Former Anglo Irish Bank chief executive David Drumm, aged 50 and residing in Skerries, Co Dublin, has been granted free legal aid for his upcoming conspiracy to defraud trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Judge Karen O'Connor approved the aid to cover four barristers, including a documents counsel, after hearing that Drumm is in a "catch‑22" financial situation and is an undischarged bankrupt. The ruling applies only to the criminal proceedings and does not affect any civil matters that may be pending. The Director of Public Prosecutions' counsel, Mary Rose Gearty SC, did not object, emphasising the need for a fair and timely trial. Drumm faces two charges of conspiring to defraud depositors and investors by misrepresenting the size of deposits in 2008, and a third charge under the EU transparency directive. He has not yet entered a plea. The trial is expected to begin in April, with a pre‑trial hearing scheduled for 24 March.
A judge has been appointed to preside over the upcoming trial of former Anglo Irish Bank chief executive David Drumm. Mr Drumm, 49, was excused from appearing at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court when Judge Melanie Greally informed the legal teams that Judge Karen O'Connor had been appointed by the President of the Circuit Court, Judge Raymond Groarke, to hear the case. Drumm, who lives in Skerries, Co Dublin, faces 33 counts under two separate bills concerning alleged offences committed at the now-defunct bank. He has not yet entered a plea. Two trials are scheduled: the first on 24 April next year, where he faces two charges of conspiring to defraud depositors and investors by "dishonestly" creating the impression that deposits in 2008 were €7.2 billion larger than they were, and one additional charge relating to the EU transparency directive; the second on 12 January 2018, where he faces 16 counts of offering unlawful financial assistance to members of businessman.
David Drumm, former chief executive of Anglo Irish Bank, was granted a one‑day relaxation of his bail conditions by Judge Melanie Greally. The court heard that Drumm, aged 49 and residing in Skerries, Co. Dublin, is charged with 33 counts under two separate bills relating to alleged offences at the now‑defunct bank. He has not yet entered a plea. Two trials are scheduled: the first on 24 April next year, where he faces charges of conspiring to defraud depositors and investors by creating a false impression that 2008 deposits were €7.2 billion larger, and a charge under the EU transparency directive; the second in January 2018, where he faces 16 counts of offering unlawful financial assistance to members of businessman Sean Quinn's family and 10 other individuals, plus 14 charges of falsifying documents. The April trial is expected to last about three months, while the January trial is expected to last about two months.
Barry Kindregan, a 36‑year‑old clerical officer from Downside Heights, Skerries, was sentenced to two years in jail for processing seven bogus passports for foreign nationals who were not entitled to them. He pleaded guilty to four charges, including possession of a false passport and three counts of corruptly accepting money for issuing passports between August 2012 and July 2013. Kindregan had been employed at the passport office since 2007 when a colleague approached him in August 2012 to help South African nationals obtain Irish passports. He agreed to produce passports for cash, receiving €1,250 at the start and a final €1,250 upon completion, but never received the payment for the first two passports. He admitted he only checked supporting documents for spelling and knew the applicants were ineligible.
Barry Kindregan, a 36‑year‑old clerical officer in the Dublin passport office, pleaded guilty in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to four charges, including possession of a false passport and three counts of corruptly accepting cash for issuing passports. Between August 2012 and July 2013 he processed seven passports for South African, Vietnamese, American and Moldovan nationals who were not entitled to Irish passports. He received €12,500 for five passports, but only received €1,250 for the first two and none for the remaining two. He admitted he only checked names and knew the applicants were ineligible. He cooperated fully with Gardaí, expressed remorse, and lost his passport office job but has since found new employment. The case was remanded on bail for a sentencing hearing on March 11, 2016.".
Dragos Nica, 30, of Skerries, was found not guilty by reason of insanity for the murder of 55‑year‑old Michael Gannon on 14 November 2013. The jury heard that Gannon was babysitting children when Nica stabbed him after a child reported a man looking in the living‑room window. Nica claimed he had been deliberately poisoned by Gannon's daughter, Jade. Dr Sally Linehan, a psychiatrist, testified that Nica suffers from paranoid schizophrenia characterised by delusions and hallucinations, and that he is polite and well‑kempt during interviews. Mr Nica denied feeling depressed but continued to express abnormal beliefs. Justice Tony Hunt ordered Nica's commitment to the Central Mental Hospital, noting that treatment must be supervised and that the verdict was the only available option for the jury. The decision was made without impact evidence from the victim's family.
A 30‑year‑old man, Dragos Nica of Mourne Park, Skerries, was found not guilty by reason of insanity for the murder of Michael Gannon, 55, at Gannon's home on 14 November 2013. Nica, originally from Bacau, Romania, had lived in Ireland for 19 years and claimed he believed Gannon's daughter Jade had poisoned him. He said he woke with a numb finger and a "bubbling" arm, and that he was panicking and wanted to "take it out on the world." He armed himself with a second knife and went to Jade's house, where Gannon was babysitting children. Gannon was stabbed in the chest and died a few feet from the wound. Nica called emergency services after the attack. Two psychiatrists testified that Nica was suffering from an acute psychosis of schizophrenia at the time of the stabbing.
