In a Special Criminal Court hearing, defence counsel for Kevin Braney, aged 44, argued that evidence from former murder suspect David Cullen should be excluded because Cullen's testimony was a "parody" and riddled with inconsistencies. Braney, charged with the 2013 murder of Peter Butterly, denied the murder and possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol and ammunition. Cullen, who had originally been charged with Butterly's murder, later became a State witness after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of a pistol. Braney's defence sought to exclude Cullen's evidence, withdraw it from the jury, and have the court discharge itself from the prosecution's opening address. The prosecution countered that independent evidence supported Braney's guilt and that opening speeches are not evidence. The court will rule on the applications tomorrow. Kevin Braney pleaded not guilty.
During a murder trial, Claire McGrath admitted that her presence at the accused's home contributed to the death of Graham McKeever. She said she had invited McKeever to stay overnight and that McKeever had entered the kitchen where McGrath was arguing with Keith Connorton, who was intoxicated and holding a kitchen knife. McKeever allegedly shouted "She's mine now" and attacked Connorton, striking him with a heavy blow that knocked him onto a child's chair. McKeever then stabbed Connorton, after which Connorton fled the scene. McGrath expressed remorse, stating "It is my fault. If I had never brought him to my house he would be still alive. I'm so sorry." The trial is ongoing before Justice Tony Hunt and a jury. Keith Connorton pleaded not guilty.
Judges at the Special Criminal Court trial of Kevin Braney have refused an application to exclude mobile phone evidence. Braney, 44, of Tallaght, Dublin, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly and the possession of a 9mm Beretta semi-automatic pistol and ammunition at Blackthorn Apartments, Balbriggan, on March 5, 2013. The defence argued that a recent High Court ruling in the case of Graham Dwyer rendered the retention of such data unlawful under EU law. However, presiding judge Mr Justice Paul Coffey, sitting with Judges Martin Nolan and James Faughnan, ruled the evidence admissible, stating there was no evidence that the operation of the 2011 Act was inappropriate at the time. The prosecution subsequently closed its case. The trial continues, with defence counsel Bernard Condon SC indicating he is unlikely to call evidence but may make a short application. The court previously heard from State's witness David Cullen, who pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol at the Huntsman Inn on the day of the shooting. Cullen described his role as picking up and burying a gun. Prosecution evidence stated that Butterly was shot multiple times outside the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston on March 6, 2013, while students waited for their school bus.
A 40‑year‑old man, Keith Connorton, is on trial in the Central Criminal Court for the murder of Graham McKeever, a 29‑year‑old man, in a Dublin love triangle. Connorton was arraigned on 10 December 2018 and pleaded not guilty. The case, presented by Brendan Grehan SC, alleges that Connorton stabbed McKeever to death on 18 February 2017 at an apartment on Deerpark Avenue, Tallaght. The prosecution claims that McKeever was staying with Claire McGrath, Connorton's former partner, who had broken up with him about six months earlier. According to the prosecution, Connorton, armed with a kitchen knife, threatened McGrath and, when McKeever came to her aid, stabbed him in the chest. Connorton also claims he will argue self‑defence. The trial is scheduled to continue tomorrow before Mr Justice Tony Hunt.
Warren Nolan, 22, of Rowlagh Park in Clondalkin, was found guilty by a jury at the Central Criminal Court of murdering Alan O'Neill and setting fire to a vehicle. The jury returned a majority verdict of eleven to one on the murder charge and a unanimous verdict on the arson charge. Nolan had pleaded not guilty to both counts. The court heard that O'Neill was shot dead in the driveway of his home in Tallaght on May 27, 2015, in front of his partner, Michelle Usher. Prosecution evidence included CCTV footage, forensic analysis of firearms residue on gloves, and petrol traces on Nolan's clothing. Mr Justice Paul McDermott thanked the jurors for their service in a difficult trial and exempted them from jury service for ten years. Maddie Grant BL, for the prosecution, stated that O'Neill's family will make a statement to the court on January 14. On that date, Mr Justice McDermott will sentence Nolan to the mandatory term for murder of life imprisonment. The matter is currently at the sentencing stage, with the final disposal scheduled for January 14.
In a murder trial at the Central Criminal Court, Judge Paul McDermott explained that a jury could find 22‑year‑old Warren Nolan guilty of impeding an investigation even if they are not convinced he was the gunman. Nolan pleaded not guilty to the murder of Alan O'Neill, 35, on 27 May 2015, and to the arson of a car at Belfry Square. The judge outlined that the jury has three options for the murder charge: guilty, not guilty, or not guilty of murder but guilty of impeding an investigation under Section 7(2) of the Criminal Law Act 1997. He noted that if the jury is not satisfied that Nolan fired the shots, they may consider whether he burned the car to aid the getaway or destroy evidence. The prosecution's case relies on circumstantial evidence and alleged lies told by Nolan in Garda interviews, which the judge said must be proven beyond reasonable doubt.
