences were too high given their youth and mitigating factors, while the DPP urged the court to refuse the appeal, highlighting the significant planning and targeting of the victim. Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, delivering the judgment, stated that gang rape falls into the highest category of offending where youth does not diminish moral culpability. He affirmed that the refusal to reduce the headline sentence was not open to criticism and that the sentences must be considered lenient. The court also ordered that the appellants remain anonymised in reporting due to their ages at the time of the offence.
A man who was convicted of using threatening or abusive behaviour at the GPO in Dublin has withdrawn his appeal, telling a court that he had other convictions and that it "wouldn't make a difference". Gerry Carrick (52), who is currently serving a jail sentence for a separate matter, told the court that he wished to withdraw the appeal. Carrick, with an address in Knowth Court, Poppintree, Dublin 11, was convicted in the District Court of using threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour or words in a public place on January 21, 2026 at the GPO on O'Connell Street, contrary to section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994. He was sentenced to two months imprisonment. Today, Carrick told the District Court Appeals Court that he had other convictions and that it "wouldn't make a difference". Carrick's case was only listed for mention today, not for hearing. Judge Ronan Munro told him that by striking out the appeal, Carrick would begin serving his sentence while in custody.
Derek Boyd was found guilty of murder by a Central Criminal Court jury after fatally stabbing Mark Carroll in his north Dublin home. The prosecution argued that Boyd's actions were not in self-defense, and the jury rejected the defense's claim that Carroll had returned to the house to make peace. Boyd fled to Scotland shortly after the killing and later returned to Ireland to surrender. The court heard that Boyd had previously been convicted of manslaughter for the death of his sister and was on a suspended sentence at the time of the murder. Judge Melanie Greally will sentence Boyd to life imprisonment, with the trial set to continue on July 28. The case also involved Boyd's girlfriend, Chantelle Harcourt, who was accused of obstructing the prosecution. The jury was unable to reach a verdict on the assault charge against Boyd and Harcourt, but they unanimously found Boyd guilty of murder. Chantelle Harcourt pleaded not guilty. Derek Boyd pleaded not guilty.
Dozens of criminal cases were adjourned in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court due to a dispute between defense solicitors and the Government over a new legal aid payment model. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned nearly 50 cases, including first appearances, pleas, and sentences, to the next court term in October. The dispute centers on a new payment scheme that provides a single payment of €520 per client, as opposed to the previous system where solicitors received payments for each court appearance. The Department of Justice claims the new scheme will reduce abuse of the system and the number of adjournments. Solicitors are protesting the change, and some accused individuals were in custody while others were on bail. Trials that were ongoing continued without disruption. The unnamed accused pleaded guilty.
The sentencing hearing for Ross Deegan, who assaulted broadcaster Brendan Courtney, has been adjourned to allow for the preparation of an updated probation report. Deegan, 22, of An Riasc, Finglas, pleaded guilty to assaulting Mr Courtney on February 27, 2025, at Usher's Quay in Dublin. The incident occurred when Mr Courtney was walking home along the quays around 9.30pm. He approached a car after believing the occupants were addressing him, only to be assaulted by Deegan and a co-accused. Mr Courtney sustained a concussion and a fracture to his eye socket and was hospitalized the following day. Judge Martina Baxter ordered the preparation of a probation report and remanded Deegan on continuing bail. The judge requested that the probation officer review CCTV footage of the incident. The court viewed footage showing Deegan running at Mr Courtney and punching him multiple times. The co-accused is also before the courts. Deegan voluntarily contacted gardai on March 5, 2025, to admit his involvement in the assault. The case has been adjourned to October.
A Bulgarian national, Elizaveta Vasileva, stole €11,000 from a heavily pregnant woman just one week after arriving in Ireland. The victim had withdrawn the money to fund the birth of her child in Romania. Vasileva followed the woman out of the bank and stole the envelope containing the cash. Passersby intervened, leading to Vasileva's citizen's arrest. She claimed she found the envelope on the floor and intended to return it. Vasileva pleaded guilty to theft and was sentenced to nine months in prison. The court acknowledged her guilty plea and the mitigating factors, including her psychological difficulties and the fact that she was a foreign national. The victim suffered a miscarriage and required hospitalization after the incident, which caused her significant stress.