A jury was instructed to consider the ill health of Dragos Nica, 30, who was accused of murdering his neighbour's father, Michael Gannon, 55, in Skerries, Co Dublin on 14 November 2013. Nica, of Mourne Park, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. The court heard that Gannon was babysitting his daughter Jade's children and a neighbour's child when a child reported a man looking in the living‑room window. Gannon opened the door and was stabbed to death. Nica claimed he had been deliberately poisoned by Jade Gannon and was "freaked out". Prosecutor Mr Patrick Treacy SC described Nica as remorseful and cited two psychiatrists who agreed that Nica was suffering from an acute psychosis of schizophrenia at the time of the stabbing. Defence counsel Jonathan Kilfeather SC argued that the case was not a typical criminal trial, emphasising the insanity defence and the experts' agreement that Nica meets the requirements for a special verdict.
In a 2016 trial, a 30‑year‑old man from Skerries, Dragos Nica, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity for stabbing a 55‑year‑old neighbour, Michael Gannon, to death on 14 November 2013. The jury heard that Nica had previously considered killing Gannon's young grandchildren and that he had a history of chronic paranoid schizophrenia, with delusions and hallucinations. He had been admitted to psychiatric facilities on several occasions, often involuntarily, and had a long record of drug use, including cannabis, heroin and ecstasy. On the night of the murder, Nica claimed he believed he had been poisoned by Gannon's daughter and that he was in an agitated state, grabbing a larger knife after a smaller one. He called emergency services after the stabbing, claiming he had stabbed someone. The trial was set to continue with closing speeches before a judge and jury.
In the Central Criminal Court, Dragos Nica, 30, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity for stabbing Michael Gannon, 55, to death on 14 November 2013. Nica admitted to the stabbing and that Gannon died from the wound. He claimed he was poisoned by Gannon's daughter, Jade, and that the poison forced him to act. Garda Sergeant David Kemp recounted that Gannon was babysitting children when Nica entered the house, stabbed him, and fled. Nica later called 999, stating he was poisoned and had to kill to stop it. He was interviewed four times, during which he described feeling a "poison" sting, being angry and despairing, and that he had stopped his medication and smoked cannabis. The jury heard evidence of Nica's acute schizophrenia at the time of the killing. The trial is expected to last three days.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Dragos Nica, aged 30, admitted stabbing his neighbour's father, Michael Gannon, who was 55. The incident occurred at Mourne Park, Skerries, Co Dublin, on 14 November 2013. Nica pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, claiming he was suffering from acute schizophrenia at the time. A consultant psychiatrist testified to this condition. Defence counsel Jonathan Kilfeather SC confirmed Nica's admission and that Gannon died from the stab wound. Prosecuting counsel Patrick Treacy SC instructed the jury to decide on the insanity plea. The trial continues.
In a High Court personal injuries case, Gerald Grimes, a 25‑year‑old from Balbriggan Street, Skerries, lost his claim after slipping in the toilets of Shenanigans Nightclub on 4 March 2012. Mr Justice Anthony Barr ruled that Grimes fell because he was "engaged in horseplay" with a friend, Mr Michael Caldwell, when a jump‑kick caused him to lose balance and fall on a wet floor. The judge found no negligence on the part of the nightclub, Highview Inns Ltd, which is in receivership, and dismissed the claim. Grimes had alleged a dislocated knee, severe pain, and loss of sporting ability, supported by Caldwell's testimony. Evidence from the nightclub's toilet attendant, Mr Elijah Fatiroti, who described the incident as horseplay and noted no liquid on the floor, was preferred by the judge.
Christian Coffey, aged 38, was sentenced to four and a half years in jail for storing cannabis worth €64,658, two Russian semi‑automatic pistols, and 16 rounds of ammunition at a rented container in Lusk, north County Dublin. He pleaded guilty at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on 17 October 2013. Coffey had gambling debts exceeding €50,000, including amounts owed to banks and money lenders, and had been described by a judge as a "fully reformed gambler" and a "remarkably decent man". The judge, Martin Nolan, noted Coffey's lack of prior convictions, early guilty plea, strong work record over 20 years, and community contributions through his GAA club. Despite the Director of Public Prosecutions recommending seven to eight years, the judge imposed the four‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence, citing Coffey's mitigation and remorse.
At Balbriggan District Court, Artur Pietrynka (40), of Rush, pleaded guilty to urinating in public, being intoxicated, and using threatening and abusive behaviour on Upper Main Street in Rush on November 22nd. Judge Dermot Dempsey sentenced him to 240 hours of community service work in lieu of a two-month prison term. In a separate matter, Andrew O'Rourke (49) pleaded guilty to stealing €60.70 worth of food from the Noodle Box restaurant in Balbriggan on August 11th last year. Judge Michael Coughlan convicted O'Rourke and fined him €500, allowing six months to pay. Vatalie Raru (33), of Rush, is alleged to have possessed a nun chuck and used threatening and abusive behaviour towards gardai on December 17th. The matter was adjourned, with Raru remanded on continuing bail for a hearing on May 11th at Swords District Court. Additionally, Andrea Bunce (44), of Skerries, is alleged to have stolen stock and cash from Castle News & Toys in May 2013. Her case was adjourned to be heard on May 11th at Swords District Court, where she elected to have the trial at District Court level.
