Leighton Morrison, 49, of Woodfield, Galway Road, Tuam, Co Galway, was sentenced to eight years in prison at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court, with the final year suspended. He pleaded guilty to six sample charges from a total of 13 offences committed between January 2023 and June 2024. The charges include sexual assault against two girls, aged eight and nine, exploitation of a child, and possession and production of child pornography. Judge Eoin Garavan stated that Morrison remains a paedophile at high risk of recidivism and a grave danger to children. The court noted that Morrison videoed the assaults for his own gratification and can never have unsupervised access to children again. His sentence was backdated to July 2, 2024, when he entered custody. Upon release, he is ordered to undergo one year of probation supervision, during which he must complete counselling and a sex offenders' programme. The judge ordered the destruction of seized videos. Morrison's defence counsel noted his public apology and difficult childhood, while the judge described him as a talented dancer who caused significant destruction. The parents of the victims, who retained their children's anonymity, delivered victim impact statements detailing the severe trauma suffered by their daughters.
A Galway man has been sentenced to four years in prison, with the final year suspended, following a violent assault at a petrol station in Ballinrobe, Co Mayo in January 2023. Tommy Sweeney, aged 23, of Castlepark, Ballybane, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and producing a weapon at Corrib Oil service station on Neale Road. At Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court, Judge Eoin Garavan heard that the victim, who was sitting in his car, suffered serious head injuries including skull fractures and blood loss after being attacked by two men armed with a machete and slash hook. The assailants had waited approximately 45 minutes at the garage before striking. CCTV footage showed Sweeney holding the machete during the coordinated attack. The judge described the incident as part of an ongoing feud involving families from the travelling community across Galway and Mayo. Upon release, Sweeney must complete a year of probation supervision and remain substance-free.
An appeal has been heard in the Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court regarding Leighton Morrison (49) of Woodfield, Galway Road, Tuam, Co Galway, who pleaded guilty to six sample charges from a total of 13 offences committed between January 2023 and June 2024. The charges include two separate counts of sexual assault against an eight-year-old girl and a nine-year-old girl, exploitation of a child, and possession and production of child pornography. Judge Eoin Garavan stated that Morrison remains a paedophile and a grave danger to children, regardless of the length of his incarceration. His sentence was backdated to July 2, 2024, and Morrison was ordered to undergo probation supervision for a year post-release, during which time he must get counselling and undertake a sexual offenders' programme. The court heard that Morrison is at high risk of recidivism and can never have unsupervised access to children again. The matter was adjourned.
A 40-year-old woman from Ballina in County Mayo has pleaded guilty to possessing €62,000 worth of cannabis herb for sale or supply. Bernadette Muldoon, of St Patrick's estate, admitted the offence relating to drugs found at a different address on the same estate on 7 June last year. Gardaí discovered the cannabis in plastic bags and a protein tub following a tip-off search. A man fled the scene when officers arrived. Muldoon presented herself at Ballina Garda Station later that day and accepted responsibility for the drugs. She told gardaí she was holding them under duress due to a €3,000 drug debt and expressed fear for her safety after her home was damaged. The court heard she struggles with cocaine addiction. Judge Eoin Garavan adjourned sentencing to February 2026 to allow Muldoon to engage with probation services and address her substance misuse. The garda acknowledged the operation was not sophisticated and that Muldoon occupied a lower tier in the arrangement.
A man has been sentenced to three years imprisonment at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court following his conviction for sexual offences against a woman in County Mayo. Jorge Paris, aged 62 and resident in Dublin, pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual assault and one of attempted sexual assault occurring between December 2000 and February 2003. The complainant, now 48, was between six and seven years old when the abuse began. Judge Eoin Garavan imposed a headline sentence of six years, subsequently reduced to four and a half years with the final 18 months suspended, citing mitigation including Paris's 25-year employment record and stable 40-year marriage. The judge noted Paris had been removed from the Jehovah's Witnesses congregation following disclosure of the abuse. In her victim impact statement, the woman described lasting psychological and physical harm, stating the offences had destroyed her childhood, adulthood and sense of safety. The defence presented a letter of apology from Paris and a testimonial from his adult daughter.
