A serial offender with an 'appalling' 137 previous convictions has been given a fully suspended sentence for a series of theft and public order offences. Judge Derek Cooney noted that the defendant, Margaret Connors (41), has struggled with addiction and has made efforts to address it. Connors pleaded guilty to theft, handling stolen property, and public order offences. She stole alcohol and groceries from a supermarket and was found in possession of stolen items. Connors also admitted to stealing from a store and engaging in threatening behavior. She has a long criminal history and accepted responsibility for her actions. Her defense highlighted her addiction and homelessness. Judge Cooney acknowledged her difficult background and the impact of her addiction but warned that if she reoffended, she would face serious consequences. He suspended her sentences for 12 months, emphasizing that her recovery depends on her commitment.
The Court of Appeal granted the Irish Times access to character references for Daniel Ramamoorthy, a convicted sex offender, including one from former TD Jim Glennon. Ramamoorthy was convicted of sexually exploiting a 13-year-old boy at a Christian children's camp. Glennon later apologized for his involvement, calling the crime 'vile and of the most egregious nature'. The Irish Times applied for access to the references, arguing that public interest and open justice required their disclosure. The court agreed, noting that the references were part of the administration of justice. Ramamoorthy, a motivational speaker and entrepreneur, was jailed for two years and four months for the sexual exploitation offence. He pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material. The court criticized the character references for not addressing the victim or the nature of the crime. Glennon's apology and disavowal of the reference were highlighted, with the court emphasizing the importance of transparency in the justice process.
A judge has dismissed a claim that Stephen Dowling, a boxing instructor, breached the conditions of a suspended sentence imposed for threatening his former girlfriend and her fiancé with a hammer. Dowling was accused of calling his former girlfriend a 'fucking snitch' and raising his middle finger at her during an encounter outside a shopping centre. The court heard conflicting accounts of the incident, with Dowling denying the allegations. CCTV footage was played, but the judge was not satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the alleged breach had occurred. The suspended sentence remains in place, and the judge warned Dowling not to return to court. Dowling had previously been convicted of producing an article capable of inflicting serious injury and threatening to kill or cause serious harm.
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.
The Court of Appeal refused to reveal the identity of a former TD who provided a character reference for Daniel Ramamoorthy, a convicted sex offender. Ramamoorthy was sentenced to two years and four months for sexually exploiting a 13-year-old boy and possessing child pornography. His lawyers argued the sentence was excessive, but the court dismissed his appeal, noting he showed no remorse or acceptance of fault. The judge highlighted the aggravating factors, including the age of the victim and breaches of trust. Although numerous testimonials spoke to Ramamoorthy's pro-social life, they did not address the nature of his crime. The court rejected the suggestion that the sentencing judge failed to consider rehabilitation. The judge also noted that the TD's reference, like others, did not mention the victim or the crime. Ramamoorthy continues to maintain his innocence in the sexual exploitation case.
An 81-year-old huntsman, Maurice Mahon, was convicted of recklessly discharging a firearm and assaulting a man in his back garden during a deer cull. The victim, Innokenti Belaga, was meditating when a bullet from Mahon's rifle shattered his femur, leaving him with severe physical and psychological injuries. Mahon, a licensed gun holder and karate grandmaster, claimed he thought he was shooting a fox or a dog. The victim's life was drastically altered, with him losing his home, his ability to work, and his ability to engage in physical activities. He described the incident as a life-changing event, with the biggest impact being on his young daughter, who lost her father's presence. Mahon was found guilty after a trial and is awaiting sentencing. His defense highlighted his long-standing involvement in hunting and his good character, but the court heard that the victim's injuries were severe and life-altering. The case has also led to civil proceedings, and the court ordered a Probation Service assessment before finalizing the sentence. Maurice Mahon pleaded not guilty.
A man who repeatedly told gardaí to "f*** off" and claimed he was homeless and could do what he wanted has been granted the benefit of the Probation Act. Owan Tabi (44), of no fixed abode, was before Tallaght District Court on charges of using threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour and failing to comply with a garda direction at Nutgrove Office Park, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14, on August 20, 2025. Garda Brian Fogarty stated that gardaí were called after a man was reported being verbally abusive towards a member of staff. Upon arrival, gardaí heard the accused using abusive language and repeatedly telling them to "f*** off". The accused claimed he was homeless and could do what he wanted. Garda Fogarty said he directed the accused to leave the area, but he refused and continued using abusive language. The accused said he suffered from depression and anxiety and had wanted to be left alone. He claimed he approached the garda patrol car to make a complaint and was not abusive to gardaí. Owan Tabi pleaded not guilty.
