Eoin Hickey, aged 23, was sentenced to 16 months in jail for the prolonged, persistent and serious harassment of a teenage girl, who was 15 to 18 at the time of the abuse. Hickey sent hundreds of sexually explicit messages and videos, including a male masturbating video and messages such as "suck my dick" and "give us a wank." He created fake online accounts to bypass safety measures and stalked the victim, who feared a school acquaintance and avoided school and social outings. The victim, now 20, described constant terror and lasting trust issues. Hickey, diagnosed with developmental disorders including autism spectrum disorder at 14, was warned by Gardaí but continued the harassment. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a three‑year sentence, suspended the final 20 months, and imposed conditions that Hickey must have no further contact with the victim. He has since joined a restaurant job and a rugby club for people with special needs. Eoin Hickey pleaded guilty.
Alina Buckley, aged 19, received a fully suspended one‑year prison sentence after pleading guilty to possession of a knife at three separate incidents near Blackrock Garda Station in January, February and May 2020, and to threatening behaviour on Sweetman's Avenue in April 2020. The court noted her severe mental health difficulties at the time of each offence and her history of eight prior convictions, including two for assault. Judge Orla Crowe imposed the suspended term with conditions that Buckley engage with mental health services for the duration. Garda evidence detailed her abusive conduct towards officers, the discovery of knives and a razor blade, and her refusal to cooperate during arrests. Buckley had spent nine months in custody, which prompted her to seek appropriate services, and she is now living with her parents after a period of homelessness.
Michael Flatley brought a High Court damages claim against several parties for alleged negligence in works carried out at his Castle Hyde property in Co Cork. The claim arose after a fire on 18 June 2015 damaged the historic house, which Flatley had been renovating since 1999. He alleged that the fire started in an electrical panel and spread, causing extensive damage, and that the plumbing system was incorrectly designed, leading to basement flooding. Flatley sued architect and interior designer Mr Peter Inston, consultant engineer Sean R. McCarthy, and engineering firm Malachy Walsh & Partners, claiming breach of contract, misrepresentation and negligence. All defendants denied the allegations and argued the claim was statute‑barred. On 29 July 2022 the parties settled the claim, the proceedings were struck out, and the settlement terms remain confidential. No further details were disclosed to the court.
Alina Buckley, aged 19, will be sentenced on 29 July after admitting possession of a knife outside Blackrock Garda Station on three occasions in 2020. She pleaded guilty to knife possession on 20 January, 1 February and 15 May 2020, and to threatening behaviour on 10 April 2020. Buckley, who had severe mental health difficulties at the time, was also abusive towards Gardaí during each incident. Garda Ciara Morris and Garda Sinead Whelan gave evidence of her behaviour, noting she was 17 during the first incident and that she had a steak knife and a razor blade in her possession. She had eight previous convictions, including two for assault, and had spent nine months in custody. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned sentencing to 29 July for finalisation.
Gerard Russell, a 55‑year‑old former purchasing and procurement manager at St Vincent's University Hospital, pleaded guilty to six counts of theft and deception for fraudulently using a company credit card to purchase items worth €22,353 between August 2014 and June 2015. An audit triggered by domestic‑and‑personal purchases revealed the misuse, and items were delivered to the hospital and recovered from Russell's home. He had no prior convictions and no victim impact statement. Judge Martin Nolan, considering Russell's cooperation, guilty pleas, lack of criminal record, letters from acquaintances, and a psychological report, imposed a three‑year suspended sentence and ordered the €22,353 to be paid back to the hospital within one week. Russell's wife and other family members provided letters describing his struggles with alcoholism, depression, and bipolar disorder, and his efforts to recover. The court noted Russell's job loss and public humiliation as part of the case context.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Jamie Heffernan, aged 22, was sentenced to five years' imprisonment for a violent assault on Aaron Murdiff, aged 25, which left Murdiff with a lasting traumatic brain injury. Heffernan attacked Murdiff after learning that Murdiff had assaulted his cousin at a house party earlier that night. CCTV footage showed Heffernan striking Murdiff, causing him to fall, and then delivering three separate blows over four and a half minutes, including repeated strikes while Murdiff lay motionless. Heffernan pleaded guilty to intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm. The judge described the attack as "breathtaking savagery" and noted the severity of the assault. Two minor co‑accused are awaiting sentencing for their roles. Heffernan has five prior convictions. The court heard that Murdiff's mother and sister provided a victim impact statement, and that Heffernan had consumed significant alcohol that night.
Albert Tucker, aged 66, was sentenced to four years' imprisonment after a jury found him guilty of multiple indecent assault charges against his sister‑in‑law, Ms Aileen Ryan Wright, committed between 1976 and 1979. The offences involved repeated abuse at various locations in Dublin, including assaults in a car while driving her younger sister home. Tucker denied the allegations, claiming only one consensual act occurred when his sister‑in‑law was of legal age. He had no prior convictions. Ms Ryan Wright, who was aged 11 to 17 at the time of the assaults, testified that the abuse left her fearful and caused severe emotional distress, including attempts at self‑harm. The judge noted Tucker's lack of criminal history and medical conditions but considered the seriousness of the offences, sentencing him to four years with no suspended portion and requiring two years of post‑release supervision by probation services. Albert Tucker pleaded not guilty.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Jamie Heffernan, aged 22, pleaded guilty to intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to Aaron Murdiff after a spontaneous assault that left Murdiff with a traumatic brain injury. Heffernan, who had been chatting with Murdiff on CCTV, was reportedly informed that Murdiff had assaulted his cousin at a house party earlier that night. Heffernan struck Murdiff, causing him to fall, and then launched three separate assaults over a period of four and a half minutes, striking him in the head and body. Heffernan was arrested shortly after the attack. Murdiff suffered a brain injury with lasting balance issues, and a victim impact statement was submitted by his mother and sister. Two minor co‑accused await sentencing for their roles in the assault. The case is scheduled for sentencing in July. The court noted Heffernan's prior convictions, his early guilty plea, and his efforts to address alcohol and cannabis use.