A man has admitted careless driving causing the death of a woman in her 70s at a supermarket car park in County Mayo last year. The incident occurred on June 6, 2024, at Supervalu in Westport, when a lorry struck the pedestrian in the vehicle forecourt. Mihail Tanasevici, aged 41 and residing in Dublin, pleaded guilty to a single count of careless driving causing death at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court. The court heard he was operating the vehicle at approximately 2 kilometres per hour whilst engaged in employment duties at the time of the collision. Tanasevici, with no previous convictions, is expected to return to court in February to address two additional charges. Sentencing has been scheduled for March 6. A probation report has been ordered ahead of these proceedings.
A former garda has been remanded for sentencing assessment following his guilty plea to assaulting his then wife, also a member of An Garda Síochána, at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Trevor Bolger, aged 48, previously stationed at Ballymun, pleaded guilty to the assault on Margaret Loftus on 25 October 2012. The incident occurred during a family visit to Balla, County Mayo. Judge Martina Baxter adjourned sentencing to allow completion of an intervention program assessment referenced in a probation report, with proceedings to resume on 16 January 2026. Ms Loftus delivered a victim impact statement describing lasting effects of the assault and the subsequent stigma she experienced within the force. Bolger, who has no previous convictions, was represented by defence counsel who highlighted his mental health treatment, compensation of €6,000 offered to the court, and testimonials to his character. The maximum penalty under the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act is six months imprisonment or a fine.
A Mayo man received a suspended sentence at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court on 17 October for harassment spanning over a year. Brendan Rowland, aged 30, pleaded guilty to sending 14 malicious greeting cards to a couple in Swinford between December 2018 and December 2019. Judge Eoin Garavan noted that whilst 40 sinister cards were received in total, forensic evidence attributed only 14 to Rowland, suggesting an orchestrated campaign involving others. The cards included Mothers' Day and Christmas greetings, alongside messages signed "Joey" referencing the murder of Joe Deacy, aged 21, whose body was discovered at the recipients' home in August 2017. Judge Garavan imposed an 18-month sentence, suspended in full for two years, citing Rowland's guilty plea, apology, and rehabilitation efforts. Rowland was prohibited from approaching the Byrnes' residence or either individual within 500 metres for ten years. The judge expressed hope the matter would end the distress following Deacy's death.
A 70-year-old farmer from County Mayo has received a suspended sentence of seven months following his guilty plea to careless driving causing death. Martin Cullina was sentenced at Castlebar Circuit Court on Thursday after the three-car collision on the N17 near Claremorris on 16 May 2024 resulted in the death of a 58-year-old woman. Judge Eoin Garavan described the incident as a serious misjudgement on a dangerous stretch of road and told Cullina he had made a grave mistake. The court heard the victim's vehicle was stationary and indicating to turn when struck from behind. Cullina told gardaí he had not observed the brake lights or indicators, though a witness reported seeing both. The judge imposed conditions including an optician visit and completion of a pro-social driving test but declined to disqualify Cullina from driving, citing his isolation on a 20-acre farm eight kilometres from the nearest town. Cullina has no previous convictions and cooperated fully with gardaí.
A man who struck and fatally injured a young pedestrian at a crossing in Ballina, County Mayo, has received a fully suspended sentence at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court. James Moyles, aged thirty-three, died on February twentieth, two thousand twenty-four, after being hit by a car on Lord Edward Street whilst holding his four-year-old niece's hand. In his final moments, Mr Moyles pushed the child to safety from the oncoming vehicle. Keith O'Brien, aged fifty, of Lowvalley, Crossmolina, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death. He received a suspended sentence of two and a half years and was disqualified from driving for ten years. Judge Eoin Garavan described Mr Moyles' final act as one of great selflessness, whilst characterising O'Brien as a good man who made a terrible error in judgment. The Moyles family issued a statement calling for improved road safety across Ireland.
