Sean McGovern, a Kinahan cartel lieutenant, has asked the Special Criminal Court to give him credit for pleading guilty to directing the criminal organization in the murder of a grandfather and the attempted murder of another man. His lawyers also requested additional credit for the time he spent in harsh conditions in a Dubai prison before his extradition to Ireland. McGovern pleaded guilty to directing the activities of the criminal organization in the murder of Christopher Kirwan and the surveillance of James Gately. His defense argued that his role was limited to surveillance and communication, not planning or executing the attacks. Michael Bowman SC highlighted the guilty plea as a significant mitigating factor and requested a reduction in the sentence beyond the standard 25 percent. He also presented testimonials from McGovern's family, emphasizing his rehabilitation and current status in Portlaoise Prison. The prosecution, however, questioned whether additional credit should be given due to McGovern's challenge to his extradition, which prolonged his time in Dubai.
A man accused of failing to comply with a garda's direction and using abusive language during a protest had the charges against him dismissed on appeal. Paul Fitzsimons was initially charged with failing to comply with a garda sergeant's instructions and using threatening or abusive words. However, the court dismissed the charges, with the judge calling Fitzsimons's behavior 'despicable' but not finding sufficient evidence to support the charges. Fitzsimons claimed that the sergeant punched him three times before arresting him, but the sergeant denied this. The judge ruled that the evidence did not demonstrate that Fitzsimons was acting in a way that posed a threat to public safety or that he intended to provoke a breach of the peace. The judge also dismissed the charge of threatening or abusive behavior, noting that Fitzsimons's words were directed at the sergeant rather than as a rallying cry to others. The case was dismissed, with the judge acknowledging the seriousness of the behavior but finding it insufficient to support the charges.
A 42-year-old man was convicted of breaching a safety order after calling his former partner a 'tramp' and making an offensive gesture at a food market. The victim, who was with her new partner and children, stated that the accused drove through the car park, passed her, and made the offensive remarks. The accused denied the allegations, claiming he had gone to the market to buy an air-conditioning unit and had not made any offensive gestures. The court found the victim's evidence credible and convicted the accused. The judge noted that the incident was at the lower end of domestic violence but emphasized that all such cases are serious. The accused, who was already serving a suspended sentence, was ordered to undergo a community service suitability report. The defense highlighted the accused's willingness to engage with the MOVE programme and his part-time work. The unnamed 42-year-old pleaded not guilty.
Daniel Hutchinson was convicted of assault causing harm after attacking a stranger with a champagne bottle, leaving him in a coma for four days. The incident occurred on North Earl Street in Dublin City Centre, where Hutchinson struck the victim 12 times on the head and face. The attack was captured on CCTV, and Hutchinson was arrested 30 minutes later. The victim suffered multiple fractures, a brain bleed, and required surgery. A victim impact statement highlighted the ongoing effects of the attack, including anxiety, panic attacks, and an inability to work in crowded places. Hutchinson, who had 10 previous convictions, claimed he was intoxicated and could not remember the incident. His defense highlighted that his son had died three days before the attack, leading him to go on a bender. The court adjourned the case until July 24 to allow for further reports to be submitted. Daniel Hutchinson pleaded guilty.
Two men, Vladislavs Temnis and Ik Joo Kang, were jailed for a combined 11 years after being caught with over €1 million in illicit cash days after arriving in Ireland. Both pleaded guilty to possession of the proceeds of criminal conduct. The Dublin Crime Response Team discovered the cash in a rented Skoda vehicle and later in a hotel room. The men were found to be involved in a money laundering operation. Judge Orla Crowe considered mitigating factors, including their lack of previous convictions and their early guilty pleas. Temnis received a four-year sentence, while Kang was sentenced to seven years. Both were given credit for time served and had their sentences backdated. The court heard that Kang had no knowledge of the criminal nature of the job and felt it was suspicious upon seeing the cash.
Jenifer Devine, a mother of eight, was given a suspended sentence for withholding information about her husband's involvement in the murder of her brother-in-law. Devine had fled with her husband, Christopher Devine, who was later convicted of murder. The court heard that Devine was afraid of her husband, who was described as a 'snake' and had a history of significant violence. Devine pleaded guilty to withholding information during the four-day period following the murder. The judge noted that Devine was the sole carer for her two youngest children while her husband was serving a life sentence. The court acknowledged her mental distress and the chaotic living conditions she faced. The judge imposed an 18-month suspended sentence, taking into account her guilty plea, lack of recent convictions, and her role as a primary carer. The victim's family expressed a significant rift due to the incident, and Devine's victim impact statement highlighted the emotional toll on her and her family. Christopher Devine pleaded not guilty.
