A letting agent, Morgan Kierans, was ordered to pay €14,750 for extreme discrimination against an alleged domestic violence victim who was refused a new rent aid form and claimed she had abandoned her tenancy by fleeing to a women's refuge. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) ruled that Kierans' belief that the tenant had vacated the property was lacking in credibility. The tenant, who had left the property temporarily for a refuge, was faced with mounting rent arrears when the letting agent refused to sign a new HAP application. The WRC adjudicator criticized Louth County Council for terminating housing assistance payments when the tenant's ex-partner quit the property, noting the catastrophic consequences for the family. Kierans was ordered to pay compensation and complete the HAP form if it was still outstanding.
Stephen Loughran, a production operator at Almac Pharma Services Ltd, has won his job back after being sacked for a punch-up with a takeaway driver in March 2025. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) ruled that his dismissal was unfair on both procedural and substantive grounds. Loughran was involved in a physical altercation with a driver after a late food delivery, which led to his sacking. The WRC found that the disciplinary panel had made errors in the process, including the concentration of functions in the site manager and the failure to investigate inconsistencies in witness statements. The adjudicator ruled that Loughran should be re-employed as a production operator or in an equivalent post, with the period since his dismissal treated as unpaid suspension.
Fergus Clarke, a driver who collided head-on with another vehicle on his morning commute, had his conviction reduced from dangerous driving to careless driving on appeal. The court heard that Clarke, who was not on his mobile phone and had no prior convictions, had a momentary lapse of concentration that led to the collision. The judge, Christopher Callan, noted that the collision was not intentional and that Clarke had no prior history of dangerous driving. He reduced the conviction to careless driving and set aside the disqualification from driving. The judge also reduced the fine from €500 to €100, noting that Clarke had no previous convictions and was in gainful employment. Clarke was ordered to pay €500 to the National Rehabilitation Centre, which he confirmed had been paid.
The Court of Appeal has overturned a Special Criminal Court (SCC) decision granting a miscarriage of justice certificate to Michael Connolly, a man in his 50s from Dundalk, Co Louth. Connolly was originally convicted of IRA membership in 2017 and sentenced to three years' imprisonment, a conviction later quashed by the Court of Appeal in 2018. Following a retrial in 2019, he was acquitted after the court found that belief evidence from a senior Garda breached the "double-counting" rule. In June 2024, the SCC deemed his original conviction a miscarriage of justice, citing a "grave defect" in the administration of justice. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) sought judicial review, which the High Court dismissed in December 2023. On appeal, Mr Justice Brian O'Moore held that the SCC committed a fundamental error of law by granting the certificate, as it was not a properly available option. The judge stated that while the senior Garda's "careless" evidence was regrettable, it did not justify the certificate. Consequently, the Court of Appeal granted the DPP's order, quashing the SCC's decision under section 9(1)(a)(ii) of the Criminal Procedure Act 1993. This ruling represents a legal first in overturning such a certificate.
The Court of Appeal has increased Aaron Brady's sentence for perverting the course of justice from three years to five years following a successful appeal by the State. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy described the offending as an "affront to the administration of justice," noting it was pre-meditated and insidious. Brady, who is serving a life sentence for the murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe, was convicted by the Special Criminal Court of video-recording a witness interview with Ronan Flynn and conspiring with Dean Byrne to persuade witness Daniel Cahill not to testify. The court found the original sentence unduly lenient, failing to adequately weight general deterrence. Although the new five-year term will not alter Brady's effective custody due to his existing life sentence, the ruling establishes a significant precedent. Dean Byrne, who was found guilty of conspiring with Brady to interfere with witness Cahill, was sentenced to two years. Byrne's conviction was upheld by the Court of Appeal, but he is currently challenging that decision before the Supreme Court, which has agreed to hear his case on a question of public importance regarding the lawfulness of persuading witnesses not to give evidence.
A dangerous driver who gave gardai the 'middle finger' and reached speeds of around 170km/h on the M1 before acting 'extremely aggressively' during his arrest has failed in his appeal to overturn his conviction. Cornelius Kaiser (47) was convicted in the District Court of two counts of dangerous driving on the M1, along with other charges including failing to produce insurance and refusing to provide a blood or urine sample. He received a total of seven months imprisonment and a five-year driving ban. During the appeal, Garda Alan Macklin testified that on December 13, 2023, officers received an anonymous report of dangerous driving. The black Audi was seen weaving through traffic at high speeds, with the driver giving the gardai the middle finger. The vehicle was stopped at the toll, where the driver slammed the brakes and pushed past the barrier. Gardai boxed in the car, leading to Kaiser's arrest. He was highly aggressive and refused to provide a breath sample.
