Denise O'Brien (42) of Fels Point, Dan Spring Road, Tralee, Co Kerry, appeared before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after taking a bench warrant last week. She is accused of 98 counts of fraud, including deception, forgery, and using a false instrument, under the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001. Oisin Clarke BL, defending, explained that his client did not appear on June 15 because she believed the court date was set for June 18, citing a rail ticket she had purchased for that date. He also mentioned that she had been previously in hospital. Counsel requested that the court readmit her to bail. Judge Orla Crowe set an arraignment date of November 16, when O'Brien is due to enter a plea. The judge noted her history of non-attendance but agreed to re-admit her to bail on her own bond of €100. She must sign on daily at a local garda station, provide her phone number, surrender her passport, and refrain from applying for any other travel documents.
Almost 200 witnesses are involved in the case of Michael Kelley, a former US soldier charged with the murder of Co Kerry sheep farmer Mike Gaine. A nine-week trial is set to begin in the Central Criminal Court in Dublin in January 2027. Kelley, 54, is charged with murdering Gaine, 56, at Carrig, Kenmare, Co Kerry, between March 20 and 21, 2025. The court was told that there are 191 witnesses in the book of evidence, and the case is estimated to last up to nine weeks. Kelley is currently in custody in Cork Prison, and video arrangements have been made for his appearance on video-link. His defense team has informed the court that his solicitor, Patrick Mann, is applying to cease acting for him, and Frank Buttimer has been retained as his new solicitor. The trial was set for January 11, 2027, in the Central Criminal Court in Dublin, as the court could not allocate a case of this length to Cork.
The Court of Appeal has rejected Patrick Murphy's claim that his murder conviction was unsafe due to the jury's 'extremely brief' deliberation. Murphy, who stabbed his daughter's neighbour to death in a 'drunken rage', was sentenced to life in prison in December 2024. He had pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. The Central Criminal Court jury unanimously convicted him of murder after rejecting the defence's argument of provocation. Murphy's counsel argued that the jury's quick decision raised concerns about the safety of the conviction and the right to full deliberation. However, the court dismissed the appeal, stating the jury deliberated for over three hours and reached a verdict based on the evidence. The judge noted that the issue of provocation was straightforward and that the jury's decision was sound. The trial revealed that Murphy had a history of 15 previous convictions, mostly for traffic and public order offences.
Daniel Dooley, one of six family members convicted of the murder of Thomas Dooley in an honour killing during a funeral in Co Kerry, has failed to convince the Court of Appeal that his identification by the victim's widow was unfair and should have resulted in the case being withdrawn from the jury. Dooley was convicted by a majority jury verdict in July 2024 and was one of six defendants, including a teenage boy, who were found guilty of murder. The court ruled that the evidence against Dooley, including CCTV footage showing him entering a van with an implement, was sufficient for the jury to draw inferences that he was part of a joint enterprise of a pre-planned violent attack. The court rejected the appeal, noting that the evidence was not tenuous, weak, or vague and that the credibility of the widow's identification was a matter for the jury. Daniel Dooley pleaded not guilty.
The Court of Appeal has reserved judgment in the appeal against the murder convictions of Michael Dooley, Thomas Dooley Jnr, and Patrick Dooley. The three men, who pleaded not guilty, were found guilty by a jury in 2024 of murdering Thomas Dooley at Rath Cemetery in County Kerry on October 5, 2022. Prosecutors alleged the attack was an 'honour killing' carried out with 'focused and murderous ferocity' using bladed weapons. All three appellants received life sentences from Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring in July 2024. During the appeal, counsel for Michael Dooley argued he was misidentified and the case should have been withdrawn from the jury. Counsel for Thomas Dooley Jnr contended his arrest was unlawful, while Patrick Dooley's lawyers challenged the admission of evidence regarding a weapon. The DPP countered that circumstantial evidence, including CCTV of vehicles fleeing the scene and the discovery of Michael Dooley in a van, supported the convictions. The court heard that the misidentification issue was extensively addressed in the trial judge's directions. The matter was adjourned as the court reserved judgment.
Three appellants, Thomas Dooley Jnr, Patrick Dooley, and Michael Dooley, appeared before the Court of Appeal to challenge their convictions for the murder of Thomas Dooley at Rath Cemetery, Tralee, on October 5, 2022. The State alleged the men participated in an honour killing using bladed weapons. All had pleaded not guilty. At trial, five defendants received life sentences, while a male teenager was found guilty of murder but not sentenced, as he was expected to seek judicial review. Thomas Dooley Jnr was also convicted of assault causing harm to Siobhán Dooley. Today, the court jailed him for four-and-a-half years for that assault, backdated to November 16, 2022, to run concurrently with his life sentence. Counsel for Thomas Dooley Jnr argued his arrest and detention were unlawful, while counsel for Patrick Dooley contended a leading question regarding a sword was improperly admitted. The appeal continues tomorrow before the three-judge court. The matter was adjourned and is not concluded.
