A 19-year-old man who participated in the Dublin riots two years ago, throwing glass bottles and burgling a Footlocker and Spar, has received a suspended sentence. The teenager pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including burglary, theft, and rioting. The riots were sparked by a stabbing incident that injured a child and a crèche worker. The Spar shop owner reported significant losses, including €17,150 in stolen goods and €9,000 in repair costs. The teenager was identified through CCTV footage and arrested in November 2024. He admitted to throwing an object at gardaí and expressed remorse, stating he is now working as an apprentice roofer and participating in boxing. His defense highlighted his cooperation, lack of prior convictions, and progress since the incident. The judge imposed a two-and-a-half-year suspended sentence with conditions, emphasizing the need for rehabilitation.
Ramon Terrobias, a 62-year-old defendant, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on March 13, 2021. The matter was heard at the appeal stage, where Judge Martin Nolan imposed a two-year sentence, suspended in full on strict conditions. The court noted that Terrobias was found in possession of 296 files of CSAM, comprising 144 images and 152 videos, seized from his home in Finglas, Dublin 11. During the search, Terrobias made admissions and pointed to the devices containing the material. He told gardai that another member of a Facebook group forwarded him the material, and he claimed he saved it to investigate who was victimising children, rather than for personal gratification. The prosecution acknowledged there was no evidence of distribution or prior offending. Defence counsel highlighted Terrobias' social isolation, describing him as living "effectively as a hermit," and noted his low risk of re-offending. The judge accepted that there were no aggravating features such as distribution or previous convictions. Citing a Court of Appeal precedent favouring non-custodial sentences in the absence of such aggravating factors, the judge imposed the fully suspended sentence based on the mitigation and the defendant's personal circumstances.
A burglar who entered a hotel with a suitcase pretending to be a guest, stole alcohol, and ordered breakfast before charging it to a room has been jailed for three years. Enda Murray (44) of Bellavista Mews, Deansgrange Road, Blackrock, Co Dublin, entered the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire on February 3, 2025, and stole €365 worth of alcohol. Murray, who admitted to committing four burglaries in the Deansgrange and Dun Laoghaire areas between December 2024 and April 2025, has 56 previous convictions, including 14 for burglary. Detective Garda Andrew Diamond detailed how Murray broke into Kelly's Beauty in Deansgrange on April 20, 2025, and was identified through CCTV footage. Murray was removed from the premises by the occupant and admitted to breaking in to charge an electric scooter. He was detained but deemed unfit for interview due to intoxication. Murray also entered a pub by placing a wheelie bin beside the wall, stole alcohol, and smashed some bottles. At Caribou bar, he stole an iPhone valued at €1,000. Enda Murray pleaded guilty.
In a Dublin trial, Christopher Devine, aged 44, admitted to killing Michael Tormey, 49, but denied murder, pleading guilty to manslaughter. A psychiatrist, Dr John Hillery, testified that Devine suffered from a substance‑induced psychotic disorder caused by cocaine, which diminished his capacity to control himself. Hillery noted Devine's self‑reported "shovelling big shovels of shit up his nose" and erratic behaviour over 18 months of daily cocaine use. He also described Devine's paranoia, fear of being followed, and belief that a firearm had gone missing. Forensic psychiatrist Dr James Walsh disagreed, stating Devine met criteria for cocaine intoxication rather than a mental disorder. The trial, before Justice Melanie Greally and a 12‑person jury, continues tomorrow. The article does not report any verdict or sentencing. Christopher Devine pleaded not guilty.
A 24-year-old man, Lucas Calvert, has been jailed for four years and nine months after being found with 30 kilogrammes of cocaine in his suitcase at Dublin Airport. Calvert, who was homeless at the time, claimed he had no choice but to transport the drugs to pay off a drug debt. He admitted to gardaí that he knew what was in the bag and took full responsibility for it. Calvert had previous drug convictions from the UK and had been remanded in custody since his arrest in June. Judge Martin Nolan noted Calvert's previous convictions and the large quantity of drugs he was caught with. He accepted that Calvert entered early guilty pleas and was a young man, but stated that he deserved a custodial term for his actions.
Kassim Dembele, 28, of Clondalkin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for assaulting his girlfriend. He pleaded guilty to one count of assault causing harm to the young woman on James Joyce Street on July 30, 2023. Prosecution evidence indicated that following a minor disagreement, Dembele punched and kicked the victim to the head and body as she lay on the ground. The court heard that alcohol did not play a factor in the incident, and the victim suffered swelling, pain, and abrasions, though she has since recovered physically. Judge Orla Crowe noted that despite Dembele having no previous convictions or history of violence, his actions displayed an utter disregard and disrespect. The judge expressed concern that such an attack occurred within a previously good relationship. In determining the disposal, Judge Crowe stated that the offence had to be marked by a partly custodial sentence. She handed down a two-year sentence but suspended the final 12 months of it on strict conditions. Consequently, Dembele will serve one year in custody. The matter was finalised at the sentence stage.