Patrick Maughan, a 27-year-old with a history of violent crimes including rape and sexual assault, was sentenced to an additional two years in custody for stealing a mobile phone during a robbery in Terenure. The victim, a 64-year-old care assistant, was attacked by Maughan and his accomplice, who later fled the scene. The phone was later recovered from Maughan, who was found in a critical condition at the police station. The court considered the severity of the attack, the impact on the victim, and Maughan's extensive criminal record. The judge noted that the sentence would run consecutive to Maughan's existing 13-year sentence. The victim described the lasting physical and emotional effects of the assault, including ongoing pain and a diminished sense of security. Patrick Maughan pleaded guilty.
Anthony Cooney, a 38-year-old chronic drug addict, was jailed for nine and a half years for two violent car hijackings. During the first incident, Cooney held a knife to the throat of a 70-year-old woman and threatened to kill her. In the second, he used a fork to threaten a couple, stabbing the driver and demanding money. The stolen car was later involved in a collision with a commercial van, causing significant damage. Cooney was arrested at the scene and was too intoxicated to be interviewed. He later admitted to the hijacking and apologized. The judge noted the severity of the offenses and the trauma inflicted on the victims, emphasizing that Cooney's actions were deplorable and required a long prison sentence. Cooney was also disqualified from driving for eight years.
A 27-year-old man, Cal Murphy, who was accused of driving with cannabis in his system, had his case dismissed on appeal. Judge Ronan Munro decided to dismiss the charge against Mr Murphy at the District Court Appeals Court, but commended the prosecuting garda for his actions. Mr Murphy was previously convicted in the District Court of driving while having a quantity of cannabis in his system, equal or greater than the specified amount, under section 4(1)(a) of the Road Traffic Act 2010. He received a community service order of 240 hours and a four-year driving disqualification. He later appealed his conviction. Garda Ian Galvin testified that he stopped Mr Murphy's Audi A3 on Charlemont Street, Dublin 2, on December 13, 2023, after detecting the smell of cannabis and finding a grinder in the car. A roadside oral fluid test indicated the presence of cannabis, and a blood sample later showed levels of 63.1ng/ml of cannabis metabolite.
Derek Boyd, 31, of Finglas, Dublin 11, and Chantelle Harcourt, 34, of Darndale, Dublin 17, are currently on trial at the Central Criminal Court. Boyd has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mark Carroll, 34, at his home on June 9, 2024, and to assaulting Megan Rock. Harcourt has pleaded not guilty to impeding the apprehension or prosecution of the person who committed the murder. The jury, comprising seven men and five women, began deliberating on Monday afternoon and has spent five hours over two days in the jury room. On Monday evening, the foreman reported that the jury had not reached a verdict on any of the three counts. Ms Justice Melanie Greally adjourned the deliberations, instructing the jurors to return to court at 10.30am the following morning. In her charge, the judge warned the jury against using Boyd's previous conviction for the manslaughter of his sister to infer a propensity for violence, labeling such reasoning impermissible. She clarified that this prior conviction, for which Boyd was sentenced to five years with three suspended, may only be considered if relevant to the evidence, such as his state of mind or flight from the jurisdiction. The judge outlined the legal framework for self-defense under the Criminal Law (Defence and the Dwelling) Act 2011, emphasizing the requirement for proportionate force. The jury may return verdicts of guilty of murder, not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter, or not guilty for Boyd, and guilty or not guilty for Harcourt.
A prisoner who attempted to shoot Gerry the Monk's brother has been sentenced for possessing drugs in prison. Michael Carroll, serving a 22-year sentence for attempted murder, was jailed for two counts of possessing cannabis and heroin for supply in his cell. The drugs, concealed between his legs, had a combined value of €3,720. Carroll, who has 54 previous convictions, claimed the drugs did not belong to him and were held for others due to a drug debt. He has completed violence prevention courses and is involved in restorative justice. Judge Orla Crowe noted the egregious nature of the offence and the high number of previous convictions. She reduced the headline sentence of three years to two years, taking mitigating factors into account. Carroll's current release date is in 2038. Michael Carroll pleaded guilty.