A 43-year-old man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for murdering his only brother during a family funeral in Co Kerry. Fergus O'Connor was found guilty of murder by a jury in October, rejecting his claim of self-defence. The court heard that O'Connor had multiple grievances with his 42-year-old brother Paudie, including disputes over money, land, and relationships. Despite the defence's extensive argument for self-defence, the court rejected it. Paudie died from a 17cm stab wound to the chest, which penetrated vital organs. The trial revealed that the men had attended their cousin's funeral and were drinking in Castleisland. A toxicology report showed Paudie's alcohol level was far above the legal limit. O'Connor claimed his brother made remarks about a woman and had acted improperly with his ID. Paudie's partner, Liz O'Donovan, described the impact of his death on her and their children, highlighting his warmth and generosity. The court noted O'Connor's 15 previous convictions, including drink driving.
During the Central Criminal Court hearing, Billy Burns, aged 55, was accused of murdering his 75‑year‑old mother, Miriam Burns, between 12 and 15 August 2022. He pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity and admitted to killing her. The jury heard that Burns had previously broken his mother's jaw in 1993 and had a history of verbal abuse and drug use. Witnesses, including his siblings Sharon and Shane Kelleher, testified that Burns was often violent and that their mother had tried to help him despite fearing his aggression. Gardaí interviewed Burns on 16 August 2022, during which he denied responsibility for the murder and claimed he had not killed his mother. The trial continues before a jury of eight men and four women.
In a trial in Killarney, the State argues that Billy Burns, 55, who strangled his mother Miriam Burns, 75, while experiencing a manic or hypomanic episode of bipolar disorder, understood his actions and is guilty of murder. The prosecution, led by Sean Guerin SC, presents evidence that Burns was mentally ill at the time but still committed the acts that caused his mother's death. Witnesses describe a violent encounter on 12 August, with Burns shouting abuse and later returning to the house, where he strangled Miriam. Burns' defence, represented by Anthony Sammon SC, admits the killing and the manner of death but contends that his client's psychiatric illness meant he did not understand the nature or wrongness of his actions. The trial will consider the impact of Burns' mental state and possible intoxication on his culpability. The case is heard before Ms Justice Karen O'Connor and a jury. The unnamed accused pleaded not guilty.
A 55‑year‑old Kerry man, Billy Burns of Arlington Lodge, Tralee, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of his 75‑year‑old mother, Miriam Burns, at her home in Ardshanavooley, Killarney, between 12 and 15 August 2022. He was arraigned before the Central Criminal Court on 11 November 2025, where he answered the murder charge with the plea. The trial will be heard by a jury of eight men and four women, sworn in on the same day. Justice Karen O'Connor, presiding, informed the jury that the case is expected to conclude by the end of next week, with a possible extension of one or two days. Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions is Sean Guerin SC with Ronan Prendergast BL, while Burns is represented by Anthony Sammon SC and Kate O'Connell. The judge noted Burns' background as a native of County Kerry who had worked as a waiter some years ago.
In a High Court personal injury case, the wife of Dr Martin Lawlor, a 49‑year‑old consultant psychiatrist who died after being hit by a taxi on 15 December 2018, secured a settlement. The case was brought against taxi driver Denis McSweeney, who had been convicted of hit‑and‑run and sentenced to four years' imprisonment, later reduced on appeal. McSweeney, now deceased, was replaced by Axa Insurance in the proceedings. Judge Emily Egan ordered the settlement, struck out the case, and awarded costs to the plaintiff. Dr Helen Murphy Lawlor, represented by senior counsel, alleged that McSweeney knowingly collided with her husband, left the scene recklessly, and showed no concern for his condition. The judge described the matter as "very, very sad" and expressed condolences to the Lawlor family. The case was resolved with the settlement and the striking out of the action.
In the Special Criminal Court, lawyers for 42‑year‑old James Leen argued that mobile phone evidence supports his innocence. Colm Smyth SC requested an adjournment to allow a mobile‑phone expert to examine devices seized by the gardai. Smyth said the prosecution's case hinges on alleged phone conversations linking Leen to three machines that were imported into Ireland, one of which contained the seized drugs. He contended that further analysis would show Leen was involved with only two of the machines and had no connection to the third. The court agreed to postpone the trial to 19 December to give the defence time to compile its report. Leen faces five charges, including directing a criminal organisation, importing crystal meth, and possession of methamphetamine at Ballyseedy Garden Centre. The State alleges the drugs were imported from Mexico, stored at Ballyseedy, and then moved to Cork for export to Australia.
Nathan McDonnell, former chief executive of Ballyseedy Garden Centre, was sentenced by the Special Criminal Court to 12 years imprisonment for facilitating an organised crime group and 6 years concurrently for drug importation, backdated to his custody. The judge found McDonnell, aged 44, had been "committed to and invested in" a €32 million crystal‑meth operation linked to the Sinaloa Cartel. He stored a machine containing the drugs at his premises, paid shipping charges, and arranged export to Australia, receiving no payment. McDonnell admitted to Gardaí that he was unaware of the machine's contents. The court noted his financial hardship, family responsibilities, and the impact on his three sons. The sentence reflected the international reach of the criminal organisation and the large quantity of drugs involved. The judge also considered McDonnell's cooperation, good character and lack of prior convictions in mitigation.