A judge has rejected a claim that ADHD caused a man to become so flustered when he lost his parking ticket that he attempted to tailgate another car to get through a barrier. Dean Carey (36) pleaded guilty to criminal damage to a barrier at Dundrum Town Centre, Dublin 14, on March 21 last. Sergeant Caoimhe Conroy told the court that Carey attempted to exit the car park by tailgating another vehicle, which resulted in damage to the barrier. Defence solicitor Patricia Camilon argued that Carey's ADHD caused him to become flustered and that he was under pressure as he was trying to get to his daughter's birthday. However, Judge Anne Watkin did not accept that ADHD explained the behaviour and said that becoming so flustered that a person behaves in this way raises concerns about judgment when driving. She rejected the explanation as a justification for attempting to leave the car park without paying. The judge fined Carey €400 with six months to pay and adjourned the case to April 28 next.
The Court of Appeal has heard an appeal against the sentence of Daniel Ramamoorthy, who was convicted of sexually exploiting a 13-year-old boy and possessing child sexual abuse material. Ramamoorthy pleaded guilty to the possession charge, which was proven, while maintaining his innocence regarding the sexual exploitation offence. He was sentenced to two years and four months by Judge Sinéad McMullen at the Central Criminal Court on March 24 last year. The judge imposed an 18-month sentence for the possession charge, ordered to run concurrently with the sentence for the exploitation charge. During the appeal hearing, Mr Justice John Edwards criticised character references, including one from a TD, for failing to mention the victim or the nature of the crime. Counsel for Ramamoorthy argued the sentence was excessive and that his exceptional background and public service were not sufficiently weighted. The State argued the sentence was appropriate given the breach of trust and the victim's ongoing distress. The court reserved judgment, with the decision expected early next week.
The Workplace Relations Commission directed Dehac Retail Ltd to pay Amanda Butler €40,000 after finding she was dismissed without cause or procedural fairness. Adjudication officer Patricia Owens found ample evidence supporting a view that the company was unhappy with Butler's witness evidence and sought to retaliate when she returned to work.
Ahmet Ramic, 26, of Tallaght, Dublin 24, was sentenced at Tallaght District Court after pleading guilty to driving without a licence and dangerous driving at Killakee Road, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16, on January 22, 2025. The incident involved Ramic speeding past an unmarked Garda patrol car before crashing into a ditch. Judge Brendan O'Reilly noted that Ramic had three previous convictions, including two for lack of insurance, but accepted that he had completed a restorative justice road safety programme and secured employment. For the charge of driving without a licence, the court imposed a €1,000 fine, a one-month driving disqualification, and a four-month custodial sentence suspended for two years. Regarding the dangerous driving allegation, the judge convicted Ramic of the lesser offence of careless driving and imposed a €4,000 fine, payable within 12 months. The judge highlighted the serious consequences of road danger, noting 36 deaths on Irish roads this year, while acknowledging Ramic's cooperation and immediate apology at the scene. A recognisance of €300 cash was fixed in the event of an appeal. The proceedings concluded with these specific fines, disqualifications, and suspended sentences being handed down.
A member of the Hutch family, Sammy Hutch (50), was jailed for six and a half years for a robbery at a Dublin Dealz store where he was armed with a hammer. He was convicted following a trial last October, despite claiming he was not the person on CCTV. DNA evidence linked him to the crime. The court heard that the victim suffered psychological trauma and that Hutch has 102 previous convictions. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the victim's distress and reduced the headline sentence of seven and a half years to six and a half years. Hutch denied involvement, claiming he sold the helmet and may have had a broken ankle. The victim described the incident as the most traumatic experience of her life, leading to ongoing psychological issues. Hutch's defense highlighted his PTSD from witnessing a cousin's shooting and his drug addiction history.