The Court of Appeal declared Osgur Breatnach's 1978 conviction for the Sallins mail train robbery a miscarriage of justice. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, sitting with Mr Justice John Edwards and Mr Justice Paul Burns, granted the certificate based on Breatnach's asserted factual innocence and a newly discovered fact regarding John Fitzpatrick's alibi. The Director of Public Prosecutions did not dispute that Fitzpatrick's alibi constituted a newly discovered fact. Breatnach, who was originally sentenced to 12 years in prison by the Special Criminal Court, had his conviction quashed in 1980 after the Court of Criminal Appeal ruled his confession was obtained under oppression. He spent 18 months in custody before release. In his affidavit, Breatnach stated he had "no hand, act or part" in the robbery, a claim the DPP did not contest. Counsel Patrick Gageby SC argued that Fitzpatrick's alibi, which was never tested in court because Fitzpatrick disappeared before being charged, cast substantial doubt on all related convictions. The court found the threshold for a miscarriage of justice certificate was met. Mr Justice Edwards ordered that costs follow the event, as the applicant was completely successful. Breatnach, speaking outside court, described himself and the other "Sallins Men" as victims of serious crimes and renewed his call for an independent public inquiry into their treatment.
Ibrahim Ahmed Gharib, a violent rapist who was released from a 10-year sentence in 2024, raped another woman just a year later. Gharib was found guilty of raping and sexually assaulting Christina Foley in a builders' shed in Dublin. The victim was arrested while trying to report the incident at a garda station and later suffered from anxiety and trauma. Gharib had previously been jailed for 10 years in 2018 for raping a student. The court heard that Gharib had a history of criminal behaviour and was released in January 2024. The victim, who waived her anonymity, expressed the impact of the crime on her life and thanked the gardaí and legal team for their support. Gharib's defence argued that he did not accept the verdict but acknowledged the victim's vindication. The court will sentence Gharib later this month.
A 21-year-old man accused of breaching a barring order appeared in Tallaght District Court by video link from Cloverhill Prison. He claimed that a GP had not referred him for a psychiatric assessment, stating that his case was not unique enough. The judge ordered that the assessment be carried out, emphasizing that court directions must be followed. The defendant's mother was in court and expressed concern about her son's mental health, stating that medication was not sufficient. She told her son to keep his head down and do his bit, saying she was doing her job as a mum. The judge remanded the man in custody until July 27 to allow the psychiatric report to be completed. The case highlights the importance of following court orders and the challenges faced by families in accessing appropriate medical care for their loved ones.
The defence for Derek Boyd's girlfriend, Chantelle Harcourt, argued that there is no evidence she was aware of the severity of the injury to the deceased, Mark Carroll, when she gave a statement to gardai. Harcourt faces charges of impeding Boyd's prosecution, with the prosecution claiming she knew about the events and lied to gardai. Boyd testified that he used a knife in self-defence after Carroll threatened him, but the prosecution claims it was a premeditated attack. Defence counsel John Byrne SC stated that lying to gardai is not a crime unless it impedes the arrest of the principal offender. He argued that there was no evidence Harcourt witnessed the altercation or knew the extent of the injury. The defence also highlighted CCTV footage supporting Harcourt's claim that she was upstairs during the incident. Byrne questioned the prosecution's assertion that Harcourt and Boyd conspired to cover up the events, stating there was no evidence of this. He concluded that the jury should acquit Harcourt if they could not be satisfied she was trying to frustrate gardai's actions. Chantelle Harcourt pleaded not guilty. Derek Boyd pleaded not guilty.
Patrick Fishy' Fitzgerald, 49, withdrew his appeal against a seven-year prison sentence at the Court of Appeal after judges warned him of the full range of their powers. The appeal concerned a sentence handed down in July 2025 by Ms Justice Eileen Creedon at the Central Criminal Court. Fitzgerald had pleaded guilty to facilitating a serious offence for a criminal organisation, specifically providing getaway vehicles for the attempted murder of Gary Carey in November 2021. The court found his assistance crucial to the gang's actions. Ms Justice Creedon set a headline sentence of 12 years, reduced to nine years after mitigation, with the final two years suspended subject to conditions. This term was ordered to run consecutively to a separate seven-and-a-half-year sentence Fitzgerald was already serving for aggravated burglary, in which he was part of a gang that terrorised a family, including a six-year-old child. During the appeal hearing, Mr Justice McCarthy, sitting with Ms Justice Tara Burns and Mr Justice Alexander Owens, noted the panel believed a sufficient reduction had already been given and highlighted the risk regarding the suspended portion. Following advice from senior counsel Bernard Condon, Fitzgerald instructed his lawyer to seek permission to withdraw the appeal. The court granted the application, describing Fitzgerald's decision as prudent given the possibility of an unfavourable intervention. The matter was adjourned to allow for the withdrawal process, and the original sentence remains in effect.