Martin Burke, 28, of Ballinorig Estate, Tralee, was on bail when he strangled a woman at 3 am on 18 December 2022 and then repeatedly raped her. He pleaded guilty to four counts – rape, oral rape, anal rape and sexual assault – and was sentenced by the Central Criminal Court to 17 years, with the final two years suspended. The sentence was reduced from an initial headline of 22 years after mitigation. Burke is to remain under Probation Services supervision for five years post‑release, must keep the peace and be of good behaviour, and is prohibited from any contact with the victim. The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, described the attack as an unspeakable ordeal and expressed ongoing fear and trauma. The judge noted Burke's history of 17 prior convictions and that he was on bail for similar offences at the time of the attack.
Tracy Kelliher, 49, of Tralee, pleaded guilty to three counts of theft for withdrawing €56,217 from her deceased mother's Department of Education pension between 2014 and 2016. Her mother, a retired teacher, died in January 2014, but Kelliher failed to inform the Department, allowing the pension to continue until June 2016. The judge noted that Kelliher had previously withdrawn money with her mother's consent for funeral costs and that she had no lavish lifestyle or other income. Kelliher had no prior convictions and was described as a pro‑social person who expressed remorse. The court directed her to complete 120 hours of community service within one year, imposed concurrent 18‑month sentences suspended for three years on strict conditions, and required her to be supervised by Probation Services for six months. The order was intended to allow her to repay some value to the community and to address her financial difficulties.
Nathan McDonnell, a former chief executive of Ballyseedy Garden Centre, pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court to importing methylamphetamine and directing a criminal organisation. The trial heard that McDonnell was to be paid €150,000 to store a machine containing 564kg of crystal meth, valued at €32.4 million, before its export to Australia. Prosecutors alleged the drugs were imported from Mexico via the Sinaloa Cartel. While the State asserted McDonnell facilitated the operation, it was noted that a different individual was charged with directing the criminal organisation. McDonnell admitted to storing the machine and arranging its shipment but claimed he was unaware of its contents. He has no previous convictions. Ms Justice Melanie Greally, presiding with Judges Sarah Berkeley and Grainne Malone, remanded McDonnell in custody. The court stated it hoped to finalise the case by the end of the month. Co-accused James Leen was also present. The matter was adjourned for sentencing.
Edmund O'Sullivan, 32, was sentenced to 15 years in prison with an eight‑year post‑release supervision order after the Central Criminal Court heard that he had stabbed and raped a woman in her bedroom just ten days after his release from a three‑year sentence for a knife attack. The court noted O'Sullivan's 108 previous convictions, including four for assaults on women, and that his prior partly suspended sentences had failed to change his behaviour. The judge emphasised the need for close monitoring and protection of society, particularly women, and highlighted the victim's traumatic impact statement. O'Sullivan pleaded guilty to rape, anal rape and threats to kill, and the court set a headline sentence of 23 years before imposing 16 years, suspending the final year on strict conditions. The case was placed in the 15‑years‑to‑life category.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Philip Griffin, aged 37, was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment with the final six months suspended, after pleading guilty to manslaughter on the basis of gross negligence for his role in a house fire that killed Anthony O'Brien, 30, and his five‑year‑old daughter Nadine. Griffin, who had 41 prior convictions, did not start the fire but saw it lit and left without raising the alarm or attempting to extinguish it, despite knowing people were inside. He admitted his involvement ten years after the incident, when he was already in prison for another offence. The judge noted that the fire had been treated as accidental until Griffin's statement, and that the sentence reflected mitigating factors including his remorse. The O'Brien family, led by mother Kelly O'Brien, expressed shock and grief, describing the sentence as a "joke" and demanding justice for the loss of her husband and child.
A sentencing hearing for former garden‑centre owner Nathan McDonnell, 44, was adjourned to 13 January after he pleaded guilty to importing crystal meth and facilitating an organised crime group. McDonnell admitted that between 16 October 2023 and 12 February 2024 he helped a criminal organisation import, sell and supply controlled drugs, knowing of its existence. He had earlier pleaded guilty to importing one or more controlled drugs, namely methylamphetamine, on 16 October 2023 at Cork Port, Ringaskiddy, in breach of the Misuse of Drugs Act. The State's case alleges the drugs were imported from Mexico, stored at a garden centre, then transported to Cork for export to Australia. The seizure of 564 kg of crystal meth, valued at €32.8 million, occurred on 16 February 2024 at Cork Port, leading to McDonnell's arrest after follow‑up searches in Kerry and Cork.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Philip Griffin, 37, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Anthony O'Brien, 30, and his five‑year‑old daughter Nadine after a house fire in Tralee on 12 May 2012. Griffin, who had no fixed abode and was originally from Tralee, had previously been convicted of 41 offences. He voluntarily approached Gardaí in May 2022, admitting that he and another man had entered the O'Brien home, set fire to a couch with a lighter, and fled. The fire caused the deaths of Anthony and Nadine; Kelly O'Brien survived but fractured her heel. Griffin, who appeared by video link from prison, said he could not live with the guilt and wants to be locked up. The court heard that the case had been closed after a 2013 inquest that found no evidence of a criminal act.