Judge Martin Nolan has expressed frustration with young people who plead 'young and stupid' when convicted of money mule offences. Ryan Odusanya (20) pleaded guilty to holding over €20,000 in criminal proceeds in his bank account, which was used in an online banking scam targeting an elderly couple from Kerry and a business owner from Galway. Odusanya was not involved in the scam but was lured by an advert on Snapchat offering a small cash reward for using his bank account. His defence highlighted his good family background and academic achievements. Judge Nolan noted the increasing number of such cases and criticized the defendants for knowing that their actions would harm others. He adjourned the sentence and remanded Odusanya into custody until the next hearing.
A jury has been sworn in for the trial of a 37-year-old man charged with the murder of 20-year-old Jordan Ronan in Dublin last year. At the Central Criminal Court today, Patrick Murphy, of Drumcairn Parade, Tallaght, was charged with the murder of Jordan Ronan at Drumcairn Avenue in the early hours of July 26, 2024. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge. Defence counsel is Ronan Kennedy SC, while the prosecution is led by Patricia McLaughlin SC. Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo said the trial is expected to finish by December 19. The trial commences tomorrow before Mr Justice Naidoo and a jury of eight men and four women. The case has drawn significant public and media attention, with the court proceedings expected to last several weeks. The accused has been remanded in custody and is expected to face a range of charges related to the incident. The court has scheduled a number of hearings over the coming weeks to ensure the trial proceeds efficiently.
A garda, Eoghan McGowan, who assaulted a 17-year-old boy by pouring puddle water over his tracksuit bottoms in a deliberate act of degradation, had his two-month jail sentence overturned on appeal. The incident occurred in 2023 when McGowan, in plain clothes, approached the teenager, searched him, and then poured water over his clothing, calling him names. The victim, who was in the care of the State, reported feeling humiliated and left on the street dirty. McGowan apologized and paid €5,000 in compensation. The appeal court found that the sentence was too harsh and replaced it with 60 hours of community service and an additional €5,000 payment. The judge acknowledged the severity of the act but noted McGowan's guilty plea, remorse, and lack of prior offenses. The case highlights the need for accountability within An Garda Siochana and the impact of such actions on vulnerable individuals. Eoghan McGowan had the case dismissed.
Dean Byrne (32) has lost his appeal against a conviction for conspiring to pervert the course of justice in the trial of garda murderer Aaron Brady. Byrne had attempted to dissuade witness Daniel Cahill from giving evidence by sending his garda statement to a third party. Mr Justice Brian O'Moore dismissed Byrne's appeal, stating that the use of the witness statement was unlawful. Byrne's lawyers had argued that no offence was committed if lawful means were used to dissuade a witness from giving false evidence, but the court found that Byrne had used unlawful means. The Director of Public Prosecutions intends to appeal the leniency of Byrne's two-year sentence. Byrne, who has spent most of his adult life in prison, is no longer in custody but was present for the ruling.
Alex Onuh, 20, was jailed for seven years for a series of knifepoint robberies targeting teenage boys in south Dublin, including a vulnerable teenager with a brain injury. Onuh, who wore a distinctive Moncler jacket during the attacks, pleaded guilty to 15 counts of robbery and four of attempted robbery. Victims were often threatened with knives and forced to reset their phones. One incident involved a 17-year-old being chased and assaulted by Onuh and a gang. The court heard that stolen phones were sold online, and Onuh's defense highlighted his difficult childhood and lack of prior convictions. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the premeditated nature of the crimes and the impact on victims, imposing consecutive sentences with one year suspended on strict conditions.
A man who held down a normal day job for 25 years has been jailed for five and a half years for his role in the distribution of drugs with an estimated street value of over €142,000. On May 26, 2023, gardai raided a house in Dublin City Centre and found five men around a kitchen table with drugs and money. They seized €4,198 in cash and significant quantities of heroin, cocaine, MDMA, ketamine, and cannabis resin, with a combined street value of €15,847. Wicklow resident Roy Gunning (46) was arrested at the scene. A bank card found during the raid was linked to a flat in Santry, where Gunning's passport was also found. A follow-up search of the flat uncovered drugs with a street value of approximately €49,000, including €48,000 worth of MDMA powder and over 370 Zopiclone tablets. Two months later, gardai raided another flat in Santry where Gunning was living and found drugs with a combined street value of nearly €16,000. Roy Gunning pleaded guilty.
A burglar's jail time was halved after his sentence for criminal damage at a Lidl store was replaced with a suspended term on appeal. Thomas Carlyle (50), of no fixed abode in Dublin 2, was convicted of burglary at 'Saint Street Sneakers' and damaging a coin drawer at the Lidl store. He was initially sentenced to four months in prison for both incidents. Carlyle appealed against the severity of his sentence, citing personal circumstances, including drug use. Sergeant Stephen Walsh provided evidence that Carlyle was in possession of a screwdriver and that blood-stained sneakers were found at the scene. Carlyle has 17 previous convictions. Defence counsel Lydia Daly BL argued that Carlyle has stable accommodation arranged for his release and is an enhanced prisoner with a good work ethic. Judge Sinéad Ní Chúlacháin affirmed the four-month sentence for the burglary but suspended the sentence for the criminal damage incident for one year, under conditions of good behaviour and engagement with the probation service.