The Court of Appeal has upheld the murder conviction of Lee Canavan, who was jailed for life by the Special Criminal Court in June 2021 for his role in the 2016 killing of David 'Daithí' Douglas. Canavan, who pleaded not guilty, was found to have participated in a joint enterprise to murder Mr Douglas at Shoestown, Bridgefoot Street, Dublin 1, on July 1, 2016. The appellate court dismissed his argument that the prosecution wrongly relied on him being the triggerman, ruling that the case was properly based on common design. Canavan was also concurrently sentenced to five years for criminal damage to a getaway vehicle. This appeal follows earlier convictions in the case: Frederick 'Fat Freddie' Thompson was sentenced to life in 2018; Nathan Foley pleaded guilty to assisting a criminal organisation and received six years in 2019; and Gareth Brophy was jailed for ten years in 2020 for acting as a getaway driver. The court affirmed that Canavan's involvement in the meticulously planned execution was established by evidence of his movements with four vehicles and his participation in the attempted arson of a stolen Suzuki Swift.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Karl Fish (53) was convicted on two counts of rape and two counts of indecent assault, all committed between November 1988 and November 1990 when he was 16 or 17 and the victim was 14 or 15. The victim, a woman who was raped as a teenager by her cousin, testified that Fish had twisted the truth and tried to conceal his actions. Justice Karen O'Connor sentenced Fish to ten years for the rape offences, reduced to five years because of his age at the time, and further to four years to account for the delay in prosecution. The sentence reflects the seriousness of the offences and the impact on the victim, who expressed gratitude for the court's decision and her support network. No further legal outcomes are mentioned in the article. Karl Fish pleaded not guilty.
A serial arsonist, Colm Dowling (68), was jailed for 15 months after attempting to set a garda's car on fire using vegetable oil and causing over €7,000 in damage to a commercial premises. Dowling pleaded guilty to two counts of criminal damage and has eight previous convictions, including four for arson. He was found with a lighter and vegetable oil near the garda's car, which had charred tissue and vegetable oil on the windscreen. In another incident, he repeatedly drove a van into a gate, causing damage to the registration plate and wing mirror. The business owner found the damage suspicious and checked CCTV footage. Dowling was identified through the footage and later returned to retrieve the broken registration plate. He has a history of alcoholism and mental health issues, including major depressive disorder. His defence argued that his actions were due to a relapse and a sense of grievance. The judge noted the targeted nature of his offending and imposed a two-year sentence with nine months suspended.
A serial car-jacker, Shane Ward, was jailed for three and a half years after being identified through a live-stream of his crimes. Ward, who has 63 previous convictions, committed two car-jackings in Dublin, with the second occurring shortly after his release on bail. During the first incident, Ward and his accomplices approached a couple in a parked car, claiming to be gardai, and stole their vehicle. The second incident involved a taxi driver on Dame Street, where Ward assaulted the driver and stole the vehicle. The court heard that Ward was clearly identifiable in the live-stream footage. The victims described the emotional and physical impact of the crimes, with the taxi driver suffering lasting trauma and financial loss. Ward's defense highlighted his difficult upbringing and current efforts in addiction counseling. The judge noted the severity of the offenses and imposed a five and a half year sentence with two years suspended on strict conditions. Shane Ward pleaded guilty.
A chronic drug addict with 245 previous convictions was jailed for four years after attempting to rob a shop with a knife. Carl Byrne, 37, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and possession of drugs for sale or supply. He entered a shop with another man, took items, and threatened staff with a knife. Gardai found drugs in his possession during a separate incident. Byrne's defense highlighted his long-term addiction and early guilty plea. The judge noted his extensive criminal history and chronic drug problem but considered his remorse and early plea. She sentenced him to three years and nine months for the attempted robbery and two concurrent sentences for drug possession, with the final nine months suspended for one year.
A 60-year-old man is accused of threatening to behead his 91-year-old father during an alleged incident at their home in Rathfarnham earlier this year. Joe Kenny, of Glendoher Drive, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16, appeared before Tallaght District Court charged with assaulting his father and causing him harm. He is also accused of producing a knife during the incident in a way that was likely to intimidate. The alleged incident occurred on 21 February last, following which Gardaí were called to the house after reports that the accused had threatened to 'cut the head off' his father during a row. Officers found the 91-year-old man had sustained a laceration to the skin on his neck, which bled but was not classified as a serious injury. It was alleged that the accused had held a six-inch carving knife to his father's throat during the incident. However, the alleged injured party withdrew his statement on 29 November, and the DPP must now consider how the prosecution is to proceed. Judge Patricia McNamara refused jurisdiction due to the seriousness of the charges.
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 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.
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.
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.
On 22 January 2025, Ahmed Ramic, 26, of Brookview Court, Tallaght, crashed a DriveYou car‑sharing vehicle into a ditch on Killakee Road, Rathfarnham, after Garda Mark Cullen, in an unmarked patrol car, attempted to stop it. Cullen had been patrolling because several DriveYou cars had been reported stolen. He followed the vehicle for about a minute at speed before it left the road and crashed. Ramic had initially pleaded not guilty to dangerous driving under section 53, but the court accepted a plea to the lesser section 52 careless driving charge. Defence counsel argued Ramic was unaware of the unmarked Garda car and that the vehicle belonged to his former girlfriend's father. The court found the driving reached the threshold for careless but not dangerous driving, spared Ramic a second disqualification, and remanded him to a restorative‑justice driving‑awareness programme with the case adjourned to 13 February. The judge noted Ramic's remorse and disappointment.