Patrick Murphy, 52, was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Joseph Brosnan, 53, who was stabbed to death in Abbey Court, Tralee, on 22 May 2022. Murphy had pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, yet the jury found him guilty of murder after a two‑hour deliberation. The judge described the attack as a "cowardly" and "vicious" knife assault carried out in a "drunken rage" against a "defenceless and unarmed" man. Murphy had been drinking and had brought a large kitchen knife to the apartment where he and Brosnan had shared drinks with a Polish friend, Kamil Lisowski. The victim's family delivered emotional impact statements, describing Brosnan as a beloved son, father and grandad, and expressing profound grief and anger at the loss. The court noted Murphy's 15 prior convictions, mainly for traffic, public order and drug offences. The judge thanked the family for their statements and emphasised the seriousness of the crime.
Judges at the Special Criminal Court granted legal aid to James Leen, a 41‑year‑old from Listowel, who is accused of importing over €30 million worth of crystal meth. Leen filed a statement of means claiming zero income and zero assets, but the Director of Public Prosecutions, John Berry SC, presented evidence that Leen owns a property and has bank accounts, indicating a lifestyle inconsistent with his claim. Berry asked the court to consider this evidence before deciding on legal aid. Morgan Shelley BL argued that the money involved is alleged proceeds of crime and cannot be used to pay lawyers. Justice Kerida Naidoo noted that the State could address any special circumstances through other means and, finding no evidence that Leen could fund his own trial, approved legal aid.
A 38‑year‑old child psychiatrist, Amirul Arif Bin Mohd Yunos, was sentenced to eight and a half years' imprisonment for sexually abusing a 15‑year‑old girl in 2023. Yunos, who worked at a CAMHS centre in Clonskeagh, had been approached by the girl's parents to help their daughter with mental health difficulties. The victim was not formally his patient. Between May and September 2023, Yunos engaged in a series of sexual acts with the girl, including inappropriate touching, oral sex, and penetration of her vagina and anus, at locations such as a car, his home, her home and his workplace. He pleaded guilty to six counts of sexual activity with a child under 17, one count of sexual exploitation of a child and one of meeting a child for the purpose of sexual exploitation.
Patrick Murphy, 52, was convicted of murder after stabbing his friend Joseph Brosnan, 52, three times in Brosnan's Abbey Court apartment. The jury rejected Murphy's claim of provocation, noting that he had been kicked out of the apartment and later returned armed with a large kitchen knife. Witnesses reported that Murphy had been drinking and taking tablets, and that a scuffle had escalated when he was slapped in the face by Kamil Lisowski. Murphy admitted to bringing a knife to the scene and to stabbing Brosnan, but denied intent to kill. The jury deliberated for two hours and two minutes, returning a unanimous verdict of murder. The case was adjourned to December 16 for victim impact statements and sentencing, with Murphy remanded in custody. Patrick Murphy pleaded not guilty.
A Central Criminal Court jury has begun deliberations on the case of a 52‑year‑old man, Patrick Murphy, who says he was in fear and defending himself when he stabbed his friend and neighbour, Joseph Brosnan, with a knife after being kicked out of an apartment. Mr Murphy has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. Mr Justice Paul Burns outlined evidence from residents, a waitress and a friend of the deceased, describing arguments, shouting, and a chaotic scene with a knife and a rock. Witnesses reported that Mr Murphy was beaten, that he had a knife, and that he later returned to the apartment and stabbed Mr Brosnan. Mr Murphy told Gardaí he was in fear, had the knife, and did not intend to kill.
During a Central Criminal Court hearing, Patrick Murphy, 52, admitted to Gardaí that he had a knife and had stabbed Joseph Brosnan, a lifelong friend, during a fight. Murphy claimed he was "jabbing back" and did not intend to harm Brosnan. He pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. Garda James Fairbrother testified that Murphy first denied seeing a weapon, later stating he had been assaulted and then took a knife to defend himself. Murphy also admitted drinking Baileys and taking anxiety tablets before the scuffles. Witnesses described a chaotic scene at Brosnan's home, with a large kitchen knife used in a rapid attack. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Paul Burns, continues the following day.
Patrick Murphy, 52, who has no fixed abode, pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter in the death of Joseph Brosnan at Abbey Court, Tralee, on 22 May 2022. According to the Director of Public Prosecutions' counsel, Murphy had been invited to Brosnan's home around 3 pm, where a drinking session led to an insult between Brosnan's friend Kamil Lisowski and Murphy. After Lisowski slapped Murphy, the situation calmed but later escalated. Murphy was asked to leave, returned around 6:45 pm, and was pushed out of the apartment. He then entered the front door, armed with a large kitchen knife, and stabbed Brosnan. Lisowski testified that Murphy did not hesitate and stabbed Brosnan "like rapid fire" to "revenge" for being hit. The jury heard that the knife was a black‑handled kitchen knife, 20.5 cm long, with blood traces matching both Murphy's and Brosnan's DNA. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul Burns.