Fergus Donegan, 57, accused of assaulting his next-door neighbour with a hammer and Stanley knife, has been granted bail on strict conditions. The alleged incident occurred on April 28, 2025, when Donegan is said to have injured his neighbour's hand with a hammer and caused a laceration above his eyebrow with a Stanley knife. Garda Aisling Power opposed bail, citing concerns about witness interference. Donegan's defence argued that he disputes the allegations and that he had been on the housing list for ten years, with arrangements to move to alternative accommodation. Judge Anne Watkin granted bail on a €500 bond, requiring Donegan to move out of his home and stay away from the area. He must also sign in daily at Bray Garda Station and avoid contact with the alleged victim. The case was adjourned for directions to September 15.
Boxer Aidan Metcalfe, 30, pleaded guilty to robbing an Afghan national of an electric scooter in a late-night attack. The incident occurred on September 8, 2023, when Metcalfe and two accomplices wrestled the scooter from the victim while a third man held him in a headlock. The scooter, valued at €120, was not recovered. Metcalfe's defence argued the offence was spontaneous and that he had consumed a significant amount of alcohol before the incident. He expressed remorse and wrote an apology letter to the victim. The court heard that Metcalfe has since reduced his alcohol intake and is working as a coach and father to a child with special needs. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned sentencing until July to allow a probation report to be prepared.
A man with 193 previous convictions, John Maughan, was given a fully suspended sentence for an attempted robbery that was described as 'heartless and cruel' by the judge. Maughan, 39, pleaded guilty to attempting to steal from a victim who was knocked to the ground during the incident. The court heard that he had not committed any offences in the past six years and had made 'exceptional' efforts to turn his life around. Judge Orla Crowe noted that while Maughan had a lesser role than his co-accused, he was present and twice attempted to steal from the victim. The judge described the victim's experience as being 'set upon and swirled around' by the group, highlighting a 'lack of humanity' and 'heartless and cruel' behaviour. The victim's impact statement was submitted but not read aloud. The judge acknowledged Maughan's difficult background, health issues, and rehabilitation efforts. She noted that his record and being on bail at the time would usually warrant a custodial sentence, but his recent behaviour was 'exceptional'.
Felix Adedayo, 55, appealed his conviction for threatening and abusive behaviour, parking offences, running a red light and driving without due care. The District Court had fined him €400 for the abusive conduct, €150 for obstructing traffic, €250 for the red‑light violation and another €250 for careless driving, and disqualified him from driving for six months. In the appeal, Judge Simon McAleese found that Adedayo's testimony was a "pack of lies" and that his conduct was "bizarre, extraordinary and aggressive." The judge upheld the original fines and disqualification, noting that the charges were the most modest possible and that no custodial sentence was imposed. The judge also praised Sergeant Killian Murphy for handling the incident "even‑handed" and "utterly polite.".
Jonathan Gill, aged 44 and with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in connection with an extradition application by Northern Irish authorities. Gill is wanted by the PSNI in relation to the murder of Robbie Lawlor, a 36-year-old man shot dead in Belfast on April 4, 2020. He faces charges on a joint enterprise basis and is also accused of possessing a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life between April 2 and 5, 2020. The PSNI believe the killing was part of an ongoing drugs feud involving criminal elements across Dublin, Sligo and Drogheda. During proceedings before Mr Justice Sean Gillane, Gill's legal team sought to adjourn the bail application to renew a request for senior counsel. The counsel raised concerns regarding the lawfulness and admissibility of evidence, noting differing standards between European and UK courts. The judge remanded Gill in custody pending a renewed application for senior counsel on May 1. An extradition hearing is scheduled for June 3.
The husband of former Fine Gael TD Kate O'Connell has denied using offensive language towards an employee who accused his wife of bullying, leading to the employee's resignation from their pharmacy company two years ago. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) concluded its hearings into complaints by Marwan Al Rahbi, a supervising pharmacist who resigned from his €112,000-a-year role at Rathgar Pharmacy Ltd in 2024. Al Rahbi claimed that Kate O'Connell bullied him at work, and that he could not address the issue by approaching her husband, leading him to quit. He alleged that O'Connell was "very rude" to him after he used his phone at work to deal with a sick child. Al Rahbi said he was told by O'Connell to "Go the f*** back to work" while the latter was in hospital recovering from an injury. O'Connell denied using such language and stated that the company had a strict no-phones policy. The tribunal heard that Al Rahbi initiated a grievance against O'Connell, which was later withdrawn.
Declan Connolly, 42, of Dublin 9, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to attempting to make a gain by deception. The court heard that in May 2021, Connolly applied for a €20,000 loan from Ballygall Credit Union using false documents, including a Virgin Media bill, AIB bank statements, and pharmacy payslips. The loan was not granted, and no financial loss occurred. Judge Orla Crowe described the attempt as "ham-fisted" but deliberate, noting it required planning. Aggravating factors included Connolly's 12 previous convictions and the fact that he was serving a partly-suspended sentence for robbery at the time. Mitigating factors included his cooperation with the investigation, lack of further negative attention, and his role as a carer for his mother and part-time worker. Judge Crowe stated the court was "going to give this man a chance" and imposed an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for three years on strict conditions.
