During the Charleton Tribunal, former Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan was heard to have told Fine Gael TD John Deasy that Sergeant Maurice McCabe was not to be believed or trusted. Deasy recalled that Callinan made these remarks before the former commissioner's appearance before the Public Accounts Committee in January 2014, and that he had spoken to Taoiseach Enda Kenny about McCabe's treatment. Deasy described McCabe as an honest officer who was simply doing his job. The tribunal also heard that Callinan had communicated with the Secretary General of Justice, Brian Purcell, via text messages about a meeting with TD John McGuinness in a Dublin hotel car park. McGuinness testified that Callinan had advised him not to trust McCabe and that McCabe was under investigation for child sex‑abuse allegations. The tribunal continued its hearing the following day.
A dispute between a financial fund and a court-appointed receiver against the owners of residential properties across multiple counties has been admitted to the fast-track Commercial Court list at the High Court. Seaconview DAC and receiver Anne O'Dwyer have brought proceedings against Chevas Securities Ltd and James and Conor Fagan concerning 28 apartments at Royston Village, Kimmage, and additional properties in Sligo, Dundalk and Galway. Ms O'Dwyer, appointed receiver in December, seeks injunctions to prevent the defendants from interfering with the receivership or accessing the properties. The fund claims it is owed €9.2 million in respect of loans originally advanced by Ulster Bank between 2002 and 2007, which the fund acquired in 2015. Ms O'Dwyer claims she has been obstructed in collecting rental income from the properties. Mr Justice Brian McGovern approved admission to the fast-track list. The defendants' solicitor opposed the application, indicating ongoing negotiations. The matter is scheduled to return to court later in April.
In a High Court hearing on 15 March 2018, Gerald and Olivia Dorian of Ivy Cottage, Rock Road, Blackrock, Dundalk, Co. Louth, sought an interim injunction against their neighbour Ruth Black. The dispute concerns a small plot of land outside the front wall of Ivy Cottage that contains mature flower beds. The Dorians claim the beds are part of their property, which has been in their family since 1903, and that Ruth Black, who bought an adjoining property in 2017, has no legal right to claim ownership. The Dorians allege that Black's solicitors asserted ownership and that Black has already arrived with machinery to carry out works that could remove the beds and ivy. On ex‑parte, Justice Caroline Costello granted the Dorians an injunction preventing Black from interfering with the beds, which measure 18 inches wide by 29 feet long. The Dorians also seek a declaration that the beds belong to them and form part of their property.
A trial date has been set for Joseph Hillen, a 23‑year‑old from Forkhill, County Armagh, who is charged with the murder of 53‑year‑old Martin Mulligan, a taxi driver from Dundalk. The killing took place at Carnmore, off the Armagh Road outside Dundalk, on 28 September 2015. Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy of the Central Criminal Court fixed the trial for 2 October, with the case expected to last two weeks.
A 25-year-old man charged with murder at the Central Criminal Court has testified that he did not intend to harm the deceased during an incident in Longford in November 2016. Rihards Lavickis of Annaly Court, Longford, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of a 31-year-old man at Townspark on 1 November 2016. He admitted stabbing the deceased but told the court he experienced a loss of control and a "blackout" at the time, only realizing later what had occurred. Mr Lavickis described escalating tensions with the deceased over several months, including a prior assault and property damage to his home. He stated he brought a knife to the deceased's residence intending only to confront him but that events spiralled when they encountered each other later. The prosecution suggested his account of losing control was a deliberate fabrication designed to support a manslaughter defence. Justice Una Ní Raifeartaigh adjourned proceedings to allow a juror to attend a family event. The trial resumes before the jury on Friday.
In 2015, a 63‑year‑old shop owner was found guilty of sexually assaulting a 13‑year‑old girl who had been sent to his shop by her mother to buy a household item. The jury convicted him on a single count and Judge Michael O'Shea imposed a wholly suspended three‑year sentence. The conviction was later successfully appealed on the basis that the trial judge's ruling on the timing of the CCTV footage was unfair. The Court of Appeal has now directed a retrial, following an application by the Director of Public Prosecutions. The unnamed 13-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A man from Castleblayney, County Monaghan has been sentenced to life imprisonment following his guilty plea to murder at the Central Criminal Court. Anthony Lambe (34) admitted killing a 43-year-old mother of three in her kitchen on Demesne Road, Dundalk on 6 April 2005. The victim's body was discovered by her mother that morning, bearing 34 stab wounds. The investigation lay dormant for years before a television appeal in 2012 prompted an anonymous call from a woman in Australia, who reported that Lambe had confessed to her. Lambe was arrested in January 2017 and subsequently told gardaí he had been paid to carry out the killing by an individual acting on behalf of another party. He was studying for a doctoral degree in history at the time of his arrest. Justice Patrick McCarthy imposed the mandatory life sentence following Lambe's guilty plea.