A 32-year-old lorry driver has been jailed for five years for importing over €1 million worth of cannabis through Dublin Port. Andrew Cooley, from Ballyoran, Dundalk, pleaded guilty to importing more than 50 kilos of cannabis at Dublin Port on June 7, 2025. Judge Elma Sheahan imposed a seven-year sentence with the final 24 months suspended on strict conditions. During the incident, Cooley was driving an articulated lorry and refrigerated trailer when he was stopped at the port. He initially denied having anything to declare, claiming he was carrying Amazon goods. However, an inspector detected the smell of cannabis and found 31 packages hidden under clothing, with a street value of €1,007,000. Cooley claimed he did not know the value of the drugs and estimated it was worth "10 grand." The court heard that Cooley had eight previous convictions, mainly for road traffic matters, and had been disqualified from driving twice.
Former Olympic swimming coach George Gibney has accepted the verdicts of the jury who found him guilty of sexually abusing young girls 50 years ago and will not appeal his convictions, his lawyers have said. Gibney, 78, was found guilty of 39 counts of indecent assault and one count of attempted rape of four young swimmers between 1971 and 1981. He was extradited from the United States last year to face the historic allegations. One victim told the court how she had to witness Gibney being "feted and lauded" and "hero-worshipped" by the Irish establishment. The abuse took place at various locations, including Glenalbyn swimming pool and Trojans swim club. The abuse took the form of kissing, inappropriate touching, digital penetration, and forced oral sex.
A Dublin man, Simon O'Donovan, has been denied bail following a charge of possession of an explosive device in connection with the alleged discovery of a bomb in a car in Co Monaghan. The court heard that the device was allegedly stored in the National Museum at Collins' Barracks where O'Donovan worked. Gardai believe that if O'Donovan were released on bail, he would engage in acts to further the objectives of the dissident Republican group, the New IRA. O'Donovan was arrested after a car carrying the device was stopped on the N2. The device contained 394g of Semtex, a timer switch, and a viable detonator. Gardai objected to bail, citing the risk of O'Donovan interfering with the investigative process and continuing to engage in IRA operational activity. The court ruled that no bail conditions would allay the concerns of gardai and refused bail. A 25-year-old woman, Isobella Perrie Sullivan, was also charged in relation to the same incident and remanded in custody.
The Court of Appeal has reduced the prison sentence of Mihail Stingu, who burgled a house, stole a car, and dragged the owner along the ground. The original sentence of 14 years was deemed too high by the Court of Appeal, which imposed a global sentence of ten years and nine months, with the last six months suspended. Stingu, who was on bail for previous criminal damage offences, entered a home in Drogheda, stole items, and stole a car, dragging the owner for ten metres. The homeowner suffered serious road rash burns. The Court of Appeal found that the sentencing judge had erred in setting the headline sentence for burglary at 14 years before considering mitigating factors. The judge noted that the offence was not at the most extreme end and warranted a headline sentence of 11 years. Stingu was also sentenced for four years and nine months for the criminal damage offences. Mihail Stingu pleaded guilty.
The High Court has rejected arguments against the extradition of Jonathan Gill to Northern Ireland to face a murder charge related to the killing of Robbie Lawlor. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath did not issue an extradition order but remanded Gill in custody until July 29. Gill is accused of participating in a joint enterprise to murder Lawlor in 2020 as part of a gang feud. His lawyers argued that the UK courts would not provide the same protections as the Court of Justice of the European Union regarding evidence from the Encrochat system. However, the judge said the UK legal system would ensure a fair trial. Gill remains in custody, having previously been denied bail. The court will consider the extradition order after Gill and his legal team have time to review the judgment.
A Ukrainian woman accused of committing burglaries in south Dublin, including one at the home of a 99-year-old woman, has been refused bail. The woman, who is in her 30s and of no fixed abode, faces multiple charges, including two burglaries, unlawful entry into a vehicle, trespassing, and an alleged assault on a garda. Judge Anne Watkin described the allegations as serious and violent, noting the woman's conduct during the hearing and her likelihood to reoffend. The court heard that the woman allegedly confronted occupants at a residence, grabbed them by the throat, and demanded money. She is also accused of assaulting Garda Odhran Boyle during her arrest. The judge refused bail under Section 2 of the Bail Act, citing the seriousness of the charges and the risk of reoffending. The woman is due to appear again for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The trial of former Irish national swim coach George Gibney, who was extradited from Florida, concluded with the court addressing the long-standing question of 'Where is George Gibney?' The trial, which lasted 11 days, involved 79 counts of indecent assault and one count of attempted rape. Gibney, now 77, pleaded guilty to five counts of indecent assault but denied the rest. The court heard from four complainants who detailed the abuse they suffered between 1971 and 1981. The jury found Gibney guilty of 39 counts of indecent assault and one count of attempted rape. The trial highlighted the impact of the abuse on the victims, with one complainant describing the abuse as starting when she was 13. Gibney was taken into custody after the verdicts were read, with the court noting the significance of the convictions in addressing the historical abuse.