Hotelier Noel O'Callaghan has failed to prevent his multi-million euro business dispute with his sons from going into arbitration, after a High Court judge found his arguments were "wholly inconsistent" with sworn evidence he gave in a previous application. Mr Justice Rory Mulcahy said Noel O'Callaghan argued that an arbitration agreement with his sons was invalid, despite having previously invoked the same agreement. The judge said the suggestion by Noel O'Callaghan that the agreement was invalid "is wholly inconsistent with his sworn evidence in his earlier application in which he sought injunctive relief in aid of arbitration." He added: "At the very least, a party who invokes an arbitration agreement should not subsequently be permitted to disclaim it on factual grounds without some compelling explanation for its change of position." He added: "In this case, the plaintiff offers none." "It is idle to speculate on what he hoped to achieve by this volte-face," said the judge, who commented that the arbitration agreement was "valid and subsisting." "In the circumstances, I am bound to refer to arbitration any disputes between the.
A dentist, Lutfi Hamuda (54), was found guilty of assault causing harm after he spat at his neighbour and fractured his nose following a noise dispute. Hamuda had no previous convictions and claimed the injured party was the aggressor. The court heard that Hamuda told the injured party he was going to kill him and then spat in his face before punching him. The injured party was terrified and believed Hamuda when he said he was going to kill him. He was treated for a fractured nose, which required surgery. Hamuda's defence argued that he had mental distress and had moved away from the area. The judge described the case as 'inherently serious' and adjourned the case until July for the preparation of a probation report.
Lawyers for Andrea Smith, a journalist who claims she suffered multiple rights breaches while working in a key role at 'Woman's Way' publisher Harmonia, have stated that the case concerns the 'exploitation' of women in the media industry. Smith has accused Harmonia Ltd of breaching her rights under the Redundancy Payments Act 1967 and the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, along with seven other unspecified matters, in a complaint to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). At a case management hearing, Harmonia denied that Smith was an employee, claiming the tribunal has no jurisdiction. The company's legal representative argued that most of Smith's complaints were filed more than six months after alleged breaches, making them out of time and out of jurisdiction. Smith's barrister, Patricia McKenna BL, emphasized the need for a ruling on Smith's employment status, stating that she was not a freelance journalist and that the case highlights the exploitation of women in the media industry.
Denis Bowes, a 61-year-old man from Inchicore, Dublin 8, had his conviction dismissed under the Probation Act by the District Court Appeals Court. Bowes was originally convicted in the District Court of using threatening and abusive behaviour contrary to section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994, as well as intoxication in a public place and refusal to give his name and address. He pleaded guilty to these charges and was fined €300. He subsequently lodged an appeal against the severity of his sentence. The court heard that on October 7, 2025, gardai responded to reports of a man shouting on Emmett Road. A garda stated that Bowes was intoxicated and unsteady, and that he racially abused the officer with explicit language while being transported to the station. Defence counsel submitted that Bowes was remorseful, had offered an apology which the garda accepted, and that a conviction would negatively impact his employment. Judge Christopher Callan stated the incident was not acceptable but noted the garda's acceptance of the apology. Consequently, the judge applied the Probation Act, dismissing the conviction on the condition that a fine be paid to the Capuchin Day Centre. The judge warned Bowes that the behaviour should not happen again.
The daughter of Noel Kirwan, an innocent man murdered by the Kinahan organised crime group, told cartel lieutenant Sean McGovern that her father would have been offended to have been killed by 'somebody as stupid as you.' Donna Kirwan, whose father was shot dead outside his home in December 2016, addressed McGovern directly in her written statement to the court. She questioned how McGovern thought he would get away with the murder, pointing out that he was linked to the murder by DNA, mobile phones, CCTV, and other evidence. The court heard evidence relating to McGovern's role in the murder of Mr Kirwan and the attempted murder of James Gately. The Kinahans targeted Gately because they believed he was one of the armed attackers at the Regency Hotel. McGovern used a secure messaging service to relay information about Gately's movements. The case was adjourned for the completion of evidence and pleas in mitigation by McGovern's lawyers. Sean McGovern pleaded guilty.
Thomas Dannevig, a 21-year-old from Donabate, pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary during the Dublin riots in November 2023. He admitted to entering multiple stores, including Foot Locker and Lifestyle Sports, and stealing items. Dannevig claimed he was not involved in the riots and acted on his own, though he was part of a larger group of looters. He was not charged with criminal damage. The court heard that Dannevig had no criminal intent and described his actions as a stupid decision. He was given a suspended prison sentence of two and a half years, 100 hours of community service, and placed under probation for 18 months. Judge Pauline Codd noted that Dannevig's actions, though minor, contributed to significant losses for the retailers. CCTV footage showed Dannevig moving between stores and stealing items. The court was informed that the total losses from the stores were substantial, with significant damage and lost revenue. Dannevig expressed remorse and apologized for his actions. His mother and stepfather supported him in court, and he has started a pre-apprenticeship course.