In Swords District Court, Mark Sheehan (25) pleaded guilty to driving without insurance and had his case adjourned until April 13th following a request from the Probation Service for further assessment. Sheehan has 15 previous convictions and was previously given a six-month suspended sentence and a six-year driving disqualification. Michael Reilly (21) pleaded guilty to stealing a remote controlled car and was convicted in his absence. As he did not appear to pay the €250 compensation, Judge Dempsey imposed a default order and fined him €250. Helen McDonnell (25) pleaded guilty to using a false driving licence and stealing groceries. Her case was adjourned until March 30th for a repayment meeting with the furniture store and to provide proof of arrangements. Adrian O'Reilly (50) pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour. Judge Dempsey ordered him to make a charitable donation of €250 to Pieta House and applied Section 1.1 of the Probation Act.
Barry Nolan, 40, was jailed for four months after he broke into Michael Maguire's house at 2.30am, punched him, and repeatedly threatened to kill him. Nolan had earlier visited the house that evening and was denied entry. He punched Maguire in the face, neck and head, kicked him in the ribs and head, and shouted "I am going to kill you." Maguire, who was injured and feared for his life, called 999 and later reported the assault. Nolan pleaded guilty to burglary, making threats to kill or cause serious harm and assault causing harm. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced him to two and a half years, suspending all but four months on strict conditions. Nolan has a history of alcohol misuse and has since sought psychotherapy. He paid €3,500 to help repair Maguire's front door. The case was heard at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
In Balbriggan District Court on 26 February 2015, two women, Eileen McDonagh (36) and Carolyn Ward (29), were dealt with for stealing €1,782.35 worth of children's clothing from Tesco Extra. McDonagh donated €300 to the Laura Lynn Hospice, leading Judge Dermot Dempsey to apply Section 1.1 of the Probation Act and grant her probation. Ward, who did not attend court and made no donation, was convicted and fined €300. Both had no prior convictions and were described by their solicitor as acting out of desperation with no sophisticated planning. Separately, Ryan Myles (21) was adjourned for a Probation & Welfare Report after pleading guilty to theft of cosmetics and possession of cannabis resin, with 10 prior convictions. A motorist, David Boylan (48), was fined €300 for careless driving after a collision at a crossroads but was not disqualified. Finally, Mathew Lencewicz (21) was convicted of drink driving, fined €200, and received a six‑month driving ban.
Swords District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Denis McLoughlin. Jandean Hyland, who pleaded guilty to assault causing harm, had his case struck out after paying €750 compensation. Anthony Lambe, convicted of causing criminal damage, was fined €200 and remanded on continuing bail until May 18th to pay the fine. Patrick McDonagh was convicted and fined €250 for theft, while his brother Eddie McDonagh, also convicted of theft, was given the benefit of the Probation & Offenders Act. Karl McQuillian, who pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis, had his case adjourned until May 18th for a Probation & Welfare report to assess suitability for 200 hours of community service in lieu of a five-month prison sentence. Algars Putnins, who pleaded guilty to intoxication, obstruction, and threatening behaviour, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear in May to make a €200 charitable contribution, with the Probation Act to be applied if the donation is made. Martin Maughan, who pleaded guilty to careless driving and failing to give a specimen, was disqualified from driving for four years and fined €300.
Sean McAuley, 20, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of Ketamine, MDMA, and cannabis for sale or supply. Following the completion of voluntary work and a positive Probation Report, Judge Dermot Dempsey struck out the case. In a separate matter, John Butterly, 39, pleaded guilty to assaulting Peter Thompson and producing a baseball bat. Lorraine Butterly, 34, is charged with assaulting three individuals and producing a rolling pin. Peter Thompson, 41, pleaded guilty to assaulting John Butterly. All three were remanded on continuing bail until April 13th for a hearing at Swords District Court. Zacheaus Odinga, 45, pleaded guilty to driving without insurance on Drogheda Street in Balbriggan. Judge Dempsey convicted him, fined him €400, and declined to invoke disqualification under special circumstances. The report also notes that David Cummins, 25, is charged with attempting to steal cash and a can of Coke; his case is scheduled for March 30th. Jade Gannon, 32, pleaded guilty to theft and non-payment of a taxi fare, receiving fines of €100 and €75 respectively. Andrea Bunce, 44, is alleged to have stolen stock and cash; she was remanded on continuing bail until February 12th. John Maxwell, 36, is charged with possession of cannabis; his case was adjourned until March 12th for the service of the Book of Evidence.
Swords District Court heard five matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Mark Sheehan pleaded guilty to driving without insurance. The matter was adjourned until March 9th for a Probation & Welfare report to assess suitability for 240 hours of community service in lieu of a four-month prison sentence. Kevin Carroll pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage to a restaurant. He was remanded on continuing bail to provide €215 in compensation, with the facts of the case to be heard on March 2nd. David Lawrence, who was absent, had a guilty plea entered for being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour. He was convicted and fined €200. William Whelan pleaded guilty to holding a mobile phone while driving. He was convicted and fined €100. Marc Savage pleaded guilty to parking a lorry on a footpath. He was convicted and fined €100.