Aer Lingus pilot Declan McCabe, 53, testified at a tribunal that he delayed reporting an incident where his aircraft failed to pick up a navigation beacon due to fear of retribution from senior staff. McCabe was demoted after the June 2023 incident and is pursuing complaints against the airline under various acts. He explained that the situation did not involve a 'false localiser capture' as per the manual and that he believed safety was not compromised. McCabe claimed he feared retaliation from senior pilot Colm Wynne, who had previously disciplined him over fatigue issues. He later filed an internal safety report, stating he delayed it due to fear of retribution. The tribunal heard that Aer Lingus maintains safety was its priority and that McCabe's decision not to report the incident was his own.
A dental nurse, Ruth Kavanagh, was given a suspended sentence after she broke a red light and knocked down a Leaving Cert student who was walking to school. Kavanagh, who was driving her usual route to work, failed to stop and assist the injured student. The student suffered serious injuries, including broken bones in her foot, and missed two weeks of school. Kavanagh later admitted to the incident and expressed remorse. She had a sum of €5,000 in court as a token of her remorse. The court heard that Kavanagh has a 10-year-old child and is now pregnant with her second child. She has worked as a dental nurse for nine years. The judge imposed a 15-month suspended sentence on the condition that Kavanagh keep the peace and be of good behaviour for two years. The €5,000 was ordered to be paid to the victim. Ruth Kavanagh pleaded guilty.
A father-of-six, Christopher Devine (44), has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Michael Tormey (49) but guilty to the manslaughter of the deceased, who was shot five times in his front garden in Ballyfermot on January 9, 2022. The trial heard that Mr Tormey suffered severe injuries, including rib fractures and partial lung collapse. The defence is expected to call a consultant psychiatrist who will testify that the accused was suffering from substance-induced psychotic disorder at the time. However, the prosecution argues that Mr Devine was not suffering from a mental disorder but was under the influence of cocaine. Detective Garda Janette O'Neill testified that she found two discharged cartridge cases in the car used by the accused. Detective Sergeant Mark Collander stated that a Heckler & Koch submachine gun, a rare firearm in Ireland, was used in the shooting. Mr Devine told gardai that he was best man at Mr Tormey's wedding but now faces the tragic reality of having shot his friend.
Jamie Malone, 23, of Swords, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to having drugs for sale or supply on November 27, 2024. Judge Martin Nolan suspended a three-year prison sentence in full, imposing conditions that Malone keep the peace and be of good behaviour. The court heard Malone was not the primary target of a National Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau operation targeting Shane Mulvey, 26, of Shankill. Mulvey, who was jailed for eight years last June, pleaded guilty to possessing drugs for sale or supply, possessing the proceeds of crime, and possessing an article in connection with a crime. During the surveillance, Mulvey was observed handing one kilogram of cocaine to Malone in a Swords car park. The drugs were later discovered in a hidden compartment in Malone's vehicle, which had a street value of approximately €72,000. Prosecutors noted that Mulvey's apartment contained further drugs and €66,700 in cash, with total seized drugs valued at €2.6 million. In mitigation for Malone, his counsel highlighted his youth, guilty plea, 12 weeks of rehabilitation, and clean urine analysis. The judge considered these factors alongside Malone's statement that he was forced to transport the drugs due to a debt.
A survivor of sexual abuse at a Spiritan-run school testified in court that the institution tolerated widespread abuse, with 37 identified abusers across Willow Park and Blackrock College. Peter Kelly, 73, was convicted of indecently assaulting eight boys in the 70s and 80s. The victims, now in their 50s, described long-term impacts including addiction, PTSD, and struggles with relationships and mental health. One survivor stated Kelly was 'one cog in a machine of systematic abuse.' The court heard that Kelly used his position to exploit vulnerable children, often in classrooms and during games like 'The Muppet Show.' The judge noted the maximum penalties available at the time were limited, and Kelly was remanded in custody pending sentencing. The case highlights the systemic failures of the school in addressing abuse. Peter Kelly pleaded not guilty.
A judge has refused jurisdiction in the case of a man accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old boy in a gym changing room. Judge Karen Dowling ruled that the allegation was too serious to be dealt with at the District Court level. The incident occurred on 5 April last year, when the accused allegedly grabbed the boy's genitals over his trousers while smirking. The victim immediately informed staff, and Gardaí were contacted. CCTV footage was obtained, leading to the accused's arrest and interview. Judge Dowling stated that the seriousness of the allegation required the case to be heard in the Circuit Court. The matter was adjourned for six weeks to prepare a book of evidence. The charge relates to an incident under Section 2 of the Criminal Law (Rape) (Amendment) Act 1990, as amended by Section 37 of the Sex Offenders Act 2001.