The High Court has rejected arguments against the extradition of Jonathan Gill to Northern Ireland to face a murder charge related to the killing of Robbie Lawlor. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath did not issue an extradition order but remanded Gill in custody until July 29. Gill is accused of participating in a joint enterprise to murder Lawlor in 2020 as part of a gang feud. His lawyers argued that the UK courts would not provide the same protections as the Court of Justice of the European Union regarding evidence from the Encrochat system. However, the judge said the UK legal system would ensure a fair trial. Gill remains in custody, having previously been denied bail. The court will consider the extradition order after Gill and his legal team have time to review the judgment.
Erin Nugent, a veteran manager at HIV Ireland, is facing disciplinary action after being accused of bullying and transphobia by a colleague, Rebecca de Havilland. Nugent is also pursuing a complaint under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, alleging she was penalised for raising concerns about the use of public funds. The tribunal heard that Nugent questioned de Havilland's worth in the organisation and made insensitive remarks about her health status. De Havilland, a 68-year-old trans woman living with HIV since 1987, described the workplace environment as hostile and the meetings as battles. The investigation found allegations against Nugent, including questioning de Havilland's health and worth. HIV Ireland's former treasurer, Hugh Nolan, stated that an investigation recommended disciplinary action. The case has been adjourned to the autumn, with Nugent expected to give her evidence. The tribunal will consider whether Nugent's actions were discriminatory or bullying.
A teenager with 30 previous convictions who was caught on CCTV stamping on an unidentified man's head and using a bicycle as a weapon during a group attack has been jailed. Adam Farrell pleaded guilty to assaulting an unknown person with intent to cause bodily harm. The court heard that the victim left the scene after the assault and gardai have been unable to identify him. Farrell's defense highlighted his difficult background, including a leg injury and the loss of an older brother. The judge noted the viciousness of the attack and sentenced Farrell to two and a half years' imprisonment, with the final 12 months suspended. The ruling underscores the seriousness of the assault and the need for accountability, despite the lack of a formal complaint from the victim.
A former teenager with 81 previous convictions who was on bail when he punched a homeless man in a 'cowardly, savage attack', causing serious injuries, has been jailed for six years. Shane Murray, then 19, assaulted Damien Merrigan on a Dublin street three years ago but fled the country after being identified. Mr Merrigan, who was homeless, died in July 2025. The court heard that major force was required to fracture the skull and facial bones. Murray pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm in 2023. Judge Jonathan Dunphy noted the unprovoked nature of the attack and that the victim was vulnerable. The judge inferred that an implement was used, and that Murray left the scene, highlighting a disregard for the victim and the criminal justice system. The judge accepted Murray's expression of remorse and suspended the final two years of the eight-year sentence on strict conditions. Murray has a difficult background, including addiction issues and a history of drug offences.
A Dublin teenager who was the driver of a car involved in a spate of burglaries in Carlow almost two years ago has been jailed for two years. The 18-year-old pleaded guilty to burglary and criminal damage at a housing estate in Killerig, Tullow, and other incidents. He has a number of previous convictions, including many related to stealing and driving stolen cars. The court heard that the teenager had a difficult upbringing, with his father dying when he was a toddler and his mother being abusive. Judge Mary Morrissey acknowledged his difficult background and noted that he had pleaded guilty, which saved the victims from having to give evidence. She set concurrent sentences totalling 36 months and suspended the final 12 months on strict conditions, including engaging with the Probation Service and mental health services. The judge wished him the best of luck and acknowledged his potential.
A man accused of breaching a protection order by repeatedly slapping his wife on the back of the head has been granted bail after a judge found there was no evidence that he was likely to intimidate her. The man, in his 40s, appeared before Judge Anne Watkin at Dún Laoghaire District Court charged with breaching the order. It is alleged that he slapped his wife a number of times on the back of the head and shouted at her, putting her in fear. Garda Michael Grennan objected to bail, but Judge Watkin granted it, noting that the complainant could have declined to attend for any number of reasons. The conditions of bail include that the accused must reside at a new address, notify gardaí of any change, provide them with his phone number, and stay away from the family home. He was also ordered to have no contact with the applicant. The case was adjourned for eight weeks for disclosure, and legal aid was granted to the defence solicitor.