David McCullagh, an IT manager dismissed by Ballyseedy Restaurant Ltd, has been awarded €77,848 by the Workplace Relations Commission for unfair dismissal and employment rights breaches. The company, linked to the Ballyseedy Garden Centre, ceased trading in February following the arrest of its chief executive, Nathan McDonnell. Mr McDonnell pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court in September to drug importation and facilitating an organised crime gang, and is due to be sentenced in December. McCullagh alleged he was forced out after raising a grievance over unconsented pay cuts and short-time working. The adjudicator found his dismissal unfair, noting that his job search may have been curtailed by the company's collapse and the association with the criminal case. The award includes €50,000 for unfair dismissal, €24,000 for unpaid leave and wages, and €3,848 for the absence of a written contract. Ballyseedy Restaurant Ltd was placed into liquidation by the High Court this month. The court report confirms the procedural stage for McDonnell is sentence, with his guilty plea to the specified charges admitted.
Patrick Murphy, aged 52 and without a fixed abode, was tried for the murder of Joseph Brosnan in Tralee on 22 May 2022. The prosecution, represented by Senior Counsel Patrick Gageby, argued that Murphy unlawfully killed Brosnan and that the intent to kill or cause serious injury was clear. The case centred on an evening in late afternoon when Murphy, who had been pushed out of Brosnan's apartment, returned and allegedly used a large kitchen knife to stab Brosnan twice – once in the hand and once in the back. The second wound penetrated the pericardial sac, causing fatal bleeding. Murphy had previously claimed to be a "peacemaker" and denied knowing who stabbed the deceased, but the prosecution contended he brought the knife to the scene. The trial was set to continue before Mr Justice Paul Burns and a jury of eight men and four women. Patrick Murphy pleaded not guilty.
Patrick Murphy, 52, who lives without a fixed address, has been arraigned in the Central Criminal Court for the killing of Joseph Brosnan in an apartment complex in County Kerry on 22 May 2022. He admits manslaughter but denies murder. A jury of eight men and four women has been sworn in, and the trial will commence this afternoon before Mr Justice Paul Burns, expected to last six days. Patrick Murphy pleaded not guilty.
David McCullagh, a former IT manager at Ballyseedy Restaurant Ltd, claims he was dismissed on 13 January after the company's CEO, Nathan McDonnell, was arrested for a multi‑million euro drug seizure. McCullagh says he was paid €50,000 for a three‑day week while studying, and that his hours and pay were cut unilaterally in August 2023 without explanation. He alleges the company failed to update contracts, denied him annual leave, and cut his email access in October 2023. McCullagh filed a grievance and was told he was being made redundant, with a severance package based only on statutory entitlements. He estimates he is owed over €21,000 in unpaid wages and leave, plus a statutory redundancy payment of about €3,000. The Workplace Relations Commission will decide on his claims by the end of the week, while the Revenue Commissioners plan to wind up the company next Monday. Nathan McDonnell pleaded guilty.
In a decision published on 23 October 2024, the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) ruled that it was reasonable for Centric Mental Health to require its Kerry‑based employee, Rafael Jorge, to travel to the Dundrum office in Dublin once a month. Jorge had accepted a fully remote contract in August 2022 after turning down a job offer. In January 2024, Centric's HR officer notified him that, due to changing business needs, he was required to attend the Dundrum office a minimum of two days per week. Jorge objected, citing his remote status and residence in Tralee, and raised a grievance. The HR director subsequently reduced the requirement to one day per month. Jorge sought a pay rise, lunch allowance and travel expenses; the company offered the latter two.
Philip Griffin, 37, pleaded guilty to manslaughter for the deaths of Anthony, 30, and his five‑year‑old daughter Nadine O'Brien in a house fire at Killeen Heights, Tralee, on 12 May 2012. The case was heard in the Central Criminal Court via video‑link from prison. Griffin denied murder but admitted manslaughter on both charges. The Director of Public Prosecutions accepted the pleas; a third charge for arson was dropped. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for 16 December, with a probation report and victim impact statements requested by the judge.
Nathan McDonnell, a 44-year-old businessman from Ballyroe, Tralee, pleaded guilty before the Special Criminal Court to two charges related to the largest crystal methamphetamine seizure in Irish history. He admitted to importing methylamphetamine at Cork Port on October 16, 2023, and facilitating a criminal organisation between October 2023 and February 2024. The State alleges the 564kg haul, valued at €32.8 million, was imported from Mexico and destined for Australia. Roisin Lacey SC, for the DPP, requested a sentencing hearing for the week of December 16, a date accepted by defence counsel Caroline O'Connell BL. Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding with Judges Elma Sheahan and Marie Keane, remanded McDonnell in custody until December 17 for sentencing. Co-accused James Leen, 41, of Listowel, also appeared. Facing five charges, including directing a criminal organisation and possession of drugs, Leen's defence, led by Brendan Grehan SC, requested a trial date. Mr Justice Hunt allocated a trial date of October 6, 2025, and adjourned the matter to November 11 for mention.