A driver has appeared before Dún Laoghaire District Court charged with causing the death of cyclist Gretchen Price Martin in Dublin last year. Oleg Popov (47), of Peyton Court, Rathcoole, Co Dublin, is charged with dangerous driving causing the death of Ms Price Martin at Glenageary Road Upper, Glenageary, on 24 April, 2024. He is also charged with driving a mechanically propelled vehicle while a known defect made it dangerous to the public on the same date. Defence counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, told the court that a Romanian interpreter will be required to assist the accused. Judge Anne Watkin adjourned the matter to 10 February next to allow the book of evidence to be prepared. The case is expected to proceed with the preparation of the evidence book before the next court date, and the accused will require interpretation services during the proceedings. The charges relate to the incident that occurred on Glenageary Road Upper, where the cyclist lost her life as a result of the alleged dangerous driving.
A mother was jailed and her son walked free from court on a suspended sentence after being found in possession of almost €30,000 worth of cannabis. Laura Deering (50) and Alan Deering (30) pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply. Gardai discovered 460g of cannabis in an upstairs bedroom and another large package of cannabis hidden under clothes in a wardrobe, which had Alan Deering's fingerprints on it. Laura Deering was sentenced to four years with two years suspended for a period of two years, while Alan Deering was given a four-year sentence but Judge Orla Crowe suspended it in its entirety. Laura Deering took ownership of the cannabis found in the locker and said she had been paid to hold other items. She had previous convictions for drugs offences and was on a suspended sentence at the time of the offence. Alan Deering was not living at the address at the time and has a good work history.
Patrick Byrne, a criminal with a history of violence, was jailed for six years for assaulting his girlfriend over a prolonged period and holding a blade to her throat, before sending her threats from prison to drop the charges. Byrne has 44 convictions and was previously jailed for two years and nine months for an unprovoked assault. The court heard that Byrne assaulted his then partner several times, whipping her with a broom handle, holding a Stanley blade to her throat, and threatening to slit her throat. He also smashed up the house and upended a wardrobe, causing a television to fall on her. Byrne was arrested at a later date and pleaded guilty to one count of assault causing harm, one count of production of a broom handle, and one count of making a threat to kill. While in custody, Byrne sent threatening texts to the woman, urging her to drop the charges.
Gardai investigating a €27,000 'smishing scam' encountered resistance from Facebook, according to court proceedings. Mary Maughan (39) of Dun Laoghaire pleaded guilty to processing the proceeds of crime through her Bank of Ireland account in August 2022. The scam involved a text message from An Post, leading the victim to a fake website where her bank details were stolen. The money was transferred to Maughan's account, with €20,000 lost before the bank intervened. Maughan admitted to being approached by a man on Facebook who promised €400 for using her account. She was later forced to make cash withdrawals with two men, though she did not receive any payment. Detective Garda Cliff Singleton noted Facebook's resistance to garda inquiries. Maughan, who was in financial stress, expressed remorse. Judge Martina Baxter emphasized the need for deterrence in such cases and ordered a Probation Service report for community service and restorative justice.
A man has been jailed for eight months after he struck a child, leaving him needing surgery and in a wheelchair for six months, while driving as an uninsured and unaccompanied learner. Dennis Dunne (26) of Kilmahuddrick Lawns, Clondalkin, Dublin 22, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to careless driving causing serious bodily harm to the then eight-year-old boy on May 25, 2024. The court heard that the child later required surgery for two bones that were fractured just above his ankle. He was bed bound for a short time and also needed to use a wheelchair for six months. Garda Sean Birkby told David Staunton BL, prosecuting, that a witness to the accident saw three boys on their bikes and scooters on the footpath before she heard a loud bang and a young boy "went up in the air". She saw the child's leg was badly injured and he asked for his mother. The child's father arrived and an ambulance was called. The witness saw the car that was responsible for the accident had driven off.
The Court of Appeal has ruled that Jim Connors (31) should not have received a fully suspended sentence for dangerous driving that caused serious harm to a taxi passenger and fleeing the scene. Ms Justice Tara Burns stated that the sentencing judge failed to impose a proportionate sentence for the serious nature of the offence. Connors, from Carrickmines, Dublin, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm and failing to assist the injured person. Judge Martina Baxter had initially imposed a four-and-a-half-year sentence, which she suspended in full on the condition that Connors keep the peace and be of good behaviour for five years. The DPP appealed, arguing the sentence was unduly lenient. The Court of Appeal agreed that the suspension was inappropriate, noting that the rehabilitation evidence was not exceptional enough to justify the full suspension. The court quashed the original sentence and resentenced Connors to four years and six months in prison, with a ten-year driving disqualification. A bench warrant was issued for Connors' arrest as he failed to appear for the resentencing.
A man who was shot dead in his front garden was struck by five bullets which went through his body, causing bleeding, rib fractures and partial lung collapse, a murder trial has heard. Christopher Devine (44), with an address at Convent Lawns, Kylemore Road, Ballyfermot in Dublin 10 has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the manslaughter of Michael Tormey (49) at Thomond Road in Ballyfermot in the early hours of January 9, 2022. The jury has heard that a consultant psychiatrist to be called by the defence will give evidence that the accused was suffering from a mental disorder called substance-induced psychotic disorder at the time. However, it is the State's case that the accused man was not suffering from a mental disorder and instead meets the criteria for cocaine intoxication. State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster told Garret Baker SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, that she carried out a post mortem on Mr Tormey's body in the Dublin District Mortuary on the day of the shooting.