Thomas Dennis, 21, was found guilty of failing to report an incident in which a woman's finger was severed when she was caught in the door of his car after leaving a Balbriggan nightclub. Dennis admitted he did not realise the finger was trapped until the following morning, when he discovered the tip stuck in the passenger side of the door. He called his father for advice and later contacted the gardai about three hours after finding the severed finger. The court noted that Dennis had no prior convictions and that he had been in shock when he discovered the injury. Judge John Coughlan convicted Dennis and fined him €100, stating that a driver is legally responsible for the actions of his passengers and that Dennis deliberately chose not to return to the scene. The decision was made at Swords District Court. The victim, hairdresser Shauna Weldon, has lost the top of her finger and is still receiving physiotherapy. Thomas Dennis pleaded not guilty.
Paul McGee, 21, was placed on a 12-month Probation Bond at Balbriggan District Court after pleading guilty to causing criminal damage and breaching a protection order. The charges relate to an incident on July 22nd at Selskar Avenue, Skerries, where Garda Anthony O'Connor alleged McGee kicked in a door and used threatening behaviour. Judge Dermot Dempsey ordered McGee to comply with Probation Services requirements. In a separate matter, Derek Gildea, 51, is charged with the unlawful possession of a combat knife allegedly found at Balbriggan Garda Station on October 24th. His case was adjourned to January 15th for a hearing. Additionally, Thomas Weldon, 32, is alleged to have committed burglary and assault causing harm in Brega on June 14, 2014. His case was adjourned to February 9th at Swords District Court. Finally, Daniel Michalow, 28, is alleged to have breached a protection order in Rush on December 7th by assaulting a woman. Sergeant Tony Tighe requested an adjournment to seek directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding potential further charges. Judge Dempsey adjourned Michalow's case until February 26th.
Rachel Breen, a 46‑year‑old Dublin‑based occupational therapist, pleaded guilty in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm after she drove through a poorly marked junction on Naul Road, Balbriggan, on 6 October 2012. The incident left a two‑year‑old boy with permanent facial scars. Breen was found at the scene administering first aid and was later disqualified from driving for four years. Judge Desmond Hogan described her as a "decent woman" who made a "serious error of judgement" and imposed a €5,000 fine, noting that no aggravating factors such as speed or intoxication were present. The court did not impose a custodial sentence, and all injured parties were compensated through Breen's insurance. The judge highlighted that the fine would impact Breen's working life due to her driving ban.
At Balbriggan District Court, Judge Dermot Dempsey struck out cases against Thomas and Alan Larkin after they paid €500 to St Vincent de Paul. Thomas Larkin (36) pleaded guilty to assaulting a youth causing harm, while Alan Larkin (33) pleaded guilty to producing a wheel brace. The court heard the brothers reacted to youths throwing rocks at their car, which contained a baby. Judge Dempsey warned them they cannot take the law into their own hands. Keith Daly (21) pleaded guilty to handling stolen property, specifically a red Carrera mountain bike. He was placed on a 12-month Probation Bond, ordered to comply with Probation Services recommendations, engage in Offence Focus work, and be assessed for training and employment. Julian Donnelly (28) pleaded guilty to possession of €20 of cannabis resin. He was convicted and fined €300. Judge Dempsey noted he had no evidence Donnelly had stopped using drugs since March and warned he was sailing close to a prison sentence. Damien Costello (35) pleaded guilty to stealing €20 of petrol from two service stations. He paid €100 in compensation and was placed on a 12-month Probation Bond. Meanwhile, cases for John Scott (36), charged with dangerous driving and having excessively worn tyres, and Grainne Kealy (56), charged with driving without due caution and attention, were adjourned until January 8th for a plea or to fix a hearing date, as solicitors awaited outstanding statements and photographs.
At Balbriggan District Court, Tom Maughan pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour. Judge Dermot Dempsey sentenced him to 150 hours of community service work in lieu of a month in prison, following a Probation Service assessment. Stephen Nyantaki, who had previously pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and non-payment of a taxi fare, failed to appear for sentencing, resulting in a bench warrant for his arrest. Niall Skelly, charged with the theft of groceries, was remanded to February 19th and granted bail with a condition to refrain from entering the relevant Tesco supermarket. Thomas Gaffney, alleged to have unauthorisedly taken a car, bicycle, and truckster, and stolen chicken fillet rolls, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on January 8th for a plea or hearing date. Derek Gildea, charged with unlawful possession of a combat knife, had his case adjourned to December 18th as he was not present in court. Additionally, Brendan Donovan, alleged to be in possession of a stolen Ford Transit van, was granted a hearing date of January 5th at Swords District Court.
Swords District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Ivans Zinkevics, 49, pleaded guilty to trespassing, intoxication, and threatening behaviour. He was sentenced to 240 hours of community service in lieu of a two-month prison term, following a positive probation report. Mairead McRory, 34, admitted to drink driving after a collision. Judge Dempsey convicted her, fined her €750, and disqualified her from driving for three years, a disqualification postponed until March. Tom Costello, 22, pleaded guilty to theft. Despite 47 previous convictions, the judge granted him a final opportunity, convicting him and sentencing him to four months in prison, suspended for two years. Cathy Lawrence, 22, pleaded guilty to using a false driving licence to secure furniture finance. The matter was not concluded with a standard sentence; instead, she was ordered to pay €350 to The Gary Kelly Cancer Support Centre. In a separate procedural stage, Calin Scintei, 22, was charged with handling stolen brandy and possessing a foiled bag. His case was adjourned, with a hearing date set for January 26.