In a Dublin murder trial, 22‑year‑old Warren Nolan was accused of shooting Alan O'Neill, 35, in the front garden of O'Neill's home on 27 May 2015. The prosecution, led by Shane Costelloe SC, argued that Nolan planned the hit, used a getaway car, and fired four shots, killing O'Neill twice. Evidence included CCTV showing a car "stalking" O'Neill, a witness, Michelle Usher, who described the shooter as a teenager, and forensic findings of firearms residue on a glove taken from Nolan and petrol on his clothing. Nolan denied being the shooter and claimed he only set the car on fire. Defence counsel Michael Bowman SC challenged the forensic analysis, the handling of evidence, and the reliability of the detective's statements, urging the jury to consider the lack of definitive proof linking Nolan to the shooting. The case was presented to a jury of twelve, with the judge to deliver the charge the following day. Warren Nolan pleaded not guilty.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing on 5 June 2018, William Connors, aged 29, pleaded guilty to possession of two stolen rings found in a sock at Dom Marmion car park, Dundrum. The rings—a 13‑carat gold ring worth €2,000 and a second ring worth €200—had been stolen earlier that day from a house. Connors was caught after attempting to flee, having removed a sock from his pocket and discarded it. He has 62 prior convictions, including burglary, possession of stolen property, criminal damage and traffic offences. Judge Cormac Quinn sentenced him to two years' imprisonment, backdating the term to the day of his initial arrest. The sentence was mitigated by Connors' early guilty plea, personal circumstances, tragic family background and age, while the aggravating factor was the impact on the victim, who was deeply shaken and distressed upon discovering her bedroom had been upended.
During a Central Criminal Court hearing, forensic scientist Dr Tom Hannigan reported finding firearms residue on a black woolen glove seized from 22‑year‑old Warren Nolan, who was arrested minutes after the fatal shooting of Alan O'Neill (35) on 27 May 2015. The residue matched that found on a bullet hole in the deceased's clothing, giving "very strong support" for the prosecution's claim that Nolan was the shooter. Nolan has pleaded not guilty to the murder and to a separate charge of setting a car on fire at Belfry Square on the same day. He denied involvement in the murder, denied saying he only set the car on fire, and denied crying at his arrest. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Paul McDermott, continues with a jury of twelve.
David Berney, 37, of Suncroft Park, Tallaght, pleaded guilty to burglary of a Centra store in Jobstown on 2 March 2018 during Storm Emma. He was already on bail for a 2014 burglary of a private home in Stepaside, for which he had also pleaded guilty. Berney admitted that his offences were driven by a drug habit, citing cocaine use at the time of the shop looting. He has prior convictions for robbery, assault, burglary and threats to kill. Judge Cormac Quinn sentenced him to two years for the 2014 burglary and an additional 18 months for the 2018 looting, suspending the latter on the condition of keeping the peace and engaging in addiction and social reintegration services. The court noted Berney was found hiding in the shop's cash room, and a sledgehammer was used by accomplices to break into the back offices. The case remains under the jurisdiction of the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
In a murder trial at the Central Criminal Court, the state pathologist, Professor Marie Cassidy, presented evidence that 35‑year‑old Alan O'Neill died from a bullet that entered his thigh, passed through his right arm, and then struck his right side, puncturing his liver and the aorta. The bullet also traveled through the pelvic cavity. A second bullet entered O'Neill's right leg and moved upward without damaging major structures. The pathologist concluded that the fatal wound was the one that damaged the aorta and liver, with the leg wound being a contributing factor. The trial, presided over by Justice Paul McDermott, involves 22‑year‑old Warren Nolan, who pleaded not guilty to O'Neill's murder and to setting fire to a car in Tallaght. The prosecution alleges Nolan shot O'Neill in the front driveway of his home and then fled in a car that was later set on fire.
During the murder trial of 22‑year‑old Warren Nolan, Detective Garda Conor Harrison testified that he has "contempt for that kind of carry on" regarding media leaks that he said frustrate investigations. Harrison, who was on an unmarked patrol when the shooting of Alan O'Neill on 27 May 2015 occurred, described how he heard a car revving and saw a youth running from a burning vehicle. He arrested Nolan at Belfry Square shortly after the shooting, handcuffed him, and charged him under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act for unlawful possession of a firearm. Harrison noted that Nolan repeatedly said, "I only set the car on fire." The trial is proceeding before Justice Paul McDermott with a jury of twelve. Warren Nolan pleaded not guilty.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Kevin Braney, 44, of Tallaght, Dublin 24, continued before Mr Justice Paul Coffey. Braney has pleaded not guilty to the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly in March 2013 and the unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol. Protected witness David Cullen, who turned State's evidence after his murder charge was dropped, was cross-examined regarding his credibility. Cullen admitted to past dishonesty, including retaining WPP rent allowance and avoiding prosecution for harassment of an ex-girlfriend, which he denied. The court heard that Cullen was sentenced on July 2, 2014, to seven years in prison for unlawful possession of a firearm, with three and a half years suspended. The trial remains ongoing, with the defence challenging the witness's reliability and the prosecution presenting evidence of the shooting at The Huntsman Inn in Gormanston.