A High Court challenge has been initiated against An Bord Pleanala's decision to grant planning permission for 227 apartments in Goatstown, South Dublin. The applicant, Mr Ciaran Mulloy from Woodlands Park, Blackrock, Co Dublin, alleges that the decision breaches domestic and European Union laws, including the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Development Plan, urban development requirements, open space guidelines, and building height regulations. He further claims that the board failed to assess public transport capacity and that the decision contravenes proper zoning and a protective corridor for the proposed Dublin Eastern by-pass. Additionally, it is alleged that the board's decision breaches the developer's obligations under the EU directive on Environmental Impact Assessments. Mr Mulloy seeks various reliefs, including an order quashing the board's decision. The action is against An Bord Pleanala, Ireland, the Attorney General, and Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Co Council, with Knockrabo Investments Ltd DAC as a notice party. The application for permission to bring the proceedings was heard by Mr Justice David Holland, who granted Mr Mulloy leave to proceed and adjourned the matter to a date in May.
In a Commercial Court case, Mary Flannery sued her family members and the company's accountant over control of Foxfield Inns Designated Activity Company, which owns hotels in Dublin and Galway. She alleged oppressive conduct under section 212 of the 2014 Companies Act. The defendants—her brothers Frank and Kevin Flannery, Kevin's wife Sheelagh, and accountant James Norton—denied the claims. The court heard that the company employed about 180 people and owned several properties, including the Eglington Hotel. After mediation, the parties reached a settlement. The court agreed that it could order Foxfield Inns to purchase Mary Flannery's and Andrena Moynihan's shareholdings. The settlement terms are confidential, and the matter was adjourned for mention in April. The judge welcomed the settlement.
Paul Murray, 41, struck Josh Byrne, 29, with an iron bar in the head while Byrne was being led away by Gardaí after Byrne's arrest for criminal damage. The incident occurred after Byrne had turned on all the taps in the apartment above Murray's, causing water damage to Murray's unit. Murray pleaded guilty to producing a metal bar in the course of a dispute on 2 February 2021. He has 30 prior convictions, including robbery and traffic offences. Byrne, who has no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to two counts of criminal damage at the same location and received a two‑year fully suspended sentence. Judge Melanie Greally sentenced Murray to two years imprisonment, suspended in its entirety on strict conditions, citing a high degree of antagonism and Murray's loss of control. Byrne sustained a laceration to his head but declined to make a complaint. Murray apologized and acknowledged his wrongdoing.
The Central Criminal Court trial of Gerard Cervi for the murder of Bobby Messett and attempted murder of coach Pete Taylor at Bray Boxing Club collapsed after a juror became seriously ill, reducing the jury below the required ten members. Judge Michael White adjourned the case and discharged the remaining nine jurors, exempting them from future service. Cervi, aged 50, had pleaded not guilty to the killings that occurred on 5 June 2018, when a gunman entered the club, fired nine shots from a semi‑automatic pistol, killing Messett instantly and injuring Taylor and Ian Britton. The prosecution alleged Cervi was the lone gunman, linking him to a silver Volkswagen van seen near the club and to a bicycle at Pigeon House Road. Witnesses described the chaotic shooting, the gunman's appearance, and the subsequent removal of Taylor's clothing by paramedics. The trial was scheduled to resume on 11 October 2021.
In a 2021 trial, a jury examined CCTV footage of Bray Boxing Club on the morning of June 5 2018, when Robert Messett was shot dead and two others injured. Detective Garda Alan Thompson described a grey or silver long‑wheelbase van with a 'DFZ' registration, slide rails, tinted rear windows, and a driver in a cap, dark trousers and a yellow high‑visibility vest. The van was seen outside the club at 6:50 am, and the driver entered the club. Thompson guided prosecution counsel Paul Murray SC through a montage of footage from Bray, Shankill, Cabinteely, Deansgrange, Blackrock and Merrion Road up to 7:19 am. Gerard Cervi pleaded not guilty to Messett's murder and the attempted murders of trainer Peter Taylor and Ian Britton. The case is before the Central Criminal Court with Mr Justice Michael White and a jury of seven men and three women.
In a High Court decision on 16 July 2021, Mr Justice Brian O'Moore lifted a Lis Pendens that had been registered over three Dublin development sites: Glebe House and Lands on St Agnes Road, Crumlin; Annesley House, Rathmines; and the former Europa Motors site on Newtown Avenue, Blackrock. The notice had been placed by builder Mr Johnny O'Loughlin and Mount Pleasant Development Ltd (MPD) against Mr Michael Moran and several companies in which he is a director. The plaintiffs claimed the Lis had stalled development plans, including financing, sales of over 20 units in Annesley Gardens and a joint venture for 150 apartments in Crumlin, and had also impacted plans for 100 apartments in Blackrock. The defendants, represented by Garry McCarthy SC, sought to vacate the notice, arguing it was not bona fide and had hindered their development objectives. Mr O'Moore agreed to grant the defendants' request to vacate the Lis Pendens, with full reasons to be given later.