Nathan McDonnell, 44, a garden centre owner, has been granted legal aid by the Special Criminal Court for charges related to the largest ever crystal meth haul in the State. He appeared briefly to receive formal notice of trial before a three‑judge, non‑jury court, and the matter was adjourned to 14 October. His co‑accused, James Leen, 41, also appeared and was formally served notice of trial before the Special Criminal Court, with his custody remanded until 14 October. Leen faces five charges, including directing a criminal organisation's activities, importing crystal meth at Cork Port, and possessing the drug at Ballyseedy Garden Centre. McDonnell faces five charges, including possession of crystal meth at Cork Port and Ballyseedy Garden Centre, and an alleged participation in activities that could facilitate the importation, sale and supply of a controlled drug by a criminal organisation, contrary to the Criminal Justice Act 2006.
Two men, Nathan McDonnell, 44, and James Leen, 41, are charged with offences related to the largest crystal meth haul in Irish history. Their trials will be heard at the Special Criminal Court, a three‑judge, non‑jury court, following an application by the Director of Public Prosecutions. Mr Leen faces five charges, including directing a criminal organisation's activities between 7 February 2023 and 16 February 2024, importing crystal meth into Cork Port on 16 October 2023, and possessing the drug at Ballyseedy Garden Centre, Tralee, from 27 October 2023 to 12 February 2024, in breach of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. Mr McDonnell also faces five charges, including possession of crystal meth at Cork Port and Ballyseedy Garden Centre, and an alleged participation in activities that could facilitate the importation, sale and supply of a controlled drug by a criminal organisation, contrary to the Criminal Justice Act 2006. The court will hear the case later this week.
Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring handed down five life sentences at the Central Criminal Court to family members convicted of murdering Thomas Dooley at Rath Cemetery, Rathass, Tralee, Co Kerry, on October 5, 2022. The defendants, including Patrick Dooley, Thomas Dooley Senior, Thomas Dooley Junior, Michael Dooley, and Daniel Dooley, had all pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. The judge described the killing as an "honour killing" involving "medieval violence" and noted that no explanation for the death had been proffered. Thomas Dooley Junior was additionally found guilty of assault causing harm to Siobhán Dooley. He was sentenced to four-and-a-half years for this offence, backdated from his custody on November 16, 2022, with the term running concurrently to his life sentence. The life sentences for the five adults were backdated to their respective custody dates. A sixth defendant, a male teenager, was not sentenced today as he is expected to seek a judicial review; his matter was adjourned for a mention on October 29. The court heard a victim impact statement from Siobhán Dooley, who stated her husband's last act was telling her to run to save herself. The judge emphasized that the only innocents were the victim, his wife, and their children.
The Central Criminal Court has convicted all six defendants of the murder of Thomas Dooley, a 42-year-old father of seven, who was killed during a funeral at Rath Cemetery in Tralee, Co Kerry, on October 5, 2022. The jury, comprising ten men and two women, returned guilty verdicts after five days of deliberation. Daniel Dooley (42), the final defendant to be dealt with, was convicted by a majority verdict of 11-1 after pleading not guilty. He protested his innocence upon hearing the verdict. The other five defendants—Michael Dooley (29), Patrick Dooley (36), Thomas Dooley Senior (43), Thomas Dooley Junior (21), and a male teenager—were previously convicted unanimously, having also pleaded not guilty. The prosecution alleged the group acted in a joint enterprise to commit an "honour killing" using bladed weapons. Thomas Dooley Junior was additionally convicted of assault causing harm to the victim's wife, Siobhán Dooley, who sustained a shoulder wound requiring stitches. Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring remanded the five adult defendants in custody until July 30, when she is expected to impose the mandatory life sentence for murder. The male teenager will not be sentenced on that date, as he is seeking a judicial review, and will appear for a mention on October 29. The judge exempted the jurors from service for 15 years.
At the Central Criminal Court, a jury returned unanimous guilty verdicts against five of six defendants charged with the murder of Thomas Dooley at Rath Cemetery, Tralee, on October 5, 2022. Michael Dooley, 29, of Cork, was found guilty of murder after pleading not guilty; he publicly declared his innocence in the courtroom. The jury also convicted Patrick Dooley, 36, of Killarney; Thomas Dooley Senior, 43, of Cork; and Thomas Dooley Junior, 21, of Cork, all of whom had pleaded not guilty. Thomas Dooley Junior was additionally convicted of assault causing harm to Siobhán Dooley, a charge he also denied. The prosecution alleged the group acted with "medieval violence" using bladed weapons, causing fatal injuries including a severed femoral artery. The matter regarding the sixth defendant, Daniel Dooley, 42, of Tralee, who pleaded not guilty to murder, remains pending. The jury was adjourned to continue deliberations on Thursday, as the court could not sit the following day. No sentences have been imposed, and the trial is not concluded.
