James Walsh, 33, pleaded guilty in the Special Criminal Court to possessing a cache of firearms, including ten revolvers, four pistols, a sub‑machine gun, an assault rifle and ammunition magazines, found on 24 January at Greenogue Business Park. He was remanded in custody until 11 January next year, when sentencing will occur. Co‑accused Jonathan Harding, 44, and Declan Brady, 51, were also remanded until 10 November, when their cases will be mentioned again. Both were charged with unlawful possession of five revolvers, twenty rounds of ammunition and a silencer, also discovered on 24 January at the same unit.
Szymon Flizikowski, aged 20, faces sentencing for possession of drugs worth over €150,000 and for two other offences committed in 2015. He pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbery of 30 cans of beer, assault with a Stanley knife in a Londis supermarket, and a separate knife assault in Leixlip. Garda Eoin O'Flaherty reported that Flizikowski threatened a staff member with a knife and fled with the beer. He was later arrested and, during a search of his home, police found MDMA, cocaine and ecstasy. Flizikowski claimed he was holding the drugs for a debt and feared a "bullet" if he refused. He admitted to calling a man a racist slur and slashing him with a knife, apologising and presenting a victim impact statement. He is currently remanded for sentencing on December 21 and is due for release in 2020.
Gary Gleeson, 34, of Ballyfermot, was denied bail by the High Court on 11 October 2017. He faces charges of conspiracy to murder Michael Frazer between 28 July and 7 August, possession of a 9mm Luger pistol and 10 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and intent to endanger life on Naas Road, Crumlin, on 7 August. Gleeson applied for bail on 2 October, but the State objected. Garda Val Russell and Chief Superintendent Tony Howard argued the seriousness of the charges under Section 2A of the Bail Act, leading Judge Paul Butler to reject the application and remand Gleeson in custody.
Martin Stokes, aged 37, pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary, false imprisonment and assault with intent to commit an indictable offence after violently breaking into the home of his estranged partner Geraldine Cummins and her son. He entered the house at 2.40am, grabbed Cummins by the neck, pressed a sharp object into her throat and threatened to kill her and her unborn child unless she returned to him. Cummins, who was five months pregnant, was dragged into the kitchen and held with a knife. The mother, aunt and two children escaped and called for help; two men wrestled Stokes to the ground. Cummins' victim impact statement described lasting trauma, especially for her young son. Stokes was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment, with the final 15 months suspended after the Court of Appeal considered his progress toward rehabilitation while in custody. The suspended period requires a good‑behaviour bond for three years post‑release.
Ibrahim Lawel, a 36‑year‑old Nigerian resident of Marina Court, Athy, pleaded guilty in Naas Circuit Criminal Court on 25 May 2011 to possession of cocaine for sale or supply in County Kildare. The cocaine, worth €1.4 million, had been delivered in a green bag marked "Diplomatic Mail" and falsely addressed to a fictitious South African consul, Tony Tuto, at his own address. Lawel accepted the parcel, signed for it, and later left the premises in his car. He claimed he was unaware of the drugs and had signed as a favour for a friend, a plea based on recklessness. The original 10‑year sentence, with the final three years suspended, was quashed by the Court of Appeal, which found the mitigating discount inadequate. Lawel was resentenced to six years imprisonment, with the final 18 months suspended, after the Court of Appeal reversed a prior discharge and reinstated the charge.
The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) has been joined as a defendant in a personal injury action brought by Aoife Bennett, who claims she suffered narcolepsy and cataplexy after receiving the Pandemrix swine flu vaccine in 2009. Ms Bennett is one of approximately 70 plaintiffs suing the Minister for Health, the HSE, and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK). In a trial-stage procedural application, the Master of the High Court, Mr Edmund Honohan SC, granted permission to add the HPRA to the case. Ms Bennett's solicitor, Gillian O'Connor, stated that the application followed the discovery of 4,500 documents from GSK, which allegedly revealed that the former Irish Medicines Board possessed safety data showing Pandemrix had adverse effect rates up to seven times higher than a similar Canadian-made vaccine, Arepanrix. It is alleged that the HPRA breached its duty of care by failing to adequately monitor the vaccine's safety or inform the public of these risks, despite public brochures claiming the vaccine was safe and well-tested. The HPRA was not represented at the hearing but stated in correspondence that it does not admit any culpability. The matter remains ongoing as discovery processes continue regarding the authority's handling of the safety records.
A judge has granted legal aid to Frederick Cham, 61, an Aer Lingus worker accused of helping illegal immigrants enter Ireland. Cham, who lives in Railway Cottages, Hazelhatch, Celbridge, Co. Kildare and was born in Hong Kong, faces trial on two charges of organising or facilitating the entry of non‑Irish nationals into the State on 9 January and 22 January. He was arrested by the Garda National Immigration Bureau and sent to the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Previously denied legal aid, Cham's application was renewed after the court heard that he had not fully disclosed assets, including two bank accounts in the UK and Hong Kong, and that he owned a 1996 Mini Cooper and a 2007 Alfa Romeo. Lawyers argued he earned €400 a week with Aer Lingus, his salary had ceased, and his wife in China depended on him.