The trial of Warren Nolan, 22, is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court. Nolan, of Rowlagh Park, Clondalkin, has pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Alan O'Neill on 27th May 2015 at his home on Kiltalown Road, Tallaght. He has also pleaded not guilty to damaging a car by fire at Belfry Square in Tallaght on the same date. Witness Sonya Glass testified that she observed a light-coloured car revving and later saw it alight near Belfry Manor. She described seeing a person run from the vehicle towards steps, where they were restrained by individuals with torches, whom she identified as gardai. Glass stated she initially believed the incident involved a person setting fire to a car. Detective Garda Con Harrison, who was on patrol nearby, testified that he heard a vehicle approaching rapidly and saw a young man appear at the top of the steps. Harrison stated he shouted 'armed gardai' and lunged towards the individual as he observed the burning car. The matter is currently at the trial stage and has not been finalised. The proceedings are expected to continue for up to two weeks.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Kevin Braney, 44, of Tallaght, Dublin, continues before a three-judge panel. Mr Braney, who has pleaded not guilty to the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly and the unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol and ammunition, faces evidence from protected witness David Cullen. Cullen, who turned State's witness after his murder charge was dropped, testified that he was asked to pick up a gun. He described an evening in March 2013 when Edward McGrath and Mr Braney visited his Balbriggan home, with Mr Braney allegedly stating, "Make sure this is done right and he doesn't get away." Cullen identified a silver Toyota Corolla used in the operation and stated that Dean Evans and McGrath stayed at his apartment the day before the shooting. He further testified that Sharif Kelly dropped him near the scene, where a gun was thrown from a vehicle, leading to his arrest. In related proceedings, Michael McDermott admitted to assisting an unlawful organisation in the murder. Frank Murphy pleaded guilty to impeding the prosecution of Cullen. Meanwhile, Edward McGrath, Sharif Kelly, and Dean Evans have all received life sentences at the Special Criminal Court after being convicted of Mr Butterly's murder. The trial of Mr Braney is ongoing.
During a murder trial, Michelle Usher, a mother of three, testified that her partner, 35‑year‑old Alan O'Neill, was shot to death at the front door of their home by a "young boy" in dark clothes. Usher said she initially thought the gunshots were a joke until she heard a third shot and saw O'Neill screaming in pain. She described seeing a dark‑clothed figure approach the garden, fire a gun, and then flee in a people carrier that took off. Usher held O'Neill in the doorway as another shot shattered a hallway window. She called an ambulance and kept the children in bed. The accused, Warren Nolan, 22, has pleaded not guilty to O'Neill's murder and to a separate arson charge. The trial is before Justice Paul McDermott with a jury of twelve.
Gardai arrested Warren Nolan (22) after a woman smoking on her balcony noticed a suspicious car. The Central Criminal Court heard that Nolan is accused of murdering 35‑year‑old Alan O'Neill on 27 May 2015. O'Neill was shot outside his Tallaght home and died from gunshot wounds. Nolan also pleaded not guilty to damaging a car by fire at Belfry Square on the same date. Prosecutor Shane Costelloe argued that Nolan fired the shots that killed O'Neill and that the burnt‑out car was the one used in the shooting. Evidence includes gloves found on Nolan with gunshot residue, forensic analysis, bullet holes, bullets, and CCTV footage. The trial is before Justice Paul McDermott with a jury of twelve. The prosecution has begun calling witnesses. The case remains at the trial stage.
Frank Murphy, 58, pleaded guilty in the Special Criminal Court to impeding the apprehension or prosecution of State witness David Cullen, who had previously pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol. Murphy had originally pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly, a trial underway since October, but the DPP directed that he be recharged under Section 7(2) of the Criminal Law Act, 1997. Prosecution counsel confirmed the DPP would not proceed with the original murder charges against Murphy. Co-accused Michael McDermott, 59, pleaded guilty last Friday to assisting an unlawful organisation in the murder of Mr Butterly. Both men were remanded in custody by Mr Justice Paul Coffey, sitting with Judges Martin Nolan and James Faughnan, until January 28, 2019, for sentencing. Kevin Braney, 43, who pleaded not guilty to the murder and related firearm charges, remains in the trial. The court refused Braney's application for the judges to discharge themselves. The trial against Braney continues.
A 22‑year‑old Dubliner, Warren Nolan of Rowlagh Park, Clondalkin, is set to go on trial for the murder of 35‑year‑old Alan O'Neill on 27 May 2015 at Kiltalown Road, Tallaght, where O'Neill lived. Nolan is also charged with setting fire to a car at Belfry Square on the same day. He pleaded not guilty to both charges. The trial will begin tomorrow and may last up to two weeks.