A separated husband was spared a conviction despite allegations that he threatened to throw his former wife out of a window. The court decided against conviction after hearing that the man would not be able to travel to the US for work if he had a criminal record. The woman alleged that the defendant repeatedly pressured her to drop the protection order and threatened to throw her out the window. However, the court found that a conviction would have serious consequences for the defendant's livelihood, as he worked in a role closely connected with US companies. Judge Derek Cooney noted that the defendant had no previous convictions and that both parties had moved on. He warned that nothing like this should ever happen again and struck out the case, leaving the man without a recorded conviction. The unnamed accused pleaded not guilty.
A serial offender who engaged in a spree of burglaries, ransacking office properties and stealing electronic goods, has been jailed for three and a half years. Mark Byrne, 41, had more than 150 previous convictions when he burgled a number of unoccupied premises in Dublin city centre. He was seen on CCTV footage entering buildings and returning with accomplices to steal more goods. Patrick Higgins and Nikita Ring were also before the court for sentencing in relation to burglaries they committed with Byrne. Byrne pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary, while Higgins and Ring pleaded guilty to their respective offences. The court heard that Byrne and his accomplices caused significant damage to the businesses involved. Judge Martin Nolan jailed Byrne for 51 months, with the final nine months suspended on conditions. Higgins was jailed for 21 months, and Ring received two years with the final six months suspended. The court heard that Byrne has a difficult past with addiction issues and has been in custody since July 2025.
A robber who drove his car at a man, breaking his leg, has been jailed for two years for this and for robbing a car in a separate incident. Evan Campbell, 27, was jailed for the 2023 offences, with Judge Jonathan Dunphy noting he has since made excellent progress in his rehabilitation. The court heard that Campbell drove his car at a man, pushing him against a fence and breaking his leg. The co-accused stole the man's wallet, bank cards, and €150 in cash. Campbell later committed another robbery, where he and two others argued over the value of a car and made off in the victim's car, which had to be written off. Campbell pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery and has 40 previous convictions. Aoife O'Leary BL, defending, said her client committed the offences at a time when his drug addiction was spiralling and his mental health was suffering. Judge Dunphy noted that Campbell has achieved a great deal towards rehabilitation and has not re-offended since 2023.
The trial of Derek Boyd, 31, and Chantelle Harcourt, 34, continues before the Central Criminal Court. Mr Boyd has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mark Carroll, 34, at his home in Finglas on June 9, 2024, and to assaulting Megan Rock. Ms Harcourt has pleaded not guilty to an offence of impeding the apprehension or prosecution of a person. In closing submissions, the prosecution alleged that Mr Boyd carried out a determined, murderous attack on Mr Carroll, who had returned to the house to resolve a previous row. The defence argued that Mr Boyd acted out of instinct to protect himself against a trespasser who was threatening him. The jury heard that Mr Boyd was serving the suspended portion of a sentence for the manslaughter of his sister at the time of the alleged offence. The defence counsel suggested that Mr Boyd's subsequent departure to the UK was motivated by the threat of returning to prison for that prior conviction. The trial is ongoing and has not been finalised; it is scheduled to continue on Monday before Ms Justice Melanie Greally and a jury.
A Somalian woman, Muna Sharif (47), has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for assisting a fellow national in entering Ireland illegally. Sharif, who works as a healthcare assistant in Birmingham, UK, pleaded guilty to providing a fraudulent Swedish passport and helping Asia Mohammad Ahmed enter the country. The court heard that Sharif and Ahmed had travelled from Düsseldorf, Germany, but disembarked separately at Dublin Airport. Ahmed presented a passport with a mismatched photo and claimed asylum, while Sharif was observed in the baggage hall and seen taking a suitcase with a name matching the passport. Records showed that Sharif had booked and paid for Ahmed's flight using a bank card found on her at her arrest. A WhatsApp thread between Sharif and the genuine owner of the passport was also discovered, in which Sharif offered 1,500 Swedish Krona for its use. Sharif claimed she was helping her sister, Ahmed, escape a forced marriage in Somalia, but there was no DNA evidence to support this.