Carl Murphy, 45, pleaded guilty to possessing 121 images of child pornography after "stumbling" across them while searching for adult porn late at night. He was in a state of emotional flux following his marriage collapse and had checked himself into St Patrick's Hospital. The material, mainly depicting young females under 17, was seized from two laptops and a desktop. Murphy admitted he had not sought the illegal content and had deleted it after viewing. Judge Martin Nolan noted the modest number of images and Murphy's psychological problems, and imposed a two‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence suspended in full. Murphy has no prior convictions, is undergoing therapy, and has expressed deep remorse for the impact on his family and community.
Keith Jackson Fleming, 26, of Glenshane, Kilteel, was sentenced to four years' imprisonment for dangerous driving that caused the death of his friend Dara Cottuli on 28 November 2015. The final year of the sentence was suspended. Fleming also pleaded guilty to driving without a licence or insurance and to failing to provide a blood sample. He was found to have been under the influence of alcohol and drugs, including D10s and Xanax, at the time of the crash. The vehicle veered, struck a ditch, a timber fence and a stone pillar before crossing the road again. The Court of Appeal upheld the sentence, noting that the judge had considered the seriousness of the offence and the circumstances, and found no error in the decision to suspend the final year.
A 28‑year‑old Kildare man was sentenced to five years' imprisonment for sexually assaulting his half‑sister between November 2008 and December 2010. He pleaded guilty on the third day of his trial after the 19‑year‑old victim gave evidence. The court heard that the abuse involved touching her private parts, breasts and inserting a finger into her vagina. The victim, aged 11‑13 at the time, had reported the abuse to Gardaí in July 2014 and the man was arrested in October 2014. He had previously admitted the abuse to the police and had minor convictions for theft and public order offences. The judge noted the victim's vulnerable situation and the man's remorse, ordering full medical and educational assistance while in custody. The case highlighted a dysfunctional family background and the victim's ongoing emotional distress.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Joseph Beacom, aged 34, was sentenced to three and a half years in prison for discharging a shotgun into the bedroom of his neighbour, Patricia Weldon, after a dispute with his brother over childcare. The incident occurred on 3 April 2016 at Kilmahuddrick Lawn, Clondalkin, when Beacom, enraged that his children had witnessed a fight with his brother, returned to Weldon's home with a shotgun and fired through a bedroom window. The shot shattered glass and caused Weldon to seek refuge in her bathroom, where she called the Gardaí. Beacom had previously pleaded guilty to the offence and had 36 prior convictions, including six threats to kill. The court noted his history of alcohol misuse but also his participation in a residential treatment programme at Chuain Mhuire, and imposed a five‑year sentence with the final 18 months suspended.
The Court of Appeal has adjourned an application by a 43-year-old man to extend the time limit for appealing his sentence. The appellant, whose identity is protected, pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to the rape and sexual assault of his nephew in Limerick during the 1990s. He was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment, with the final two years suspended, by Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy in October 2015. His counsel, Diarmuid Collins BL, argued that the 17-month delay in lodging the appeal was not excessive and that the appellant was "overwhelmed by the enormity" of the events, lacking the emotional strength to appeal earlier. Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions, Úna Tighe BL, opposed the extension, citing the victim's interest in finality and arguing that the appellant's claimed lack of strength indicated a prior decision not to appeal. The panel, comprising Mr Justice George Birmingham, Mr Justice Alan Mahon, and Mr Justice John Edwards, noted that while there is no statutory time limit, Superior Court rules generally allow 28 days. Mr Justice Birmingham referenced the Supreme Court's decision in the case of Nicky Kelly, who was sentenced to 12 years' penal servitude, to establish that extensions must be guided by the justice of the case and the victim's interest in finality. The court was not persuaded at this stage that the interests of justice were served by extending time based on current information. Consequently, the matter was adjourned to the next list to fix dates, with the court prepared to review the application if further information is provided.
Two men, James Walsh, 33, and Jonathan Harding, 44, were arrested after a firearms cache was found in Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole. They face charges under the Firearms Act for unlawful possession of five revolvers, 20 rounds of ammunition and a silencer. Both applied for bail in the High Court, but the State objected, arguing they were flight risks. Detective Sergeant Michael Cuffe and Detective Chief Superintendent Patrick Lordan presented evidence that bail would risk further serious offences. Judge Tony Hunt rejected the bail applications, remanding the men in custody.
Two men, James Walsh, 33, and Jonathan Harding, 44, were arrested on 24 January after a firearms cache was found in a Greenogue Business Park unit. The cache included five revolvers, 20 rounds of ammunition and a silencer. They face charges under the Firearms Act for unlawful possession. A High Court judge will decide whether to grant bail. Detective Sergeant Michael Cuffe argued that if released they would be flight risks and might avoid trial. Detective Chief Superintendent Patrick Lordan presented evidence that bail should be refused to prevent a serious offence. Justice Tony Hunt will deliver his judgment tomorrow.