The High Court approved Personal Insolvency arrangements for former newspaper owner John Sheils and his wife Susan Casey, allowing them to keep and continue paying mortgage on their 702‑sq‑m house, Annamult House, in Bennetsbridge, Co. Kilkenny, until they reach their mid‑eights. The house, rebuilt after a 2009 fire, also serves as their business venue. They owe about €2.9 million to creditors including Start Mortgages, Pepper Finance, AIB, Bank of Ireland, Everyday Finance and Promontoria Oyster. Under the PIA, they will make mortgage repayments for 336 months (28 years). To fund the arrangement, they will sell assets such as a Blackrock house and a Lucan site, and write off roughly €70,000 of debt. The PIA, lasting 13 months, aims to restore solvency after completion. The judge, Mr Justice Mark Sanfey, expressed some hesitation about the long repayment period but approved the plan due to creditor support.
Mr Justice David Barniville admitted a dispute between builder Johnny O'Loughlin and Mount Pleasant Development Ltd (MPD) against Michael Moran and his associated companies to the fast-track Commercial Court list. The applicants seek declarations that they hold interests in three Dublin development sites—Glebe House in Crumlin, Annesley House in Rathmines, and the former Europa Motors site in Blackrock—and that the defendants hold these properties in trust. They also claim damages for alleged breach of contract and intentional interference with economic interests. The defendants deny these claims. Counsel for the defendants, Gary McCarthy SC, argued for the commercial listing, stating that a registered lis pendens has paralysed development plans. He noted that the lis pendens is preventing the completion of sales for five units at Annesley Gardens, valued at €7.36m, and is blocking further finance for the site. It also halts a proposed joint venture for over 150 apartments in Crumlin and a forward sale of the Blackrock site, which is intended for 100 apartments. The applicants, represented by Andrew Walker BL, consented to the application. The court will return later this year for further proceedings.
Gerry O'Brien and Joanne O'Brien appeared before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, where both pleaded guilty to theft charges. Gerry O'Brien admitted to one count of stealing €107,286 in cash and cheques by deception from Beryl Tilson, then aged 77, at a Sandyford address between July 2017 and November 2018. He also pleaded guilty to one count of stealing €27,254 in cash and cheques by deception from Rosemary Fitzgerald, then aged 73, at a Blackrock address between August and November 2018. Joanne O'Brien pleaded guilty to two counts of theft from Ms Tilson on December 23, 2017, and July 12, 2018. The prosecution alleged the defendants used fabricated sob stories and a fake solicitor to deceive the victims. Judge Pauline Codd adjourned the matter to May 17 for sentencing. The court noted Gerry O'Brien has 68 previous convictions, while Joanne O'Brien has 28, mostly for road traffic offences. Defence counsel stated Gerry O'Brien was remorseful, though the judge noted his letter focused on his own woes rather than the victims. It was also noted that Joanne O'Brien had repaid the €900 stolen from Ms Tilson. The matter was adjourned and not concluded.
Caroline Donovan, a former resident of Bessborough House in Blackrock, Cork, has initiated a High Court personal injuries claim against the State, the HSE, and the Congregation of Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Ms Donovan, who resided at the facility in the mid-1980s and early 1990s, alleges she was subjected to physical and emotional abuse, constituting a breach of her constitutional rights. She claims she was forced to work unpaid for the facility and a local family under harsh and unsafe conditions. Additionally, Ms Donovan alleges that her baby girl, born in the early 1980s when Ms Donovan was 15, was wrongfully adopted without her consent following undue influence. The defendants include the Minister for Health, the HSE, Ireland, the Attorney General, and the nuns who ran the home, which closed in 1999. Represented by solicitor Siobhan O'Neill and barristers Frank Callanan SC and Conor Duff BL, Ms Donovan intends to formally lodge the proceedings in the coming days. This action is understood to be among the first brought following the publication of the final report by the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes. The matter is at the hearing_or_decision stage, with the case expected to come before the courts at a later date.
Dean Quigley, aged 23, was sentenced to six years' imprisonment for a series of violent offences. In July 2018 he attacked a 17‑year‑old woman on the N11, punching her, pulling her hair and continuing to strike her while she lay on the ground. He pleaded guilty to assault causing harm. In July 2019 he broke into a 75‑year‑old neighbour's apartment, causing the victim severe injuries and threatening to kill him if he reported the incident. He pleaded guilty to trespassing and criminal damage. In October 2019 he again entered the neighbour's home, assaulting him and threatening further violence. The court imposed concurrent two‑year sentences for the assault on the woman and the July burglary, and a consecutive six‑year sentence for the October burglary, suspending the final two years on the condition of alcohol‑addiction treatment. The judge noted the seriousness of the attacks and the impact on the victims' safety and mental health.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, a 23‑year‑old man, Dean Quigley, pleaded guilty to assaulting a 17‑year‑old woman on the N11 in July 2018, where he punched her face, pulled her hair and continued striking her while she lay on the ground. He also pleaded guilty to trespassing and assaulting a 75‑year‑old neighbour in July and October 2019, threatening to kill him if he reported the incidents. The elderly victim's daughter found Quigley five days after the second assault, and he was hospitalized for a brain bleed, neck ligature marks and severe chest bruising. Quigley's court record includes 12 prior convictions and two recent convictions for knife possession and a threat to kill. The judge adjourned sentencing to 17 December 2020, while the court heard the victim's impact statements and Quigley's expressions of remorse and progress in custody.