George Gibney, the former Irish national swimming coach, has been convicted of sexually abusing four girls over 50 years ago. A Central Criminal Court jury found Gibney, now 77, guilty of 39 counts of indecent assault and one count of attempted rape. The trial, which lasted 11 days, involved 74 charges, with five counts admitted by Gibney at the outset. The jury deliberated for over seven hours and returned 40 guilty verdicts. Gibney was extradited from Florida to face the historic allegations. The abuse occurred between 1971 and 1981 at various locations, including swimming pools and in his car. The court heard from four complainants who detailed the abuse they suffered. Gibney will face a sentence hearing on July 29, with victim impact statements to be prepared for the sentencing.
The Workplace Relations Commission hearing concerning employment complaints by Siobhan Fanning and Sandra Breen was adjourned to a later date by Adjudicator Eileen Campbell following the evidence-in-chief of Ms Breen. The applicants, represented by DJM Legal, allege ageist discrimination, unfair dismissal, and breaches of employment rights arising from the merger between Callan Stringer & Co and MG Business Advisory Services Ltd. They claim they were excluded from the business transfer while a younger colleague was retained, despite assurances of continuity. The respondent denies these allegations, attributing the failure to register the women with Revenue to an administrative error during a unique transfer process. The hearing remains at the hearing_or_decision stage, with no final determination, plea, finding, or sentence recorded. The matter is not concluded and awaits further proceedings.
A Lithuanian national, Karolis Peckauskas, has pleaded guilty to engaging in a terrorist plot to attack a Galway mosque. The charge relates to an attempt to damage the Maryam Mosque by fire between November 4 and 5, 2025, with the offence being aggravated by hatred. Peckauskas, along with Darren Gorman and Garrett Pollock, pleaded guilty to the same charge. Charles Flynn remains charged with the same offence. Peckauskas also faces charges related to the possession of offensive weapons and an explosive substance. He has claimed that he cannot receive a fair trial on the explosives charge due to the wording of the Explosives Act. A stay has been imposed on his prosecution on this charge until a High Court judgment is returned. Peckauskas, Gorman, and Pollock will return for a sentencing hearing on October 5.
Aaron Connolly, who was previously convicted of murdering Cameron Reilly but had his conviction quashed on appeal, has been given a date for his retrial at the Central Criminal Court. The retrial is set for November 23, with a management date set for July 24. Connolly's original trial lasted three weeks, and the retrial is expected to extend into a fourth week. The Court of Appeal found that remarks made by the trial judge may have been perceived as disparaging of the defense case and advocacy for the prosecution. Connolly, who is now 26, was remanded on bail with strict conditions, including living with his parents and not leaving the house unaccompanied. The murder of 18-year-old Cameron Reilly occurred on May 26, 2018, in Dunleer, Co Louth. During his trial, Connolly admitted to performing oral sex on Reilly but claimed he left him alive. The original conviction was quashed due to concerns about the trial judge's comments influencing the jury. The retrial will address these issues and determine Connolly's guilt in the murder of Cameron Reilly. Aaron Connolly pleaded not guilty.
A judge has refused to release transcripts of the criminal trials of Michael Shine to the lawyer overseeing a scoping inquiry into how the case was handled, until the complainants have been notified. Shine, who worked at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda from 1964 to 1995, was convicted in 2017 and 2019 of sexually assaulting nine complainants. The Government approved an independent scoping exercise in response to requests from Dignity4Patients. Senior counsel Lorcan Staines, the independent facilitator, applied for the release of trial transcripts, but Judge Patricia Ryan ruled that the court could not go against Supreme Court precedent, which states that complainants must be informed before transcripts are released. Staines argued that the information would not be made public, but the judge emphasized that complainants should be aware of where their details are going. The judge allowed the release of indictments on a limited basis. Staines said he had spoken to many complainants and that his report is due soon.
A Sligo man, Barry Young, has appeared in court in Dublin following an arrest warrant from Northern Ireland, where he is wanted for the murder of gangland figure Robbie Lawlor in 2020. Young, 41, faces charges of murder and possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life. He is the second individual to be brought before the extradition court as part of a joint Garda-PSNI investigation into Lawlor's murder. The PSNI believe Lawlor's murder was linked to a drugs feud involving criminal elements in Dublin, Sligo, and Drogheda. Detective Sergeant Aoife Cronin confirmed Young's identity based on the warrant and informed him of the charges. Young's legal team requested a video link appearance for the next court date, and he was remanded in custody until then.