The Court of Appeal has fixed December 14 as the date for the hearing of the Director of Public Prosecutions' application to review the sentences of cousins Michael Casey and David Casey. Prosecutors intend to argue that the prison terms imposed for a "fatal burglary" were "unduly lenient." The men, aged 34 and 22 respectively, had previously pleaded guilty to a series of burglaries, including an incident at the home of John O'Donoghue at Toomaline, Doon, on August 27, 2015. In December 2016, Judge Tom O'Donnell at Limerick Circuit Criminal Court sentenced both defendants to four-and-a-half years imprisonment, with the final year suspended. The DPP is seeking a review on the grounds that these sentences are unduly lenient. Prosecuting counsel John G O'Sullivan BL characterized the offense as a fatal burglary. The Caseys were not present in court when the hearing date was fixed. This procedural stage involves the appellate review of the original sentencing decision rather than a new trial on the merits of the charges.
In July 2017 the High Court dismissed six applications for legal aid from individuals contesting the Criminal Assets Bureau's (CAB) claims that assets seized in its investigation of the Kinahan crime cartel were proceeds of crime. The applicants – Kelly Quinn, Sean McGovern, Anita Freeman, James Byrne, Sadie Byrne and Liam Roe – argued that the assets, including jewellery, motorbikes, property and cars, were not criminal proceeds and sought state‑funded representation. CAB opposed the applications, citing evidence of the applicants' lifestyles and alleged access to funds. Justice Stewart ruled that no exceptional circumstances justified legal aid, noting the applicants had not addressed CAB's claims or engaged with the evidence. The court adjourned proceedings against all 11 individuals to a later date, and the judge would issue a full written decision subsequently. None of the applicants were present at the hearing. The decision underscored that the court did not find the applicants' circumstances merited state assistance for their legal costs.
The High Court is considering applications for legal aid from six individuals seeking to oppose Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) claims that seized assets are proceeds of crime linked to the Kinahan cartel. The applicants—Kelly Quinn, Sean McGovern, Anita Freeman, James Byrne, Sadie Byrne, and Liam Roe—argue they cannot afford representation in the complex proceedings. Ms. Quinn claims €8,000 seized from her home was a funeral collection for her late partner, David Byrne. James and Sadie Byrne contest claims regarding a Rolex watch, an Audemars Piguet watch, and a Lexus Jeep, asserting the items are not criminal proceeds. Mr. Roe denies gang membership while contesting the seizure of an Audi A5 and Kawasaki motorbike. Mr. McGovern and Ms. Freeman oppose claims that their shared property and a BMW are criminal assets. CAB opposed the applications, alleging the applicants' lifestyles and travel histories, including flights to the US, UK, and Spain, are inconsistent with their declared incomes. CAB also cited property sales and tax settlements by the Byrnes. Ms. Justice Carmel Stewart reserved her decision on the legal aid applications, with judgment expected later this month. The matter remains at the hearing stage, with no final determination on the underlying asset claims.
A 24‑year‑old Kildare man, whose name is withheld to protect the 11‑year‑old victim, was originally sentenced to four years' imprisonment for two counts of sexual assault and an oral rape committed when he was 15. The offences involved blindfold games in which he forced his penis into the girl's mouth. The judge suspended the final two years, giving an 18‑month custodial term with six months suspended. On appeal the Court of Appeal found the original sentence did not adequately discount his youth and lack of maturity, and re‑sentenced him to 18 months with the final six months suspended for twelve months. The man pleaded guilty, described his actions as "experimental", expressed remorse, and had no prior convictions. He had subsequently qualified as an engineer and was considered unlikely to reoffend. The case was reported to Gardaí in 2013 and involved no violence or threat of violence.
A Kildare man, now 24, is appealing against a custodial sentence imposed for offences committed when he was 15. The appellant pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault in a shed at his home in Co. Kildare in October and December 2008, as well as oral rape at his home in April 2009 and in a woodland near his home in May 2009. On November 28, 2016, Mr Justice Tony Hunt sentenced him to four years imprisonment, with the final two years suspended. Counsel Hugh Hartnett SC argued that the appellant should have been spared jail, citing his age at the time and characterizing the acts as reckless experimentation. He submitted that under the 2001 Children's Act, detention for a legal juvenile must be a last resort. The appeal was heard by Mr Justice George Birmingham, sitting with Mr Justice Alan Mahon and Mr Justice John Hedigan. The court reserved judgment on the appeal against the severity of the sentence, with the decision scheduled to be delivered on Friday next. The matter remains adjourned pending this ruling.