Sarah Doyle, a 24‑year‑old single mother from Killaley, Togher, Drogheda, was sentenced to four years' imprisonment for her role in the robbery of Clogherhead Post Office on 3 May 2016. The robbery involved three armed men who used a sledgehammer, a firearm and a taser to break into the post office and stole about €7,000. Doyle, who had no direct participation in the robbery or in threatening staff, helped the raiders by waiting in her car and driving them to safety. She received €1,000 from the proceeds. At sentencing, the judge suspended the final two years, but on appeal the Court of Appeal increased the suspended portion to two‑and‑a‑half years, keeping the overall term at four years. Doyle was required to enter a good‑behaviour bond for the suspended period. The appeal decision was based on the judge's failure to fully consider the detrimental effect of custody on the mother‑child relationship. Sarah Doyle pleaded guilty.
In 2015 a 62‑year‑old shop owner was found guilty of sexually assaulting a 13‑year‑old girl who had been sent to his shop by her mother. The jury convicted him on a single count and Judge Michael O'Shea imposed a wholly suspended three‑year sentence. The conviction was appealed on the basis that the trial judge's ruling on the use of CCTV footage had made the trial unfair. The footage was shown to the jury after the complainant's direct evidence and cross‑examination, and the kitchen area where the alleged offence was said to have taken place was not captured on camera. The appeal court, led by Mr Justice Michael Peart, agreed that the defendant had been denied the opportunity to cross‑examine the complainant with reference to the footage, and set aside the conviction, ordering a retrial to be considered at a later date. The case remains at the appeal stage. The unnamed 13-year-old pleaded not guilty.
In a 2017 trial, retired consultant surgeon Michael Shine, aged 85, was found guilty by a jury of indecent assault on two teenage male patients during the 1970s. The convictions concerned incidents between 1974 and 1976 at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital and Shine's private clinic in Drogheda. Shine admitted attending to the patients but denied any inappropriate conduct. Testimony from one victim described being restrained on a bed, having a blanket and rubber bungee straps applied, and the doctor's hand slipping under the blanket to massage his testicles. A second victim recounted that during follow‑up examinations for undescended testes, Shine massaged the base of his penis. The jury acquitted Shine of several other charges, including four counts of groping other teenage boys and one count of assault between 1988 and 1991. Judge Cormac Quinn remanded Shine on continuing bail until December 1 for sentencing.
The Charleton tribunal heard evidence on October 23rd regarding threats made against Garda Keith Harrison's life in October 2013. Chief Superintendent Terry McGinn of Donegal division outlined how two anonymous 999 calls on 4th and 5th October reported threats against Garda Harrison. The first call described an overheard conversation in a Strabane bar, and the second indicated the threat originated from a relation of Martin McDermott, who was imprisoned following a manslaughter conviction. McDermott was the brother of Garda Harrison's partner. The threats were assessed as substantial, leading to security measures and restrictions on Garda Harrison's movements. A mobile phone subsequently located in Portlaoise Prison resulted in McDermott's release date being postponed. The tribunal also examined contacts between gardaí and HSE/Tusla regarding Garda Harrison. Superintendent Eugene McGovern, stationed in Buncrana, confirmed attending meetings with Tusla management but stated that individual cases were not discussed at such forums. A referral concerning Garda Harrison's partner and her children resulted in no further action pending additional information.
The High Court heard that the Lithuanian authorities' "intention" to put Liam Campbell on trial for alleged terrorism offences and weapons trafficking to Ireland is sufficient to order his extradition. Campbell, 54, was arrested in Dundalk on a European Arrest Warrant issued by Lithuania. The warrant alleges he organised the preparation for smuggling weapons to support the Real IRA between late 2006 and early 2007, arranging illegal possession of firearms, ammunition, explosives and substances. Remy Farrell SC, representing Campbell, argued that the client would face a long pre‑trial detention and that a trial was uncertain. Counsel for the Minister for Justice, Patrick McGrath SC, insisted that the Lithuanian prosecutor's "intention" to charge and try Campbell was clear and not merely investigative. The case was adjourned to 5 December for further submissions, and Campbell remains remanded on continuing bail.