A dispute involving family members over the running of Foxfield Inns Designated Activity Company, which owns well-known hotels in Dublin and Galway, has been admitted to the fast-track Commercial Court list. Mary Flannery, an applicant, alleges that her brothers Frank Flannery, Kevin Flannery, and sister-in-law Sheelagh Flannery, along with accountant James Norton, have acted in an oppressive manner, infringing her rights as a shareholder and director. Ms Flannery claims she was denied answers to her questions about the firm's affairs, which she says is oppressive to her interests. She also alleges that Mr Norton, who was appointed the personal representative of her late brother, acts as a 'shadow director' and exerts undue influence over the company. Mr Norton denies all allegations of wrongdoing. Mary Flannery has also raised concerns about the company's financial dealings, including payments to Mr Norton, corporate governance fees, and alleged irregularities in the company's banking arrangements and transactions. She claims that no proper explanation was given for the purchase and sale of an apartment in New York or the receipt of rents from commercial units in Galway by an entity called AutoExec. Mary Flannery seeks various orders from the court, including the purchase of shares, regulation of the firm's affairs, compensation, or the appointment of a liquidator. The matter was adjourned to a date in January, with the court to consider the application by Andrena Flannery to be added as a party to the action at a later date.
Desmond Murphy, 49, was convicted of attempted robbery and robbery at two south Dublin building societies on 15 February 2018. He first held up a teller at EBS Main Street Blackrock with a gun, forcing the teller to lock the door and push him back into the public area. Fifteen minutes later he returned to EBS Georges Street Dun Laoghaire, pointed a gun at a female staff member and demanded "tiger money" – cash with serial numbers recorded for such incidents. He stole €10,380. CCTV captured a swallow tattoo on his left hand. Gardaí recovered €8,320 from his home, some matching the tiger‑money serials. Murphy has 51 prior convictions, has attended a drug rehabilitation course, and his lawyers argued he had turned his life around. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced him to 18 months, noting the gun was likely an imitation but the threat was serious. The case was heard at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Desmond Murphy pleaded guilty.
The High Court has appointed provisional liquidators to two fashion retail companies that operated thirteen Pamela Scott stores across Ireland. Arzac Developments Ltd ran ten stores while Richard Alan & Co operated three, with outlets in locations including Sligo, Dublin, Limerick, Tralee and Cork. The firms, employing 104 people, sought winding up orders citing challenging market conditions, rising operating costs and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, which rendered them insolvent. Mr Justice David Keane appointed insolvency practitioners Eamonn Richardson and Ian Barrett of KPMG as joint provisional liquidators. The court heard the companies faced pressure from landlords, reduced footfall and changes to wage subsidy schemes. Both firms were dependent on their parent company, Flairline Fashion Ltd, for administrative and financial support, which was no longer available. The judge made the cases returnable to November.
In July 2019 a 75‑year‑old man was seriously injured when Dean Quigley, aged 23, twice broke into his apartment. The first incident involved Quigley kicking and hitting the door after being refused entry, then entering the flat, taking a knife, and assaulting the victim. The second assault, in October 2019, saw Quigley punch the man in the head, stomach and back, hold him in a headlock and threaten to kill him if he told anyone. The victim, who remained in fear for five days, was found by his daughter and taken to hospital where he suffered a brain bleed, ligature marks on his neck and severe bruising to his chest. Quigley pleaded guilty to trespassing, criminal damage and assault, was remanded in custody and sentencing was adjourned to October 2020 for a probation report.
Amir Essalhi, 35, of Burg an Ri Walk, Balgaddy, Clondalkin, Dublin, pleaded guilty to four armed robberies and one attempted robbery committed over a nine‑day period in November 2018. The incidents included robberies at Ebano Hair & Beauty Salon, Ballinteer Shopping Centre, Centra on Drummartin Road, Centra on Ballinteer Road, and an attempted robbery at Spar on Rockville Road, Blackrock. Essalhi admitted possession of weapons ranging from a screwdriver to a knife at each event, with threats of violence but no actual violence. He has 65 prior convictions for robbery, arson, burglary and assault causing harm. Judge Martin Nolan, noting the seriousness of the offences and the mitigating effect of Essalhi's guilty pleas, sentenced him to four‑and‑a‑half years' imprisonment. The defence highlighted Essalhi's background, his brother's murder in 2011, his drug‑free status at the time of the offences, his two children and parental support, and his remorse, requesting leniency.
The High Court has ordered that up to fifteen occupants of a four‑bedroom house in Avoca Park, Blackrock, must vacate the premises by 20 March. The injunction, granted to Everyday Finance DAC and receivers Stephen Tennant and Nicholas O'Dwyer, gives them possession of the property. The order applies to Paul White, his wife Jane Gleeson and other unnamed occupants who are appealing the decision. The court also suspended any sale of the house until the dispute is resolved and required a timetable for the full hearing. The receivers, appointed in 2017, seek vacant possession as the property is subject to a mortgage secured by loans from AIB, now owed at €3 million. The defendants, who claim the receivers were not properly appointed, intend to appeal to the Court of Appeal. All keys and alarm codes must be handed over by the deadline.