The Supreme Court will hear an appeal by Dean Byrne, a Dublin man with over 120 convictions, challenging his 2024 Special Criminal Court conviction for conspiracy to pervert the course of justice. Byrne was sentenced to two years for allegedly conspiring with Aaron Brady to dissuade witness Daniel Cahill from testifying in Brady's murder trial. The Court of Appeal previously rejected Byrne's bid to overturn this conviction, finding he used unlawful means by sending the witness's Garda statement to a third party. The Supreme Court will now consider whether it can ever be lawful to persuade a witness not to give evidence. Meanwhile, Aaron Brady, who pleaded guilty to two offences related to efforts at perverting the course of justice during his trial, was sentenced to three years. Brady is serving a life sentence with a minimum term of 40 years for the 2013 murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe. Byrne's appeal raises a question of public importance regarding the legality of witness persuasion, while his prior record includes an 18-year sentence for aggravated burglary in Tipperary.
Luke Donnelly, an amateur fighter, was sentenced to six and a half years in prison for the manslaughter of his 62-year-old mother, Catherine Henry. The Central Criminal Court heard that Donnelly, who had a history of drug use and mental health issues, kicked his mother to death after she allegedly threatened him. The court was told that Donnelly had walked over his mother's lifeless body and showed no attempt to seek help. Mr Justice Paul McDermott noted the severity of the violence and the breach of a safety order that had been in place against Donnelly. Donnelly had previously been found not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter. His family expressed deep divisions, with some members condemning his actions and others defending him. The judge emphasized the need for Donnelly to address his drug addiction and mental health issues, and the sentence included a suspended portion to allow for community supervision. Donnelly's criminal history included drug-related offenses, and the judge acknowledged his efforts at rehabilitation while emphasizing the seriousness of his actions.
A man charged with an alleged terrorist plot to destroy a Galway mosque has claimed he cannot get a fair trial due to the wording of the Explosives Act. The High Court has reserved its judgment in the case brought by 39-year-old Karolis Peckauskas of Newfoundwell Road, Drogheda, Co Louth. Mr Peckauskas is charged with possession of an explosive substance – four threaded pipe end caps and six litres of hydrogen peroxide – under such circumstances as to give rise to a reasonable suspicion that he did not have it in his possession for a lawful object at O'Moore Place, Portlaoise, Co Laois on November 4 last year. Mr Peckauskas has not entered a plea in relation to the charge and a stay has been imposed on his prosecution until the resolution of his High Court challenge. Papers lodged by Mr Peckauskas' legal team claim that the wording of Section 4 of the Explosives Act places an "impermissible burden" on the applicant.
A violent criminal, Gerard Stokes, who carried out a three-hour hammer attack on a 'Good Samaritan' grandmother, leaving her blind in one eye after tying her up and threatening to kill her, had his jail sentence increased by two years following a successful appeal by the State. Stokes and his co-accused, Samantha Campbell, were convicted of inflicting what a judge described as a 'punishment beating' on the woman over alleged missing drugs. The Court of Appeal found that Stokes' 13-and-a-half-year jail term, with two years suspended, was unduly lenient and resentenced him to 14-and-a-half-years, with one year suspended. However, the court ruled that Campbell's ten-year sentence was not too lenient. The court heard the victim lost an eye in the attack and now uses a prosthesis. The judge noted that both defendants 'participated willingly' in the attack and the jury accepted that this was joint enterprise.
A 48-year-old man has been jailed for two and a half years for instigating a violent attack on two men in Balbriggan. Kevin Cox pleaded guilty to a charge of violent disorder that occurred on March 31, 2024. During the incident, Cox pushed and struck one of the victims multiple times, and the second victim was punched and kicked. Both victims sustained serious injuries, with one suffering from ongoing headaches and impaired vision, and the other suffering from a knee dislocation and fractures. Cox has 16 previous convictions, most of which are from the District Court. His defence argued that most of his previous convictions were historic and that he had not come to garda attention since the incident. He expressed remorse and offered €4,000 as a token of apology. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the CCTV footage showing Cox's aggressive actions and set a headline sentence of six years, which she reduced to four years. She suspended the final 18 months for 18 months under strict conditions.