At Balbriggan District Court, Jevgenijs Zurila (32) of Navan pleaded guilty to trespassing and the theft of two containers of diesel worth €150 from Bently Bros Ltd in Lusk on August 14th. Judge Grainne O'Neill convicted him, noting his previous conviction for theft, and fined him €250 for trespass and a further €250 for the theft, warning that a future offence would result in a prison sentence. Joseph McGovern (39) of Donabate pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour towards gardai at Macari's Takeaway in Donabate on May 22nd. Despite mitigation regarding his mother's recent death, Judge O'Neill convicted him and imposed a €300 fine. Catherine Joyce (42) of Balbriggan, who is alleged to have been intoxicated and used threatening and abusive behaviour on October 2nd, had her case adjourned until January 8th as further charges, including an alleged assault on a garda, may be brought. Neil Phipps (29) of Balbriggan, alleged to have assaulted Brian Cranny causing harm on May 9th, had his case adjourned until November 27th pending DPP directions. John Fleming (30) of Skerries, alleged to have driven without reasonable consideration on January 22nd, had his case adjourned until December 4th to seek legal advice.
Rachel Breen, 46, of Skerries, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to dangerous driving that caused serious bodily harm to a six‑month‑old baby on Naul Road, Balbriggan, on 6 October 2012. Judge Desmond Hogan remanded her on continuing bail for sentencing on 18 December 2014.
Balbriggan District Court heard multiple matters. Keith Daly pleaded guilty to handling stolen property but was remanded on continuing bail pending a probation report, with the case adjourned to December 11. Lorna Daly, John Scott, and Grainne Kealy were remanded on continuing bail; Daly faces alleged charges of making off without paying and using a false plate, while Scott and Kealy face alleged dangerous driving and careless driving charges, with their cases adjourned to December 11. Denise Creagh pleaded guilty to theft and was convicted, fined €100, and warned of potential custody for future offences. James Whelan pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis and failing to display L-plates; the unaccompanied driving charge was struck out, and he was fined €175. Roberts Trascenko pleaded guilty to drink driving, was convicted, fined €400, and disqualified for two years. Chris Lyaba pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage, and his case was adjourned to January 22 to allow time for compensation. Genadijs Ogurcovs was charged with theft from two shops, and his case was adjourned to October 23 for a plea or hearing date.
David Lee, 32, pleaded guilty to breaching a protection order and threatening to smash a house in Swords on 19 August 2013. He was convicted and fined €100 by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Lee, who has 25 previous convictions, apologized and has not been near the house since. His defence solicitor, Fiona D'Arcy, said he hopes to get a job as a bicycle courier. Paul McGee, 21, pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage and breaching a protection order at his parents' home on 22 July. He was adjourned until 18 December for a probation report; he has five previous convictions and is attending counselling. Geoffrey Melia, 24, pleaded guilty to stealing a bottle of vodka from a Balbriggan supermarket in March. He was fined €200; he has four previous convictions and has stopped drinking. Lisa Jenkins, 41, pleaded guilty to three thefts from a Swords department store, totalling over €800.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Kieran White pleaded guilty to stealing a bottle of wine from Supervalu. After making a €75 donation to the Molly McNally Trust Fund, the court applied Section 1.1 of the Probation Act. Piotr Boryslawski pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis found under his car seat. Following a €300 charitable donation, the charge was struck out. Valerie Dalton, alleged to have been drink driving, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 11th. Paul McGee, charged with criminal damage and breach of a protection order, was remanded on continuing bail for a hearing on October 6th. Eddie McDonagh and Patrick McDonagh, both alleged to have stolen a steel tube from a boat, were remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 4th. McDonagh also faces allegations of careless driving and not paying a taxi fare, while Patrick McDonagh is alleged to have not paid a taxi fare. All these cases remain at the pre-trial stage with no final sentences passed.
Peter Mulligan, a 49‑year‑old businessman from Glasgow living in Dublin, pleaded guilty in Swords District Court to assaulting a 40‑year‑old woman in the car park of Skerries Train Station on 19 November 2012. He claimed the headbutt was not intentional, arguing that the woman had swore at him and that her car had made contact with his. Mulligan paid the victim €750 and donated €500 to Fingal Bereaved by Suicide. The victim suffered bruising above her left eye. Mulligan, who has no prior convictions, is a consultant in sales and marketing and runs a business that collapsed in 2011. Judge Dermot Dempsey struck the case out after the compensation was paid. The incident occurred in front of Mulligan's nine‑year‑old daughter. The court noted the argument involved finger‑wagging and a face‑to‑face confrontation. The case was dismissed following the financial settlement.