The High Court appointed Mr Declan de Lacy of PFK O'Connor, Leddy & Holmes as provisional liquidator for Decobake Limited, a cake‑decorating and baking product company. The appointment followed a request from Dublin City Council (DCC), which sought to wind up the company over an unpaid commercial rates bill of about €102,000. DCC argued that Decobake was insolvent and that a provisional liquidator was needed to protect its assets from being removed from creditors' reach. The court noted that Decobake had offered to pay the rates but DCC rejected the offer. Mr Justice Paul Gilligan declined to set aside the liquidator appointment and said the company could appeal to the Court of Appeal if it wished to vary the order. The liquidator was granted powers to take possession of, control, and identify the company's assets, books, records, and bank accounts.
Stephen Penrose, 35, of No Fixed Abode, was charged with attempted robbery and possession of a screwdriver after an incident in a supermarket car park in Kilcock, Co Kildare on 14 May. He had been remanded in custody following a 17 May appearance at Naas District Court and sought bail in the High Court on 26 June. Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions, Barry Ward BL, argued that the State objected to bail on several grounds, citing the O'Callaghan principles and Section 2A of the Bail Act. Ward cited concerns that Penrose was a flight risk, might commit further offences, and could interfere with witnesses. He referenced statements from Chief Superintendent Gerard Roche and Detective Sergeant Aidan Hannon of Leixlip Garda Station. Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy considered the evidence and, under Section 2 of the Bail Act, refused the bail application, stating the refusal was necessary to prevent the commission of a further serious offence.
A Fitness to Practice inquiry at the Nursing and Midwifery Board found that Registered Nurse Marilyn Rillera, 57, from the Philippines, slapped an 87‑year‑old resident of the Maynooth Community Care Unit in December 2015 and referred to him as a "dirty Jew." The inquiry recorded that Rillera failed to communicate appropriately with the dementia patient and was non‑compliant with the nurses' professional code of conduct. Rillera was not present at the inquiry and denied using the phrase, claiming she only told the patient he was dirty. Linda Jennings, a health‑care assistant who assisted the resident that day, testified that Rillera said, "You can't hit a woman. What are you, a dirty Jew?" and then slapped the patient's arm. The resident was shocked and upset but did not understand the incident shortly thereafter. Rillera had worked in Ireland since 2002 and may have returned to the Philippines.
David Ryan, a 59‑year‑old taxi driver, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving that caused serious bodily harm to Eoin Daly on 7 April 2011. In July 2014 Judge Patricia Ryan sentenced him to three years' imprisonment, suspended, and imposed a four‑year driving ban. Ryan's lawyers argued that the ban prevented him from working as a rural publican in Cappaghwhite, Co. Tipperary, where public transport is limited. The judge lifted the ban after noting Ryan had not attracted further Garda attention since the conviction and that he needed the vehicle for his occupation. The court also considered that Ryan had been under severe financial and family stress, had paid €5,000 as a token of remorse, and had expressed remorse and apology. The decision was made without altering the original sentence or the suspended portion. The case remains at the criminal court stage.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Greyhound Recycling and Recovery (GRR) pleaded guilty to breaches of the Environmental Protection Act and the Waste Management Act for transferring waste to five unlicensed sites in Kildare, Dublin and Laois between April and June 2012, and for failing to keep adequate records between March and August 2012. The company admitted providing false information and breaching its license. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) noted that GRR had a waste licence from May 2007 for storing and transferring waste from a Clondalkin site, where most output was Solid Recovered Fuel (SRF) bales. The licence allowed shipping SRF to suppliers on the continent and storing bales at Dublin Port, but the company diverted them to unlicensed sites when the port storage was full. EPA investigators found 5,000 bales at a Kildare site, 2,000 at Maynooth, 120 at a Tipperary site, 1,000 at Hollystown, and evidence of storage at Ballybrit.
A 42‑year‑old man was convicted at Naas Circuit Criminal Court of defilement of a child and sexual assault against a 14‑year‑old schoolgirl who was staying for a sleepover at her friend's house. He pleaded guilty to five counts in January and February 2014. Judge Michael O'Shea imposed an effective eight‑year sentence on 4 December 2015. On appeal, the Court of Appeal suspended the final twelve months of that term, citing the early guilty plea as a mitigating factor that should have been specifically addressed in the original sentence. The appeal judge, Mr Justice George Birmingham, noted the victim's Asberger's Syndrome and the severe impact of the offence, but upheld the eight‑year term with a suspended year, leaving a three‑year post‑release supervision period in place. The case involved a significant age gap and grooming elements, with the offender's partner being the victim's friend's mother.
In a Central Criminal Court case, a 44‑year‑old Kildare man was sentenced to ten years' imprisonment for sexually assaulting and raping his step‑daughter over a period of more than seven years. The victim, a 24‑year‑old woman, testified that the abuse began when she was 12 and escalated to regular rape from age 15. She described the man as a former husband of her mother, who had married her mother after meeting her. The jury found him guilty on 17 counts of sexual assault between 2004 and 2007 and 16 counts of rape between 2008 and 2011. During the trial the defendant denied the allegations, claiming the victim fabricated the claims. Judge Deirdre Murphy imposed concurrent sentences totalling 12 years, suspended the final two years, and noted the profound impact on the victim's life, including severe depression, anxiety, and ongoing nightmares.