An accountant, Siobhán McDonagh, who claimed her employer laughed at her when she asked about her redundancy package, has won over €25,000 in compensation for unfair dismissal. McDonagh, who worked for James P McCann Ireland Ltd for 17 years, was made redundant in January 2026. She alleged that her employer, Jim McCann, told her she would have to claim her redundancy from the State. Despite receiving her redundancy from the Social Protection Fund, McDonagh believed the company was doing well. The tribunal heard that the company was in extreme financial difficulties, with only two arcades remaining in Dublin. The adjudication officer found that the company had significant procedural defects in the termination, including no meaningful consultation or selection process. McDonagh was awarded €25,177.62 for unfair dismissal.
The Court of Appeal has ordered the retrial of Aaron Connolly, whose murder conviction for Cameron Reilly was quashed due to remarks by the trial judge that may have been perceived as mocking the defence case. The trial judge's charge to the jury was found to lack balance and may have been seen as advocacy for the prosecution case and disparaging of the defence case. Connolly, who was 26 at the time of the murder, initially denied any sexual contact with Reilly but later admitted to performing oral sex on him. The trial heard that Reilly was bisexual and had confided in friends about this. Connolly was found guilty in December 2022 and received a mandatory life sentence. His appeal argued that the trial judge's comments were denigrating of the defence case. The Court of Appeal ruled that the trial judge's remarks were capable of being perceived as disparaging and mocking the defence case. The conviction was quashed, and the Director of Public Prosecutions will decide whether to apply for a retrial. Aaron Connolly pleaded not guilty.
A family member of a 62-year-old woman who was killed by her son described the family as "severely divided" by the incident. Luke Donnelly, 29, was found not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter after claiming he was provoked by his mother, Catherine Henry. The court heard that Donnelly had a history of drug use and mental health issues, and that his mother had a history of violence. Donnelly claimed he was in fear for his life when his mother threatened to kill him. His family members gave victim impact statements, with some expressing that they felt the mother was on trial rather than the son. The court heard that Donnelly had a complex relationship with his mother and that he had been groomed into a life of drugs and violence. The Director of Public Prosecutions argued for a sentence of between 10 and 15 years, while the defense argued for a sentence in the medium culpability range. Donnelly was remanded in custody until his sentencing hearing.
Jonathan Gill, accused of murdering Robbie Lawlor, has challenged his extradition to the UK, arguing that he would not receive the same legal protections in UK courts as he would in the European Union. His legal team highlighted that evidence from EncroChat, an encrypted messaging platform, may not be admissible in UK courts, unlike in the EU, where individuals can challenge the admissibility of such evidence through the Court of Justice of the European Union and the European Charter of Fundamental Rights. The UK, however, does not have the same protections, and Gill's legal team claims this would breach his fundamental rights. The Minister for Justice argued that EncroChat messages are admissible in both the EU and the UK, and that Gill has multiple avenues to challenge their use in UK courts, including through the European Court of Human Rights. The court has remanded Gill in custody ahead of a bail hearing, with a judgment on extradition to be delivered later.
The High Court has ruled that a District Court judge erred in law when he refused to convict thirty-four drivers caught speeding at Clogheen, Monasterevin in County Kildare. In December 2024, Judge Andrew Cody found the facts proven but declined to record convictions, describing the 60km/h speed zone as unjust and criticising prosecutions as motivated by targets and finance rather than safety. The Director of Public Prosecutions sought judicial review of four lead cases. Mr Justice Cian Ferriter found the judge's approach unlawful, stating a court must record a conviction when facts are proven. The judge's role was to apply existing law, not to question its correctness. Mr Justice Ferriter noted the judge's comments breached fair procedures and could create reasonable apprehension of predetermination. However, none of the thirty-four drivers opposed the DPP's action. The DPP adopted a sensible approach by not requesting remittal to District Court, meaning none will receive convictions or penalty points.
Raul Tabares Garcia, a Spanish national accused of conspiring to import drugs, has lost his appeal against a High Court ruling refusing him bail. At the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice Alexander Owens upheld the decision, stating the court saw no error in principle or law. Mr Garcia, of Cadiz, faces a charge of conspiring contrary to section 71 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 to import drugs in excess of €13,000 between February 27 and March 14, 2024. He was one of ten men arrested in March 2024 during operations near Skibbereen, west Cork, where vehicles and nautical equipment were seized. Prosecutors alleged the group was involved in a transnational drug trafficking operation linked to 840kgs of cocaine valued at approximately €60 million. The High Court judge had previously deemed Mr Garcia a serious flight risk due to his foreign nationality and potential resources. Although his counsel argued he had local connections and proposed sureties, the Court of Appeal rejected these arguments, noting his lack of connection to the country. Seven co-accused, including Mario Angel Del Rio Sanz, Anuar Rahui Chairi, Aleksandar Milic, Kiumaars Ghabiri, Pedro Pablo Ojeda Ortega, and Angel Serran Padilla, have already pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges and were sentenced to a combined 70 years in prison last December. The matter was adjourned following the refusal of the bail application.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44, faced a High Court bail hearing in connection with an extradition warrant issued by Northern Irish authorities. He is charged with murder in relation to the death of Robbie Lawlor on 4 April 2020, and with possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol between 2 and 5 April 2020. Both charges carry potential life sentences. The Criminal Assets Bureau has assessed a liability of over €860,000 against Mr Gill, primarily comprising interest on unpaid income tax dating to 2005. Gardaí objected to bail, citing the seriousness of charges, alleged links to organised crime, and concerns regarding access to cash and potential flight risk. Mr Gill's father offered an independent surety of €100,000, which the State accepted as suitable. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath adjourned the bail application to 3 June, pending clarification regarding Mr Gill's tax payments. The extradition hearing is scheduled for the same date.