Patrick Dooley, aged 36, was found guilty of murdering his older brother Thomas 'Tom' Dooley, aged 42, during a funeral at Rath Cemetery, Rathass, Tralee, Co Kerry on 5 October 2022. The jury rejected his defence that he was not a "Cainite" and had tried to intervene. He was convicted of murder, and the court also found his cousin and brother‑in‑law Thomas Dooley Senior, aged 43, and Thomas Dooley Junior, aged 21, guilty of the same offence. Thomas Dooley Junior was additionally found guilty of assault causing harm to Siobhán Dooley, the widow, who sustained a wound requiring 45 stitches and 30 staples. All defendants pleaded not guilty. The verdicts were unanimous and were reached after 12 hours and 26 minutes of deliberation over three days. The jury will return to decide on the remaining two defendants, Michael Dooley, aged 29, and Daniel Dooley, aged 42, who also pleaded not guilty.
A Central Criminal Court jury has returned guilty verdicts against three defendants in the murder of Thomas 'Tom' Dooley, a father-of-seven, at Rath Cemetery in Tralee, Co Kerry, on October 5, 2022. The unanimous jury found Thomas Dooley Senior (43) and his son, Thomas Dooley Junior (21), both of Cork, guilty of murder. All three convicted individuals had previously pleaded not guilty. Thomas Dooley Junior was additionally convicted of assault causing harm to the deceased's wife, Siobhán Dooley, who sustained a shoulder wound requiring 45 stitches and 30 staples. The prosecution alleged the victim was attacked by a group armed with bladed weapons, resulting in fatal injuries including a severed femoral artery. The jury's deliberations took over eight hours across two days. The matter remains ongoing as the jury is scheduled to return to court to consider verdicts for the remaining three defendants: Patrick Dooley (36), Michael Dooley (29), and Daniel Dooley (42). These three men, who are also charged with murder and have pleaded not guilty, await their findings. The trial is currently at the finding stage for the first group of defendants, with sentencing yet to be determined.
A jury has begun deliberating in the Central Criminal Court trial of six men accused of murdering Thomas 'Tom' Dooley, 43, at Rath Cemetery in Tralee, Co Kerry, on October 5, 2022. The accused are Patrick Dooley, Thomas Dooley Senior, Thomas Dooley Junior, Michael Dooley, Daniel Dooley, and a male teenager. All six pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Thomas Dooley Junior additionally pleaded not guilty to a separate charge of assault causing harm to Siobhán Dooley. The prosecution alleges the group acted with 'focused and murderous ferocity' using bladed weapons, resulting in fatal injuries to the deceased. Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring charged the 12-member jury, instructing them that if they are satisfied each accused knew their co-accused carried weapons and participated in the attack, they are guilty of murder under the doctrine of joint enterprise. The judge noted that while no specific weapon was linked to an individual accused, a machete was found and injuries were consistent with bladed instruments. The jury was asked to reach a unanimous verdict, with options limited to guilty of murder or outright acquittal. The matter is currently at the deliberation stage and has not yet been finalised.
In the trial of six accused men and a teenager for the murder of Thomas 'Tom' Dooley, Judge Mary Ellen Ring charged the jury that if any defendant knew co‑accused carried a bladed weapon and participated in the attack, they are guilty of murder. The State alleged Dooley, aged 43, was violently attacked at a funeral in Tralee on 5 October 2022, suffering four stab wounds, one severing the femoral artery. The accused – Patrick Dooley (36), Thomas Dooley Senior (43), Thomas Dooley Junior (21), Michael Dooley (29), Daniel Dooley (42) and a teenager – all pleaded not guilty. Dooley Junior also faced an assault charge for injuring his wife, Siobhán, who required 45 stitches. The judge emphasized the presumption of innocence, the need for proof beyond reasonable doubt, and the doctrine of joint enterprise, noting no weapon was found linking any defendant to the death. The trial will resume with a reduced jury.
At the Central Criminal Court sitting in Cork, the trial of six men accused of murdering Thomas 'Tom' Dooley at Rath Cemetery, Tralee, on October 5, 2022, is ongoing. All defendants, including Patrick Dooley, Thomas Dooley Senior, Thomas Dooley Junior, Michael Dooley, Daniel Dooley, and a teenager, have pleaded not guilty. Thomas Dooley Junior is additionally charged with assault causing serious harm to Siobhán Dooley, to which he also pleaded not guilty. The prosecution alleged the group committed an 'honour killing' using bladed weapons, resulting in fatal injuries to the deceased. In closing addresses, defence counsel for Patrick Dooley argued his client was attempting to save his brother rather than attack him, rejecting the 'Cainite' label. Counsel for Daniel Dooley highlighted the lack of forensic evidence linking his client to the crime. The matter was adjourned to Monday for further closing addresses.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing in Cork, the Director of Public Prosecutions' counsel, Dean Kelly SC, presented the State's case against six men accused of murdering Thomas 'Tom' Dooley, 43, during a funeral in Tralee on 5 October 2022. Kelly described the attack as a "biblical atrocity" and an "honour killing" triggered by a broken teenage relationship. He detailed that Dooley suffered four stab wounds, one severing the femoral artery, and a chop wound to the arm, leading to fatal blood loss. The accused, including Patrick Dooley (36), Thomas Dooley Senior (43), Thomas Dooley Junior (21), Michael Dooley (29), Daniel Dooley (42) and a teenager, all pleaded not guilty. Kelly argued the case rested on joint enterprise, noting the weapons were brought to the cemetery and the assault was carried out with "absolute ferocity" in seconds. He urged the jury to focus on the evidence presented. The trial continues with defence counsel's closing speech scheduled for the following day.