Terence Murphy, aged 35, was sentenced to three and a half years in prison for his role in a shooting at a house in Ballyfermot, Dublin. The final eighteen months of the sentence were suspended. Murphy was present when his co‑accused, Daniel Ennis, fired two shots at the house, and he was clearly visible on CCTV footage captured by Gardai. Murphy was arrested shortly after the incident. He pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in suspicious circumstances on 8 May 2015 and has 26 prior convictions. Ennis received a four‑year sentence for his part in the shooting. Murphy's guilty plea, his time in custody, and the fact that he was not the gun‑bearer were cited as mitigating factors by Judge Melanie Greally, who ordered him to meet with a probation supervisor for the 18 months following his release.
A Kildare man was acquitted of an attempted burglary at the home of celebrity impressionist Mario Rosenstock. The case involved a separate conviction of Thomas McCann, 42, who was found guilty by a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court jury of burglary at Marentimo House apartments in Blackrock, Dublin, on 30 September 2011. McCann, of Morristown Estate, Newbridge, had pleaded not guilty to both charges. Mrs. Rosenstock testified that she encountered McCann after returning home, describing him as tall, slender, wearing white socks, a baseball hat, sunglasses, and a tracksuit bottom tucked into his socks. He claimed to be a painter and decorator working at a neighbour's house and said he had come to check on her. Mrs. Rosenstock called the gardai immediately after he left on a mountain bike.
In December 2015, Damien Klasinski, a 29‑year‑old Polish driver, struck and killed Kildare councillor Willie Crowley, 56, while walking home from a pub. Klasinski fled the scene, later confessing to Gardaí and pleading guilty to dangerous driving causing death. He was arrested after passengers reported him. The court found him had no licence or insurance, had previously been convicted for driving offences, and had driven at speeds up to 80 km/h on a wet, poorly lit street. Judge Melanie Greally sentenced him to five and a half years, suspended the last 18 months, and imposed a ten‑year driving disqualification. The sentence reflected the seriousness of his failure to remain at the scene and the lack of insurance, while acknowledging his guilty plea and remorse. The ruling was delivered at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
Mark Taylor, aged 27, of Rossfield Green, Tallaght, had his prison sentence increased on appeal after driving a stolen Lexus into a Garda car on 19 June 2013, injuring an officer who required surgery and was out of work for a year. Taylor also drove a Subaru Legacy at high speed on 29 June 2013, colliding with another vehicle and driving off. He pleaded guilty to two counts of unlawful use of a vehicle, damage to property and two counts of endangerment. Initially sentenced to three years in Naas Circuit Criminal Court, he was to serve a four‑year term in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The Director of Public Prosecutions sought a review, and the Court of Appeal imposed a net sentence of eight years imprisonment, with the final three years suspended. The suspended portion is back‑dated to June 2015.
The High Court ordered the immediate vacating of a residential property in Co Kildare that had been used as a hostel or camp for up to 40 people and as an illegal dump. The injunctions were directed against Victor Golis and all unknown residents at Lucknow, Dublin Road, Kildare, following concerns from the HSE, Kildare County Council and the Fire Safety Officer about health and safety risks. Michael McAteer, appointed receiver by the Bank of Ireland in 2013, claimed the property was occupied dangerously and posed a risk to occupants. Justice Paul Gilligan granted the injunctions, restraining the defendants from remaining on the site, interfering with McAteer or his agents, and requiring residents to remove their belongings. The orders remain pending until the full hearing, with proceedings against owner John Quinn adjourned for three weeks to allow his response.
In a High Court case, Merrion Property Group Limited sued Shelton Investments Limited, trading as River Medical, over alleged rent arrears for a cosmetic surgery business at 114 Lower Baggot Street, Dublin. Merrion claimed River Medical owed more than €161,000 after acquiring the premises in 2014. River Medical denied the arrears, citing a rent reduction agreed with the previous landlord in 2013 due to the economic climate, and sought a declaration that it could remain in possession. The lawsuit was scheduled before Mr Justice Paul Gilligan. After negotiations, the parties reached a settlement: River Medical will vacate the premises by the end of June and pay €130,000 to Merrion, resolving the dispute over the lease and rent claims. The cosmetic surgery business also operates from other locations in Kildare, Belfast, and Cork.
In December 2015, 29‑year‑old Damien Klasinski, a Polish native, was driving on Eyre Street, Newbridge, when he struck and killed 56‑year‑old Kildare councillor Willie Crowley. Klasinski was speeding, did not brake or sound his horn, and fled the scene. He was later arrested after hiding in a friend's house. Crowley died from head injuries at Naas Hospital a few days later. Klasinski pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death and faces a custodial sentence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The court heard that Klasinski had 13 prior traffic convictions, had been disqualified from driving in 2016, and had a history of drunk driving. Witnesses described the impact as sending Crowley airborne, and the road was wet with poor lighting. The judge noted Klasinski's speed was far above the 50 km/h limit, possibly up to 80 km/h, and adjourned sentencing to 12 May.