The High Court heard concerns over whether Liam Campbell would receive a fair trial if surrendered to Lithuania. Liam Campbell (54) was arrested in Upper Faughart, Dundalk, Co Louth, on December 2nd, 2016, under a European Arrest Warrant issued by Lithuanian authorities. The warrant alleges that Campbell organised the smuggling of weapons in support of the Real IRA (RIRA) between the end of 2006 and the beginning of 2007. Remy Farrell SC, representing Campbell, raised objections to his surrender, citing concerns over potential pre-trial detention, the possibility of a trial not occurring, and the fairness of a trial in Lithuania, particularly regarding translation issues. An affidavit by Liam Campbell's brother, Michael Campbell, was presented. In 2011, Michael Campbell was found guilty of aiding a terrorist group and possessing arms in a Lithuanian court and sentenced to 12 years in prison. However, in 2013, an appeals court overturned the conviction, and a retrial was ordered by Lithuania's Supreme Court in 2014. Michael Campbell claimed his right to a fair trial was breached due to not receiving an English translation of the book of evidence and being provided with incomplete translations. The court also heard that Michael Campbell was asked to sign documents he did not understand and had concerns about the independence of the translators. Remy Farrell also raised concerns about prison conditions in Lithuania, including sanitation, visitation rights, and overcrowding. Patrick McGrath SC, counsel for the Minister for Justice, stated that a central question was whether there was an intention to charge and try Liam Campbell at the time of the warrant's issuance. The hearing continues tomorrow in front of Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly.
In a High Court hearing, the Minister for Justice argued that there is no reason to refuse the surrender of Liam Campbell, a 54‑year‑old Irishman, to Lithuania where he faces charges of terrorism and weapons trafficking. Campbell was arrested in Dundalk on 2 December 2016 under a European Arrest Warrant issued by Lithuanian authorities. The warrant alleges that between late 2006 and early 2007 he organised the preparation for smuggling weapons to support the Real IRA, arranging for illegal possession of firearms, ammunition, explosives and related substances. If surrendered, Campbell could face a maximum sentence of twenty years' imprisonment. His barrister, Remy Farrell, opposed the surrender, arguing that pre‑trial detention would be significant and that a trial in Lithuania would raise concerns about fair trial rights, especially regarding translation. The hearing, expected to last three days, will resume tomorrow, with Campbell remanded on continuing bail.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Seamus McGrane, 63, of Dromiskin, County Louth, pleaded not guilty to charges of IRA membership from 18 January 2010 to 13 May 2015 and of directing the activities of an unlawful organization styled the Irish Republican Army between 19 April and 13 May 2015. McGrane denied being an IRA member and denied purchasing Shamrock glucose in that capacity. The court heard that he was interviewed under Section 2 of the Offences Against the State Act on 15 April 2015, and that he refused to answer questions about IRA membership. An audio recording of a conversation in a Dublin pub, bugged by detectives, was presented, in which McGrane spoke of using Shamrock glucose to manufacture explosives. Chief Superintendent Sean Ward provided belief evidence that McGrane was an IRA member during the relevant period.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Seamus McGrane, aged 63, was accused of directing IRA activities between 19 April and 13 May 2015. He allegedly told Donal O'Coisdealbha that an operation would target a site of "military" and "symbolic" significance, with reference to the State visit of Prince Charles on 19 May 2015. McGrane denied membership in the IRA from 18 January 2010 to 13 May 2015. A recorded conversation from 10 May 2015, captured by bugged microphones, described rocket building and testing, and mentioned a target 400 metres from the Cross of Sacrifice in Glasnevin cemetery. Garda searches on 13 May 2015 at McGrane's home and business uncovered bomb‑making components, including detonators, ammunition, a rocket, fireworks, a revolver, potash, syrup, mortar tubes, a garda uniform and a checkpoint sign. The case remains before Judges Kennedy, Ni Chulachain and Dunne. Seamus McGrane pleaded not guilty.
The Special Criminal Court has heard the opening of the trial of Seamus McGrane, 63, of Dromiskin, County Louth. Mr McGrane has pleaded not guilty to directing the activities of an unlawful organization, the IRA, between April 19 and May 13, 2015, and to membership of the IRA between January 18, 2010, and May 13, 2015. Prosecuting counsel Tara Burns SC stated that the case relies on audio recordings made at the Coachman's Inn in Dublin on April 19 and May 10, 2015. The prosecution alleges that McGrane directed Donal O'Coisdealbha to contact individuals for explosives supplies and discussed manufacturing rockets and mortars in the run-up to Prince Charles's state visit. The court will hear evidence that McGrane directed the operation to be "symbolic and of military significance" and "not to be an embarrassment." Evidence will also include a search of a house in Courttown, County Wexford, where explosive substances were found, and searches of McGrane's properties in Dundalk where similar items were allegedly discovered. McGrane was arrested on May 13, 2015. The trial is currently ongoing before Justice Isobel Kennedy, Judge Sinéad Ní Chúlacháin, and Judge Cormac Dunne, and resumes on Monday.
A Luth man has been sentenced to three years in prison following his conviction for membership of an unlawful organisation. Michael Connolly, aged 45, of Dundalk, was found guilty by the Special Criminal Court of membership of the IRA. The three-judge, non-jury court heard evidence that Connolly had travelled in convoy with another individual in the Ardee area on December 16th, 2014. The second man was subsequently stopped and found in possession of two improvised explosive devices. Telephone contact between the two men was also established. During sentencing, the presiding judge described the operation as "very well-planned" and noted the sophisticated nature of the devices recovered. The court considered Connolly's employment history and family circumstances as mitigating factors, whilst treating the apparent purpose behind his involvement as an aggravating consideration. Connolly had previously denied the charge.