The High Court adjourned a dispute between tenant Muhammad Amjad and landlord Imtiaz Khan, principal of IMK Property Investment Ltd, following a written settlement agreement. Mr Justice Micheál O'Connell remarked that "sanity has broken out" after hours of negotiation, agreeing to adjourn the matter to October. The case, which was expected to last four days, involved allegations by Mr Amjad that he was threatened with a hammer and explicit threats to strike him if he did not vacate the property within three minutes during an attempted eviction in February. Mr Amjad claimed his children were traumatised and that the lease termination notice was invalid. Mr Khan and IMK Property denied all wrongdoing, stating the claims were "extremely serious and entirely untrue." They submitted that the tenancy was terminated due to the extensive nature of repairs required for safety and welfare reasons, citing non-compliance with regulations found by Fingal County Council. Mr Khan denied carrying a hammer or issuing threats, noting no incident was reported to gardaí. The judge had previously urged both sides to settle, warning of reputational damage. Outside court, Mr Amjad's solicitor stated he was "delighted" with the settlement. The matter was adjourned, not concluded.
Derek Boyd, 31, took the stand at his murder trial before Ms Justice Melanie Greally. He admitted to previously pleading guilty to his sister's manslaughter and stated he was serving part of that suspended sentence when the incident occurred. Boyd pleaded not guilty to murdering Mark Carroll, 34, at his home in Finglas on June 9, 2024, and to assaulting Megan Rock. His partner, Chantelle Harcourt, 34, pleaded not guilty to impeding the apprehension of the offender. Boyd testified that he picked up a knife to deter Carroll, who he alleged threatened to kill him, and swung it during a struggle without intent to injure. Prosecution counsel Sean Guerin SC cross-examined Boyd on his prior firearm-related manslaughter conviction and alleged he exaggerated Carroll's threats. The judge directed a not guilty verdict on the count of threatening to kill Megan Rock due to insufficient evidence. The trial continues tomorrow.
A violent criminal, Colm Carroll, has been jailed for four years after pleading guilty to two counts of assault causing harm to his then partner. Despite his guilty plea, Carroll disputed the facts of the case and claimed he also received injuries during the incident. Judge Sheahan described the attack as 'horrific' and noted that the victim remains deeply traumatised. The court considered aggravating factors, including Carroll's previous convictions, his being on bail at the time, and the incident occurring within an intimate relationship. The judge acknowledged Carroll's genuine remorse and took into account his guilty plea, family support, and efforts to address his addiction. A five-year sentence was imposed, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions. The court directed Probation Services to engage with Carroll before his release to ensure he continues addressing his addiction. The incident involved Carroll kicking and punching his partner while demanding money, leading to severe injuries and long-term trauma for the victim.
A woman with 218 previous convictions, including 15 for breaching domestic violence orders, has been jailed for two months after breaching a barring order and refusing to leave her mother's home. The woman, who is in her 40s, pleaded guilty to breaching the order at her mother's south Dublin home on June 29. The case was heard in camera, with the defendant's mother having obtained the barring order in October 2025 after previous assaults. The woman remained at her mother's home for three days, during which her mother saw her drinking and became concerned about potential violence. The court heard that the woman had been working full-time and was sober for nine months before the breach. However, her mental health deteriorated after she stopped taking her prescribed medication and began drinking again. Judge Anne Watkin noted the woman's 16th breach of a domestic violence order and sentenced her to two months in prison, taking into account her guilty plea and the time already spent in custody.
Derek Boyd, 31, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mark Carroll, 34, at a Finglas home on June 9, 2024, and to threatening and assaulting Megan Rock. His partner, Chantelle Harcourt, 34, pleaded not guilty to impeding the prosecution of an arrestable offence. The Central Criminal Court trial heard that Boyd was serving a suspended sentence for the 2022 manslaughter of his sister, Sandra Boyd, and unlawful possession of a firearm. He received a four-year sentence for manslaughter, with the final two years suspended, and a concurrent five-year sentence for firearm offences, with the final three years suspended. The court noted he was under active supervision when Carroll died. The prosecution alleges Boyd stabbed Carroll with intent to kill or cause serious harm. Boyd claimed self-defence, stating Carroll lunged at him. Evidence detailed Carroll's history, including a guilty plea to assaulting Rock in Ashbourne, Co Meath, where she was found bruised and shaking, and a pending charge for assaulting a man in Dublin 7 in 2022. The trial continues before Ms Justice Melanie Greally.