Jackie Lavin's High Court action against her partner Bill Cullen and Glencullen Properties Ltd over an alleged failure to complete a €1m deal for the sale of Killegy House in Co Kerry to the businesswoman has been scheduled for a hearing in October. Ms Lavin, of Osberstown House Naas Co Kildare, has brought proceedings against Glencullen Properties Ltd and Mr Cullen, also of Osberstown House, Naas. Mr Cullen is the firm's sole shareholder and a director of the company. The case was briefly mentioned before Mr Justice Paul Gilligan at the High Court on Thursday, who was informed that the matter would take five days to hear. The judge said that because of the volume of cases waiting to be heard, the court would not be able to hear a five day action between now and the end of July when the legal year ends. Noting that witnesses in Ms Lavin's action have to travel to Dublin from abroad, the judge said he was listing the case for hearing on October 25th next. In her proceedings, Ms Lavin claims she has been a longtime resident of Killegy House which she says is her home. She claims Ulster Bank created a charge over Glencullen's assets in 1999, including Killegy House. In 2009 Glencullen sought additional credit facilities from Ulster Bank to allow it continue to trade during the downturn. The bank, she claims, was unwilling to do this unless €1m was invested in the company. Following the sale of a property they had in Florida for US$7.25m, Ms Lavin said she agreed to advance Mr Cullen €1m so he could pay down Glencullen's liabilities. As part of the arrangement, Killegy House would be sold to her, it is claimed. She said she paid over €757,000 to the company but it has failed to complete the sale of the property to her. She claims she has suffered loss and damage as a result of being deprived of the opportunity to buy the house. After the company was placed in receivership, it secured an order from the Residential Tenancies Board requiring her to leave Killegy House. In her action, she seeks an order for the specific performance directing the sale of Killegy House to her. She also seeks an order prohibiting the defendants from entering into any contract for sale of the property other than with Ms Lavin. Glencullen Properties denies the claims and argues that she is not entitled to any of the orders she seeks. In its defence, the company says it accepts Ms Lavin agreed to advance Mr Cullen €1m so he could loan Glencullen funds to reduce its liabilities. The company denies the monies were advanced as part of an agreement to sell Killegy to Ms Lavin. Glencullen says it never agreed to sell her the premises for any sum of money nor is there any contract of sale between the parties. It also says that at no time prior to May 2013 did Ms Lavin mention any agreement involving her buying the property from Glencullen. The company also says Ms Lavin has failed to comply with the order it obtained requiring her to leave Killegy and has brought enforcement proceedings before the Circuit Court. Mr Cullen has not delivered a defence to the action.
Declan Brady, 51, of Kildare, was arrested on 24 January for unlawful possession of five revolvers, 20 rounds of ammunition and a silencer, and for possession of 22 kg of cocaine, 11 kg of heroin and 53 g of cannabis, drugs worth an estimated €3.2 million. He faces three firearms charges under the Firearms Act and three drug‑possession charges under the Misuse of Drugs Act. The High Court refused his bail application, with the State and the Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Unit arguing that release could lead to further offences. Justice Isobel Kennedy rejected the application.
Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced two men for their involvement in a drugs operation involving heroin with an estimated street value of €560,000. Michael White (42) and Gareth Prior (35) pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine and heroin for sale or supply on December 9, 2015. Judge Patricia Ryan imposed a six-year sentence on White, with the final three years suspended. She noted White had no previous convictions and expressed deep regret. Prior received a 12-year sentence, with the final three years suspended. The judge acknowledged Prior's lack of recent garda attention and his efforts in self-education, despite his 17 previous convictions, including three for drug dealing. During the raid on White's house in Clondalkin, gardaí found cocaine worth €68,000 and paraphernalia. A search of a house linked to Prior in Newbridge revealed €175,000 worth of cocaine, €3,360 worth of ketamine, and €9,740 worth of herbal cannabis, for which Prior accepted responsibility. Judge Ryan cited the quantity and type of drugs as an aggravating factor but recognized both men's early guilty pleas and acceptance of responsibility.
Michael Breen, 41, was sentenced to three and a half years' imprisonment after pleading guilty to transporting almost €80,000 worth of cannabis. Gardaí stopped his car following a tip, and a search revealed nearly four kilograms of cannabis hidden under the carpet in the wheel well. Breen admitted to having the drugs for sale on 16 May 2016 at Bluebell Mews, Old Naas Road, Dublin 12. He has 40 prior convictions for theft and road traffic offences and three drug offences involving the sale of small amounts to undercover officers. During the interview, Breen claimed he was told he would receive €200 for his role, which was to drop off the drugs, and he accepted that he was operating at a low level. Judge Melanie Greally, noting his guilty plea and full cooperation, imposed the sentence and ordered him to engage with Probation Services upon release. Mr.