A 44-year-old man from Dundalk in County Louth has been convicted of membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army by the Special Criminal Court. Michael Connolly, of Grange Drive, was found guilty following a trial before three judges. The court heard evidence that Connolly was observed driving in convoy with another man in the Ardee area on December 16th, 2014. Both vehicles travelled together to Mullingar, where the other man was found in possession of two improvised explosive devices. The judges accepted belief evidence from a Garda assistant commissioner regarding Connolly's membership and found he was a willing and knowing participant in the enterprise. The court drew inferences from Connolly's silence when questioned on specific matters, finding this corroborated other evidence. Connolly had pleaded not guilty to the charge. He was remanded in custody pending sentencing on July 10th.
A 44-year-old man from County Louth has pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation, a charge he denies relates to the Irish Republican Army. Michael Connolly of Dundalk faced trial at the Special Criminal Court, where the prosecution alleged he was observed driving in convoy with another man who was later found in possession of improvised explosive devices. The prosecution's case relied significantly on evidence from a Garda Assistant Commissioner regarding his belief in Mr Connolly's membership status, along with interviews conducted under statutory powers. The defence argued that this evidence lacked independent corroboration and fell short of legal requirements, contending the case should fail. The three-judge court rejected an earlier defence application for a directed acquittal. Judgment is scheduled for delivery on 1 June 2017.
A 44-year-old man from Dundalk, County Louth, will have the Special Criminal Court determine tomorrow whether his trial for alleged IRA membership can proceed. Michael Connolly has pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation on 16 December 2014. The prosecution alleges he was observed by gardaí driving in convoy along the N52 with another man who was later found with two improvised explosive devices. The defence applied today for a direction that the evidence was insufficient, arguing there were defects in the assistant commissioner's opinion underpinning the case and that Mr Connolly's presence at commemorations and demonstrations, or his association with previously convicted individuals, did not necessarily indicate IRA membership. The defence also contended there was no evidence Mr Connolly possessed or knew of the explosive devices. The three-judge court noted the application raised matters of sufficient substance and indicated closing speeches would be heard tomorrow.
At the Special Criminal Court, a Detective Garda Unit officer gave evidence regarding the arrest of a man accused of IRA membership. Detective Garda Paul Cornish denied that any attempt had been made to extract the accused, Michael Connolly (44), from a vehicle through its window during an operation in Convoy, County Donegal. The detective clarified that the term "extracted" in his statement referred simply to opening the car door. Mr Connolly, of Dundalk, County Louth, has pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army on 16 December 2014. The prosecution alleges Mr Connolly was observed by gardaí driving in convoy with another man later found in possession of improvised explosive devices. Detective Garda Cornish told the court he had been briefed about suspected IRA activities involving the movement of firearms and explosives. The non-jury trial before Mr Justice Tony Hunt, Judge John O'Hagan, and Judge Flann Brennan continues.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, 32‑year‑old Lithuanian Andrius Gnizinskas pleaded guilty to cultivating cannabis at a grow house on St Patrick's Road, Drumcondra. The court found he had been "somewhat coerced" into coming to Ireland after being trafficked to the UK, and that he had no role in setting up the operation or profiting from it. The grow house contained 180 mature plants valued at €144,000 and sophisticated equipment. Gnizinskas was the only person present when Gardaí searched the property. Judge Karen O'Connor accepted his plea as saving state resources, noted his vulnerability, and imposed a three‑year sentence with the final two years suspended. The court highlighted that he had been a very low‑level participant, a gardener, and had cooperated with the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Lorcan Staines BL.
Charles Hutchinson, aged 34, was convicted of unlawfully killing Lawrence 'Michael' McGeown, aged 60, after striking him with a single punch to the side of the head on 28 February 2014. The death occurred three days later. Hutchinson was found guilty by a jury at Dundalk Circuit Criminal Court and originally sentenced to seven years' imprisonment, with the final year suspended. On appeal, the Court of Appeal held that the inclusion of Hutchinson's 2010 section 3 assault conviction had improperly increased the headline sentence. The appeal judge re‑sentenced him to five years' imprisonment, again with the final year suspended. Hutchinson's prior convictions included assault, public order offences, criminal damage, dangerous driving, unauthorised taking and interference, and he had a history of alcohol addiction and poor employment. The appeal judge noted that the single punch was not of particular force and that the deceased had health issues, but that there was no provocation or justification for the assault. Charles Hutchinson pleaded not guilty.