Sean McGovern, a senior Kinahan cartel member, swore on his baby's life that he would not stop targeting the Hutch gang following the Regency Hotel attack in 2016. Detective Superintendent David Gallagher testified that McGovern directed the Kinahan gang's activities, including tracking James Mago' Gately, who was believed to be involved in the attack. In text exchanges, McGovern vowed to continue targeting the Hutch gang until all members were gone. McGovern pleaded guilty to directing the Kinahan gang's activities in relation to the murder of Christopher Kirwan and the surveillance of James Gately. Kirwan was an innocent man with no connection to either gang, targeted after being photographed at a Hutch family member's funeral. Gately survived two attempted hits, including one where he was shot five times. McGovern's actions were part of a broader campaign of violence and intimidation against the Hutch gang, highlighting the ongoing conflict between the Kinahan and Hutch criminal organisations.
Dave Gibney, a former press officer at the Mandate trade union, alleged that a leak by the union's general secretary, Gerry Light, scuppered a potential €1 million deal for Debenhams staff. The deal, proposed by KPMG, would have provided payments to Mandate members, saved 300 jobs, and included a one-third share in the profits of the stock sell-off. Gibney claimed that Light leaked the details to RTÉ, leading KPMG to withdraw the proposal. The leak was attributed to Light's conversation with RTÉ's Ingrid Miley, which resulted in the deal being abandoned. Gibney stated that the Debenhams team within Mandate was wrongly blamed for the collapse of the proposal. The following day, former Debenhams staff occupied stores, leading to KPMG blaming the occupations for the deal's failure. Gibney's allegations were part of a broader dispute involving the union and the Workplace Relations Commission. Lorna Langan, a Mandate member, is pursuing legal action against the union, citing protected disclosures and the financial impact of legal fees.
A violent criminal with 123 previous convictions, Jordan Carroll, has been jailed for over three years for stabbing an English tourist in Dublin's Temple Bar. Carroll, who pleaded guilty to possession of a steak knife, assault causing harm, and violent disorder, was involved in an attack on a tourist celebrating a friend's birthday. The victim was stabbed after a verbal dispute, with Carroll retrieving a knife and lunging at him. Carroll's accomplices fled the scene, but a bloodstained knife was recovered. The court heard that Carroll had a traumatic upbringing marked by violence and criminal exposure. Despite his extensive criminal history, the judge reduced the headline sentence of six years to three years and nine months due to mitigation, including an early guilty plea and cooperation with gardaí. The victim's impact statement highlighted ongoing physical and psychological effects from the attack.
At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Andrew Cash Senior, aged 58, of Whitechurch Heights, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16, was sentenced to two years imprisonment after pleading guilty to providing false information to Irish Passport Services. His daughter-in-law, Mary Cash, aged 35, formerly of Portlaoise, County Laois, received a fully suspended sentence of two and a half years for her involvement in the same offence, committed on 12 June 2019 at Balbriggan Passport Services office. The court heard that Cash Senior and Mary Cash assisted in obtaining a fraudulent passport application under a false name for Andrew Cash Junior, who has since fled the jurisdiction. Mary Cash travelled to Sligo using an assumed identity to acquire a birth certificate necessary for the application. Investigation revealed that a senior member of An Garda Síochána had also been implicated in stamping the false documents. Judge Roderick Maguire noted Cash Senior's 31 previous convictions but acknowledged his absence from garda attention since 2019 and efforts at self-improvement.
A 19-year-old woman accused of biting her friend and damaging property after allegedly inhaling 'fast gas' has been sent forward for trial after a judge refused jurisdiction in the District Court. Abbie Glynn appeared before Dún Laoghaire District Court charged with assault causing harm and two counts of criminal damage, including damaging a television and a curtain pole. Gardaí alleged that Glynn bit the woman on the arm, causing bruising and breaking the skin, and also kicked her and struck her on the arms and hit her head off a television. She is also charged with pulling down and damaging a curtain pole. Judge Anne Watkin noted that the curtain pole's removal during the incident would have been intimidating for the injured party and said she would refuse jurisdiction. She granted Glynn bail on several conditions, including daily sign-on at a garda station, a curfew, and no contact with the injured party. Glynn was remanded on bail to appear again before the court on September 1.
A man knocked his friend unconscious, put him in the recovery position, and continued socialising in a Dublin pub, a court has heard. Brian McKeown struck his friend four times, with the last blow hitting his head, outside the Swallows Pub in Clondalkin following the funeral of a mutual friend. McKeown put him in the recovery position and told others inside the pub what had happened. The injured party was taken to hospital, where he required emergency surgery for serious head injuries and spent several weeks in a coma. McKeown pleaded guilty to assaulting the other man causing him harm. He admitted striking the injured party, who he said had been threatening towards him. McKeown also said he believed the injured party had a knife. The injured party said he has lost confidence in crowded spaces and his way of socialising has changed. McKeown was remanded on continuing bail, and the court directed the Probation Service to carry out a risk assessment on him. The case was adjourned to July for finalisation.