Jackie Lavin and Osberstown House Naas Co, acting as applicants, are involved in High Court proceedings against Bill Cullen and Glencullen Properties Ltd regarding an alleged €1m property deal. Ms Lavin claims she advanced funds to Cullen to reduce company liabilities, with the understanding that Killegy House in Co Kerry would be sold to her. She alleges she paid €757,000 but the sale was not completed, causing her loss. She seeks specific performance of the sale and an injunction preventing the defendants from selling the property to others. The defendants deny the existence of a sale agreement. Glencullen Properties Ltd argues that while it accepts the loan was advanced, it never agreed to sell the premises to Ms Lavin and asserts no contract of sale exists. The company further contends that Ms Lavin signed a statutory declaration disclaiming any interest in the company's assets, including Killegy House, and failed to comply with a Residential Tenancies Board order requiring her to vacate the property. Cullen has not delivered a defence. The matter was heard before Mr Justice Tony O'Connor, who addressed a preliminary issue concerning the timing of document discovery from Ulster Bank, which is not a party to the case. A timetable for exchanging materials was agreed upon. The case was adjourned and will be mentioned before the court at the end of April.
Larry Connors, 23, of Rathcurragh, Newbridge, Co Kildare, pleaded guilty to endangerment and dangerous driving during a "mad cap chase" on 1 May 2014. He was sentenced by the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to six years' imprisonment, with the final two years suspended, and a 20‑year driving ban. The Court of Appeal dismissed his appeal, ruling the sentence was within the judge's discretion. The case involved Connors travelling westbound on the N81, weaving through traffic and overtaking vehicles, while Gardaí pursued him. He was observed deliberately ramming his car, which was insured and registered to him. At the time of the offence he was disqualified from driving. Connors had 51 prior convictions, 44 of which were for road traffic offences, and was described as a "committed persistent offender." The appeal was dismissed by Mr Justice John Hedigan, who noted that deterrence must play a part in sentencing and that wild driving is unacceptable.
In March 2017, Richard O'Reilly, aged 32, was sentenced to six years' imprisonment after Gardaí seized a Glock semi‑automatic pistol and ammunition from his vehicle during a surveillance operation. O'Reilly, who had been grieving the death of his close friend David Byrne, pleaded guilty to possession of the weapon in suspicious circumstances. He claimed the loss of Byrne was the sole trigger for his possession of the gun, stating he had no financial motive and that the offence was not gang‑related. The judge noted O'Reilly's lack of prior convictions, good work record and cooperation with Gardaí as mitigating factors, but inferred from the evidence that he intended to use the weapon if the opportunity arose. The sentence was back‑dated to the date of his arrest. O'Reilly had previously been convicted of possession of stolen property and had been in custody since his arrest. The case was heard in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
Damien Klasinski, 29, of The Oaks, Newbridge, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to dangerous driving that caused the death of Kildare councillor Willie Crowley, 56, on 15 December 2015. Crowley died a few days later at Naas Hospital. Klasinski was remanded in continuing custody until 3 May, when a summary of the evidence will be heard. Judge Martin Nolan ordered a victim impact report to be prepared by Crowley's widow.
Michael Fagan (25) of Sperrin Road, Drimnagh, Dublin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to two years' imprisonment for handling stolen property. Judge Elma Sheahan reduced a recommended three-year term to two years following mitigation. Fagan pleaded guilty to possessing a safe stolen from the Co. Meath home of Mark Guildea on May 5, 2014. Detective Garda Brian McCarthy testified that Fagan dropped the safe from a third-floor balcony at Rathmines flats complex on the night of the burglary, scattering items including shotgun cartridges. Fagan, who has 51 previous convictions, was not charged with the burglary itself. Separately, Dean Fagan (28) of Kildare Park, Crumlin, Dublin, and Daryl Smith (25) of Shancastle Lawns, Clondalkin, Dublin, were jailed at Trim Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to carrying out the aggravated burglary at Irishtown, Ashbourne, on the same date. The court noted that the original burglary involved the victim's wife and child being tied up. Michael Fagan's defence counsel highlighted his desire to live a sober life, while the judge acknowledged his mitigation.
Michelle Butterworth, 56, was sentenced to one year in prison for her role in a credit‑card fraud gang that operated over three weekends in September and October 2016. The gang travelled to Ireland from the UK, using fake credit cards to purchase high‑value goods worth €8,875, including Sony Playstations, Gucci watches, Samsung and Apple smartphones, and a Claddagh ring. Butterworth admitted her involvement and identified her accomplices after one of them nearly ran her over while fleeing from Gardaí. She had 31 prior convictions for similar fraud and theft offences in the UK, plus a conviction for running a brothel. Her defence counsel argued that she committed the offences to repay a loan taken to bury her husband, who died in 2013. Judge Karen O'Connor noted her early plea and imposed a one‑year sentence back‑dated to October 2016. The case was heard at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Michelle Butterworth pleaded guilty.