A man from Enniscrone has brought a complaint before the Workplace Relations Commission alleging religious discrimination after being issued a lifetime ban from a yoga studio in Ballina. Peter McKeon enrolled at Roots Wellness in September 2024 and attended classes twice weekly until December 2024, when he engaged in a conversation with the studio's owner, Niamh Glackin, regarding his objections to Christmas on religious grounds. Following this exchange, Mr McKeon received written notice that the studio was not an appropriate environment for him, and was subsequently informed of a permanent ban in January 2025. Mr McKeon contends the ban constitutes unlawful discrimination under the Equal Status Act 2000. Ms Glackin disputed aspects of Mr McKeon's account and testified that her decision to ban him was based solely on his allegedly aggressive behaviour during the incident, not on religious considerations. She stated the conduct created an unsafe environment for herself and other clients. Adjudication officer Brian Dolan has concluded the hearing and will deliver his written decision at a later date.
Three men have been sentenced to a combined 43 years imprisonment following their guilty pleas to manslaughter in connection with the death of a pensioner in Co Sligo. At the Central Criminal Court, Mr Justice Paul McDermott imposed sentences of 16 years on John Irving (31) of Shanwar, Foxford, Co Mayo, with the final year suspended, and 15 years each on Francis Harman (58) of Ballina and John Clarke (37) of Ballina, also with the final year suspended. The men attacked Tom Niland at his home in Doonflynn, Skryne on 18 January 2022. Despite suffering severe injuries, Mr Niland alerted neighbours. He was hospitalised but died from his injuries on 30 September 2023. The judge described the assault as "savage" and noted the men had targeted Mr Niland because he lived alone and was elderly. The three men stole approximately €800 and disposed of evidence. John Irving was convicted.
Alex Masuku, 34, was sentenced at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to assault causing harm and possession of a weapon. The offences occurred at Cloonishlawn, Ballina, Co Mayo, on November 21, 2023. Judge Eoin Garavan noted that Masuku assaulted his friend in front of the victim's two-year-old daughter, causing facial injuries that required stitching, and threatened him with a hammer. Although Masuku claimed the attack was provoked by a video, the judge found no evidence such a video existed, describing the behaviour as baseless. Judge Garavan set a headline sentence of three years but reduced this to two years, fully suspended, citing mitigating factors including Masuku's 22-year crime-free record in Ireland and a probation report indicating low risk of re-offending. Masuku was ordered to pay €3,000 to the victim within six months and complete a MOVE course. He must also keep the peace for three years, undergo Probation Service supervision for one year, and undertake any advised mental health treatment. The court acknowledged the victim's ongoing stress and anxiety, as well as the trauma experienced by the child witness.
Three men with a combined 106 previous convictions pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Tom Niland at the Central Criminal Court on Monday. John Irving (31) of Foxford, Co Mayo; Francis Harman (58) of Ballina, Co Mayo; and John Clarke (37) of Ballina attacked the 82-year-old at his home in Skryne, Co Sligo on January 18th, 2022, stealing approximately €800 from his wallet. Mr Niland suffered severe injuries including brain trauma and multiple fractures. He was hospitalised but his condition deteriorated, and he died from his injuries in September 2023, some 20 months after the assault. The State Pathologist attributed his death to blunt force trauma. All three were initially charged with murder but the Director of Public Prosecutions reduced the charges to manslaughter. Harman and Clarke pleaded guilty on the first day of trial; Irving initially pleaded not guilty but changed his plea during proceedings. The prosecution submitted that sentences between 15 and 20 years were warranted. Justice Paul McDermott will sentence the defendants on Thursday.
A Mayo woman seriously injured when struck by a Bus Éireann van in Ballina last May has expressed no ill-feeling towards the driver. At Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court on Friday, the court heard that Ann Bourke was briefly trapped beneath the vehicle on Kevin Barry Street on 14 May 2024, sustaining fractures to her wrist, shoulder blade and ribs. She spent two months hospitalised and required surgical intervention, though she told the court she is making good recovery. John Regan, aged 41, of Mountain View, Ballybrooney, Killala, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious bodily harm. Judge Eoin Garavan imposed 150 hours community service in lieu of a seven-month sentence, describing the incident as a serious lapse of judgment that could have proven fatal. The judge commended both parties, noting that Regan, a family man with no previous convictions, had completed a pro-social driving course and that the two had met cordially for the first time at court.