The Special Criminal Court has heard evidence that two "very well-made" and "viable" improvised explosive devices were discovered in a vehicle stopped by gardai on the N52 in County Meath. Michael Connolly, aged 44 and from Grange Drive in Dundalk, County Louth, has pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself Oglaigh na hEireann, otherwise the IRA, on 16 December 2014. The prosecution alleges Mr Connolly was observed driving in convoy with a man who was later found with the two devices. A retired army captain and a detective garda gave expert testimony describing the IEDs as cylindrical plastic containers powered by nine-volt batteries, each containing a timing unit programmed for approximately eight hours and pyrotechnic material. Both devices were confirmed as completed and viable. The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding with Judge John O'Hagan and Judge Flann Brennan.
Gardaí forcibly removed a man from his vehicle during a roadside stop on the N52 in County Meath in December 2014, the Special Criminal Court heard. Michael Connolly, aged 44, of Dundalk, County Louth, has pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army. The prosecution alleges that Connolly was observed driving in convoy with another vehicle. Detective Sergeant Daniel O'Driscoll told the court that gardaí became suspicious the cars may carry firearms or explosives and moved to stop them at Mitchelstown Cross. When Connolly did not comply with orders to turn off his ignition, another detective broke the car window and removed him forcibly. A brown paper bag recovered from the second vehicle contained two items wrapped in bubblewrap and black tape, which Detective Sergeant Padraig Boyce described as resembling improvised explosive devices. The court also examined CCTV footage from a petrol station on the N52. The trial, before Mr Justice Tony Hunt and two other judges, continues.
A trial at the Special Criminal Court has heard surveillance evidence relating to the movements of two vehicles through counties Westmeath and Louth on 16 December 2014. Michael Connolly, aged 44 and of Grange Drive in Dundalk, County Louth, has pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army. The prosecution alleges that officers from the National Surveillance Unit observed Mr Connolly driving in convoy with another man, who was subsequently found in possession of two improvised explosive devices. During proceedings before Mr Justice Tony Hunt and two other judges, several NSU officers provided evidence regarding the movements of a blue Fiat Punto and a black Vauxhall Vectra. Witnesses described observations of the vehicles parting and reuniting at locations in Mullingar and Delvin. The trial continues before the court.
Michael Connolly, aged 44 and resident of Grange Drive in Dundalk, County Louth, has pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army on 16 December 2014. The Special Criminal Court heard opening arguments from the prosecution that Mr Connolly was observed driving in convoy with another man, Brian Fitzpatrick, following observations by members of the National Surveillance Unit. The court was told the men left the same house together in separate vehicles in the Ardee area before travelling in convoy towards Mullingar. It was further stated that two improvised explosive devices were discovered in Fitzpatrick's vehicle when both cars were stopped on the N52. The prosecution case will rely on evidence from Garda Assistant Commissioner Michael O'Sullivan regarding his belief of Mr Connolly's membership, along with garda interviews conducted under the Offences Against the State Act. The trial, before Mr Justice Tony Hunt presiding with Judge John O'Hagan and Judge Flann Brennan, continues before the three-judge, non-jury court.
Daniel Kavanagh, 26, of Owensilla, Ballymun, pleaded guilty to possession of a double‑barrelled sawn‑off shotgun and robbery of the Mace Store in Clogherhead, Co. Louth, on 20 April 2015. He had originally been sentenced to four years' imprisonment, with the final two years suspended, on 21 July 2016. Prosecutors appealed, arguing the sentence was "unduly lenient". The Court of Appeal reviewed the case and imposed a five‑year jail term for each of the two counts, to run concurrently. The judge noted Kavanagh's prior 15 convictions, including firearms offences, and the serious nature of the robbery. The new sentence reflects the Court's view that the original penalty was too light given the circumstances and Kavanagh's history. The decision was made by Mr Justice Alan Mahon, sitting with Mr Justice John Edwards and Mr Justice John Hedigan. The revised term is five years for each count, concurrent, with the final two years suspended.
Ciaran Nally, 32, of Ninch, Laytown, was convicted at Dundalk Circuit Criminal Court in April 2015 for possession of cocaine for sale or supply at the Monasterboice Inn car park. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six years' imprisonment, with the final three years suspended, by Judge Michael O'Shea on 29 January 2016. Nally was one of four co‑accused in a drug handover that involved moving two packs of cocaine from one car to another. Surveillance had targeted the residences of two co‑accused, and a vehicle was later stopped on the motorway where €139,000 worth of cocaine was seized. Nally's home was searched with no evidence found. He admitted the packs likely contained cannabis and that he received no financial benefit. The Court of Appeal dismissed his appeal, ruling the sentence fair and reasonable. The judge noted Nally's role as a conduit in the drug supply chain and his prior cannabis addiction.