In a High Court case in Limerick, Westglade Unlimited Company and Timothy Carroll, who bought farmland at Ballycullane, Kilmallock, for €1m from a receiver appointed by Everyday Finance DAC, claim that former owners William and Anna Kennedy still occupy the land and keep horses there. The plaintiffs say the Kennedys refuse to give up vacant possession and have threatened them, saying the next person to unlock the gate will be shot. They also allege that the Kennedys blocked access with vehicles and posted a "No unauthorised person allowed" sign. The plaintiffs had previously offered a goodwill payment of about €275,000, but the Kennedys' actions have prevented any settlement. They seek injunctions to stop the Kennedys from occupying the land and to remove a lis pendens registered over the property. The case was heard by Mr Justice Mark Sanfey, who granted the plaintiffs permission to serve short notice of the proceedings and will hear the matter again next week.
The High Court has dismissed an application by Michelle Keane seeking an injunction to prevent the Dáil from voting on the implementation of the EU Migration and Asylum Pact. Mr Justice David Nolan found the bid was bound to fail as granting such an order would breach the separation of powers between the courts, the Oireachtas, and the government. The judge noted that Keane, who represented herself, alleged the pact was unconstitutional and would override Irish sovereignty, claiming it would force Ireland to accept 30,000 asylum seekers. He described her concerns regarding crime and safety as offensive and unsupported by evidence, noting her submissions were based on hearsay. The court also heard that a similar action by barrister Una McGurk had been deemed not properly issued and could not be dealt with. The judge held that the adoption of the pact was permitted under Article 28.4.7 of the Constitution, which was approved in the 2009 Lisbon Treaty vote. Consequently, the application was dismissed, and costs were awarded to the defendants, the Irish Government and Attorney General Rossa Fanning SC. Keane stated she intends to appeal the decision. The Dáil vote on the pact was scheduled for Tuesday evening, following the Seanad's prior approval.
At a Cork sitting of the Central Criminal Court, five family members and a teenager pleaded not guilty to the murder of Thomas 'Tom' Dooley, 43, during a funeral at Rath Cemetery, Rathass, Tralee, on 5 October 2022. The accused include Patrick Dooley (36), Thomas Dooley Senior (43), Thomas Dooley Junior (21), Michael Dooley (29), Daniel Dooley (42) and an unnamed teenager. Thomas Dooley Junior is also charged with assault causing serious harm to Dooley's wife, Siobhán. The trial may last over two months, potentially until 31 July, and is expected to start next week.
Nathan McDonnell, a 43‑year‑old businessman from Ballyroe, Tralee, was charged with possessing more than €13,000 worth of crystal meth for sale or supply under Section 15A of the Misuse of Drugs Act. The alleged offence took place at Ballyseedy Garden Centre between 27 October 2023 and 12 February 2024. McDonnell was arrested after a joint Gardaí and Revenue operation seized 564 kg of methamphetamine, valued at €32.8 million, from a container at Cork Port on 16 February. The drugs were said to have been imported from Mexico, stored at the garden centre, then transported to Cork for export to Australia. He was denied bail in the High Court in April and appealed to the Court of Appeal, which also refused bail because of the high value of the drugs. McDonnell remains in custody awaiting the serving of a book of evidence. If convicted, he faces a minimum of ten years in prison.
In a decision by the Workplace Relations Commission, Dara Deasy's claim that a hotel general manager racially harassed him by asking if he "knew Kung Fu" after learning of his Chinese heritage was rejected. Deasy, who worked part‑time at the Brandon Hotel from 31 March to 5 August 2023, alleged that manager Stephen Quinn used a "racial slur" and mocked him after Deasy tasted spring rolls on 8 June 2023. Quinn testified that he had simply asked Deasy about his knowledge of the cuisine and denied any discriminatory intent, describing the remarks as a compliment. The adjudicating officer found no evidence that Deasy was met by a racial slur during his employment, citing Deasy's vague recollections and the manager's denial. The tribunal therefore dismissed the complaint under the Employment Equality Act 1998. The decision noted that Deasy had been dismissed for performance issues and had not appealed the dismissal. The case was closed with no further action.