A 'vulnerable' mother and cancer survivor, Sarah Jane Byrne, was jailed for four years by the Special Criminal Court for possessing an arsenal of weapons 'secreted' under the stairs of her home. Despite her lawyers' requests for a short sentence, Judge Karen O'Connor emphasized the need for a deterrent and the protection of society from weapons of brutality. Byrne, along with Jamie Moss, pleaded guilty and were considered at low risk of reoffending. Byrne's defense highlighted her mental health and addiction issues, as well as her history of domestic abuse. Gardai discovered firearms, including a sub-machine gun and a shotgun, during a search of her home. Judge O'Connor noted the serious nature of the weapons and the aggravating factors in Byrne's case, including her drug addiction and history of domestic abuse. She also acknowledged Byrne's cooperation and ongoing rehabilitation. Moss, who had an impressive work history, was sentenced to three years and eight months, with the final 20 months suspended. Both sentences are to run concurrently.
The Special Criminal Court has adjourned the trial of four men until January 12 after the alleged victim, Barry Moore, failed to appear for a second time. The defendants, Jason Hennessy Jr, Brandon Hennessy, Kenneth Fitzsimons, and Dean Fitzsimons, are charged with false imprisonment, intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm, and participating in a criminal organisation. The offences are alleged to have occurred on February 12, 2025, at a house in Blanchardstown, Dublin 15. Prosecution counsel Garnet Orange SC stated that gardaí remain in communication with Mr Moore but could not advance the trial without his evidence. Defence counsel Michael Bowman SC and John D Fitzgerald SC highlighted that the defendants are in custody and requested the State clarify its position in writing, with Fitzgerald SC warning of a potential bail application if delays continue. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, adjourned the matter to January 12 and listed a mention for December 17 to assess progress. Additional charges include Jason Hennessy Jr threatening to damage property and producing a branding stamp; Brandon Hennessy producing a steel breaker bar; Dean Fitzsimons threatening to kill or cause serious harm and producing a branding stamp and steel breaker bar; and Kenneth Fitzsimons producing a steel breaker bar and an axe. All charges remain alleged or contested.
Stephen Carberry, 47, pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court to assisting an offender by helping move and dispose of the body parts of murdered teenager Keane Mulready-Woods. The prosecution entered a nolle prosequi on two further charges against Carberry, including facilitating murder for a criminal organisation and setting fire to a vehicle. Presiding judge Ms Justice Karen O'Connor directed a victim impact statement and adjourned the matter until January 19, with Carberry remanded in custody. The court also ordered a urine analysis, a prison medic letter, and an educational report. This follows last week's guilty plea by Glen Bride, 32, to assisting in the movement and disposal of the teenager's remains. In related proceedings, Paul Crosby was jailed for ten years and Gerard Cruise for seven-and-a-half years (with six months suspended) for facilitating the murder. Ged' McKenna was previously jailed for four years for assisting in cleaning the crime scene. Keane Mulready-Woods was murdered in Drogheda in January 2020, with remains discovered in Dublin and Drogheda.
Brian Carroll, 30, of South Circular Road, Dublin 8, was convicted at Tallaght District Court of exposing his genitals to a customer at Nutgrove Shopping Centre on 28 June 2023. The offence, contrary to section 45 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017, was alleged to have occurred when the woman returned to a Three mobile phone store for a follow-up. She testified that Carroll asked her to move around the counter to view an iPad screen, during which she saw his erect penis. Carroll pleaded not guilty, denying the incident occurred and stating he was wearing shorts and a branded T-shirt. He argued there was no possible way the complainant could have seen anything from her position. Defence counsel Seoirse Fennessy BL argued there was no evidence of intent to cause fear or distress, noting Carroll's cooperation in attempting to retrieve CCTV footage, which was unavailable due to a full hard drive. The prosecution contended that intent could be inferred from Carroll's actions. Judge Patricia McNamara found the complainant credible and satisfied to convict Carroll. The matter was adjourned to allow the woman to prepare a victim impact report and for a pre-sentencing probation report to assess Carroll's risk of reoffending. The judge warned Carroll not to come to the attention of Gardaí in the meantime. The case was put back for sentencing on 19 February.
A judge has warned the family of a 23-year-old man who sexually assaulted his niece to 'stop the theatrics' in court. The man was found guilty of sexual assault in Dublin in 2023. The victim, now 17, gave an emotional impact statement, expressing her devastation and feeling abandoned by her grandmother, who supported the accused. Judge Martina Baxter criticized the family's behavior, noting that the man's family was not helping him by their actions. The judge praised the victim for her bravery and reminded her of her parents' support. The assault occurred during a family funeral when the girl was staying at her grandmother's house. The man, who has 11 previous convictions, was sentenced to two and a half years in prison. The victim suffered severe psychological effects, including hallucinations and anxiety, and emphasized the importance of coming forward with such experiences. The judge highlighted the aggravating factors, including the location of the assault and the victim's age, and stated that the family has been 'fractured' by the incident.