In a 2017 appeal court hearing, Judge Alan Mahon upheld a three‑year jail sentence for Oliver Kennaway, who had pleaded guilty to robbing a filling station in Dundalk on 27 July 2013 with a knife. Kennaway, aged 37, entered the station wearing a hoodie and a large knife, demanded money from the till, and fled with €500, pursued by an employee. The judge noted Kennaway's difficult personal background, 15 prior convictions, and a seven‑year period of being conviction‑free before this offence. He described the robbery as "frightening and intimidating" and linked it to Kennaway's chronic drug addiction. Judge Mahon concluded that, given the growing public concern over knife crime, the net custodial sentence of three years was not unduly harsh and could be described as lenient. The appeal was dismissed.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Vesel Jahiri was found guilty by a unanimous jury of murdering his former partner Anna Finnegan, aged 25, and of assaulting her brother Karl Finnegan. The trial, lasting eight weeks, included testimony that Jahiri had threatened Finnegan on a phone call and that he stabbed her in her own home on 21 September 2012. Witnesses described a violent confrontation in which Jahiri forced the door, stabbed Finnegan and Karl, and fled in his car. Jahiri represented himself, was removed from court multiple times, and was escorted by riot police when the verdicts were announced. The judge set a sentencing date for 8 May, remanded Jahiri in custody, and thanked the jury for their service. The case concluded with the jury's decision and the court's adjournment for sentencing. Anna Finnegan pleaded not guilty. Vesel Jahiri pleaded not guilty.
In the Central Criminal Court, Vesel Jahiri, 35, accused of murdering his former partner Anna Finnegan, 25, and assaulting her brother Karl, pleaded not guilty and is now representing himself. On September 7, 2012, Jahiri and his two children stayed with witness Helga Duffy in Dundalk while Finnegan was hospitalized after an overdose. On the night of the alleged murder, Jahiri appeared at Duffy's home, telling her that "something bad had happened" and that Finnegan's brother had attacked him with a chair and a knife. Duffy reported that Jahiri had taken Finnegan to the hospital and wanted to take her brother but was refused. She also said Jahiri had not explained how he entered Finnegan's house. During cross‑examination, Jahiri questioned Duffy about alleged Garda discussions and claimed he had forced Finnegan to a refuge centre. He denied any argument with Finnegan except over cars.
The trial of Anthony Roddy, 64, and Raymond Fee, 34, for stealing €250,000 from Kevin Brady collapsed after the defence counsel fell ill. Roddy and Fee had pleaded not guilty to theft and to dishonestly inducing Brady to provide a €100,000 bank draft for a supposed investment. The jury was discharged when the counsel was admitted to hospital, and Judge Karen O'Connor adjourned the case. The defendants will be tried again on 9 April 2018.
At a High Court hearing in Dublin on 27 February 2017, Justice Aileen Donnelly said it was "totally inappropriate" that a letter had been sent to her office on behalf of Liam Campbell, a 54‑year‑old Irishman facing terror charges in Lithuania. The letter, which she believed was written by Campbell, was not read beyond the first paragraph because it could have influenced the judge's decision on his extradition application. Campbell, who was arrested on 2 December 2016 under a European Arrest Warrant issued by Lithuanian authorities, had been granted bail and was remanded on continuing bail until 20 March. The warrant alleged that between late 2006 and early 2007 he had organised smuggling for the "terrorist grouping" the RIRA, arranging illegal possession of firearms, ammunition, explosives and substances. The High Court had endorsed the warrant in November 2016, and Campbell's counsel, Brian Gageby, said he had not seen the letter.
Two Louth businessmen, Anthony Roddy (64) and Raymond Fee (34), are on trial for allegedly stealing €250,000 from Kevin Brady between September 2006 and August 2007. They claimed Brady would invest in a €35 million land deal, promising a deposit of €1 million to buy land north of Drogheda. Brady provided a €250,000 bank draft, and later a €100,000 draft for a supposed share portfolio. He sought refunds, receiving €15,000 twice and €47,000, but was told the deal would finish by Christmas 2008 or take two years. Brady visited solicitors, then received a call about selling a farm for €250,000. In May 2009 he reported the matter to the gardai, prompting the investigation and charges. The trial, before Judge Karen O'Connor and a jury, continues next week. Anthony Roddy pleaded not guilty. Raymond Fee pleaded not guilty.
Sean Keenan, aged 26, attacked Anthony Kelly, 79, after Kelly had just exited his car to go home. Keenan struck Kelly from behind, demanding the car keys, and then drove the Mercedes Benz over Kelly, nearly reversing the vehicle onto the garden wall. While Kelly was on a stick after a recent stroke, Keenan also assaulted Joseph Cooke, aged in his 70s, who had come to help. Cooke was struck several times in the head and body with what was believed to be the butt of a sawn‑off shotgun; he later received treatment for a head wound. Keenan fled, driving the wrong way down Malahide Road before abandoning the car in Ballymun after a crash. He was sentenced to five‑and‑a‑half years, with the final two years suspended, for robbery of car keys, hijacking, assault, and other offences. The hijacked vehicle, valued at about €25,000, was later written off by insurance. Sean Keenan pleaded guilty.