A worker, Gary Doyle, has won €500 in compensation after his employer, Valeo Foods, delayed paying his wages to a suspended bank account. Doyle, a night-shift general operative, encountered banking difficulties in 2025 and requested cash payments, which were refused. His wages were sent to the suspended account, leading to serious financial hardship. The Workplace Relations Commission ruled that Valeo Foods breached the Payment of Wages Act 1991 by waiting for the bank to return the funds before paying his back wages. Doyle was entitled to receive his wages in one lump sum when he provided new account details, but the delay caused significant financial strain. The adjudicator awarded €500 in compensation for the delay in paying his wages for weeks 40 to 42. The employer argued that cash payments were not feasible, but the court accepted that the wages should have been paid promptly upon providing new account details.
Austin Byrne, a 49-year-old man with a long history of criminal convictions, was involved in a violent incident at Wheatfield Prison and two burglaries in Dublin 2. Byrne stole €20,000 worth of property from two unoccupied homes, including items of sentimental value. During the incident at the prison, he struck another man with a brush handle six times, though he claimed he attempted to de-escalate the situation. Byrne has 98 previous convictions, including multiple burglaries and assaults. He is currently serving a three-year and six-month sentence. The court heard that the burglaries were poorly executed and likely motivated by Byrne's drug addiction. Victim impact statements were submitted, but no property was recovered. Byrne's defense acknowledged his long criminal history and expressed a desire to address his addiction. The judge noted the seriousness of Byrne's actions and ordered urine analysis before adjourning the case. Austin Byrne pleaded guilty.
Jamie O'Brien, a 32-year-old serial burglar, was jailed for three years with the final six months suspended for burglarizing staff lockers at a Dublin restaurant. O'Brien was identified by CCTV and arrested after fleeing the scene. He has 46 previous convictions, including 12 for burglary, and was on bail at the time of the offense. The court heard that O'Brien had significant mental health issues and was abusing drugs at the time. His defense highlighted his guilty plea and unreserved apology. The judge considered the mitigating factors and imposed a three-year sentence. O'Brien has a history of burglary, including a ten-year sentence in 2017 for the burglary, assault, and false imprisonment of an elderly woman. The court also noted that no property was recovered from the restaurant, and no victim impact statements were made.
A Ukrainian woman accused of committing burglaries in south Dublin, including one at the home of a 99-year-old woman, has been refused bail. The woman, who is in her 30s and of no fixed abode, faces multiple charges, including two burglaries, unlawful entry into a vehicle, trespassing, and an alleged assault on a garda. Judge Anne Watkin described the allegations as serious and violent, noting the woman's conduct during the hearing and her likelihood to reoffend. The court heard that the woman allegedly confronted occupants at a residence, grabbed them by the throat, and demanded money. She is also accused of assaulting Garda Odhran Boyle during her arrest. The judge refused bail under Section 2 of the Bail Act, citing the seriousness of the charges and the risk of reoffending. The woman is due to appear again for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
A frequent international traveller, Khaled Almoghayer, has been given a suspended sentence on the condition that he leaves the country. He was found with €120,000 in cash in his luggage at Dublin Airport and pleaded guilty to attempting to leave the European Union with €10,000 or more. Almoghayer claimed the money was his life savings and intended to buy property in Turkey and get his teeth done. However, he had no bank statements or records to prove the money was his. He had travelled 22 times in the last 12 months to various countries, including Egypt, Morocco, and Palestine. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the seriousness of the offence but considered mitigating factors such as his early plea and lack of previous convictions. She gave him a 12-month sentence, backdated to January, and suspended the balance on the condition that he leaves Ireland within seven days.
Rian Dunne, a man with 20 previous convictions, will be sentenced for mugging a tourist in Dublin and robbing three convenience stores. He pleaded guilty to robbery on Bachelor's Walk in 2023 and two robberies and an attempted robbery in 2025. Dunne was arrested after gardaí spotted him running with stolen items. He admitted to the offences being committed to feed a drug addiction. In May 2025, Dunne and another man robbed a service station, taking €81 worth of vapes and demanding cash. They later attempted to rob a second service station and successfully robbed a Mace shop, taking €250 in cash and €450 worth of vapes. Dunne was identified through CCTV footage and arrested at his home in June 2025. He made no admissions when interviewed by gardaí. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned sentencing to allow for the completion of a psychological report.