Balbriggan District Court heard multiple matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Eoin Maguire, Cornelius Price, and Edward Price, accused of serious assaults and endangering a garda, were remanded on continuing bail with strict conditions to reappear on September 4th after an extension was granted for the Book of Evidence. John Butterly, Lorraine Butterly, and Peter Thompson, charged with assaults involving a baseball bat and rolling pin, were remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 25th due to the prosecuting garda's injury. Sebestian Knecht was convicted of driving without insurance and possessing a forged insurance disc, receiving a total fine of €850 and a two-year disqualification. Alan Bowe, charged with drink driving, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 26th. Thomas Gaffney, accused of theft and car theft, was remanded on continuing bail until September 11th. Kieran White, who pleaded guilty to stealing wine, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on July 31st, with the possibility of avoiding a conviction if he pays €75. Mark Donnelly, charged with cannabis possession, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 25th. Stephen Teeling, who pleaded guilty to cannabis possession, was convicted and fined after failing to bring €250 to court, with recognisance fixed for appeal.
Balbriggan District Court heard various matters. James Reid pleaded guilty to hit and run, failing to stop, failing to provide information, failing to keep the vehicle at the scene, failing to report the incident, and having no tax. Judge Dermot Dempsey convicted Reid, fined him €400 for the hit and run offences, fined him €100 for no tax, and disqualified him from driving for six months. Piotr Boryslawski pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis. The judge ordered him to pay €300 to the Molly McNally Trust Fund by month's end, stating the charge would be struck out if paid. Several defendants were remanded on continuing bail. James Walsh, charged with cultivating cannabis, was adjourned to September 18 for service of the Book of Evidence. Gareth Lokko, alleged to have breached a barring order and caused criminal damage, was remanded to July 24. Kevin Harmon, alleged to have assaulted another man causing harm, was remanded to September 25 for DPP directions. Lorna Daly, alleged to have stolen petrol and used a false registration plate, was remanded to July 24 for a plea. Jandean Hyland, charged with assault causing harm, was remanded to July 31. Stephane Mbama, alleged to have dangerous driving and driving without insurance, was remanded to July 31. Michael Bollard, alleged to have breached a safety order, was granted bail with conditions and adjourned to July 17.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Catherine Smith pleaded guilty to theft of €213 worth of gardening items from a Tesco supermarket. The judge indicated he would apply the Probation Act if she makes a charitable contribution. Marek Laska pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis for sale or supply and possession of digital weighing scales. The judge applied the Probation Act, ordering him to attend HOPE and assist other drug users, avoiding a conviction. Linda Murphy pleaded guilty to stealing four blank cheques from her employers. The case was adjourned until September 11th to allow her to provide the remaining €160 in compensation, with a warning of a custodial sentence if unpaid. John Paul Fitzgerald pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis resin. He was convicted, fined €400, and ordered to destroy the drugs, with the judge warning he is close to a prison sentence. James Walsh, alleged to have cultivated cannabis plants, was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on July 3rd for a plea or trial. Ann McGann was convicted of attempting to drive while intoxicated. She was disqualified from driving for three years and fined €300.
Swords District Court heard multiple matters. Charges against Shane Langan and Kieran Kennedy for mutual assault were withdrawn following an agreement on the division of blame. Sean Cullen, alleged to have breached a protection order, was remanded on continuing bail with strict conditions, including residing at his father's house and remaining sober. Thomas Nicholson, charged with stealing an €18,000 mini digger, was remanded on bail for DPP directions. Luke Nestor pleaded guilty to theft; the judge ordered 200 hours of voluntary work before considering conviction. Jason Mitchell pleaded guilty to cannabis possession and was convicted and fined €200. Mateusz Sniezek pleaded guilty to drink driving and was disqualified for three years, with the ban postponed until December 1st. Oksana Smirnova pleaded guilty to failing to provide a sample; she was convicted, fined €650, and disqualified for four years. Brendan Hill pleaded guilty to public order offences and was fined €300 in total.
At Balbriggan District Court, Edwin Akandu pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified, having no tax or insurance, and lacking a driving licence. He was convicted and sentenced to four months in prison, with an additional six-year disqualification for the uninsured offence. Judge Dempsey noted Akandu had driven just over a year after receiving a previous four-year ban. In a separate matter, Tony Thunder pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage to a window in Skerries. The court marked the case peremptory, granting him until July 10th to provide €200 in compensation. Tina Power pleaded guilty to drink driving after giving a urine reading of 297mg/100ml. She was fined €500 and disqualified from driving for three years. James Heraghty, who is alleged to have assaulted a garda, used threatening behaviour, and obstructed an officer, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 26th while the State clarifies CCTV footage. Keith O'Gorman, alleged to have assaulted another man at Balbriggan Harbour, was also remanded on continuing bail to appear on July 12th for the hearing of his case.
Swords District Court heard several matters involving defendants Rebotilwe Mohlala, Keith McNamara, and Mariam Aroh. Mohlala, 39, pleaded guilty to the theft of €22.98 worth of goods from Tesco Extra in Millfield on June 21st, 2013. Judge Dermot Dempsey indicated he would consider applying the Probation Act if a €200 charitable donation was paid. The matter was adjourned until July 7th to allow the defendant time to arrange the funds. McNamara, 22, pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of €1,100 worth of cannabis herb and the drug itself, found at his home on May 18th, 2013. He claimed he was selling to friends to afford his own use. Judge Dempsey described this as a commercial enterprise. McNamara was remanded on continuing bail for an updated restorative justice report on September 8th. Aroh, 38, was charged with non-display of L-plates, having no driving licence, and giving a false date of birth. She pleaded guilty to the first two charges but contested the false details. Judge Dempsey found her guilty of giving a false date of birth. She was fined €100 for the L-plates offence and €100 for the false date of birth, with other charges taken into consideration.