Philip McKevitt, 62, of Aghaboys, Mount Pleasant, Dundalk, was sentenced by the Special Criminal Court to eight and a half years' imprisonment for the possession of explosive substances. The court found that a bomb, fully loaded, would have weighed 500 lb. McKevitt had previously been convicted in 2012 for the same offence, but the verdict was overturned on appeal and a retrial was ordered. The case began in May 2010 when Gardaí received information about IRA activity in Louth and conducted a surveillance operation outside McKevitt's house. On 22 May 2010, Gardaí entered his shed and seized two adapted gas cylinders, fifty‑two 500‑g bags of glucose, a 377‑metre roll of wire, and a command wire. DNA matching McKevitt was found on a cylinder handle, though he denied knowledge of the items. The sentence was back‑dated to 22 March 2011. Conan Murphy, 29, was also convicted and jailed for six years. Philip McKevitt pleaded guilty.
An ex‑soldier, aged 42, was convicted by a military court of sexual assault and four charges of conduct contrary to good order and discipline at Aiken Barracks, Dundalk, on 30 October 2013. He was sentenced to twelve weeks' detention, with the final eight weeks suspended, and was also reprimanded, fined, demoted from Corporal to Private and discharged. The Court of Appeal held that the military judge had no authority to impose discharge or rank reduction because the soldier had already been granted a discharge before sentencing. The judge found no error in the detention order but ruled that the rank reduction was an error in principle, as it would affect his pension. The soldier was re‑sentenced to one month imprisonment suspended for six months on conditions, six months imprisonment suspended for twelve months on conditions, and fined €500. The appeal rejected the claim that the punishment was excessive.
Owen McCann, 36, of Annaloughan, Jenkinstown, Dundalk, pleaded guilty in November 2016 at the Special Criminal Court in Dublin to two counts of possession of firearms, including a .22 calibre rifle, a conversion kit for pistols and two ammunition magazines. At the brief sentence hearing on 30 January 2017, he undertook not to associate with subversive or paramilitary organisations. The court, citing his early admission, guilty plea, cooperation with Gardaí and employment prospects, sentenced him to three years' imprisonment, with one year suspended. The State entered a nolle prosequi on a charge of IRA membership.
Philip McKevitt, 62, of Dundalk, was remanded in custody at the Special Criminal Court until February 13th for sentencing. The three-judge panel, presided over by Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy with Judges Sinead Ni Chulachain and James Faughnan, deferred the sentence following his conviction for the possession of explosive substances. McKevitt was found guilty after a 21-day trial of possessing adapted gas cylinders and other materials in his shed in May 2010. His co-accused, Conan Murphy, 29, had previously pleaded guilty to the same offence and was jailed for six years. Prosecution evidence detailed the seizure of two altered gas cylinders, 52 bags of glucose, and 377 metres of command wire. McKevitt's DNA was found on one cylinder. This is his second conviction for the offence; a previous 2012 verdict was overturned by the Court of Criminal Appeal, directing a re-trial. Defence counsel Diarmaid McGuinness SC argued McKevitt was not the mastermind and cited his age and lack of prior convictions as mitigating factors, requesting a suspended portion of the sentence. The court ordered McKevitt remain in custody pending his sentencing hearing on February 13th.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Owen McCann, 36, admitted to purchasing a .22 calibre sporting pistol, a conversion kit, two ammunition magazines and a single round of ammunition online via eBay and PayPal. He claimed he bought the firearm to remove it from circulation for public safety and subsequently showed the police the hidden gun and ammunition on family land in Co. Louth. McCann had previously pleaded guilty in November 2015 to possession of the pistol, conversion kit, magazines and the single round at Jenkinstown. Gardaí had searched the McCann family land in December 2015, uncovering a large quantity of firearms, ammunition and explosive components, which were deemed background to the case. The court remanded McCann in custody for sentencing on 30 January 2017.
Philip McKevitt, 62, of Dundalk, was found guilty by the Special Criminal Court of possessing explosive substances. The court heard that on May 22, 2010, gardai discovered a trailer in his shed containing two adapted gas cylinders strapped to a wooden frame. Evidence included 52 bags of glucose and a roll of wire described as potential command wire for an IED. Forensic scientist Dr Clara Boland testified that McKevitt's DNA was found on one cylinder handle. McKevitt had denied knowing the items were in his shed, but Justice Isobel Kennedy stated it was "inconceivable" he had not noticed them. During the trial, it was noted that another man, Conan Murphy, 29, had previously pleaded guilty to the same offence and was jailed for six years. McKevitt's case is at the sentencing stage; he was remanded on continuing bail until January 23rd, when he will be sentenced. The matter was adjourned for sentencing and is not yet concluded.