A woman who stole over €3,000 worth of designer goods from Arnotts in Dublin over a six-month period had her three-month jail term replaced with a fully suspended sentence on appeal. Nicola Caffery stole several pairs of Chanel sunglasses and other items from the Dublin shop from October 2024 to April 2025. She had originally pleaded not guilty in the District Court but later lodged an appeal against the severity of her sentence. Sergeant Stephen Walsh told the court that Caffery was identified after entering Arnotts and selecting designer goods. Defence counsel asked that the immediate sentence of custody be set aside and replaced with a fully suspended sentence. Judge Christopher Callan decided to suspend the three-month sentence for a period of two years on the condition that Caffery maintains contact with the probation services and continues her treatment. He also imposed conditions that she complete a course of education and must stay away from Arnotts, with €1,000 in compensation to be paid. Nicola Caffery was convicted.
A man who smashed his neighbour's window and engaged in anti-social behaviour had his three-month jail term replaced with a fully suspended sentence on appeal. Karl Hiney broke his neighbour's living room window and damaged another after having 'issues' with them. He was also convicted of being intoxicated in a public place and using threatening and abusive behaviour. Hiney was later lodged an appeal against the severity of his sentence. Sergeant Shay Leonard told the court that Hiney made admissions to breaking a window and was conveyed to a garda station. Defence counsel said that Hiney had a long history of mental health problems and had issues with his neighbours over the years. Judge Christopher Callan said that he understood the context in which the incident happened with regard to Hiney's mental health and decided to suspend the three-month sentence for a period of two years on the condition that Hiney engage with the Probation Service and continue with counselling and psychotherapy courses. Karl Hiney pleaded guilty.
Gary O'Shaughnessy, 39, of Mullingar, Co Westmeath, has been committed to the Central Mental Hospital for inpatient care and treatment following a trial at the Central Criminal Court. The jury returned unanimous verdicts of not guilty by reason of insanity on two charges: the alleged attempted murder of his brother, Mark (42), and intentionally or recklessly causing him serious harm. The alleged offences occurred at the same address between May 15 and 16, 2024. O'Shaughnessy had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to both counts. The court heard evidence that the accused struck his vulnerable, partially blind brother with a hammer and cut his neck with a knife. Prosecution and defence psychiatrists testified that O'Shaughnessy was suffering from schizophrenia at the time, which prevented him from knowing the nature and quality of his acts or refraining from them. Mr Justice Tony Hunt, relying on a report by consultant forensic psychiatrist Dr Dearbhla Duffy, was satisfied that O'Shaughnessy suffers from a mental disorder and requires inpatient care. The judge ordered his commitment to the Central Mental Hospital in Portrane, Co Dublin, pursuant to section 5(3) of the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act 2006. This commitment will continue until a further order is made under section 13 of the Act. The judge described the case as "terribly sad" and noted the verdict aligned with the medical evidence.
A woman who participated in a €27,500 smishing scam after being contacted on Facebook has been given a suspended sentence and ordered to take part in restorative justice. When gardai asked Facebook to assist in the investigation, they were met with resistance. Mary Maughan pleaded guilty to processing the proceeds of crime through her bank account. The victim was scammed after clicking a link in a text message that appeared to be from An Post. The money was transferred into Maughan's account, and she was asked to make cash withdrawals with two men. She felt intimidated but did not face any threats. Facebook was said to have not assisted gardai in their inquiries. The judge noted the need for deterrence in such cases and sentenced Maughan to 12 months, suspended on conditions, taking into account her cooperation with gardai and genuine remorse.
Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced Dubliner Michael McGinley to a global term of three years for escaping from lawful custody and unlawfully using a vehicle. McGinley pleaded guilty to both charges. The court heard that on April 23, 2024, while remanded at Balbriggan Garda Station, McGinley asked to be taken out for a cigarette. He subsequently ran and cleared a six-foot perimeter wall, evading capture for two months until his arrest in Athboy, Co Meath, on June 19, 2025. He also admitted to driving a Hyundai stolen from Co Kerry on April 21, 2025. Judge Orla Crowe noted that while the escape was not pre-planned or sophisticated, McGinley hid for a significant period. Acknowledging his youth and potential for rehabilitation, the judge imposed a three-year sentence, with the final six months suspended on strict conditions. She also directed 12 months of probation supervision following his release. The sentence was backdated to June 19, 2025, when he entered custody. The matter was finalised with the imposition of this sentence.