Two Dubliners, Stephen Tynan (41) and Raymond Fitzgerald (37), were found guilty of murdering Andrew Guerrine, a cousin of Tynan, who was discovered with 20 stab wounds on Steelstown Lane in Rathcoole on 23 May 2015. The trial, held in the Central Criminal Court, relied on circumstantial evidence including phone records, CCTV footage of a black Peugeot 307, and testimony from a neighbour and a taxi driver. No murder weapon or DNA evidence linked the accused directly to the killing, but the prosecution argued the evidence proved pre‑planned intent. Both men pleaded not guilty, and their lawyers sought acquittal, arguing they were merely accessories after the fact. The jury, after 10½ hours of deliberation, returned a verdict of guilty by a 10‑to‑two majority. Sentencing was adjourned to 19 December to allow a victim impact statement.
A man from Cavan has pleaded guilty before the Special Criminal Court to assisting an unlawful organisation in the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly. Michael McDermott, aged 59, of Ballinagh, Co. Cavan, admitted to knowingly rendering assistance to the IRA in furthering the unlawful killing of Mr Butterly at various locations between 3 and 6 March 2013. Mr Butterly was shot outside the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, Co. Meath, on 6 March 2013 in the presence of schoolchildren awaiting buses. McDermott had initially pleaded not guilty to murder and related firearms charges, with trial proceedings commenced in October. He was recharged under the Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005 this morning and entered a guilty plea to the fresh count. The prosecution entered a nolle prosequi on the three original charges. McDermott has been remanded in custody pending sentencing on 28 January 2019. Two further defendants, Frank Murphy and Kevin Braney, both deny murder and firearms possession charges relating to the incident. The trial continues before the three-judge court.
The Central Criminal Court jury has spent two nights deliberating the murder trial of Stephen Tynan (41) and Raymond Fitzgerald (37), both charged with killing Andrew Guerrine, Tynan's cousin, between 22 and 23 May 2015. Guerrine's body was found early on 23 May on Steelstown Lane in Rathcoole, 10 km from where he was last seen alive in Tallaght. He suffered 20 stab wounds, including two that penetrated his skull and spine. The prosecution, led by Brendan Grehan SC, argued that the killing was pre‑planned and that circumstantial evidence proved the accused's guilt, despite the absence of DNA, a murder weapon or eyewitness testimony. Both defendants pleaded not guilty and their barristers argued that any suspicious circumstances could be explained by them being accessories after the fact. Mr Justice Michael White explained that the jury had three verdict options: guilty, not guilty but guilty of assisting an offender, or acquittal.
A man on trial at the Special Criminal Court for the murder of a father-of-two was removed from proceedings in an ambulance after falling unwell before the hearing commenced. Frank Murphy, aged fifty-eight, of McDonough Caravan Park, Bettystown, County Meath, is one of three defendants charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Peter Butterly outside The Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, County Meath, on March 6th, 2013. The thirty-five-year-old victim was shot in view of schoolchildren awaiting transport. Paramedics assessed Mr Murphy outside the courtroom and conveyed him by stretcher to the waiting ambulance. His barrister assured the three-judge court that his client was not deliberately absenting himself. The trial, which began in October, was adjourned until afternoon to allow Mr Murphy's solicitor to receive instructions once his medical situation had been clarified. Mr Murphy has pleaded not guilty to murder and to firearm possession charges. Two co-accused, Michael McDermott of County Cavan and Kevin Braney of Dublin, also deny the allegations against them.
The Central Criminal Court jury will resume deliberations on Thursday morning in the trial of Stephen Tynan, 41, of Deerpark Lodge, Kiltipper, Tallaght, and Raymond Fitzgerald, 37, of Knockmore Grove, Killinarden, Tallaght. Both men have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Andrew Guerrine, the cousin of Tynan, who was found dead on Steelstown Lane in Rathcoole on 23 May 2015. Guerrine's body had 20 stab wounds, including two that penetrated his skull and spine. The prosecution, represented by Brendan Grehan SC, described the killing as pre‑planned and relied on circumstantial evidence, noting the absence of DNA, a murder weapon or eyewitness testimony. Fitzgerald's barrister argued that the suspicious circumstances could be explained by him being an accessory after the fact, while Tynan's barrister suggested his client might have been involved only in the aftermath. Both lawyers requested an acquittal.
In a four‑week trial at the Central Criminal Court, the judge, Mr Justice Michael White, informed the jury that an alternative verdict of accessory after the fact was available under Section 7(2) of the Criminal Law Act 1997. The case concerned Stephen Tynan, 41, of Deerpark Lodge, Kiltipper, Tallaght, and Raymond Fitzgerald, 37, of Knockmore Grove, Killinarden, Tallaght, who were charged with murdering Andrew Guerrine, a cousin of Tynan, between 22 and 23 May 2015. Guerrine's body was found early on 23 May on Steelstown Lane, Rathcoole, with 20 stab wounds, two penetrating the skull and spine. The prosecution alleged a pre‑planned murder, citing circumstantial evidence, but no DNA, weapon or eyewitness link. Both defendants pleaded not guilty and their barristers argued that any suspicious circumstances could be explained by them being accessories after the fact. The prosecution did not seek the alternative verdict, instead pursuing a murder conviction.