An intensive care nurse at Mayo General Hospital has received a fully suspended sentence at Castlebar Circuit Court for forging prescriptions to obtain painkillers. Sinéad Donohoe, aged 42, of Scrigg, Ballyhaunis, pleaded guilty to two counts of theft and four counts of forgery, representing 112 charges overall. Between September 2019 and February 2021, she stole three prescription pads and used forged prescriptions across pharmacies in Ballyhaunis, Ballaghdereen, Claremorris, Castlebar, Castlerea, Knock, and Kiltimagh to obtain Solpadol. Judge Eoin Garavan imposed a headline sentence of two years, suspended in full for 16 months, citing mitigating factors including her low reconviction risk and positive employment history. The judge noted Donohoe's struggle with endometriosis and workplace stress during the Covid-19 pandemic, describing her as dealing with addiction whilst employed in challenging frontline conditions. Her nursing registration has been suspended and she is currently not working. She has no previous convictions and is a married mother of two.
A man from Castlerea in County Roscommon has received a fully suspended sentence at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court following what the judge described as a remarkable turnaround in his life. Ernest Ashman, aged 39, pleaded guilty to possession of almost one kilogramme of cannabis, valued at approximately €20,000, for sale or supply at Rathcluain, Kiltimagh, County Mayo on 3 October 2023. He was arrested following a traffic stop after gardaí observed his vehicle being driven erratically through a housing estate. Ashman was handed a two-year suspended sentence and disqualified from driving for six years. Judge Eoin Garavan imposed a headline sentence of three years but reduced it to two years in light of mitigating factors, including Ashman's rehabilitation efforts. The court heard that Ashman has since trained in addiction counselling to Level 7 qualification standard, now works in a community centre, and remains drug-free. He has been instructed to comply with probation supervision for one year and continue mental health counselling.
A man has pleaded guilty to the unlawful killing of Tom Niland at the Central Criminal Court, five days into his trial. John Irving, aged 31, of Shanwar, Foxford, County Mayo, changed his plea on the morning of July 17th. He is the third person to admit to manslaughter in connection with the death of the 73-year-old, who was assaulted at his home near Skreen, County Sligo on January 18th, 2022. Mr Niland suffered serious injuries including brain bleeding, facial fractures and multiple broken ribs during the attack. He was placed on life support but died from complications of his injuries twenty months later. Francis Harman and John Clarke had previously pleaded guilty to the same offence. The Director of Public Prosecutions indicated the guilty plea to manslaughter satisfied the prosecution's case. Justice Eileen Creedon discharged the jury and adjourned sentencing to October 13th, pending victim impact statements and psychological reports.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has viewed CCTV footage documenting movements in County Sligo and Mayo on January 18, 2022, the date of an alleged assault on 73-year-old Tom Niland at his home near Skreen. A garda detective presented a montage compiled from multiple camera systems showing a white Vauxhall Vivaro van travelling through Dromore West and Ballina that morning and afternoon, marked by distinctive features including a yellow number plate and a green roof stain. The prosecution alleges that John Irving, aged 31 of Shanwar, Foxford, County Mayo, Francis Harman, aged 58 of Ballina, and John Clarke, aged 37 of Ballina, broke into Mr Niland's home and assaulted him, causing injuries from which he died twenty months later in September 2023. The court heard that Mr Niland was discovered by neighbours crossing the N59 with severe injuries, including brain bleeding and multiple rib fractures. Mr Irving has pleaded not guilty to charges of unlawful killing, trespass causing serious harm, intentional or reckless serious harm, and false imprisonment.