The Court of Appeal has fixed November 5 as the hearing date for Alan Wilson's application to change his guilty plea to not guilty and to extend the time to lodge an appeal against his conviction. Wilson, who is representing himself, confirmed under oath that his handwritten affidavits were true. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy ordered Wilson to file submissions by June 25, while the Director of Public Prosecutions has been granted three months to respond. Wilson was originally jailed for six years by the Special Criminal Court in July 2019 for conspiring with others to murder Gary Hanley between September 15 and November 6, 2017. He pleaded guilty to this charge, as did co-accused Joseph Kelly. Kelly, who was recorded instructing the plot, was sentenced to six years for the conspiracy and 12 years for possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life. The matter remains at the procedural stage of an appeal hearing date being set, and the case has not been concluded or finalised. Wilson had previously submitted a letter of apology to the court, expressing regret for aiding a gang and his actions in the alleged murder plot.
Jonathan Gill, with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in connection with extradition proceedings sought by authorities in Northern Ireland. The 44-year-old is wanted by the PSNI in relation to the murder of Robbie Lawlor, shot dead in Belfast on 4 April 2020, and for alleged possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol between 2 and 5 April that year. During today's hearing before Mr Justice Sean Gillane, Gill's barrister submitted that evidence proposed in the case would not be admissible under EU law, though it would be valid in UK courts. The judge scheduled a bail application for the following Wednesday, with Gill remanded in custody until that date. The extradition hearing has been fixed for 3 June. Gill was arrested on foot of a warrant issued by Belfast Magistrates' Court on 31 March.
A criminal attempted to rob three shops on the same Dublin street in under five minutes but left each one empty-handed. Michael O'Toole, 41, pleaded guilty to three counts of attempted robbery at two Paddy Power premises and a Spar on Talbot Street on October 17, 2023. He also pleaded guilty to possession of stolen property and theft. O'Toole used an uncapped syringe during the robberies and fled each time without success. He has 86 previous convictions, 12 from the Circuit Court. Gardai found stolen items from an Airbnb in Dublin, including iPads and a laptop, which were traced to O'Toole via CCTV footage. He was arrested but refused to answer questions. His defence argued that he had drug addiction issues and was making progress in custody. Judge Martina Baxter ordered a probation report and additional urine analysis, adjourning the case until December 17, 2026.
A judge described an assault as "very disturbing" in which the victim was punched, pulled to the ground, and kicked. Aidan Daniels, 30, and Adam Kelly, 21, pleaded guilty to assault with intent to cause bodily harm. CCTV footage showed Kelly punching and kneeing the victim, who was then dragged by his hoodie and leg. The victim was kicked and stamped on multiple times while on the ground. Kelly has 38 previous convictions, including theft and drug dealing, and was on a suspended sentence. Daniels has 18 previous convictions, including possession of a flick knife and aggravated burglary. Both were arrested and bail was refused. Their defence argued that the assault was out of character and that they were remorseful. Judge Martina Baxter ordered reports from prison governors and adjourned sentencing to May 1 next.
A man charged in connection with the seizure of cocaine worth an estimated €504,000 has been refused bail. Anthony O'Callaghan was arrested at his home following a search and drug seizure. The package containing the drugs was tracked using an Apple AirTag and collected after the accused was directed to intercept an An Post driver in a Tesco car park. The court heard that the sender had placed an Apple AirTag inside the package, allowing a Spanish phone number to track its location. O'Callaghan approached the driver and asked for the package after providing the required details. The garda said there was no suggestion of wrongdoing by the An Post driver. The judge described the case as a "very significant drug charge" and refused bail under Section 2 of the Bail Act, citing the seriousness of the charges and the strength of the evidence. O'Callaghan was remanded in custody to appear before Cloverhill District Court.
A woman who gave her Revolut account details to two men at a rave has avoided a jail term for money laundering. Rebecca Williamson, 25, pleaded guilty to the offence between September 6th and 8th, 2023. She admitted she was intoxicated and did not think about the consequences of giving her details. Judge Martina Baxter noted that Williamson's actions facilitated criminal activity, but she played a lower-level role. A headline sentence of two and a half years was considered, but it was suspended for 12 months. The judge acknowledged her cooperation, remorse, and early guilty plea. Gardai found €13,900 deposited into her account via card top-ups, which was immediately transferred to others. Williamson said she received threatening calls and feared for her safety. Her counsel argued that the incident was an isolated event and that she had been employed since 16 and was reliable. The court ordered a €1,000 donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
A pensioner who cultivated cannabis plants with an estimated street value of €50,000 has avoided a jail sentence. James Berkeley was caught growing cannabis in his Dublin home on two occasions in 2015 and 2017. The court heard that Berkeley had a sophisticated growing operation, including heating and water piping. He admitted cultivating the plants for his own use and said he used cannabis to help with his pain and depression. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia and psychosis in the UK and has been self-medicating with cannabis. His defence highlighted his health issues and his good employment history. Judge Orla Crowe noted that Berkeley had set up a "sophisticated enough operation" but said there was no evidence he had profited from his actions. She suspended a three-year custodial sentence on the condition that he keep the peace and be of good behaviour. James Berkeley pleaded guilty.