In the Central Criminal Court, the defence counsel for Stephen Tynan, 41, and Raymond Fitzgerald, 37, argued that the suspicious circumstances the State attributes to their alleged murder of Andrew Guerrine could be explained by them acting as accessories after the fact. Tynan's lawyer highlighted that he had no prior serious criminal record and was "hardly the typical candidate" for a gruesome attack, suggesting he may have been a middleman in a drug deal and later got involved in the aftermath. Fitzgerald's counsel focused on the lack of evidence that he was part of a joint enterprise to murder, noting that the prosecution's footage of him wiping a car door did not prove guilt. Both lawyers urged the jury to consider the possibility that each accused was not the murderer but merely assisted after the fact, and to find them not guilty if that was a reasonable possibility.
The trial of Stephen Tynan and Raymond Fitzgerald for the alleged murder of Andrew Guerrine is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court. Both defendants, who are from Tallaght, have pleaded not guilty to murdering Mr Guerrine at an unknown location between May 22 and May 23, 2015. In his closing address, prosecutor Brendan Grehan SC acknowledged the absence of fingerprints, DNA, a murder weapon, or eyewitness testimony. However, he argued that circumstantial evidence strongly links the accused to the crime. Key evidence includes a child's jacket entangled in the victim's legs when the body was dumped on Steelstown Lane in Rathcoole. The prosecution contends this jacket was connected to a car later found burnt out, which the accused had pushed into a petrol station. Mr Grehan highlighted phone records showing Tynan's phone was inactive during the critical period and Fitzgerald's phone ceased activity shortly before 1am on May 23. He also cited CCTV footage of the car on Steelstown Lane and alleged lies in Fitzgerald's statement to gardai. The prosecution asserts the murder was premeditated, citing efforts to procure a vehicle before the victim arrived in Tallaght. The defense barristers are scheduled to deliver their closing speeches on Friday morning.
The Central Criminal Court heard that Stephen Tynan (41) and Raymond Fitzgerald (37) are on trial for the murder of Andrew Guerrine, Tynan's cousin, who was found dead on Steelstown Lane in Rathcoole on 23 May 2015 with 20 stab wounds, including two that penetrated his skull and spine. CCTV footage showed a dark‑coloured hatchback stalling at a petrol station on Fortunestown Way at 5.20 am that morning, with the accused men exiting and pushing the vehicle to the pumps. Garda Warren Farrell presented stills and footage from the night and morning, noting the car's defective lights and a grey Duffer sweater seized from Tynan that matched the one seen in the footage. A statement taken from Fitzgerald on 5 June 2015 claimed he was at home that night, not with Tynan, and that he had gone to the gym the next morning. The prosecution has closed its case and the jury is to return tomorrow. Stephen Tynan pleaded not guilty. Raymond Fitzgerald pleaded not guilty.
In a 2018 trial at the Central Criminal Court, Renars Veigulis, aged 32, pleaded not guilty to the murder of his partner, Rita Apine, aged 29, who died at their Freshford home around 14 May 2017. The jury heard that Veigulis called emergency services at 12:18, claiming Apine had fallen down the stairs. He was described as distressed, breathing heavily, and crying during the call. He gave conflicting details about the fall, such as the height and the location of bleeding. Emergency‑call taker Laura Bunbury provided instructions on first aid and CPR, noting Veigulis's panic. Medical witnesses, including Dr Leonard de Villiers and paramedics, described a large head wound and extensive blood spatter in the house. The trial continued the following day with a jury of seven men and five women presiding by Ms Justice Tara Burns.
In the Central Criminal Court trial of Stephen Tynan, 41, and Raymond Fitzgerald, 37, the brother of Andrew Guerrine, the man stabbed to death in 2015, identified the accused on CCTV footage. Paul Guerrine showed stills from a dark‑coloured hatchback that stalled at a petrol station on Fortunestown Way at 5.20 am on 22 May 2015. He recognised Fitzgerald and Tynan, stating he had known Fitzgerald for over 20 years and that he and Tynan were first cousins. The trial heard that Guerrine's body, found on Steelstown Lane in Rathcoole early on 23 May, bore 20 stab wounds, two penetrating his skull and spine. Both men pleaded not guilty to the murder of Guerrine's cousin. The court considered the CCTV evidence as part of the proceedings.
During a Central Criminal Court hearing on 13 November 2018, Stephen Tynan (41) of Deerpark Lodge, Kiltipper, Tallaght, and Raymond Fitzgerald (37) of Knockmore Grove, Killinarden, Tallaght, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Andrew Guerrine, Tynan's cousin, who was found dead on Steelstown Lane, Rathcoole, on 23 May 2015. Guerrine's body had 20 stab wounds, two penetrating his skull and spine. Tynan testified that he last saw Guerrine the week before the murder, when Guerrine stayed overnight at Tynan's apartment and later left to collect €80. Tynan described a confrontation in which Guerrine allegedly injected drugs; Tynan claimed he struck Guerrine in response. Tynan characterised Guerrine as a "real soft lad" who was not violent but "always wheeling and dealing." The trial continued later that day.