Balbriggan District Court heard several cases during its recent sittings. Richard Devine (21) had his case struck out after he admitted to assaulting Shane Christy and causing criminal damage to his car in Rush, Co Dublin on May 3rd, 2013. Devine, who was drunk at the time, paid €800 in compensation and completed 200 hours of voluntary work. Judge Dermot Dempsey accepted these actions and struck the case out. Pat Dwyer (60) pleaded guilty to driving while under the influence of alcohol at Miller's Lane in Skerries on December 22nd, 2013. He was fined €400 and disqualified from driving for three years. Eoin Maguire (29), Cornelius Price (32), and Edward Price (24) were remanded on continuing bail to re-appear before the court on July 17th when they are expected to be served with the Books of Evidence. They are charged with assault causing harm to Clifford Whitehouse and James Whitehouse, and production of a Stanley knife on December 20th, 2013. Cornelius Price and Edward Price are also charged with reckless endangerment of a garda at Balbriggan Garda Station on December 22nd, 2013. Thomas O'Donnell (24), Michael O'Brien (18), and Brian Stokes (21) were remanded on continuing bail for charges of unauthorized carriage in a car. Salius Peciulaitis (30) pleaded guilty to driving without insurance, driving while disqualified, and drink driving at Dublin Street in Balbriggan, as well as violent behaviour at Balbriggan Garda Station on February 22nd. He was given a four-month suspended sentence, disqualified from driving for six years, and fined €750. Neil Phipps (28) was remanded on continuing bail for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding an alleged assault causing harm to Brian Cranny.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Martin Lawrence pleaded guilty to the theft of €30 worth of items from a Skerries supermarket. The court applied the Probation Act and warned him to stay away from the store. Mark Donnelly, charged with unlawful possession of cannabis for sale and supply, was adjourned until June 19th pending DPP directions. Linda Hess, charged with unauthorised taking of a vehicle and driving without insurance, was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on June 5th. James Heraghty, alleged to have assaulted a garda, used threatening behaviour, and obstructed a garda, was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on June 12th. Dayne Barnwell, alleged to have assaulted a bouncer causing a fractured ankle, was remanded on continuing bail until June 26th. Additionally, Tony Thunder, charged with criminal damage, failed to appear; the case was adjourned until June 12th for gardai to caution him. All defendants were processed at the charge or pretrial stage, with no convictions recorded in this report.
In Balbriggan District Court, 42‑year‑old Linda Murphy, a cleaner, pleaded guilty to stealing four blank cheques from her employers, Jack and Terry Maloney, between February and August 2013. She cashed one cheque for €320 and did not cash the other three. Murphy had made voluntary statements to Gardaí and admitted the theft. Her solicitor described her as a mother of three, recently homeless, now living in Balbriggan, caring for a three‑year‑old grandchild, and undergoing a divorce. Judge Dermot Dempsey questioned her willingness to pay compensation, noting she had no money to offer. He ordered her to provide compensation by June or face a custodial sentence and remanded her on continuing bail until 26 June, when she will appear again. The case remains at the pleading stage.
In a Skerries car‑park incident on 19 November 2012, 49‑year‑old Peter Mulligan, a Glasgow‑born consultant, headbutted a 40‑year‑old woman after a dispute over a parking space. Mulligan claimed the headbutt was unintentional and that the woman had swore at him and called him a "f**king asshole" after her car had allegedly contacted his. He pleaded guilty to assault before Swords District Court. The victim suffered bruising above her left eye. Mulligan, who had no prior convictions, had set up a business in Ireland in 2005 that collapsed in 2011. Judge Dermot Dempsey ordered him to pay €750 in compensation to the victim and an additional €500 as a charitable donation. Mulligan was remanded on continuing bail to appear again on 21 July. The case remains at the pleading stage.
In Balbriggan District Court on 8 May 2014, Andrew Gosson, aged 24, pleaded guilty to threatening and abusive behaviour on 17 December 2013 and again on 16 January 2013 while driving on the M1. He had one prior road‑traffic conviction. Defence solicitor Fiona D'Arcy said he was under severe pressure from a gambling problem and was not working at the time. Judge Patrick Clyne declined to fine him, noting he was better off feeding his children, and bound him to a peace bond for one year. Separately, 87‑year‑old Michael Murphy was remanded on continuing bail in his absence to appear on 5 June after being charged with dangerous driving on 16 November 2013. Finally, 39‑year‑old William O'Gorman was remanded on continuing bail to re‑appear on 26 June after being charged with robbery, assault and possession of a screwdriver outside St Peter's and Paul's Church on 11 April 2014.
A 25‑year‑old man named Shane Power, who is unemployed, was charged with assaulting Garda Karl McManus on St Patrick's Day in Skerries and with unlawful possession of nine tablets of MDMA at Balbriggan Garda Station. He was also charged with intoxication and using threatening and abusive behaviour. Power could not attend an earlier court date because he was overseas on holiday. His girlfriend proved that she paid for a one‑week holiday to Tenerife, covering flights and half‑board accommodation at a total cost of €1,600, and presented documents to Judge Dermot Dempsey. The judge was satisfied with the evidence and granted Power free legal aid, remanding the case until 22 May. The decision was made after the judge had previously reserved legal aid for Power, who had argued that he could not afford legal fees while on holiday. The case remains pending as of the article's date.