A pensioner was so severely beaten during an alleged home invasion that neighbours did not recognise him as he walked along the road covered in blood with swollen eyes, the Central Criminal Court has heard. Witnesses described the victim as "crying blood" with multiple traumatic injuries following the incident at Doonflynn, Skreen, County Sligo on 18 January 2022. A surgeon from Sligo University Hospital testified that the injuries were serious and life-threatening, requiring the patient to be placed on life support. John Irving, aged 31, of Shanwar, Foxford, County Mayo faces four charges including unlawful killing, assault causing serious harm, intentional or reckless harm, and false imprisonment. The prosecution alleges Mr Irving, along with two other men, broke into the property and assaulted the occupant, who died more than 20 months later on 30 September 2023. Mr Irving has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The trial before Ms Justice Eileen Creedon continues.
A Brazilian man has received a three-year suspended sentence following an assault outside a Westport nightclub that left his victim requiring extensive dental treatment. Joao Hermino Sousa Correia, aged 23, of Middletown, Manulla, Castlebar, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm outside The Castle on Castlebar Street on December 17, 2023. The victim sustained a fractured jaw and deep lacerations after being struck with a pint glass, resulting in the loss of four teeth and an €11,000 dental bill. At Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court, Judge Eoin Garavan imposed the three-year sentence, fully suspended for eight years on condition Correia return to Brazil within two weeks and not re-enter Ireland. Correia was ordered to pay €8,000 towards the victim's dental costs within three years. The court also heard of a second glassing incident occurring minutes earlier at the same venue. Leonardo Rodrigo Jesus Rosa, aged 35, of Orlagh Grove, Castlebar, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm after throwing a glass on the dancefloor. Judge Garavan sentenced Rosa to 18 months and ordered 200 hours community service.
Keith O'Brien, 49, of Lowvalley, Crossmolina, Co Mayo, pleaded guilty at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court to a single count of dangerous driving causing the death of James Moyles, 33. The incident occurred on Lord Edward Street, Ballina, Co Mayo, on February 20, 2024. The plea was entered before Judge Eoin Garavan. The court noted that Mr O'Brien has no previous convictions and is a working father of two. The matter is currently at the sentencing stage, with the judge deferring the imposition of a penalty to allow for the preparation of a probation report. Consequently, the case was adjourned, and Mr O'Brien faces sentencing on October 23 of this year. No final sentence or disposal has been recorded at this procedural stage. The report attributes the allegation of dangerous driving to the prosecution, which the defendant admitted. The summary reflects the validated procedural stage of sentencing and the specific adjournment for a probation report, ensuring no accusation is presented as a final conviction beyond the guilty plea.
A man has been convicted of defiling a child under 17 at his home in County Mayo six years ago. The accused, whose identity is protected to safeguard the complainant, pleaded not guilty to the charge. He was acquitted of a separate count of sexual assault arising from an incident at a staff party. Following a week-long trial at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court, an all-male jury returned a 10–2 majority guilty verdict after deliberating for five and a half hours. The complainant was 16 years old at the time; the accused was 28. Judge Eoin Garavan remanded the accused on bail pending sentencing on 6 November, to allow time for a psychological report. The accused was ordered to sign on weekly at his local garda station. The judge commended the complainant's courage but reserved formal comments for the sentencing hearing.
A trial has commenced at the Central Criminal Court concerning charges against John Irving of Shanwar, Foxford, County Mayo. The prosecution alleges that Mr Irving, along with Francis Harman of Ballina and John Clarke of Ballina, broke into the home of a pensioner at Doonflynn, Skreen, County Sligo in January 2022 and assaulted him. The victim, then aged 73, sustained severe injuries including head trauma, rib fractures and internal bleeding. He died over twenty months later from complications arising from the assault. A medical witness is expected to testify that the injuries were comparable to those sustained in a serious motor collision. Forensic evidence presented includes DNA and blood located on gloves discovered in the area. Mr Irving denies all charges, including unlawful killing, assault causing serious harm, trespass, and false imprisonment. The trial before Ms Justice Eileen Creedon continues.