In a High Court ruling on 20 February 2020, Everyday Finance DAC and its receivers, Stephen Tennant and Nicholas O'Dwyer, were granted an injunction allowing them to take possession of a property at Avoca Park, Blackrock, Co Dublin. The injunction applies pending a full hearing of the action. The receivers sought vacant possession, claiming the property is subject to a mortgage secured by loans from AIB, now owed by the defendants. The defendants, Mr Paul White and his wife Ms Jane Gleeson, opposed the application, arguing the receivers' appointment was invalid and that Ms Gleeson had no debt and was entitled to rent benefits. The court found the plaintiffs' case strong and ordered the receivers to take possession, noting the property is occupied by about 15 people and that the defendants have not cooperated. The judge placed a stay on any sale of the house and adjourned the matter for a week before final orders are made.
In a High Court case involving a dispute over shares in the Galway Clinic, a judge directed US‑based businessman and medical doctor Joseph Sheehan Senior to provide a sworn statement detailing the alleged sale of Blackrock Medical Partners Ltd (BMPL). The order was part of injunction proceedings brought by Marpole Ltd, BMD Investments Ltd and Parma Investments, who had secured a temporary injunction freezing BMPL's assets after the company allegedly owed them over €800,000 in legal fees. The three firms feared that funds received by BMPL from the sale of shares in the clinic might be dissipated. The judge, Ms Justice Teresa Pilkington, agreed to continue the freezing order, which prevents BMPL from transferring, dissipating or reducing its assets, and ordered Sheehan to swear an affidavit outlining the sale and the company's assets. The court also ordered BMPL to pay €800,000 on account, to be held until the legal fees are finalized.
Three companies – Marpole Ltd, BMD Investments Ltd and Parma Investments – secured a temporary High Court injunction to freeze the assets of Blackrock Medical Partners Ltd (BMPL), a company controlled by US‑based doctor and businessman Joseph Sheehan Senior. The injunction was sought because BMPL allegedly owes the three firms over €800,000 in legal fees after a failed High Court action. BMPL had recently received several million euros from the sale of shares it held in Marpole Ltd to Parma, and the plaintiffs fear that these funds could be dissipated. The court, hearing the case ex‑parte, granted the freezing order, preventing BMPL from transferring, dissipating or reducing its assets, particularly the proceeds of the share sale, below €800,000. The order is returnable to a date next week. The injunction follows a prior judgment where BMPL's action to stop BMD from transferring its shares to Parma was dismissed and the three firms were awarded legal costs.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Joey McKeon, aged 25, pleaded guilty to trespass and attempted theft after being tackled to the ground by homeowner Emmanuel Reynaud, who has two black belts in Judo and Jujitsu. McKeon, who had been standing outside Reynaud's house when dragged in, claimed he was only outside when the incident occurred. Reynaud, a trained martial artist, responded automatically to noises downstairs, placed McKeon against a wall, and pinned him on the ground. McKeon threatened to press charges and told Reynaud he should be deported back to Poland. Reynaud's wife reported fearing a return of the burglar and that their four‑year‑old daughter was still affected. Judge Melanie Greally imposed a three‑year prison sentence on McKeon, noting his drug addiction, mental health concerns, and the traumatic impact on the children. The court heard that McKeon insulted Reynaud for 15 minutes and that Reynaud never applied any dangerous holds.
In a 2016 robbery at Woodbine Park Post Office, Glen Kavanagh (44) held a loaded Makarov pistol to a customer's head, fired eight shots, and attempted to escape. An ESB repairman tackled him, kicking the raider's ankle and causing the gun to fly, striking an ESB colleague on the head. The incident, described as an "aggressive struggle," resulted in €455 stolen and the recovery of the pistol and cartridges. Kavanagh pleaded guilty to robbery and unlawful possession of a firearm. Judge Melanie Greally sentenced him to 12 years' imprisonment, with the final two years suspended, and ordered concurrent service with a ten‑year firearms sentence, both backdated to 1 January 2018. The sentence includes strict conditions and 18 months of probation post‑release. Kavanagh's drug‑related history and lack of memory of the raid were noted by the court. The case was heard in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on 11 October 2019. Glen Kavanagh was convicted.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Tomas Kennedy, 43, received a fully suspended one‑year prison sentence for careless driving that caused the death of 91‑year‑old Beatrice Ryan on 25 March 2017. Kennedy was not speeding or intoxicated; his mobile phone and blood tests showed no distraction or alcohol. Witnesses heard a thud and saw Ryan on the bonnet before the car stopped, but did not see the impact. Ryan suffered an unrecoverable brain injury, remained unconscious, and died three days later. Kennedy, who has no prior convictions, pleaded guilty and expressed remorse. The judge noted his attempts to recover memory failed and that he had been admitted to a psychiatric hospital three months after the collision. The sentence was suspended, with a maximum penalty of two years. The court heard a victim impact statement from Ryan's nephew, Eugene Downes, describing her legacy as a teacher and activist. The judge extended condolences to the family.