Brian Quinn, a 51-year-old psychiatric nurse from Balbriggan, Co Dublin, was convicted by a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to Lee Harte. The incident occurred on October 9, 2011, following an altercation outside Quinn's former residence in Tallaght. Prosecution evidence stated that Quinn stabbed Harte in the leg and stomach after Harte intervened to protect his cousin. Harte, who was 18 at the time, required surgery and reported long-term trauma and career disruption in a victim impact statement. Judge Patrick Quinn sentenced Quinn to five and a half years' imprisonment, with the final two years suspended on condition he keep the peace and be of good behaviour for two years post-release. Additionally, Quinn received a concurrent two-year sentence for using an offensive weapon. The judge ordered credit for the two years and one month Quinn had already served following a previous conviction that was later quashed by the Court of Appeal. Defence counsel Giollaíosa Ó Lideadha SC argued the incident occurred during an attack by multiple individuals and highlighted Quinn's lack of prior convictions. The judge acknowledged mitigating factors, including Quinn's loss of employment and good character, while noting the tragedy of the case and Harte's innocence.
The Central Criminal Court heard the trial of Stephen Tynan, 41, and Raymond Fitzgerald, 37, both from Tallaght, who have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Andrew Guerrine, Mr Tynan's first cousin. Guerrine's body was discovered on Steelstown Lane, Rathcoole, early on 23 May 2015, with 20 stab wounds, two penetrating his skull and spine. Garda Eamon O'Neill testified that he escorted the body to the mortuary and that the deceased's sister identified him. Items taken from Guerrine included earphones, a gold chain, a letter, €350 in cash, and a box of tablets. The cash was found in his sock and the tablets in his hoodie. Forensic scientist John Power identified the tablets as 96 Zopiclone, a tranquiliser similar to Diazepam, though not then a controlled drug. A witness had told the Gardaí that Guerrine was on his way to sell 3000 Diazepam tablets on the night he disappeared. The trial continues.
During the murder trial of Stephen Tynan and Raymond Fitzgerald, evidence was presented that a child's blue jacket was found under the body of Andrew Guerrine, the deceased, in a car linked to the case. The jacket was discovered at the feet of Guerrine's body, which lay on its back with arms outstretched, and a photo of Guerrine's left foot on the jacket was shown to the jury. Detective Sergeant Tom Power described the scene and held the jacket for the jury. Darren Finnegan testified that he sold a black Peugeot 307 to Tynan and another man on 22 May 2015, and that he had left documents, a baby's car seat and jackets belonging to his own children in the car. He identified the jacket as belonging to his son. The trial continues with the State's case nearly concluded. Stephen Tynan pleaded not guilty. Raymond Fitzgerald pleaded not guilty.
The trial of Stephen Tynan (41) and Raymond Fitzgerald (37) for the murder of Andrew Guerrine, Tynan's cousin, is ongoing in the Central Criminal Court. Guerrine's body was found on Steelstown Lane, Rathcoole, with 20 stab wounds, two penetrating his skull and spine. The jury heard technical evidence about mobile phone use and a burnt car in Tallaght. A Peugeot 307, whose engine number matched one allegedly bought by Tynan, was found burnt in Barley Fields, Killinarden. Mechanic Thomas Menton testified about the car's fire, removal, and subsequent calls from an unknown number. Garda Ronan O'Malley identified the car's registration and engine number, confirming it matched the one photographed by Menton. Darren Finnegan testified that he sold the Peugeot to Tynan and another man on 22 May 2015. The jury heard this evidence in the morning; the trial continues this afternoon. Stephen Tynan pleaded not guilty. Raymond Fitzgerald pleaded not guilty.
In a murder trial in Dublin, Stephen Tynan (41) and Raymond Fitzgerald (37) pleaded not guilty to the killing of Andrew Guerrine, who was found dead with 20 stab wounds on May 23, 2015. The prosecution presented evidence that a burnt-out car in Tallaght, discovered a few days after the murder, had the same engine number as a Peugeot 307 allegedly bought by Tynan hours before the stabbing. Mechanic Thomas Menton testified that he saw the car on fire in Barley Fields, collected it, and later handed the engine to the Gardaí. Garda Ronan O'Malley confirmed the engine number matched a photograph and a registration certificate. Darren Finnegan, who sold the car to Tynan on May 22, also testified about the sale. The trial was scheduled to continue the following morning.