A man now aged 22 pleaded guilty at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court to possessing child sexual abuse material discovered on his mother's laptop in County Mayo on 6 June 2018. He was 15 when gardaí found the illegal content after he reported to them that his device had been hacked as part of a sextortion attempt. The accused had been engaging in online exchanges with a hacker who subsequently infected the laptop with malware to extort money. Upon opening a video link, the screen displayed warnings and became inaccessible. He informed his mother and reported the matter to gardaí, leading to the laptop's examination by the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau, which recovered the material from the recycle bin. Judge Eoin Garavan imposed a two-month sentence, suspended on completion of 100 hours community service within six months, citing the accused's age at the time of the offence, social isolation, and low reoffending risk. The case will be finalised on 7 November 2025. The accused was removed from the Sex Offenders' List.
A jury of eight women and four men has been sworn in at the Central Criminal Court to hear the trial of a 31-year-old man accused of the unlawful killing of Tom Niland, a 74-year-old from Doonflynn, Skreen, County Sligo. The accused, John Irving of Shanwar, Foxford, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Mr Niland died on September 30, 2023, more than twenty months after sustaining serious injuries during an alleged home invasion on January 18, 2022. The charges against Mr Irving include unlawfully killing Mr Niland, entering his home as a trespasser, causing him serious harm, and falsely imprisoning him. Justice Eileen Creedon estimated the trial will last approximately two weeks, with proceedings commencing the following day.
A 33-year-old man has pleaded not guilty to sexual assault and defilement of a child following an incident in County Mayo in July 2020. The trial, heard this week at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court, was told the complainant was 16 years old at the time of the alleged offences, while the accused was 28. The defence argued the accused believed the complainant was over 18, citing her appearance, behaviour, and statements she made during a staff party. However, the court heard evidence from a witness who said she informed the accused of the complainant's actual age that night. The complainant testified the accused pressured her for sexual contact after the party. Both prosecution and defence have delivered closing submissions. Judge Eoin Garavan is to sum up to the jury today or tomorrow, after which the twelve jurors will consider their verdict.
A 42-year-old Ballinrobe woman has admitted assaulting two gardaí at Claremorris Garda Station during an incident in June 2022. Rosemary Sweeney, of Bridge Street, pleaded guilty to two counts of assault causing harm at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court. She is remanded in custody pending sentencing, which is scheduled for July 16. Judge Eoin Garavan ordered the preparation of a prison governor's report ahead of the sentencing hearing.
A Ballina man has been sentenced to one year and four months in prison for stabbing another man with a broken beer bottle during an altercation in the town four years ago. Stephen Lawrence, aged 23, of Cloonishlawn pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to Oisín McCarron at Greenhills housing estate on 3 April 2021. Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court heard the incident occurred following a verbal and physical row between the two men, then teenagers, after a night of drinking. Judge Eoin Garavan noted elements of provocation and that both parties had been involved in the altercation. The victim suffered deep lacerations to his face, jaw and neck requiring plastic surgery and continues to experience psychological trauma. A family contribution of €5,000 was presented to court in recognition of the harm caused. The judge acknowledged Lawrence's genuine remorse, stable family background and lack of previous convictions. The sentence, comprising two years and three months with eleven months suspended for two years, was backdated to September 2024.
A man aged 33 has pleaded not guilty to charges of sexually assaulting a teenage girl at a staff party in County Mayo in July 2020. The trial is taking place at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court before Judge Eoin Garavan and an all-male jury. The complainant, now aged 21, gave evidence that she was 16 at the time and had consumed several bottles of cider during the event. She alleged the accused, whom she had not previously met, engaged in sexual contact with her in a bathroom and later in an alleyway without her consent. The woman told the court she objected to the contact and pushed the man away. The defendant faces two counts: sexual assault at the party premises on 14 to 15 July 2020, and defilement of a child under 17 at a separate address on 15 July 2020. He denies both charges. The trial is expected to continue for several days.