Winnifred Lawrence, 69, of Moorefield Grove, Clondalkin, admitted to forging a personal injury claim to RSA insurance, pretending to be Ellen Stokes, to cover funeral costs for herself and her husband. She had no prior convictions. Lawrence had previously filed a bogus claim in February 2018, which was struck out. The insurance company suffered a loss of €14,143.37, including legal costs. Lawrence's motivation was her and her husband's ill health and lack of funds; she had two children who died as infants and her husband had a brain haemorrhage. She was sentenced by Judge Pauline Codd to three years' imprisonment, suspended in full, after pleading guilty in the District Court. The judge noted Lawrence's cooperation, remorse, and personal circumstances, and highlighted the offence's impact on insurance costs.
Glen Kavanagh, 43, was sentenced to ten years imprisonment for the 2016 raid on Woodbine Park Post Office, Blackrock, where he fired eight shots from a semi‑automatic Makarov pistol. He held a customer's head to the gun, leapt over the counter, and was tackled by an ESB repairman who forced the gun out of his hand, injuring a colleague. Kavanagh pleaded guilty to robbery and unlawful possession of a firearm. The judge, citing his guilty plea, cooperation with investigators, drug‑related background, and rehabilitation efforts, imposed a ten‑year term back‑dated to January 2018. He was also found guilty of robbery, for which sentencing was adjourned to July 31 pending a probation report. The raid resulted in €455 stolen, the gun recovered, and Kavanagh's DNA found on a bag and a bloodstain outside the post office. The case highlighted his long‑standing drug problems and 46 prior convictions.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, defence counsel Dominic McGinn SC argued that it was "inconceivable" that Gardaí would have missed an assault rifle and ammunition during a search of a Kildare house on 24 January 2017. He cited the fact that a landlord's nephew later found a rifle, ammunition and drugs in the base of a bed, four days after the Gardaí search. Michael Brady (54) is charged with possession of €1.5 million worth of cocaine, €1.26 million worth of heroin and over 180 rounds of ammunition at a property in Sallins, Co Kildare. He pleaded not guilty to all seven counts. The court found him not guilty of possessing an assault rifle and the State withdrew a charge of three ammunition magazines. Brady's brother, Declan Brady (52), pleaded guilty to possession of 15 firearms and over 4,000 rounds of ammunition at Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, Co Dublin. Michael Brady was acquitted.
In the Special Criminal Court, Michael Brady, 54, of Blackrock, Co Dublin, was directed to be found not guilty of possessing an assault rifle by Mr Justice Paul Coffey. The judge ruled there was no evidence beyond reasonable doubt linking Brady to the rifle, which was found concealed in a bed base at Sallins Bridge, Co Kildare, on January 24, 2017. Although DNA from skin cells matching Brady was found on socks containing ammunition, an expert noted this did not exclude the possibility that another person placed the rounds in socks Brady had worn. The judge further stated there was no evidence establishing when Brady accessed the bed or when the rifle was placed there. The State also withdrew a separate charge regarding the possession of three ammunition magazines. Brady had pleaded not guilty to all nine counts on his indictment, which included allegations of possessing €1.5 million worth of cocaine and €1.26 million worth of heroin. Separately, his brother, Declan Brady, 52, pleaded guilty last month to possessing 15 firearms and more than 4,000 rounds of ammunition at Greenogue Business Park, Rathcoole, Co Dublin, on the same date. Declan Brady is currently awaiting sentence. The trial for Michael Brady continues on Monday.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 20 March 2019, the landlord of a house at Sallins Bridge, Sallins, Co Kildare, testified that his nephew discovered an assault rifle, more than 180 rounds of ammunition, and large amounts of cocaine and heroin in the base of a bed while "clearing out" the property. The landlord, who entered a tenancy agreement with Declan Brady in February 2015, said he had no key to the house and had gained access through a neighbour. He described how the nephew found a cardboard box containing the rifle, magazines, and drug packets wrapped in brown tape. The landlord also reported that Gardaí had searched the premises on 28 January 2017. Michael Brady, 54, is charged with nine counts of possession of firearms, ammunition and drugs, and has pleaded not guilty. The court heard evidence to determine the lawfulness of the Gardaí search. The judge will rule tomorrow.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the ongoing trial of Michael Brady, 54, who has pleaded not guilty to all nine counts on the indictment. He is charged with possessing €1.5 million worth of cocaine, €1.26 million worth of heroin, an assault rifle, and more than 180 rounds of ammunition at a property in Sallins, Co Kildare, on January 24, 2017. Prosecution counsel stated that forensic evidence links the accused to the items and the address. During interviews, Brady told gardai that he and his brother, Declan Brady, lived separate lives and were like "chalk and cheese." Brady denied possessing the ammunition found in the house and stated he did not know about firearms found at a separate location. His brother, Declan Brady, 52, previously pleaded guilty to possessing 15 firearms and more than 4,000 rounds of ammunition at the same address on the day in question. Declan Brady is currently awaiting sentence. The court heard that gardai conducted a search of the property, finding drugs and a firearm under a bed. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul Coffey, sitting with Judge Gerard Griffin and Judge David McHugh.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence regarding a search at Sallins Bridge, Sallins, Co Kildare, on January 24, 2017. Michael Brady, 54, of Blackrock, Co Dublin, pleaded not guilty to nine counts, including alleged possession of €1.5 million worth of cocaine, €1.26 million worth of heroin, an assault rifle, and ammunition. Prosecution counsel Fiona Murphy SC alleged that gardaí failed to find these items during the initial search, which she described as a "very fast-moving operation." She stated that the property owner later discovered drugs and a firearm under a bed. The State's case is that forensic evidence links Mr Brady to the items. Earlier, the court ruled that Mr Brady's arrest and detention were lawful. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul Coffey, sitting with Judges Gerard Griffin and David McHugh. Separately, Declan Brady, 52, of Celbridge, Co Kildare, pleaded guilty to possessing 15 firearms and over 4,000 rounds of ammunition at Greenogue Business Park on the same day. He is awaiting sentence. Jonathan Harding and James Walsh were previously sentenced to ten and nine years' imprisonment, respectively, for possessing a "lethal arsenal" of weapons at the same location.