In the Central Criminal Court, a jury heard CCTV footage of a dark‑coloured hatchback with one headlight and one taillight out of service, moving through Tallaght on the night Andrew Guerrine was stabbed. The car was first seen at 11.51pm in Killinarden, then tracked along Blessington Road until just before 1am. At about 5am it was captured outside a pharmacy, then moved to a garage where it stalled, after which the driver and passenger pushed it to a petrol pump. The vehicle was later seen on Cushlawn Way, last at 5.28am, and again leaving the same spot at 2.42am the following night. Stephen Tynan (41) and Raymond Fitzgerald (37) pleaded not guilty to Guerrine's murder, which involved 20 stab wounds, two penetrating the skull and cervical spine. The trial continues before Justice Michael McDermott with a jury of seven men and five women.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 1 November 2018, the court ruled that members of the National Surveillance Unit (NSU) must give evidence in secret and be identified only by initials to protect their safety. The case involved Conor Metcalfe, 28, charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA). Metcalfe was arraigned but remained silent, and the court entered a not guilty plea on his behalf. The prosecution presented evidence from NSU detectives who had observed Metcalfe rummaging under a stolen white Renault Kangoo van on 3 June 2014, retrieving a key, and driving away. The hearing also covered related surveillance of a blue BMW driven by Kenneth Donohue, a convicted IRA member, and the involvement of other individuals in the van's theft and modification. The trial was scheduled to continue on Monday before Mr Justice Tony Hunt and two other judges.
During a murder trial, witness Graham Egan testified that he saw a dark‑coloured SUV parked at a field entrance on Steelstown Lane just before the body of Andrew Guerrine was discovered. Egan, who left his home at 11.10 pm on 22 May to drive a friend to Wicklow, passed the gateway at about 12.20 am and saw the vehicle with its lights off, noting only a brief glimpse and no movement. He confirmed the car was not there when he left at 11.10 pm. The trial concerns Stephen Tynan (41) and Raymond Fitzgerald (37), both pleading not guilty to Guerrine's murder, which occurred between 22 and 23 May 2015. The body, found early on 23 May, had 20 stab wounds, including two that penetrated the skull and cervical spine.
The Central Criminal Court trial of Stephen Tynan (41) and Raymond Fitzgerald (37) continues before Mr Justice Michael White. Both defendants, from Tallaght, Dublin 24, have pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Andrew Guerrine (37) at an unknown location between May 22 and May 23, 2015. The matter is currently at the trial stage, with no findings, sentences, or finalisations recorded. Witness Shane Traynor testified that he discovered Mr Guerrine's body in a gateway on Steelstown Lane, Rathcoole, in the early hours of May 23, initially mistaking the scene for a hit-and-run. Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster reported that Mr Guerrine died from hemorrhage and shock caused by multiple stab wounds. She identified 20 stab wounds, including injuries to the skull, cervical spine, and a major blood vessel in the chest, indicating substantial force was used. Toxicology revealed cocaine, sedatives, diazepam, and methadone in the deceased's blood. The court heard that all wounds could have been inflicted by a single knife, though a second weapon could not be ruled out. The trial continues tomorrow.
In a Dublin trial, 35‑year‑old Laura Kenna was charged with attempted murder and assault for slitting the throat of civil servant Fionnuala Bourke on Lower Drumcondra Road on 3 January 2017. Kenna pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. The jury heard conflicting psychiatric reports: one psychiatrist said Kenna was in a psychotic state and could not control her actions, while the other argued she knew what she was doing and was motivated by robbery. The jury deliberated for about four hours and forty minutes but could not reach a verdict. Judge Robert Eagar discharged the jury after a disagreement was recorded, and the case was remitted for a possible retrial in November. Kenna made no reaction to the announcement of the jury's failure to decide.
In the Central Criminal Court, a prosecution barrister told the court that the case against Stephen Tynan (41) and Raymond Fitzgerald (37) centred on who killed 37‑year‑old Andrew Guerrine, not whether he was murdered. The State's case relied on circumstantial evidence, including CCTV of a black Peugeot 307, DNA linking a child's jacket to the car, and the presence of a child's coat under Guerrine's foot at the discovery site. The prosecution argued the car was driven by Tynan with Fitzgerald as passenger, and that the vehicle was used to transport Guerrine to the location where his body was found on Steelstown Lane. The jury was to hear that Guerrine died from multiple stab wounds, including to the skull, cervical spine, heart and throat, and that the accused were responsible for his death. Stephen Tynan pleaded not guilty. Raymond Fitzgerald pleaded not guilty.
Two men, Stephen Tynan, 41, and Raymond Fitzgerald, 37, are set to stand trial at the Central Criminal Court for the murder of Andrew Guerrine, 37, which occurred between 22 and 23 May 2015. Both pleaded not guilty. Mr Justice Michael White has sworn in a jury of eight men and four women, and the trial is expected to last up to four weeks.