Niall Ganley, a 33‑year‑old Dublin school teacher, was sentenced to two and a half years' imprisonment after a UK‑based vigilante group exposed his online grooming of children. In July 2023, the group reported that Ganley had initiated contact with a fake profile posing as a nine‑year‑old girl on Chat Avenue, sending sexualised messages, nude photos, and instructions for sexual acts. He also sent pornographic videos and a video of himself masturbating. Garda Lisa Finn presented evidence that Ganley had engaged in similar conduct with minors in 2016, including a 16‑year‑old and a 13‑year‑old, and had produced and possessed child sexual abuse material. Ganley pleaded guilty to inducing a child to participate in sexual activity, producing and possessing child sexual abuse material, and communicating with a child for sexual exploitation.
Stephen Dowling, a 33‑year‑old boxing instructor from Dublin, was convicted at Tallaght District Court on three counts: producing an article capable of inflicting serious injury, and two counts of making threats to kill or cause serious harm. The offences stemmed from an incident on 4 May 2024 at a Circle K service station on Ballyboden Road, where Dowling approached a parked car containing his former girlfriend and her fiancé. He allegedly brandished a hammer from his jacket pocket and shouted threats such as "I'll bash our heads in." Witnesses described the encounter as frightening, noting Dowling's boxing background and the proximity of the hammer. Dowling denied the allegations. The court sentenced him to three concurrent 11‑month terms, each suspended for two years, and imposed a no‑contact order with the victims. No prior convictions were recorded. The judge emphasised that carrying a hammer and threatening people was unacceptable. Stephen Dowling pleaded not guilty.
In a case heard on 23 October 2025, Nafisa Xussein, aged 57, was sentenced to a nine‑month term of imprisonment for careless driving causing serious bodily harm after she collided with a motorbike on the M50 northbound at junction 6, Blanchardstown. The collision left the motorcyclist with a broken wrist, fractures to his collarbone, ribs and pelvis, and bruising to his right lung and pelvis area. The victim, a semi‑retired diving instructor, described the injuries as having "irrevocably changed" his life, requiring four weeks in hospital, three surgeries and extensive physiotherapy. Xussein pleaded guilty to the single count of careless driving, had no prior convictions, and cooperated fully with Gardaí. The judge, Jonathan Dunphy, accepted her apology and mitigating circumstances, including her role as a single mother, and imposed a nine‑month sentence suspended for 12 months, with no driving disqualification. The sentence was delivered in the presence of the victim's impact statement.
In a Tallaght District Court hearing on 10 October 2025, Judge Áine Shannon dismissed a Section 6 Public Order charge against 64‑year‑old Míceál MacGiobúin of Belmont Park, Donnybrook. MacGiobúin had pleaded not guilty to allegations that he used threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour with intent to cause a breach of the peace during a protest outside the Russian Embassy on Orwell Road, Rathgar, on 11 October 2024. Garda Sophie Gummerson testified that she saw MacGiobúin walking near the embassy carrying a placard and shouting slogans such as "Nazi war criminal – get out of Ireland and get out of Ukraine" and "Putin will put you in his meat mincer" towards embassy employee Igor Koliara, who reported feeling intimidated. MacGiobúin, who represented himself, claimed his protest was passionate but peaceful and denied any threatening intent. CCTV footage reviewed by the judge showed MacGiobúin walking at a steady pace, not running or lunging.
Ian Maloney, a former jewel thief turned poet, was sentenced to ten years in prison, with the final eighteen months suspended, after pleading guilty to possession of a 9mm semiautomatic firearm with intent to endanger life. The offence involved firing several rounds into a family home in Crumlin where a child was present. Maloney, aged 37, had 109 prior convictions and had previously been sentenced to 12 years for a 2008 robbery and four years for a 2009 assault. He voluntarily contacted Gardaí to confess, citing guilt and a desire to do the right thing. The judge noted his early plea and self‑reporting as mitigating factors, while also acknowledging his history of anger, substance use and mental health issues. The sentence was back‑dated to account for time already spent in custody.