The Special Criminal Court has heard that Michael Brady, 54, is the brother of Declan Brady, who was previously caught with 15 firearms and over 4,000 rounds of ammunition. Michael Brady, of Blackrock, Co Dublin, is currently on trial for allegedly possessing €1.5 million worth of cocaine, €1.26 million worth of heroin, an assault rifle, and more than 180 rounds of ammunition at a property in Sallins, Co Kildare, on January 24, 2017. He has pleaded not guilty to all nine counts on the indictment, including charges under Section 15A of the Misuse of Drugs Act and unlawful possession of a 7.62 x 39mm VZ 58 assault rifle and various ammunition. Prosecutors stated the Sallins property was under surveillance as part of a wider operation targeting Greenogue Business Park, where Declan Brady, Jonathan Harding, and James Walsh were arrested earlier that morning. Declan Brady pleaded guilty to possessing the firearms and ammunition at Greenogue and is awaiting sentence. Harding and Walsh were sentenced in January to ten and nine years' imprisonment, respectively, for possessing a "lethal arsenal." The trial has entered legal argument regarding the lawfulness of Michael Brady's arrest in Naas, where he allegedly provided a false name. The court is expected to rule on these issues on Friday before resuming the case.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing in Dublin, Michael Brady, aged 54, was charged with nine counts including possession of an assault rifle, ammunition and nearly €3 million worth of drugs. The indictment alleges that on 24 January 2017 Brady was found at Sallins Bridge, Co Kildare, with €1.5 million of cocaine, €1.26 million of heroin, a 7.62 × 39 mm VZ 58 assault rifle and over 180 rounds of ammunition. Brady was arrested after a traffic stop in Naas where he gave a false name, and was later rearrested under the Offences Against the State Act. He pleaded not guilty to all charges, including possession of the rifle, ammunition and the drugs for sale or supply. The case is being heard by Judges Paul Coffey, Gerard Griffin and David McHugh.
The High Court adjudicated Michael McKevitt, Colm Michael Murphy, and Liam Campbell bankrupt following a civil action related to the 1998 Omagh bombing. Ms Justice Teresa Pilkington issued the orders after finding that the criteria under the 1986 Bankruptcy Act were met. The applications were brought by solicitor Gary Daly, acting for relatives of the 29 victims killed in the Real IRA attack. In 2009, the Belfast High Court found these men, along with Seamus Daly, liable for the bombing and ordered them to pay £1.6m in damages, a decision upheld by the European Court of Human Rights. All defendants have consistently denied involvement. The court heard that demands for approximately €439,000 from each man went unpaid. McKevitt, who is terminally ill, was represented by counsel noting his lack of assets and reliance on the State pension. Murphy's counsel stated he lacked firm instructions regarding the application. Campbell, who sought legal aid, did not appear. Counsel for the applicants argued against further adjournments, noting previous correspondence and service of documents. The judge determined that no further adjournments were appropriate and satisfied the statutory requirements for bankruptcy, resulting in the adjudication of all three individuals.
The High Court heard on Thursday that the 39-room Shannon Key West Hotel at Rooskey, on the Leitrim-Roscommon border, is set to accommodate asylum seekers from early January. The hotel is the subject of disputed proceedings between Paradub Ltd, which seeks to develop the property as a tourist hotel, and owner James Kiernan. Paradub claims it entered into an agreement to purchase the hotel, which closed in 2011, and alleges Mr Kiernan has failed to complete the sale. The company launched proceedings after learning from media reports that arrangements had been made to house refugees at the property, which it contends breaches the purchase agreement. Paradub seeks an injunction to prevent Mr Kiernan from leasing or disposing of the property to any third party. Mr Kiernan denies the claims. His counsel stated that a third party had entered into an arrangement with the Department of Justice to use the hotel for asylum seeker accommodation from 7 January.
Shane Murphy, 31, of Cork, pleaded guilty to two thefts and dangerous driving that caused serious harm to a six‑month‑old baby on Blackrock Road in March 2017. The baby's skull was fractured after the mother was knocked to the ground and the buggy was swept against a wall. Murphy, the driver, fled the scene after retrieving stolen items and had previously stolen from two retail stores. He was sentenced to six years' imprisonment with the final year suspended, a sentence upheld by the Court of Appeal. The judge noted Murphy's 104 prior convictions, including two hit‑and‑run offences, his intoxication, disqualification, and the aggravating circumstances. The appeal was dismissed, confirming the original sentence. The baby continued treatment at the time of sentencing.