Balbriggan District Court heard several pre-trial matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Edwin Akandu, 45, is charged with driving without insurance. His solicitor stated he is a named driver on his partner's policy, but she refuses to provide the certificate. The Judge ordered Chill Insurance to furnish the document to Garda Keith Horgan, warning of a warrant for non-compliance, and adjourned the case until May 22nd. Michelle Ferris, 38, is alleged to have drink driven, failed to wear a seat belt, and driven without a licence. Following receipt of disclosure, she was remanded on continuing bail to appear before Swords District Court on June 9th. Joseph Cruise, 20, is alleged to have breached a protection order. He was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear before Balbriggan District Court on May 16th. Stephen Teeling is charged with unlawful possession of cannabis. The Judge granted a disclosure order and remanded him on continuing bail to return on April 24th for a plea or hearing date. Gavin Deegan, 24, is also charged with unlawful possession of cannabis. He was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear before the court on April 24th. All defendants are currently at the charge or pre-trial stage, with no pleas entered or findings made.
A 19‑year‑old youth was placed on a six‑month Probation Bond after he punched a 14‑year‑old boy on a train from Gormanston to Skerries and stole his Apple iPod. The youth approached the victim, tried to seize the iPod, then struck the boy several times in the face, leaving severe bruising. He disembarked at Balbriggan Train Station with the device, and Gardaí later found him on Balbriggan Beach still in possession of the stolen iPod. He pleaded guilty to the theft before Balbriggan District Court on 10 August of the previous year. The Director of Public Prosecutions had directed a summary disposal of the case. Defence solicitor Fiona D'Arcy noted the youth's difficult upbringing, including physical abuse from his mother, and that he has no drink or drug problem.
In Balbriggan District Court on 27 March 2014, David Donnelly, aged 20, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to Jennifer Coffey in Lusk Graveyard on 5 August 2012, fracturing her nose. He received a six‑month suspended sentence and was bound to the peace for two years. Donnelly also pleaded guilty to harassing Coffey's father, Michael, on 6 April 2013, and was ordered to a probation bond for 18 months and to comply with Probation Services. He was required to complete a Victim Awareness course and take prescribed medication. The court noted his high risk of re‑offending if he does not adhere to treatment. Separately, Sean Lynch, 26, was remanded on continuing bail for assault involving a lit cigarette in a victim's eye, with the case adjourned to 24 April pending further disclosure. Paul Boylan, 35, was charged with possession of false number plates; his case was scheduled for a hearing on 9 June at Swords District Court.
At Balbriggan District Court, David Yeomons pleaded guilty to driving without insurance, driving without a driving licence, and having no NCT. Judge Dermot Dempsey disqualified him from driving for two years and fined him €400 for the insurance offence and €100 for the licence offence, taking the other charges into consideration. In a separate matter, Intaras Balans was alleged to have committed drink driving, driving while disqualified, driving without a licence, and possessing a false tax and insurance disc. The Director of Public Prosecutions directed summary disposal, keeping the case in the District Court. Judge Dempsey adjourned the proceedings until June 9th and remanded Balans on continuing bail. Additionally, Paul Nwoso was alleged to have drink driven and committed several other motoring offences. His case was adjourned until April 3rd, and he was remanded on continuing bail. A 17-year-old defendant, who pleaded guilty to theft from a Skerries pharmacy, was sentenced to three months' imprisonment, suspended, and bound to the peace for two years.
In a Balbriggan District Court hearing on 6 March 2014, a 21‑year‑old chef from Skerries, Richard Devine, pleaded guilty to assaulting a man named Shane Christy and causing criminal damage to Christy's car. The incident occurred on 3 May 2013 outside a Chinese takeaway in Rush, Co. Dublin, when Devine, allegedly intoxicated, approached Christy's Nissan Micra, headbutted and punched him, and then kicked the car door, resulting in €800 worth of damage. Christy suffered minor nose injuries. Devine, with no prior convictions, admitted the offence and sent an apology letter. Judge Dermot Dempsey warned that to avoid a conviction, Devine must pay compensation to Christy and complete 200 hours of voluntary work. The case was adjourned to 29 May for further proceedings.
At Balbriggan District Court, Peter Flood (32) pleaded guilty to assault causing harm after allegedly headbutting his former partner, breaking her nose. Judge Dermot Dempsey sentenced Flood to 240 hours of community service work in lieu of a six-month prison term, bound him to the peace for two years, and ordered him to continue anger management and drug treatment. In a separate matter, David El Masri (32) pleaded guilty to custody of equipment for making copies and ten charges of copying movies for sale. Judge Dempsey struck out the case after El Masri paid €500 to Balbriggan St Vincent de Paul and ordered the destruction of counterfeit material. Neil O'Brion (27) pleaded guilty to using threatening and abusive behaviour towards gardai. His case was struck out following a €500 donation to AWARE charity. Finally, Bridget McDonagh (27), who is alleged to have committed social welfare fraud by concealing allowances, was remanded on continuing bail. The judge granted the State eight additional weeks to complete the book of evidence, with McDonagh scheduled to reappear on May 8th.