Gerry Norman, a 24-year-old abattoir worker from Ballina, Co Mayo, has been sentenced to four years imprisonment with the final two years suspended at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court. He pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm to one man and assault causing harm to another following an unprovoked attack in Diamond's carpark, Ballina on 19 December 2021. Judge Eoin Garavan described the incident as random and fuelled by alcohol and cocaine, noting that one victim sustained a skull fracture and brain bleed, resulting in permanent hearing loss and tinnitus. The judge acknowledged mitigating factors including Norman's lack of prior convictions, completion of an anger management course, and demonstrated commitment to addressing substance abuse. Norman has offered €15,000 in total compensation to the victims. He was ordered to keep the peace for two years upon release.
A man from Castlebar has pleaded guilty to sharing intimate images of a woman without her consent on two separate occasions. Daniel Humphreys, aged 38 and residing on McHale Road, admitted the offences at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court, which fall under legislation commonly known as Coco's Law. The incidents occurred on October 6, 2021 and around June 1, 2022. Humphreys also pleaded guilty to harassment of the same woman spanning from February 11, 2021 to June 1, 2022 across various locations. He has no previous convictions. Judge Eoin Garavan ordered both psychological and probation reports to assist in sentencing. The case has been adjourned, with a sentence hearing scheduled for October 21.
Bernard McDonagh, aged 30, of Gortnafolla, Turlough, Castlebar, has affirmed guilty pleas to five charges at Castlebar Circuit Court. The charges arise from incidents on November 11 last year at various locations in Castlebar. McDonagh admitted assaulting a garda and another man at Tesco, Knockacroghery. He also pleaded guilty to theft of a bottle of gin valued at €35 and clothing worth €420 from TK Maxx. A further charge concerned criminal damage to a vehicle wing mirror in an Aldi carpark. McDonagh, currently on an enhanced regime in custody, was remanded pending sentencing on July 22. Judge Eoin Garavan directed that probation and governor's reports be prepared for the hearing.
A 33-year-old man from County Mayo has pleaded not guilty to charges of sexual assault and child defilement at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court. He denies sexually assaulting a female at a county address between 14 and 15 July 2020, and separately denies defiling a child under 17 at another location on 15 July 2020. The defence indicated the alleged incidents occurred at a work or office gathering. A jury of twelve was sworn in by Judge Eoin Garavan, with the trial expected to conclude within three days.
At the Central Criminal Court on 3 June 2025, Nigel Canavan, aged 39, with an address at Erris Gardens, Crossmolina, County Mayo, was sentenced to mandatory life imprisonment for the murder of his mother Angela Canavan at her home in St John's Terrace, County Sligo on 1 May 2023. The sentence was backdated to 30 April 2025. On 16 May 2025, a jury had convicted Canavan of murder, rejecting his pleas of provocation and self-defence. The court heard that Ms Canavan, a respected psychotherapist, died from mechanical asphyxia caused by manual strangulation and external obstruction of the airway. She had suffered additional injuries including a head laceration, facial and body bruising, and three broken ribs. During sentencing, Ms Canavan's son Keith delivered a victim impact statement, describing his mother as accomplished and well-loved. Presiding judge Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo stated that it must be beyond any mother's darkest imaginings to die at the hands of the child she bore. Nigel Canavan pleaded not guilty.
Jemima Burke appeared before the High Court to challenge a public order conviction obtained at Ballina District Court. Ms Burke alleged that her constitutional rights were breached due to the excessive haste of the original proceedings, claiming she was detained for two hours and tried within 55 minutes of release without legal representation or disclosure. She stated she was filming an inquest in Swinford, Co Mayo, when arrested, and argued that the garda's confiscation of her phone deprived her of probative evidence. The District Court judge had convicted her of one public order offence, with the other taken into consideration, and fined her €350. Ms Burke described the process as resembling something from the Middle Ages. The Director of Public Prosecutions, represented by Kieran Kelly BL, did not oppose the quashing of the conviction but argued the matter should be remitted to the District Court for a new hearing before a different judge to ensure a fair trial. Ms Justice Sara Phelan reserved judgment in the matter, meaning the case was adjourned and not concluded.