An Irishman, Liam Campbell, aged 54, was arrested in Upper Faughart, Dundalk, County Louth, on 2 December 2016 under a European Arrest Warrant issued by Lithuanian authorities for alleged terrorism offences and weapons trafficking to Ireland. He was brought before the High Court in Dublin the same day and remanded in custody. The court was informed that a director of a County Louth company had agreed to pay a €60,000 bail, and Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly remanded Campbell in custody with consent to bail until 30 January. The warrant alleged that between the end of 2006 and the beginning of 2007 Campbell had organised the preparation for smuggling in support of the "terrorist grouping" the RIRA, arranging for illegal possession of firearms, ammunition, explosive devices and substances.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, the prosecution presented evidence that Philip McKevitt, aged 62, was accused of possessing an improvised explosive device in his shed at Aghaboys, Mount Pleasant, Dundalk, on 22 May 2010. Gardai had entered the shed after a surveillance operation and found a trailer containing two gas cylinders adapted to cause an explosion. McKevitt had pleaded not guilty to possession of explosive substances. The court heard that on 20 May McKevitt was seen with Conan Murphy in the yard, and that a garda heard an angle‑grinder in the shed that day. Two days later, at 7 pm, gardai entered the shed and saw McKevitt coming from the trailer. In interviews, McKevitt denied knowing the trailer or cylinders, claiming he had never seen them. The prosecution described his statements as "an incredible series of denials" and argued that the shed's size made it unlikely he could have missed the devices.
In the Special Criminal Court, the prosecution presented DNA evidence linking Philip McKevitt, 62, to a bomb device in his shed. In May 2010, after Gardaí entered the shed, they discovered an improvised trailer containing two gas cylinders adapted for an explosion. McKevitt pleaded not guilty to possession of explosive substances. Dr. Clara Boland compared DNA profiles from McKevitt and items in the shed, finding a match on one gas cylinder, a pair of gloves, and a mixed profile on a Dunnes Stores bag handle. Earlier evidence showed 52,500g of Shamrock‑brand glucose in four Dunnes Stores bags in a car outside the shed. Amanda Lennon reported light‑green paint from a spray‑can, McKevitt's left shoe, and a bell‑wire reel, suggesting the paint was used on the command wire of a fully‑formed IED. The trial continues before Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, with Judges Sinead Ni Chulachain and James Faughnan presiding.
In a High Court hearing on 13 December 2016, Canada Life Assurance (Ireland) Ltd secured a €1.199 million judgment against former tied agent Martin Reilly, aged 60. Reilly, who had worked for the insurer from 1997 to 2011, admitted in 2015 to 80 counts of stealing money from clients between 2002 and 2011. He had been jailed for four and a half years for the thefts, which amounted to over €832,000. The insurer's counsel, Cian Ferriter SC, presented the case without contest, arguing that Canada Life was entitled to damages for Reilly's fraudulent misrepresentation, breach of contract and deceit. The judgment was granted by Mr Justice Seamus Noonan, recognising the insurer's right to recover compensation for the defrauded clients and the additional costs incurred from investigating Reilly's activities. Reilly was not present at the hearing and remains in custody at Shelton Abbey. The judgment confirms the insurer's claim for the full €1.199 million.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Philip McKevitt, 62, of Aghaboys, Mount Pleasant, Dundalk, denied knowledge of a trailer and two gas cylinders found in his shed during a 2010 Garda search. The prosecution alleged that the improvised trailer, containing the cylinders, was intended to cause an explosion. McKevitt, who pleaded not guilty to possession of explosive substances, claimed he had never seen the trailer or cylinders and had no knowledge of their presence. He stated that on the evening in question he had gone to the shed to collect logs for another man, Conan Murphy, and that they were discussing football when Gardaí entered. The court heard that Gardaí had interviewed McKevitt six times, invoking sections of the Criminal Justice Act to draw inferences from his failure to account for the items. The trial continues before Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, with Judges Sinead Ni Chulachain and James Faughnan.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Philip McKevitt, 62, of Aghaboys, Mount Pleasant, Dundalk, pleaded not guilty to possessing explosive substances. The prosecution alleges that after Gardaí entered his shed on 22 May 2010, they found an improvised trailer with two gas cylinders adapted to cause an explosion. The trial will resume tomorrow before Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, with Judges Sinead Ni Chulachain and James Faughnan presiding.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Philip McKevitt, aged 62, pleaded not guilty to possessing explosive substances after Gardaí discovered a trailer and two gas cylinders in his shed in Louth on 22 May 2010. The prosecution argued that the trailer, which advertised the website 'flogthelot.ie', had been adapted to conceal a bomb. Detective Garda Shane Curran presented evidence that the cylinders had been cut and strapped to a wooden frame within the trailer, and that a 26‑kg quantity of glucose and a 377‑metre roll of green‑spray‑painted wire were also found. Curran identified the wire as a command wire typically used to detonate improvised explosive devices from a distance. Sergeant Brendan Keane noted the discovery of a green‑spray‑painted cable in the shed's boot, describing it as a "significant find." The trial was scheduled to resume on Monday.