Raymond McCabe, 48, of White Pines Grove, Rathfarnham, pleaded guilty at Tallaght District Court to driving without insurance on the Tallaght bypass (N81) on 1 October 2024. He was stopped by Gardaí in a Volkswagen Golf, could not produce a licence or insurance, and the car was seized under the Road Traffic Act. McCabe failed to provide the documents at Tallaght Garda Station within ten days. The court noted he has 14 prior convictions, including 12 traffic offences and four for driving without insurance, the most recent in March 2024. Defence solicitor Jeremiah Breen explained McCabe's unemployment, grown‑up children, and cocaine addiction, stating he has "no excuse" but is now in treatment. Judge John Brennan, recognising McCabe's issues, imposed a four‑month prison sentence suspended for two years, a three‑year driving disqualification effective in 14 days, a €200 fine, and a €400 bond.
Christopher Farrell, 69, of Tallaght, was fined €750 for dangerous driving after a police chase. He pleaded not guilty to two counts of dangerous driving. The court dismissed the charge relating to an incident on Fortunestown Way but convicted him of a second count involving a pursuit outside his home. Garda David Sheehan reported that Farrell drove behind an unmarked patrol car, flashed his headlights, shouted abuse, and accelerated away, causing dust to rise from the median. He later turned into the Suncroft estate, sounded his horn, and drove into his driveway. Garda Sheehan described Farrell as "extremely aggressive," throwing his keys and handing his phone to a woman. The court noted Farrell's claim of panic was not credible once the patrol car's blue lights were activated. He was fined €750 with a five‑month payment period. The case was heard at Tallaght District Court by Judge Patricia McNamara.
Gary Herbert, 42, a serial offender with 157 prior convictions, was sentenced by Tallaght District Court to an additional nine‑month custodial term for theft and possession of stolen property. He pleaded guilty to one charge of possession of a grey Aovo Pro e‑scooter, which he admitted was not his, and was convicted on all counts after a hearing before Judge Patricia McNamara. Herbert denied the other three charges – theft of cash from two parked cars and possession of stolen AirPods and an iPod – but was found guilty on those as well. The court relied on CCTV footage and witness testimony to confirm his identity in both theft incidents. He is currently serving an eight‑month sentence imposed on 16 June 2025, with a release date in April 2026. Judge McNamara suspended six months of the new nine‑month term for two years, meaning Herbert will serve an additional three months unless he reoffends.
Lee Canavan, 36, has appealed his conviction for the murder of David 'Daithí' Douglas, who was shot at Shoestown in Dublin 1 on July 1, 2016. Canavan, who pleaded not guilty, was convicted by the Special Criminal Court on June 3, 2021, and sentenced to life imprisonment. He was also jailed for five years for criminal damage to a getaway vehicle. His counsel argued the trial court erred by relying on 'general association' with co-accused to infer guilt, noting the prosecution initially alleged he was the shooter. The State countered that the case was always based on joint enterprise. The Court of Appeal reserved its judgment. Canavan is the fourth person jailed for the killing. Frederick 'Fat Freddie' Thompson was jailed for life in 2018. Nathan Foley pleaded guilty to assisting a criminal organisation and received six years in 2019. Gareth Brophy was jailed for ten years in 2020 for acting as a getaway driver.
Paul Davis, 38, of Finglas, Dublin 11, appeared at Tallaght District Court where he pleaded guilty to criminal damage at Rathfarnham Garda Station and to threatening, abusive behaviour and intoxication in a public place at Marlay Park on 29 June 2024. The court heard that Davis was highly intoxicated at the Longitude festival, where he aggressively confronted Gardaí and security staff. After being pepper sprayed and arrested, he allegedly urinated on a cell door while in custody. Davis has 54 previous convictions. Although he initially reported being drug-free, he later admitted to the Probation Service that he still smokes cannabis daily, rendering him unsuitable for community service. In court, Davis claimed cannabis "isn't a drug," a statement Judge Patricia McNamara rejected, noting the chemical nature of the substance. Judge McNamara convicted Davis and imposed a three-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months. She also fined him €200, payable within four months. Davis paid €105 in court to cover the cost of cleaning the cell. The judge ordered that Davis must remain of sober habits and abstain from all illicit or non-prescribed drugs during the suspended period.