Paradub Limited has launched High Court proceedings against James Kiernan, seeking to prevent the Shannon Key West Hotel in Rooskey, Co Leitrim, from being used to house refugees. The company alleges it holds a 2016 option agreement to purchase the 39-room property from Mr Kiernan for nearly €600,000, which it claims he failed to complete. Paradub asserts that recent plans to lease the hotel for refugee accommodation breach this agreement and frustrate the sale. The applicant seeks an injunction restraining the defendant from leasing, transferring, or disposing of the property to any third party, as well as an order halting works at the site pending the court's determination. In a sworn statement, Paradub director Ashton Doherty stated that despite Mr Kiernan's March assurance to local radio that he intended to sell the property, the company recently learned the refugee housing plan had been resurrected. The matter was heard before Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds, who granted Paradub permission on an ex-parte basis to serve short notice of the proceedings on the defendant. The case was adjourned and made returnable to Tuesday's sitting of the court. Richard Kean SC, instructed by solicitor Georgina Robinson, represented the applicant, emphasizing the need to compel specific performance of the sale agreement.
A dispute over a commercial property at 13‑15 Rockhill, Main Street Blackrock, Co. Dublin, has been admitted to the fast‑track Commercial Court list. Cheldon Property Finance Designated Activity Company and receiver Ken Tyrell seek to sell the premises, which is owned by Ms Deryn Mackay. The fund, represented by Rossa Fanning SC, alleges that Ms Mackay owes €2.5 million for loans advanced by PTSB between 2003 and 2007, which Cheldon acquired in 2015. The property was used as security for those loans. Ms Mackay claims that, after discussions with her advisor and Pepper Asset Finance DAC, she has a binding agreement that Cheldon must accept €800,000 to settle her debts and remove the mortgage. Cheldon denies any binding agreement and wants to sell the property to reduce her indebtedness.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Mark Byrne, a 39‑year‑old homeless man, received a 12‑month suspended sentence for possessing a realistic imitation firearm. Byrne, who lived at a homeless unit on Newtown Avenue, Blackrock, admitted to buying an air pistol and about 1,000 6mm plastic pellets from a toy shop on Talbot Street for €10. He claimed he had no real life and that the gun was meant for shooting at the back of street cars. The court noted Byrne was under the influence and giggling while waving the pistol out of a DART carriage, frightening an American passenger. Witnesses described the incident as frightening but harmless, and Garda Siobhán Frisby confirmed Byrne's actions were not intended to harm anyone. Judge Karen O'Connor accepted Byrne's remorse, citing his extensive history of public order offences and addiction issues, and warned of serious consequences if he breached bail conditions. The unnamed man pleaded guilty.
In a High Court decision on 14 June 2018, Mr Justice Donald Binchy dismissed AIB's application for summary judgment of over €2.6 million against Kevin and Gillian O'Brien of Blackrock, Dublin. The judge found that the couple had raised an arguable defence, so the matter must proceed to a full hearing. AIB claimed it had advanced money to the O'Briens, which the court said was used for a €2.5 million property purchase adjacent to their former home. The bank alleged the couple breached loan terms in 2010, though some payments had been made. The O'Briens argued the 2006 and 2008 advances were not drawn in 2010, rendering the 2010 loan agreements void due to lack of consideration. They also claimed AIB failed to honour an oral agreement for additional funds and did not comply with mortgage arrears conduct code.
The Court of Appeal has dismissed the appeal against the conviction of Sean Carraher for harassing Sgt Conor Gilmartin. Carraher, who pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, was convicted by a jury of harassing the sergeant between March 2009 and May 2011. The allegations included making ten to twelve abusive telephone calls and publishing 58 internet postings on three websites, which contained claims that the officer was corrupt and unfaithful. Carraher had been sentenced to five years' imprisonment by Judge Patrick McCartan, who stated the tariff was intended to deter others from spreading grossly defamatory information. In his appeal, Carraher's counsel argued that the prosecution breached its duty to disclose his own telephone records, which were not put before the jury. However, Mr Justice Alan Mahon, sitting with Mr Justice George Birmingham and Mr Justice John Hedigan, ruled that the prosecution was not in breach of its disclosure duties. The court found that the records were available to Carraher, their absence did not prejudice his defence, and the trial remained fair. The judges noted that while the phone calls were heard by limited personnel, the internet postings were public. Consequently, the appeal was dismissed, upholding the original conviction and sentence.
In a dispute over the management of a Galway private medical clinic, Blackrock Medical Partners (BMP) Ltd, controlled by Dr Joseph Sheehan, has brought proceedings against Marpole Ltd, the beneficial owner of Galway Clinic Doughiska, and its majority shareholder Parma Investments Ltd, an entity linked to businessman Larry Goodman. BMP, which holds 25% of Marpole, alleges that Parma has orchestrated oppressive and abusive behaviour towards BMP. The company seeks a declaration that Marpole's affairs and directors' powers are being exercised oppressively, and requests orders for Parma to either buy BMP's shares in Marpole or sell its shareholding to BMP. BMP also seeks consolidation of this action with two other related cases to save court time. The case was admitted to the fast‑track commercial court list by Mr Justice Brian McGovern, who encouraged mediation, and Dr Sheehan expressed willingness to engage further in mediation. The matter is scheduled to return to court later this month.