In a 2017 court hearing, Gardaí captured live CCTV footage of a shooting at a house on Oranmore Road, Ballyfermot. The footage showed Terence Murphy, aged 35, standing near the house while his co‑accused, Daniel Ennis, 22, fired two shots. Murphy was arrested minutes later and pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in suspicious circumstances. He has 20 prior convictions. Ennis received a four‑year sentence for his role. The judge adjourned sentencing to May 22 to allow a probation report. Inspector David Harrington explained that an earlier altercation involving two men and two women had occurred before the shots were fired, and that the women had contacted Gardaí. Murphy was not present during the initial threats. He had been released on bail 13 months earlier and was on a methadone maintenance program.
Slawomir Gierlowski, 32, of Galtymore Road, Drimnagh, was denied bail by Judge Melanie Greally at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. He faces charges of false imprisonment and sexual assault of a woman in September 2016 in Clondalkin, assault causing harm and false imprisonment of another woman in May 2016 near Naas Road, and false imprisonment and assault causing harm to a third woman in September 2011. Gierlowski has not entered a plea. He remains in custody until March 20, when a sentencing date will be set. The court has not released further details of the hearing.
Stephen Rooney (37), Alan Richardson (28) and Vincent Brunton (34) were jailed for their roles in an NCT scam that involved passing cars that had previously failed roadworthiness tests. The men were arrested after a Garda investigation prompted by an RTÉ Prime Time documentary in 2011. Judge Gerard Griffin sentenced Rooney and Richardson to three years with two‑and‑a‑half years suspended, and suspended the entire three‑year term for Brunton. Rooney pleaded guilty to forgery of an NCT certificate and corruption for accepting €100 as inducement; Richardson pleaded guilty to the same forgery and corruption for accepting a cash gift; Brunton pleaded guilty to forging an NCT certificate. The court noted the cars passed were unroadworthy and unsafe, and that the men's actions undermined public trust in the NCT system. The case was adjourned after the evidence was heard.
Jonathan Harding, 44, was denied bail by the High Court after being charged with possession of five revolvers, ammunition and a silencer seized from a warehouse in west Dublin. He appeared before Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, who rejected the bail application on the grounds that it was necessary to prevent a serious offence. The prosecution, represented by Kathleen Leader BL, objected to bail, while the defence, Michael Hourican BL, noted Harding's occupation and family ties. Harding was arrested on 24 January and faces charges for the firearms and silencer found at the Greenogue Business Park.
Michael Fagan (25) of Sperrin Rd, Drimnagh, Dublin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to possession of stolen property. The offence involved a safe stolen from the Co. Meath home of Mark Guildea on May 5, 2014, which Fagan dropped from a third-floor balcony at Rathmines flats complex on the same night. Detective Garda Brian McCarthy testified that items, including shotgun cartridges, scattered after the drop. Fagan, who has 51 previous convictions, was jailed for the handling offence. Separately, at Trim Circuit Criminal Court, Dean Fagan (28) of Kildare Park, Crumlin, Dublin, and Daryl Smith (25) of Shancastle Lawns, Clondalkin, Dublin, were jailed after pleading guilty to carrying out the aggravated burglary at Irishtown, Ashbourne, on May 5, 2014. The court heard that the victims, including Guildea's wife and child, were tied up during the incident. Michael Fagan was not charged with the burglary itself. Judge Elma Sheehan presided over the sentencing in Dublin, while the Trim court handed down the sentences for Dean Fagan and Smith. All three individuals received custodial sentences for their respective convictions.
Michelle Butterworth, 56, of Stanley Street, Rochdale, faces jail after pleading guilty to 13 credit card fraud offences committed over three weekends in September and October 2016. The offences occurred in Galway, Kildare and Dublin, where she and a gang used high‑quality fake credit cards to purchase €8,875 worth of goods, including Sony Playstations, Gucci watches, Samsung and Apple smartphones and a Claddagh ring. The gang targeted Field's Jewellers, Argos and Gamestop, exploiting a loyalty scheme and manual card entry to bypass security checks. Garda James Codd reported that the gang was apprehended after staff became suspicious and a surveillance operation led to arrests at a petrol station. Butterworth admitted her role, identified accomplices and claimed the fraud was to repay a loan taken to bury her husband, who died in 2013. Judge Karen O'Connor remanded her in continuing custody on 10 March, when a sentence will be imposed.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Stephen Rooney, 37, was sentenced to one year in jail for forging an NCT certificate and accepting a €100 inducement. He collapsed in the dock, prompting an ambulance call. Judge Gerard Griffin had originally imposed a three‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence, suspending the final two‑and‑a‑half years due to Rooney's cooperation and remorse. The court also set sentencing dates for co‑accused Alan Richardson, 28, and Vincent Brunton, 34, who had each pleaded guilty to forgery and corruption for passing two un‑roadworthy Toyota Carinas. Both men were to receive suspended sentences after full cooperation. A fourth man, Darren Meehan, 40, had already received a two‑and‑a‑half‑year suspended sentence for producing a false NCT certificate. All three men were remanded on continuing bail pending the March 6 sentencing. The case stemmed from a 2011 RTÉ Prime Time documentary and a Garda investigation.