Shane Murray, a teenager with 81 previous convictions, was on bail when he punched a homeless man, leaving him with fractures to his skull and face. Murray assaulted Damien Merrigan on a Dublin street in 2023, but left the country after gardai identified him. Merrigan remained in hospital for seven days and later died in 2025. Murray pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm. CCTV footage showed Murray placing something on his hand before the assault. He was identified from CCTV and returned voluntarily in 2024. His defence highlighted his troubled background, including a lack of a father figure and drug use. The prosecution argued for a sentencing range of ten to 15 years due to the unprovoked nature of the assault and the use of an implement. The defence requested a lower sentencing range. Murray's mother was in court to support him. Judge Jonathan Dunphy adjourned the case until Friday to consider the sentencing.
The High Court heard a dispute between tenant Muhammad Amjad and landlord Imtiaz Khan, principal of IMK Property Investment Ltd, regarding an alleged unlawful eviction. Mr. Amjad, a father of six, alleges that on February 28, Mr. Khan arrived at their rental property in Ongar Village with eight individuals and a hammer, issuing explicit threats to strike him if he did not vacate within three minutes. He claims his children were visibly traumatised and seeks a declaration that the lease termination is invalid, along with an interlocutory order to prevent eviction. Mr. Khan and IMK Property deny these claims, describing them as entirely untrue and causing reputational damage. They submit that the tenancy was terminated due to extensive repair needs identified by Fingal County Council, including gas safety checks, and that the family was properly served with notice. Mr. Khan asserts no coercive campaign occurred and that no incident was reported to gardaí. Mr. Justice Micheál O'Connell suggested the matter was suitable for mediation, warning both parties they might regret their "red lines" given the reputational implications and witness testimony. However, following morning negotiations, the case was to continue. The trial is scheduled to last four days. In March, the court had already granted temporary orders restraining interference with the family's quiet enjoyment of the premises.
Derek Boyd, 31, of Scribblestown Place, Finglas, Dublin 11, has pleaded not guilty to murdering Mark Carroll (34) at his home on June 9, 2024. He also pleaded not guilty to making a threat to kill Megan Rock or cause her serious harm, and to assaulting Ms Rock, causing her harm. During his statement, Boyd claimed he acted in self-defence, stating that he believed his life was at risk when Mark Carroll entered his home and refused to leave. He said he grabbed a kitchen knife and warned Carroll not to come closer, but that Carroll lunged at him during a struggle. Boyd claimed he used the knife solely to protect himself. He also mentioned that he had a suspended sentence from a previous conviction for the death of his sister, Sandra Boyd, in a tragic accident in 2022, and that he feared reactivating it. The matter was adjourned for further proceedings. The trial continues tomorrow before Ms Justice Melanie Greally and a jury of seven men and five women.
A man with no previous convictions who was in a cannabis-induced psychosis when he stabbed his childhood friend in the back during a bizarre attack has had the balance of his jail sentence suspended. Neal Brennan, 29, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to Cian Brennan on January 2, 2025, on Station Road, Portmarnock. The victim, who was a childhood school friend of Brennan, was stabbed in the back as he was getting into the passenger side of Brennan's car. The victim was hospitalised for four days following the assault, as the wound required surgery due to its proximity to his spine and vital organs. Judge Ronan Munro noted the bizarre nature of the offending and the absence of any previous convictions, which indicated that Brennan's moral responsibility was reduced. He imposed a headline sentence of five years, which was reduced to three and a half years considering Brennan's guilty plea and lack of previous convictions.
Dublin city councillors have initiated a High Court challenge against the State to remove the name of former Israeli President Chaim Herzog from a park in south Dublin and rename it after Terence Wheelock, who died in 2005 following his arrest on suspicion of car theft. Herzog, born in Belfast and raised in Dublin, was president of Israel from 1983 to 1993. His son, Isaac Herzog, is the current Israeli president. Political activists have called for the name change in protest against Israel's actions in Gaza. Councillors argue that the government has not introduced legislation allowing local authorities to rename public places. Cllr Conor Reddy, along with several other councillors, is seeking judicial review against the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Attorney General. The case hinges on the failure to introduce regulations under the Local Government Act 2001, which would allow councils to hold local ballots for renaming public places. The court has adjourned the matter to October to allow the State to oppose the application if they wish.