A Brazilian national who swallowed about half a kilo of cocaine pellets before boarding a flight to Ireland has been jailed for 21 months. Antonio Bezerra Dos Santos pleaded guilty to importing drugs into the country at Dublin Airport. She was arrested by customs officers and taken to Beaumont Hospital, where she passed 47 pellets of cocaine over three days. An estimated 400-500g of cocaine with a street value of €32,000 was recovered. Dos Santos claimed she was forced to carry out the drug importation by a criminal organisation in Brazil. She has no previous convictions and was referred to as she/her in court. Her defence highlighted that she struggled to swallow all the pellets and was given a small reward. The judge noted that she is unlikely to re-offend and set a sentence of 21 months, backdated to when she went into custody.
A drug addict with 100 convictions who used to 'roam around the city' has been jailed for three years for targeting and robbing a man in the early hours of the morning. Gerard O'Toole pleaded guilty to one count of robbery. He has 99 previous convictions, including theft, robbery, and assault. The court heard that O'Toole was on bail when he committed the offence. Judge Martina Baxter noted that O'Toole has developed insight into his offending and has maintained it. A probation report highlighted his efforts in dealing with his addiction and his remorse. The judge set a headline sentence of six and a half years but reduced it to five years, suspending the final two years for two years. O'Toole was identified on CCTV footage during the robbery, which showed a disturbing incident. His defence highlighted his difficult childhood and the impact of being placed into care.
A man who engaged in a high-speed garda chase with his 13-year-old child in the car, reaching speeds of 160km/h and colliding with two garda cars, has been jailed for two years and nine months. The incident occurred in March 2023 when the man was driving his Jaguar in a suspicious manner. He reached speeds of 100 km/h on rural roads, drove on the wrong side of the road, and collided with one garda vehicle. The garda driver used his two feet to brake the car, which he managed to bring to a stop on the side of the road. The second collision occurred when the man sped up and collided with another patrol car. The child was cared for by authorities while the man was questioned and released that night. He pleaded guilty to two counts of endangerment, two counts of dangerous driving, and one count of driving without insurance. The man has 24 previous convictions, including robbery, attempted robbery, theft, and road traffic offences.
Kenneth Walsh, 57, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to one count of possessing cannabis for sale or supply at his home in Rathfarnham, Co Dublin, on August 28, 2024. Gardai seized eight cannabis plants valued at €6,400 and €15,192 worth of cultivated cannabis herb during a search of his residence. Walsh alleged he grew the substance for pain relief for himself and a neighbour with terminal cancer, following a serious accident that left him bed-bound. The prosecuting garda noted the large quantity but acknowledged Walsh had no prior drug-related convictions and no evidence of distribution was found. Defence counsel highlighted Walsh's 30-year work history and the inability to obtain a supporting letter from the ill neighbour. Judge Martin Nolan acknowledged the high quality of the seized cannabis but accepted the defence explanation as meeting the threshold of believability. The judge handed down a sentence of two years, which was suspended in full on a number of conditions. Walsh has 21 previous convictions, mostly for road traffic offences dating back to 2013.
A man was sentenced to one year in prison for a personal injury fraud after claiming he was injured in a collision with a reversing car. The incident occurred on Crumlin Road in 2019, where Dan Harna (49) falsely reported that his Audi had been bumped by a Kia. Gardai were called to the scene, but no injuries were reported. RSA insurance later suspected the collision was staged, leading to an investigation. Harna pleaded guilty to dishonestly inducing the insurance company to make a claim. Evidence suggested that Harna's account of having four occupants in his car was false, as witnesses reported only two people were present. The court noted that Harna had a history of nine previous convictions and that the fraud was considered 'amateurish.' Despite mitigation factors, the judge ruled that a prison sentence was necessary to deter similar fraudulent claims.
Pawel Pisarek, a Dublin man, is pursuing a complaint under the Equal Status Act 2000 against An Garda Síochána, alleging discrimination, harassment, and victimisation based on race. He claims that on 17 March last year, Inspector Daragh Jennings at Gorey Garda Station ejected him and his son after they spoke Polish. Pisarek stated he was seeking an explanation regarding the handling of criminal complaints for theft, assault, and death threats, alleging the officer improperly used discretion to issue only an adult caution for the theft. He described the inspector as angry and racist, claiming the officer jumped from his desk and screamed at his son. State counsel Declan Harmon BL applied for the case to be dismissed as frivolous, vexatious, or made in bad faith, noting that the Garda Síochána Ombudsman's Commission (GSOC) had previously terminated its investigation into the matter. Counsel also argued the complaint was filed out of time, as it was submitted in November 2024, exceeding the six-month limit. Pisarek rejected these characterisations, challenging the inspector to a lie detector test and asserting that CCTV footage would support his account. He confirmed there was no physical contact but expressed fear of assault due to the officer's proximity. Adjudicator Louise Boyle adjourned the case, directing that evidence from the State's witnesses be heard at a later date.