A driver who was stopped by gardai for using his phone was found to be carrying €108,000 in Alprozalam tablets. Robert Freer (39) was found with 54,000 tablets in the boot of his car and a small quantity of cocaine in his home. He had 15 previous convictions for public order and road traffic offences. His defence said he became involved in drug dealing to help a family member with a drug debt and that he was experiencing significant mental distress at the time. Judge Orla Crowe said Freer's reasons for getting involved in the offence were "utterly misplaced and reprehensible" and imposed a three-year prison term, which was backdated to when Freer first went into custody last month.
A 42-year-old man pleaded guilty to making serious threats against his girlfriend's ex-partner, including decapitation and dismemberment, during a series of calls in November 2022. The defendant, who had no previous convictions, identified himself on the calls and made the threats in Polish. He claimed he knew the complainant's address and could arrive within 20 minutes to carry out the threats. The injured party recorded the calls, which were later transcribed by gardai. The defendant admitted to the threats during an interview in September 2023 and expressed regret. The court heard that the threats were made while the defendant was drinking and were allegedly in response to the injured party allegedly harassing his girlfriend. The injured party stated he still feels intimidated and affected by the incident. The defendant's counsel requested non-custodial options, citing his guilty plea and apology. The court directed the preparation of a probation report and adjourned the case to July.
A tenant, Philip Lalor, was jailed for 12 months after assaulting his landlord and brandishing a knife in a dispute over leaving a shared accommodation in 2020. Lalor, a repeat offender with 20 previous convictions, was convicted of two counts of assault causing harm, one of producing a Stanley knife, and two counts of threatening and abusive behaviour. The landlord and his wife went to the house to ask Lalor to leave, leading to a confrontation where Lalor choked the landlord and later brandished a knife. Lalor fled through a window but was apprehended by gardai. He resisted arrest and was taken to a cell for his own safety. The landlord described the incident's lasting impact, including stress-related issues and a demotion at work. Lalor's counsel argued for mitigation, citing his regret and willingness to engage with Probation Services. The judge imposed a two-year global sentence, suspending the final 12 months on strict conditions.
Frances O'Brien, a repeat offender, had her jail term for assaulting a garda replaced with a fully suspended sentence on appeal. O'Brien, who had not come to garda attention in two years, was originally sentenced to three months for assaulting a garda and another three months for trespassing. Her appeal highlighted her current stability, including being drug-free, pregnant, and in a different stage of life. Her defence presented letters from Tusla and her mother-in-law, emphasizing her commitment to her children and a stable future. Judge Christopher Callan noted the change in her behavior and suspended the six-month sentence for two years, with conditions that she remain drug-free and avoid garda attention. The judge emphasized that the decision did not condone her actions but acknowledged her efforts toward rehabilitation. Frances O'Brien was convicted.
Sean Friel, a 37-year-old e-scooter rider, had his jail term for obstruction suspended on appeal, though his conviction was upheld. Friel was observed riding against traffic in Dublin City Centre while smoking a suspected joint. Gardai attempted to stop him, detecting a strong smell of cannabis and believing he had a joint in his mouth. Friel fled, but no CCTV footage was found to corroborate the gardai's account. Friel's defence argued that the gardai failed to preserve evidence and did not inform him of the penalties for non-compliance. The court accepted the gardai's evidence, finding Friel had fled upon seeing them. Friel claimed he did not have a joint and that a foot pursuit did not occur. Judge Christopher Callan suspended the four-month sentence for 18 months, noting Friel's efforts to turn his life around and his improved health.
Josh Killeen, 19, of Tallaght, Dublin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to two counts of endangerment and possession of a stolen motorbike. The charges relate to incidents on November 3, 2024, January 31, 2025, and March 9, 2025. Prosecution evidence alleged that Killeen, a disqualified driver, led gardaí on high-speed chases, including one where his vehicle flipped on the M50, and another where he drove a stolen van at 120 km/h in a 50 km/h zone. He was also alleged to have been caught with a stolen motorbike. Judge Orla Crowe described the conduct as serious dangerous driving that endangered the public and gardaí. Acknowledging Killeen's remorse, family support, and developmental challenges, the judge imposed consecutive sentences totalling three years. She suspended the final 12 months of the term on strict conditions, resulting in an effective custody period of two years. Additionally, Judge Crowe disqualified Killeen from driving for four years. The matter was finalised with this sentencing.
A man who acted as a 'money herder' in a cash laundering scheme has been jailed for 18 months. Duke Amaechi (28) pleaded guilty to nine counts of possessing the proceeds of crime by withdrawing €18,000 from various accounts between June 2020 and May 2021. He was sentenced to three years, with the final 18 months suspended on strict conditions. Detective Garda Michael Harney described Amaechi as slightly above money mules in the chain and noted that he was not part of an organised crime group. The investigation into money laundering and smishing fraud revealed that Amaechi withdrew money from multiple accounts and moved it between banks. His home was searched in 2022, and items such as phones and a BMW were seized, but no money was found. Amaechi has previous convictions, including one for robbery. His defence highlighted his early guilty plea, lack of wealth, and good family background. The judge noted his role as a courier and the seriousness of his actions, but acknowledged mitigating factors, leading to the suspended sentence.