Casandra Lingurar, a 19‑year‑old Romanian‑born teenage mum living in Tallaght, was sentenced to seven months' imprisonment at Tallaght District Court for stealing groceries worth €577.07 from a Lidl store on Nutgrove Avenue, Rathfarnham, on 6 October 2024. She entered the store at 4.50 pm with an empty trolley, filled it with groceries, and was caught by store security and Gardaí around 5.03 pm while attempting to exit. Lingurar pleaded guilty to a theft charge under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001. The court noted she has nine prior convictions, seven of which are for theft, and that she had previously received a three‑month suspended sentence for stealing clothing and jewellery from The Square Shopping Centre. The judge accepted her early guilty plea but, given her extensive criminal record, imposed the seven‑month custodial sentence. The case was heard in Tallaght District Court.
Mark Kavanagh, aged 48, was sentenced by Judge Orla Crowe to a global term of six years and nine months, with the final 18 months suspended on strict conditions. The sentence follows a high‑speed chase on 28 April 2024 in which Kavanagh attempted to ram a Garda patrol car, drove at speeds up to 120 km/h, and was later apprehended after the vehicle crashed. He pleaded guilty to endangerment, criminal damage, dangerous driving, driving without insurance, and failing to provide a blood or urine sample. Kavanagh also pleaded guilty to two counts of burglary and handling stolen property in 2024, including an intrusion into the home of an 85‑year‑old man on 10 June 2024, where a key was taken. He has 168 prior convictions, including burglary, trespass, firearms and drug offences, and is disqualified from driving until 2030.
Richard Brennan, 64, was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court after pleading guilty to 24 counts of sexual abuse against his three sisters. He admitted to 18 counts of indecent assault and six counts of rape. The charges included four indecent assaults and four rapes against Paula Faye (aged 13-17) between 1978 and 1981; 13 indecent assaults and two rapes against Catherine Wrightstone (aged 9-14) between 1980 and 1984; and indecent assaults against Yvonne Crist (aged 20) between 1979 and 1980. Mr Justice David Keane imposed a global sentence of nine years, backdated to March 18. The judge suspended the final 12 months of the term on condition that Brennan engages with the Probation Service for one year upon release. No post-release supervision order was imposed. Earlier this month, his brother Bernard Brennan, 67, was jailed for four and a half years after admitting to 11 counts of indecent assault against Yvonne Crist and Paula Faye between 1972 and 1975. Bernard's global sentence of nine years was also backdated to March 18. Both men have no previous convictions.
Sean Carroll, 31, of Rathfarnham, Dublin 14, had his custodial sentence overturned on appeal in the District Court Appeals Court. Carroll, who pleaded guilty to theft under section 4 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001, was originally sentenced to six months in prison. The court heard that on July 26, 2019, Carroll allegedly arranged a meeting on Henry Street, Dublin, where he received €550 from an injured party for Electric Picnic tickets that were subsequently found to be fake. The stolen money was never recovered. Carroll has 28 previous convictions, including for theft and attempted robbery. Defence counsel Róisín Burnside BL submitted that Carroll has undertaken treatment for drug addiction and is now free of drugs and alcohol. Judge Jonathan Dunphy noted the prevalence of ticket scams on Henry Street and questioned the impact on the victim. The judge increased the original sentence from six months to ten months but fully suspended it for two years. The suspension is conditional on Carroll keeping the peace and continuing his treatment. Judge Dunphy warned that if Carroll returns before the court, every second of the ten-month term will be activated.
Bernard Brennan, aged 67 and formerly of Rathfarnham, was sentenced by the Central Criminal Court to four and a half years' imprisonment for 11 counts of indecent assault against his younger sisters, Yvonne Crist and Paula Fay, committed between 1972 and 1975. The sisters, aged 13 and seven at the time, waived anonymity and gave moving statements describing horrific abuse, including forced removal of clothing, inappropriate touching, oral rape, and forced viewing of pornography. Brennan pleaded guilty to four counts against Crist and seven against Fay. The judge, Mr Justice Paul McDermott, imposed a headline sentence of 21 months per count, reduced to 15 months, resulting in four consecutive 15‑month terms (five years) before being reduced to four and a half years and backdated to his earlier custody. Brennan had no prior convictions and pleaded guilty before trial. The court noted his age at the time of the offences and the mitigating factors in the final sentence.
A 35‑year‑old mechanic from Dublin, Declan Daly, was sentenced at Tallaght District Court for a 2019 incident where he allegedly drove a black VW minibus without insurance. Garda Dillon O'Malley stopped him for speeding on Old Military Road, Rathfarnham, and issued a summons after he failed to produce an insurance certificate within the statutory period. The certificate that was later provided covered garage work, not private driving, and did not cover the time of the offence. Daly claimed his employer had instructed him to take the van home for an NCT test, but the vehicle was registered in his name and no supporting documentation existed. Judge Patricia McNamara, noting Daly's 24 prior convictions—including five for driving without insurance—imposed a six‑month prison sentence suspended for two years on a €200 bond, a six‑year driving disqualification, a €600 fine, and a five‑month payment deadline.