The daughter of a cocaine addict who admits to killing but denies murdering his brother-in-law when he opened fire on him with a submachine gun in his front garden has told the trial that her father would think there were people in the walls who were 'coming to get him' when he took the drug and wouldn't recognise his own family. The prosecution's case is that the accused man was not suffering from a mental disorder at the time but met the criteria for cocaine intoxication. The accused, Christopher Devine, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the manslaughter of Michael Tormey. Jodie Devine, the daughter, testified that her father had a cocaine issue and that he began taking the drug when she was eight or nine years old. She said that after September 2021, the accused would take cocaine four times a week. She described how her father would avoid his children and become paranoid.
Jason Elliot, a 53-year-old grandfather, has been sentenced to six years in prison for possessing over €700,000 worth of cocaine and MDMA to repay a €20,000 drug debt. Elliot pleaded guilty to possession of drugs and using two vehicles with hidden compartments for trafficking. Judge Martin Nolan noted Elliot's drug addiction and the pressure he faced to repay his debt. The court heard that Elliot was not a previous offender and had a good work history and family life. Gardai found the drugs and hidden compartments in Elliot's home, and he admitted to the debt. His defense highlighted his financial struggles, his consistent work history, and his efforts to address his addiction. The judge acknowledged Elliot's cooperation and lack of prior convictions but emphasized the severity of the drug possession. Elliot's sentence will begin in February 2026, and he will undergo surgery before starting his term. The court also noted Elliot's family support and his positive contributions to the community.
Thomas Murray, a 43-year-old man with 52 previous convictions, has been jailed for six years for carrying out four robberies in Dublin. Murray pleaded guilty to four counts of robbery, including using weapons during the crimes. Judge Martin Nolan noted Murray's long history of offending and his addiction issues but acknowledged his cooperation and current status as an enhanced prisoner. The judge imposed a seven-year sentence, with the final year suspended and probation supervision for nine months post-release. Murray's crimes included using a screwdriver and a knife during robberies at a sweet shop, a café, and two restaurants. He was identified on CCTV and arrested after the incidents. His defense highlighted his difficult life, homelessness, and drug addiction, requesting leniency. The judge acknowledged these factors but emphasized the seriousness of the robberies, including the use of weapons. Murray's sentence was backdated to when he entered custody, and he will begin his jail term in the New Year.
A man who assaulted a former partner while naked in a hotel corridor has been given a suspended sentence. Shane McMorrow (44) of Fairways Park, Finglas, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault of the woman in a Dublin hotel on October 30, 2023. Judge Martin Nolan noted that the incident occurred during an argument after a dinner, with McMorrow following the woman into the corridor, naked, and attempting to drag her back into the room. The woman was left traumatised and humiliated, though the physical injuries were not serious. The judge did not believe McMorrow would reoffend and imposed a two and a half year suspended sentence on strict conditions. Evidence showed that McMorrow had previously smashed the woman's phone. The woman expressed feeling let down by the justice system and described the incident as deeply traumatic. McMorrow's defence highlighted his brain injury and his attendance at counselling, noting his remorse and current stable relationship.
A mother who killed her three children while suffering from a mental disorder is challenging a coroner's decision to limit medical evidence in the inquests into their deaths. Deirdre Morley, a paediatric nurse, was found not guilty by reason of insanity for the 2020 killings of her children. Her lawyers are seeking a judicial review of the coroner's decision to exclude medical professionals who treated her before the incident from giving evidence. The coroner instead plans to rely on expert testimony from psychiatrists who gave evidence at Morley's trial. Morley's legal team argues that the inquest would be inadequate without assessing her mental state at the time of the killings. The High Court granted an application to expedite the matter, with the case adjourned to December 8.
A banned roads offender has been fined after giving gardaí a false address when they responded to a traffic collision in Tallaght. Kevi Kabeya (35) of Highfield West, College Road, Cork, pleaded guilty at Tallaght District Court to providing false information to a Garda and failing to produce a driving licence. The incident occurred on 30 October last year when gardaí attended a collision involving Kabeya's blue Mercedes. Kabeya gave a false address and failed to produce his licence, despite being a banned driver with 18 previous convictions. His solicitor stated that Kabeya had not intended to deceive gardaí and was unsure of his address at the time. Judge Áine Clancy fined Kabeya €300 for failing to produce his licence and €500 for providing false details, with payment terms of six and 12 months respectively.
A woman who stole just over €4,000 worth of National Lottery scratch cards from her employer because they gave "comfort" to her husband, who was suffering with dementia, has been given a suspended sentence. Sandra McCann (57) of Newbury Drive, Clonshaugh, Dublin 17, pleaded guilty to theft at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The court heard that the HR administrator of Daybreak Store noticed a safe room had been left unlocked, and CCTV footage showed McCann entering the room. Further investigations revealed a mismatch between the activation of scratch cards and their sale, with a total value of €4,330. McCann's solicitor explained that her husband was suffering from dementia at the time and she gave him the cards for comfort. Judge Martin Nolan accepted that McCann's actions were motivated by her husband's condition and imposed a one-year suspended sentence, requiring her to pay €1,000 to her former employer.