Laura Kenna, aged 34 and without a fixed abode, was arrested on suspicion of slicing the throat of civil servant Fionnuala Burke on Lower Drumcondra Road on 3 January 2017. Kenna pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to attempted murder and assault intending serious harm. The prosecution argued that Kenna attacked Burke, who was walking home from work, by pushing her onto a grassy area and stabbing her with a knife. Burke suffered a deep cut across her neck, penetrating muscle and the thyroid gland, and was treated in intensive care. Kenna was later arrested in Tallaght, where she was found with blood on her clothing, a knife and items belonging to Burke. She admitted to the attack, describing it as "slicing her like you would a goat." The case was opened at the Central Criminal Court, with the jury instructed to consider Kenna's state of mind. The trial was scheduled to continue before Mr Justice Robert Eagar.
In the Central Criminal Court, Marie and Hugh Walsh testified that they met their son Anthony the morning after he beat 54‑year‑old Dermot Byrne to death outside a school in Swords on 16 July 2017. Anthony, 31, pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter and to theft of Byrne's bank card, keys and lighter. He told his mother, in tears, that he had not meant to kill Byrne. The court heard that Anthony had been in a fight, had called his father's phone, and had been arrested after a taxi ride to his mother's house. Witnesses described his physical state and the circumstances of the incident, and the trial continues before Justice Eileen Creedon and a jury.
In a murder trial, Anthony Walsh, 31, admitted killing Dermot Byrne, 54, on 16 July 2017 in Swords, Co Dublin. Walsh pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to theft of Byrne's bank card, keys and lighter. Byrne had spent the evening at St Colmcille's GAA club, Estuary Bar, a bookmaker, and Harp Bar, where he was refused entry. At 2.10 am, outside the Harp Bar, Byrne attempted to pull a cigarette from Walsh's mouth; a brief altercation followed. Byrne was later found at 2.50 am, stripped of clothes and surrounded by blood. A pathologist recorded over 100 injuries, including facial fractures, rib fractures and bruising, and declared death from traumatic brain injury, intoxication and blood inhalation. Walsh's defence acknowledged unlawful killing and removal of Byrne's property. The trial continues before Justice Eileen Creedon.
Three men have been arraigned at the Special Criminal Court on charges of murdering a dissident republican shot dead outside a public house in Meath over five years ago. Michael McDermott, aged 58, of Ballinagh, County Cavan; Kevin Braney, aged 43, from Dublin; and Frank Murphy, aged 58, of Bettystown, County Meath, have all pleaded not guilty to murder. McDermott and Braney also deny possessing a 9mm semi-automatic pistol and ammunition in March 2013, while Murphy denies possession of the same firearm and rounds on the date of the killing itself. The prosecution opened its case before three judges, outlining that the victim was shot multiple times in a carpark whilst in his vehicle, with witnesses present. The court heard that a stolen vehicle was used in the attack and subsequently recovered. The prosecution indicated that accomplice evidence will feature prominently, noting that a protected witness will testify regarding the planning and execution of the murder. The trial is expected to last approximately ten weeks.
In a Special Criminal Court murder trial, Noel 'Duck Egg' Kirwan, aged 62, was shot six times by a gunman in the driveway of his Dublin home on 22 December 2016. The attacker, Jason Keating, 27, has pleaded not guilty. Kirwan suffered eight gunshot wounds to his head, right arm, chest and abdomen, including a fatal wound to the chest that damaged a major blood vessel. He was seated in his Ford Mondeo with partner Bernadette Roe when the attack occurred. Deputy State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan testified that Kirwan's body was examined on 23 December, confirming the wounds and the absence of alcohol or drugs. The prosecution alleges a 'Gotek 7' tracking device linked Keating to the scene. The case is set to continue before Mr Justice Tony Hunt.
Carl Freeman, aged 23, pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary at the home of Mr William Crean (72) and Mrs Kathleen Crean (65) in a rural area outside Ashford Village, Co Wicklow, on 12 March 2015. He was originally sentenced to seven years' imprisonment, with the final three years suspended, by Judge Michael O'Shea on 26 July 2017. The Court of Appeal, following an appeal by the Director of Public Prosecutions, found the sentence too lenient and re‑sentenced him to ten years' imprisonment, with the final four years suspended. The decision was made by a three‑judge panel headed by Mr Justice John Edwards. The case involved a violent burglary in which the intruders used hurls, assaulted Mr Crean, threatened Mrs Crean, and stole approximately €150 in cash, a landline, and Mr Crean's mobile phone.
In a 2018 Dublin Circuit Criminal Court case, 24‑year‑old Daragh Brown was sentenced to a two‑and‑a‑half‑year suspended term for robbing a Centra shop at Old Bawn Shopping Centre, Tallaght, on 14 April 2017. Brown entered the shop armed with a knife, demanded money from the tills, and after failing to obtain cash fled with a quantity of John Player Blue cigarettes. He was pursued by two bread delivery men, Will Murray and Joe Daniel, who were stocking the shelves. During the chase Brown's trousers fell, revealing colourful boxer shorts, and he threatened the men with a knife, claiming that "ten lads" were waiting in a nearby estate. Gardaí, alerted by witnesses, described the robber and stopped him a short distance away on Allenton Avenue, where two packets of cigarettes and a knife were recovered. Brown pleaded guilty to robbery and making threats to kill.