Aaron Connolly, who was serving a life sentence for the murder of Cameron Reilly, had his conviction quashed on appeal. The Court of Appeal found that the trial judge's instructions to the jury were imbalanced and may have been perceived as advocacy for the prosecution. Mr Justice John Edwards noted that the trial judge's comments were overly emphatic and could have influenced the jury's perception. Connolly initially denied any sexual contact with Reilly but later admitted to performing oral sex on him. The trial jury heard that Reilly was bisexual and that Connolly had a history of sexual relations with others. Connolly claimed he left Reilly alive, but the prosecution argued that he was the murderer. The appeal highlighted concerns about the trial judge's comments and their potential impact on the jury. The Director of Public Prosecutions will now decide whether to seek a retrial. Aaron Connolly pleaded not guilty.
A shoplifter who stole Louis Vuitton earrings worth €480 from Brown Thomas and later took clothes from Lifestyle Sports had her three-month jail term replaced with a suspended sentence on appeal. Sasha Staunton, 28, has 29 previous convictions, including theft and possession of stolen property. She was convicted in the District Court of two counts of theft on Grafton Street. On appeal, Judge Ronan Munro noted that Staunton had completed a four-week residential treatment and was off drugs. He suspended her sentence for two years, on the condition that she engages with the probation service and follows their instructions. Staunton's defense solicitor said she had checked herself into a facility in Louth and has been committed to her recovery. The court acknowledged her efforts to address her drug use and gave her an opportunity to avoid jail.
A double murderer's conviction has been upheld by the Court of Appeal, despite his claim that expert testimony lacked 'scientific validity'. Jason O'Driscoll, who was convicted of murdering Anthony Burnett and Joseph Redmond in Co Louth in 2012, had his appeal rejected. The court ruled that Andrew Wooller of Acuity Forensics was appropriately qualified to give evidence on vehicle identification. O'Driscoll's lawyers argued that Wooller's expertise lacked scientific validity and that his public tweet after the conviction showed a lack of independence. However, the court found that Wooller's evidence was necessary for the jury to interpret the CCTV footage and that the tweet did not establish a lack of independence. O'Driscoll was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2018 for the murders, which were described as 'callous' and 'brutal'. The prosecution relied on circumstantial evidence, including CCTV footage and the identification of a stolen Mercedes S Class as the getaway car.
Four men accused of plotting to attack a Galway mosque have indicated potential for progress in their cases. The accused, Darren Gorman, Charles Flynn, Garrett Pollock, and Karolis Peckauskas, are charged with attempting to engage in terrorist activity and possessing offensive weapons. Their trials will be heard in the Special Criminal Court. The defense lawyers expressed hope for progress when the case resumes next month. The court remanded the accused until that date. The charges include planning to damage the Maryam Mosque with fire and possessing items such as hatchets, a knuckle duster, and explosive substances. The case highlights concerns about potential terrorist activities and the possession of dangerous items. The court will consider the potential for progress in the accused's cases as the trial proceeds.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44 and with an address in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in relation to an extradition warrant issued by Belfast Magistrates' Court. Mr Gill is wanted in Northern Ireland to face charges of murder in connection with the death of Robbie Lawlor in April 2020, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. His legal team sought an adjournment of the bail hearing to review documentation from State bodies covering interactions spanning two decades, received late on the previous day. Counsel indicated she was unable to advise the court on the timeframe required for this review. Mr Justice Sean Gillane adjourned proceedings to 3 June, with liberty to apply for an earlier hearing. The extradition hearing is scheduled for the same date. The defence has raised concerns regarding the admissibility of proposed evidence under EU law provisions, despite its validity under United Kingdom law.