A 62-year-old woman, Marcella Duffy, has been given a fully suspended sentence for causing the death of cyclist John Walsh in February 2024. Duffy's car crossed the road and struck Walsh on Malahide Road, leading to his death in hospital. Walsh was described as a devoted father to three young boys and an avid cyclist. His wife delivered a victim impact statement, highlighting the profound loss of her husband and the devastation faced by their family. Judge Martin Nolan noted that Duffy was driving slightly over the speed limit but found no aggravating factors. He emphasized her lack of prior convictions and early plea, resulting in a two-and-a-half-year suspended sentence and a six-year driving ban. The court heard that Duffy remained at the scene and cooperated with gardai. The incident was captured on dash cam footage, and no faults were found with the car or the bicycle. Duffy's defense highlighted her remorse and the impact of the accident on her life. Marcella Duffy pleaded guilty.
A man who admitted to killing but denied murdering his relative with a submachine gun was not found to be suffering from a mental disorder, according to the prosecution. Christopher Devine (44) pleaded guilty to manslaughter but not guilty to murder in the 2022 shooting of Michael Tormey (49) in his front garden. The prosecution argued that the killing was murder and that the accused was under the influence of cocaine, not suffering from a mental disorder. Evidence suggested that Devine had consumed significant quantities of cocaine before the incident. The prosecution will call two psychiatrists as expert witnesses, with one claiming that Devine had a substance-induced psychotic disorder and the other stating that he met the criteria for cocaine intoxication. The trial will continue with the jury considering the issue of diminished responsibility.
A repeat offender with 142 previous convictions has been jailed for one month for threatening and abusive behaviour. Daryl Hoey (35) pleaded guilty to a section 6 threatening and abusive behaviour charge and a section 4 intoxication offence arising from an incident at Bath Place, Blackrock, Dublin on 13 December, 2024. The court heard that Hoey was highly intoxicated, abusive, and caused concern for his own safety and that of others. Defence counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, noted that Hoey had struggled with alcohol addiction for a substantial period of time and had been homeless from the age of 18. He said his client has been sober for around three and a half months and is engaging with probation services. Judge Anne Watkin accepted the submission but pointed out that Hoey had been intoxicated during a separate public-order incident on 3 September last year, showing the behaviour was 'continuing'. She noted that Hoey had been placed on a probation bond earlier in 2025 but went on to commit further offences.
A man who was caught with almost 1.5 million images and videos of child sexual abuse after he began accessing such material as a 13-year-old boy has been jailed for 27 months. Stephen Byrne (26) pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of the images, termed child pornography in law, at his rented home in Terenure, Dublin 6, on March 2, 2022. Detective Garda Mairead McKinney confirmed that 1,440,675 images and videos were found, depicting children in sexually explicit interactions. Byrne admitted accessing such material from the age of 13 through the Dark Web and social media. His defence highlighted his cooperation with gardaí and his attendance at counselling. Judge Martin Nolan noted the significant aggravating factor of the number of images and the length of time Byrne had been offending. He imposed a sentence of 27 months, taking into account Byrne's co-operation and his admissions of guilt, despite acknowledging the severity of the offence.
A 24-year-old Slovenian man who met a 15-year-old girl through the online game Roblox and later harassed her by threatening to leak her sexualised images has been jailed for two and a half years. The man, who cannot be named to protect the victim's identity, communicated with the girl through various social media platforms, during which he convinced her to send him explicit images and videos. He then blackmailed her by threatening to share these images with her family and friends if she did not comply with his demands, including regular phone calls, sharing photos, and allowing him to watch her sleep. The victim described feeling like an object controlled by the man and expressed that the memories of the ordeal would haunt her forever. The man pleaded guilty to harassment and possession of child sexual abuse images, which were found on his phone after his arrest. A psychologist's report indicated that the man had mental health issues, including emotional unstable personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, though he was not formally diagnosed with these conditions.
Bridget McDonagh and Catriona McDonnell, both of Finglas, Dublin 11, pleaded guilty at Tallaght District Court to holding an unauthorised collection and acting as collectors without a permit at Rosemount Shopping Centre, Rathfarnham, on 8 November 2024. Garda Elaine Phelan reported that the women were collecting donations while wearing Alzheimer Society of Ireland branded bibs and using a branded bucket, despite the charity having no scheduled event in the area. The women could not produce a Garda permit, and the bucket, which contained coins, was seized. Defence solicitor Padraig O'Donovan stated the women believed they were authorised to collect for a charity coffee morning after correspondence with the Alzheimer Society, though they did not realise a permit was required. The court noted that McDonagh has no previous convictions, while McDonnell has a 2010 conviction concerning a false instrument. Judge Áine Clancy ordered the seized money to be forfeited to the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. Regarding sentencing, Judge Clancy described the case as "a difficult one." She convicted McDonnell and fined her €350, allowing 12 months to pay. For McDonagh, the Judge granted the benefit of the Probation Act under Section 1(1), leaving her without a conviction.