A 15-year-old boy caught with over €80,000 worth of illegal tablets has been placed on a probation bond for six months. The now 17-year-old pleaded guilty to possession of the drugs for sale and a mobile phone in connection with the offence. Gardaí found the tablets in a sports bag near Violet Hill Park after observing suspicious activity. The teenager's phone contained messages related to drug dealing, and he accepted responsibility despite not admitting to gardaí initially. His defence argued he was being used by others and that he had a supportive mother and was engaged with a youth service. The court ordered him to engage with the Probation Service and noted that the incident was isolated. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned the case for six months and said the matter lies in his hands.
A 21-year-old digital marketing worker charged with assault causing harm to his former girlfriend has been granted bail. Daragh Fennell is accused of kicking her repeatedly in the leg during an incident in 2024. The court heard that no injuries were reported, and the parties are no longer in a relationship. Judge Anne Watkin ordered no contact with the injured party. Fennell, who has lived abroad in Thailand and Iraq, has family in Iraq and connections in Spain. Conditions for bail include daily sign-on at Stepaside Garda Station and surrendering his passport. Legal aid was granted, and Fennell is to appear again in July for a plea. The court noted the complaint was made 18 months after the incident, and gardaí had no objection to bail.
A father of four who became aggressive on St Patrick's Day after watching Liverpool lose the Carabao Cup final has received the benefit of the Probation Act. Jonathan Lambe (38) pleaded guilty to public order offences at Tallaght District Court. Gardai arrived at the venue after reports that Lambe had been aggressive towards staff and verbally abusive to a member of the public. His defence said he had "far too much to drink" and was disappointed about Liverpool's loss. Judge John Brennan noted the guilty plea and gave Lambe the benefit of the Probation Act, meaning no conviction was recorded. After the judge made a comment about supporting Liverpool, Lambe laughed and raised his fist in the air, saying: "Yeah, the real Reds.
Dubliner Conor Wallace (34) has been sentenced to three years in prison, with the final year suspended for two years, following his guilty plea to coercive control between May 2021 and December 2022. The court heard that Wallace subjected his then-partner to a prolonged period of controlling, abusive and violent behaviour, including during the Covid-19 lockdown. After the relationship ended in December 2022, Wallace continued to harass the victim through numerous emails, texts and calls, and even threw a bottle through her window in December 2023. Separate charges of criminal damage and harassment were taken into consideration in sentencing. The court heard that Wallace lied about his personal circumstances, including claiming to have no family and fabricating stories about his health, in order to manipulate the victim into giving him money. The victim, who was present in court with supporters, described Wallace as a 'complete fraud' and stated that his actions left her psychologically damaged and in a 'state of fear'. Judge Orla Crowe noted that Wallace showed an utter lack of empathy and that the victim demonstrated an extraordinary level of kindness. The sentence was reduced from four years to three years to account for mitigating factors, including Wallace's guilty plea and his attempts to address his alcoholism. The suspended portion of the sentence is conditional on Wallace keeping the peace, engaging with the Probation Service, and disclosing any future intimate partner relationships to the Probation Service. He is also prohibited from having any contact with the injured party.
A payroll worker who stole €7,832 from a charity within two months of starting her job has received a 12-month suspended sentence. Denise McGreevy (32) pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to theft by overpaying herself. Garda Jason O'Carroll explained that McGreevy was responsible for payroll and accounts for the charity's 12 staff. She claimed she had made a mistake in overpaying herself, but it was later discovered that there were four overpayments, including one that was reversed. McGreevy repaid the money and was fired in March 2023. It was also found that there was an irregularity in petty cash, which she also repaid. The court heard that McGreevy still maintains the overpayments were mistakes. Judge Orla Crowe noted that McGreevy had made a "huge breach of trust" and imposed a 12-month suspended sentence on strict conditions.
A youth who was 16 when he murdered his friend, Glen 'Ossie' Osborne, is appealing his life sentence. The Court of Appeal heard that since his incarceration, the youth has assaulted a prison officer and sold heroin to fellow inmates. The defendant, who admitted to the murder, was sentenced to life with a review after ten years by Mr Justice Paul McDermott. However, the Supreme Court ruled that life sentences for child offenders should only be imposed in exceptional cases. The youth's defense argued that the murder was impulsive and not premeditated, and that the defendant showed genuine remorse. The court noted that the youth had a history of drug abuse and a turbulent upbringing, and that his transfer to an adult prison had a significant impact on his behavior. The defense requested that a significant portion of the sentence be suspended, emphasizing the need for rehabilitation and support upon release. The court reserved judgment and directed that a governor's and education report be prepared, acknowledging the desire of both families for closure in the legal process. The unnamed 22-year-old pleaded guilty.