Dean Howard, 33, of Rathfarnham, Dublin 14, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to assault causing harm to a male victim on July 10 and 11, 2022. The court heard that Howard entered his ex-girlfriend's home uninvited and assaulted her new partner while they were in bed. He also brandished a pint glass, used abusive language, and followed the victims in his car. Although initially facing additional charges including harassment, the DPP accepted a guilty plea to assault causing harm on a full facts basis. Judge Orla Crowe noted the severe impact on the victims and described Howard's behavior as abusive and disrespectful. Considering mitigation, including Howard's lack of previous convictions, his remorse, and personal circumstances, the judge imposed an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for three years. Howard was also directed to have no contact with the female victim for three years and ordered to pay €2,500 to a women's refuge in Dublin. The matter was finalized with this sentence.
In Tallaght District Court, Melissa O'Shea, 44, pleaded guilty to a series of thefts from Dublin retailers, including clothing, alcohol, cosmetics and household goods. She admitted to stealing €103 worth of clothing from Dunnes Stores, €150 worth of cosmetics, €41 worth of alcohol, vodka from Tesco, and €68 worth of goods, among other offences. O'Shea has 47 prior convictions, 38 for theft, and is currently serving a custodial sentence that will not end until June 2026. Judge Patricia McNamara imposed an additional 10‑month prison term to run consecutively with her existing sentence, with no portion suspended. The judge noted O'Shea's extensive offending history but also her positive engagement in prison, including drug‑free status and participation in support services. The court heard she had been remanded on bail in October 2024 before being committed to custody later that month.
In a case heard at Tallaght District Court, a 43‑year‑old man named Darren Kane was found asleep in the driver's seat of a Volkswagen camper van at the Spawell Service Station on 9 May 2021. Gardaí discovered two suspected deals of cocaine, each worth €70, in the passenger seat. Kane pleaded guilty to possession under section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act. The court noted that he had 27 prior convictions, including five under the same act, and had previously received a 10‑month suspended sentence in May 2022 for a Section 15 drugs offence. His defence counsel reported that Kane had made "remarkable" progress since then, completing a 20‑month residential programme at Cuan Mhuire, obtaining a Level 6 qualification in psychology, and volunteering to support others in addiction recovery. He had also spoken at a graduation event in March 2024 about his journey and the importance of second chances.
Three men—Anthony Hickey (39), Fabio Vicente (42) and Matin Zolfaghari (34)—were sentenced at the Central Criminal Court for a gang rape and sexual assault that occurred on 31 August 2019 in a Dublin nightclub. Hickey received 16 years, with the final year suspended; Vicente also received 16 years, suspended; Zolfaghari received 14 years, suspended. All three pleaded not guilty. The judge described the conduct as "cruel, cynical and depraved" and noted the victim was in a vulnerable state. The court directed the men to be supervised by Probation Services for three years after release and back‑dated their sentences to the date of custody. The sentencing hearing included the victim's impact statement, in which she accused the men of recording and sharing videos of the assault and of laughing at her refusal. The judge emphasised that blame rested solely with the men and praised the Garda investigation. No further legal outcomes are mentioned in the article. Anthony Hickey was convicted. Fabio Vicente was found guilty. Matin Zolfaghari was convicted.
Daniel Ramamoorthy, 38, a former government adviser, social media influencer and motivational speaker, was convicted by a jury of sexually exploiting a 13‑year‑old boy he met while volunteering as a Christian camp guide. The offence involved requesting the boy to send a picture of his penis over Snapchat in 2017. A second trial after a hung jury resulted in a headline sentence of three years, reduced to two years and four months, with the judge noting the serious breach of trust and the significant age disparity. Ramamoorthy also pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material, for which he received an 18‑month sentence; both sentences run concurrently. He was ordered to be placed on the sex offender register and will not be allowed to remain in Ireland upon release. The court recorded that the boy suffered loss of trust and stress from the trials, and that Ramamoorthy maintains his innocence regarding the exploitation charge.