Four men are to stand trial at the Special Criminal Court in connection with a plot to carry out a terrorist attack on a mosque in Galway last November. The accused, Darren Gorman, Charles Flynn, Garrett Pollock, and Karolis Peckauskas, are charged with attempting to engage in a terrorist activity to damage Maryam Mosque. The charges are aggravated by hatred, and the accused are also charged with possessing offensive weapons and explosive substances. Peckauskas and Pollock are accused of having hatchets, a knuckle duster, and a hunting knife in a BMW, as well as possessing hydrogen peroxide and other explosive materials. The State solicitor applied for the trial to be held in the Special Criminal Court, and the court ordered the case to proceed with the defendants to be produced in person on May 11. The charges stem from the discovery of weapons and explosives in their possession, which were found in connection with the planned attack on the mosque. The case highlights the seriousness of the alleged plot and the potential threat to public safety.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44, with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in relation to extradition proceedings initiated by authorities in Northern Ireland. Gill is wanted by the PSNI in connection with the murder of Robbie Lawlor, shot dead in Belfast on 4 April 2020, and for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. His legal representatives submitted that extradition could prejudice his right to a fair trial, citing divergent interpretations of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the UK and EU regarding the admissibility of encrypted phone data. The High Court rejected an application for additional senior counsel representation, with Mr Justice Sean Gillane finding the legal arguments sufficiently clear. Gill was remanded in custody pending a bail application on 6 May. The extradition hearing is scheduled for 3 June.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44 and with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in connection with an extradition application by Northern Irish authorities. Gill is wanted by the PSNI in relation to the murder of Robbie Lawlor, a 36-year-old man shot dead in Belfast on April 4, 2020. He faces charges on a joint enterprise basis and is also accused of possessing a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life between April 2 and 5, 2020. The PSNI believe the killing was part of an ongoing drugs feud involving criminal elements across Dublin, Sligo and Drogheda. During proceedings before Mr Justice Sean Gillane, Gill's legal team sought to adjourn the bail application to renew a request for senior counsel. The counsel raised concerns regarding the lawfulness and admissibility of evidence, noting differing standards between European and UK courts. The judge remanded Gill in custody pending a renewed application for senior counsel on May 1. An extradition hearing is scheduled for June 3.
Jonathan Gill, with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in connection with extradition proceedings sought by authorities in Northern Ireland. The 44-year-old is wanted by the PSNI in relation to the murder of Robbie Lawlor, shot dead in Belfast on 4 April 2020, and for alleged possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol between 2 and 5 April that year. During today's hearing before Mr Justice Sean Gillane, Gill's barrister submitted that evidence proposed in the case would not be admissible under EU law, though it would be valid in UK courts. The judge scheduled a bail application for the following Wednesday, with Gill remanded in custody until that date. The extradition hearing has been fixed for 3 June. Gill was arrested on foot of a warrant issued by Belfast Magistrates' Court on 31 March.
Lisa Temple, 56, was given a one-year suspended sentence in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for assaulting two security officials during a home repossession. She refused to enter a good behaviour bond, leading Judge Martin Nolan to order her into custody, stating no one is above the law. Temple, who represented herself during the trial, was convicted of assault and possession of a taser. Her legal team argued the case was emotionally charged and a long-standing property dispute. During the sentencing, Temple protested and was taken into custody. The incident occurred in March 2022, where she punched one official and used a taser on another. Neither official required medical attention. Judge Nolan noted her behaviour was disgraceful but did not believe she deserved a custodial sentence. He allowed her legal team to reapply for a bond if she changed her mind.
A 44-year-old man from Clontarf, Dublin appeared before the High Court in connection with extradition proceedings relating to a 2020 murder in Belfast. Jonathan Gill is wanted by the Police Service of Northern Ireland to face prosecution on a joint enterprise basis for the death of Robbie Lawlor, who was shot in the front garden of a house on Etna Drive on April 4, 2020. Mr Gill is also charged with possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life between April 2 and 5 that year. The PSNI believes the killing was connected to an ongoing drugs feud involving criminal elements across Dublin, Sligo and Drogheda. During the hearing before Mr Justice Paul Burns, the court was told that Mr Gill's solicitor, based in Belfast, was unable to attend. The judge agreed to adjourn the matter and set April 24 as the date when an extradition hearing date will be fixed. Mr Gill remains in custody pending that hearing.