Ian Maloney (37) of Cashel Road, Crumlin in Dublin, pleaded guilty to possession of a 9mm semiautomatic firearm with intent to endanger life on February 10, 2022 at an address in Crumlin. Maloney has 109 previous convictions, including two relevant ones for a robbery in 2008 and an assault causing harm in 2009. He was arrested and interviewed seven times over a number of days but made no admissions. However, while in custody in Cloverhill Prison in December of that year, his solicitor contacted gardaí to say Maloney wished to make a statement about the shooting. Maloney admitted to firing several rounds of 9mm-calibre ammunition at the house, where the occupants included a couple, their adult children, and a young child. The householder contacted gardaí to report the incident. Garda Ian Ward stated that the front door, window, and a car in the driveway were damaged with bullets. Maloney became a person of interest due to social media posts showing an ongoing feud with one of the occupants. The judge directed a probation report and remanded Maloney in custody until sentencing on May 22. Maloney was sentenced to 12 years with the last two suspended for that crime.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, a woman who was gang‑raped by three men in a Dublin nightclub on 31 August 2019 gave a victim impact statement. She described how the men – Anthony Hickey (39), Fabio Vicente (42) and Matin Zolfaghari (34) – watched her movements, used her body as an object and raped her in a car and in a house. The statement detailed her fear, anxiety, flashbacks and nightmares, and her anger at the men's videos of the assault that were shared for a laugh. She said the criminal process was long and daunting, and that the men had taken away her freedom, her body and her love for life. The court noted the men were remanded in custody and the case was adjourned for sentencing on 27 March. The statement was given in plain Irish‑English prose, with no additional claims or inferences beyond the facts presented in the article. Anthony Hickey pleaded not guilty and was convicted. Fabio Vicente pleaded not guilty and was found guilty. Matin Zolfaghari pleaded not guilty and was convicted.
Three men—Anthony Hickey (39), Fabio Vicente (42) and Matin Zolfaghari (34)—were found guilty of rape, oral rape and sexual assault against a woman who was recorded repeatedly saying "no" during the attack. The offences took place on 31 August 2019 at an unknown location in a car and in a Dublin house. The jury, after 13 hours of deliberation, returned guilty verdicts on six of the seven charges. Hickey was convicted of rape, oral rape and sexual assault; Vicente of two counts of rape; and Zolfaghari of oral rape. The men pleaded not guilty to the remaining counts. The judge remanded all three men in custody, adjourned the case for sentencing to 10 March and directed the preparation of a victim impact statement. The complainant was present at the verdicts and the court heard her testimony of being drugged, of memory gaps and of being raped twice in a car and once in a house.
Michael Donoghue, aged 21, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and making threats to kill after pointing a double‑barrel shotgun at unarmed, uniformed Gardaí at Stocking Hill, Rathfarnham, on 20 December 2023. The officers, who were in a marked patrol car and unarmed, described genuine fear for their lives and lasting professional and personal effects. Donoghue's shotgun was later found to be unloaded, but the Gardaí were unaware of this at the time. Judge Orla Crowe imposed a headline sentence of eight years, reduced to a five‑year term with the final 12 months suspended, requiring Donoghue to keep the peace, maintain good behaviour for two years and engage with the Probation Service for 12 months. The case highlighted the officers' shock, fear and ongoing trauma following the incident.
In a Dublin court hearing, Garda Michael Fox recounted the terror he felt when Michael Donoghue, a 21‑year‑old from Rathfarnham, brandished a double‑barrel shotgun at a patrol car. Fox said he believed he would be killed for doing his job and that his mother would never recover from his death. He described his life flashing before his eyes and crying for fifteen minutes after the incident. The court heard that Donoghue pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and making threats to kill, and that the shotgun was later found unloaded. The case was adjourned to 27 November for sentencing, with Donoghue remanded in custody until then. The hearing also included victim impact statements from three Gardaí, all of whom expressed profound fear and lasting trauma from the encounter. The statements highlighted the unexpected danger Gardaí face in the line of duty and the lasting psychological effects on the officers involved.
The High Court appointed Nicholas O'Dwyer and John Boland of Grant Thornton as provisional liquidators for GNC Well Ireland Unlimited Company and THSD Unlimited Company, operators of 11 health‑food stores under the GNC brand. The companies, employing 86 staff, had been loss‑making for years, with sales falling 12% in 2021 and 5% in 2022, and faced rising costs such as business rates, wages, VAT on previously zero‑VAT items and import duties. Their parent, the US‑based GNC group, had provided intracompany loans but withdrew support after a strategic review that found the Irish operations unlikely to become profitable. The parent had also sought a buyer but could not complete a sale. The court said the liquidators would secure stock, liaise with potential buyers, and manage landlords and employees to maximise creditor returns. The case will return to the court later this month.