Philip Sullivan, a 63-year-old Kildare native, is to be returned to prison after breaching the conditions of his suspended sentence. In 2008, the late Mr Justice Paul Carney imposed two concurrent life sentences on Sullivan for the alleged rape and sexual assault of two young boys, aged nine and 11, between 2004 and 2006. Sullivan appealed this decision, and the Court of Appeal quashed the life terms, substituting them with concurrent 15-year sentences. The final two and a half years of this term were suspended for 10 years on strict conditions, including a prohibition on being in the company of minors. Prosecutors told the High Court that in February, gardai found Sullivan in the company of three teenage boys, aged 15, 16, and 17, at his south Dublin home. While there was no evidence the boys consumed alcohol or cannabis in Sullivan's presence, his association with minors constituted a breach. Sullivan's risk assessment was subsequently upgraded from medium to high. Mr Justice Paul McDermott noted that Sullivan was not candid when confronted by gardai. The judge activated 18 months of the previously suspended sentence, ordering Sullivan's return to custody to ensure public safety and uphold the fundamental tenet of his supervision.
The Workplace Relations Commission directed Madhu Foods Limited, trading as Guru Indian Cuisine, to pay Vasantkumar Barot €79,213.72 after his employer entered no defence to his employment-rights complaints. Barot said he paid €15,000 for a work permit and worked more than 90 hours a week, with average hourly pay of €1.61 in 2024. Adjudicator Brian Dalton made awards for wage arrears and working-time breaches, and found that an inference of racial harassment had been raised and not rebutted.
Conor O'Brien, 29, of Kilpatrick, Ardee, Co Louth, was sentenced to 11 years' imprisonment, with the final year suspended, after pleading guilty to importing guns and ammunition. At the Special Criminal Court, Ms Justice O'Connor noted that O'Brien used his dual citizenship to purchase firearms in America for sale in Ireland. He also pleaded guilty to five counts of possessing firearms components in suspicious circumstances, including AR-15 barrels and pistol frames, contrary to the Firearms Act 1964. The court ordered the forfeiture and destruction of these items. Although O'Brien was originally charged with two counts of money laundering involving sums of €7,450 and €9,980, the Director of Public Prosecutions dropped these charges. The State indicated it would not pursue forfeiture of the cash, and the court ordered the funds be returned to O'Brien. O'Brien was part of a criminal organisation led by Mark McCourt, 34, of Edenreive, Newry, Co Down. McCourt was previously sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment by the Special Criminal Court after pleading guilty to facilitating the importation of restricted weapons and possessing firearms components between February 2023 and July 2024. Detective Inspector Shane McCartan stated that O'Brien was central to the organisation, which distributed weapons to gangs in Derry, Armagh, Dublin, and Limerick.
The Court of Appeal dismissed Richard Morrissey's challenge to convictions for sexual assault and oral rape involving a girl abused in Louth from childhood. The court rejected arguments about the timeframe, corroboration warning, delayed disclosure and other evidence, holding that none of the appeal grounds had merit. Richard Morrissey was found guilty.
Conor O'Brien, 29, of Kilpatrick, Ardee, Co Louth, was sentenced to 11 years in prison by the Special Criminal Court for facilitating a criminal organisation's importation of restricted weapons and possessing firearms components. O'Brien pleaded guilty to six charges, including participating in the importation of firearms and ammunition between February 2023 and July 2024, and possessing various firearm parts in suspicious circumstances. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor set a headline sentence of 15 years, the maximum penalty, before reducing it to 11 years with the final 12 months suspended for one year, citing his guilty plea as a mitigating factor. The court ordered the forfeiture and destruction of seized firearms and ammunition. The matter regarding the forfeiture of seized cash was adjourned to hear further submissions next week, as money laundering charges against O'Brien are no longer being pursued. His co-accused, Mark McCourt, 34, of Edenreive, Newry, Co Down, was previously jailed for 12 years after pleading guilty to similar charges of facilitating the organisation's efforts to import restricted weapons and possessing firearms components. Detective Inspector Shane McCartan stated that O'Brien played a crucial role in the organisation, which distributed weapons to criminal gangs in Derry, Armagh, Dublin, and Limerish.
Jamiu Giwa pleaded guilty to assault causing harm after recklessly colliding with a plain-clothes garda while fleeing a drugs unit on Railway Street, Dublin 1. The garda suffered a concussion, shoulder fracture and knee injury, and Judge Orla Crowe imposed two years and three months with the final three months suspended.
Andrew Agwu pleaded guilty to two counts of burglary at Foot Locker stores after joining the looting that followed the November 2023 Dublin riots. The court heard that five pairs of shoes worth an estimated €750 were taken and not recovered; finalisation of sentence was adjourned to May 21.
Jibola Moses Akanni has been refused bail by the Court of Appeal while he awaits a conviction appeal. He was convicted of two rapes and sexual assault involving a 17-year-old at a Dublin city-centre apartment and is serving an eight-and-a-half-year sentence; the court said his appeal issues were wide-ranging rather than clear-cut.