Nigel Canavan, 39, was convicted by a jury at the Central Criminal Court of murdering his mother, Angela Canavan, at her home in St John's Terrace, Co Sligo, on May 1, 2023. Canavan had pleaded not guilty, claiming he acted in self-defence after his ailing mother attacked him, and suggested she provoked him into losing control. The jury rejected both the self-defence claim and the suggestion that he was guilty of manslaughter due to provocation. Pathological evidence indicated Ms Canavan suffered strangulation, smothering, broken ribs, and other injuries consistent with a struggle. Canavan had previously pleaded guilty to drunk driving and assault arising from a separate incident in February 2023. Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo remanded Canavan in custody. The matter is not yet finalised; the judge will impose the mandatory term of life imprisonment at a sentencing hearing scheduled for June 3. At that hearing, Ms Canavan's other son, Keith Canavan, will make a statement to the court.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court will resume deliberations tomorrow in the trial of Nigel Canavan, aged 39, who denies murdering his mother. The accused, with an address in Crossmolina, County Mayo, is charged with the death of Angela Canavan at her home in County Sligo on 1 May 2023. The jury has already spent more than four hours over two days considering their verdict. Mr Canavan has pleaded not guilty to murder but the jury has been directed they may return verdicts of guilty of murder, not guilty, or not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter. The defence case rests on claims of self-defence and provocation. State pathologist evidence outlined multiple injuries to the deceased, including bruising to the face, neck, torso and limbs, fractured ribs, and stab wounds to both thighs. The cause of death was established as asphyxiation due to smothering and strangling.
A murder trial at the Central Criminal Court heard closing arguments on Wednesday concerning the death of Angela Canavan, aged fifty-eight, at her home in St John's Terrace, Sligo on May 1st, 2023. The accused, Nigel Canavan, aged thirty-nine, with an address at Erris Gardens, Crossmolina, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to her murder. The prosecution submitted that the accused's account of self-defence or provocation should be rejected as implausible, noting he initially denied presence at the scene before later claiming either provocation or self-defence at trial. State Pathologist evidence established the deceased died from asphyxiation due to strangulation and smothering, with additional injuries including rib fractures and stab wounds. The defence argued the accused demonstrated sustained care and affection toward his mother, suggesting provocation arising from verbal abuse during a heated altercation. The jury of ten women and two men retired to consider their verdict on Wednesday afternoon and will deliver their decision Thursday.
A 39-year-old man has testified at the Central Criminal Court that his mother died during a struggle in which he was defending himself from her attack. Nigel Canavan, from Crossmolina, County Mayo, is charged with the murder of Angela Canavan at her home in Sligo on 1 May 2023. He has pleaded not guilty. Mr Canavan told the court his mother attacked him with a knife and struck at him with her hands and feet during a heated argument. He admitted applying pressure to her neck with his forearm during the incident, but stated this was in self-defence and that he did not intend to cause her death. Under cross-examination, he accepted that he had initially denied to gardaí that he was present when his mother suffered fatal injuries, attributing this to distress at the time. The State Pathologist concluded that Ms Canavan died from asphyxiation by smothering and manual strangulation. The trial continues before Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo and a jury.
The Court of Appeal has adjourned proceedings in the appeal against the conviction of Stephen Silver, who is serving a life sentence with a 40-year minimum term for the capital murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan. Silver, a 48-year-old motorbike mechanic from Foxford, Co Mayo, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Det Gda Horkan, alleging he was reckless as to whether the victim was a garda acting in the course of his duty. He had previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter at Castlerea, Co Roscommon, on June 17, 2020. The jury found him guilty of murder, rejecting defences of self-defence and diminished responsibility. During the current appeal hearing, counsel for Silver stated that the legal team is unable to advance the appeal due to an impasse in obtaining crucial psychiatric disclosure from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP). Counsel described the situation as a "brick wall" and argued that the psychiatric evidence is a critical issue, particularly regarding Silver's bipolar affective disorder. Mr Justice John Edwards noted that the coroner for County Roscommon cannot complete the inquest into Garda Horkan's death until the appeal is determined. The judge described the delay as "intolerable" for the victim's family and stated that the matter "cannot drag on." Proceedings were adjourned to a case management list on June 20, with the judge indicating that a motion could be brought if the logjam persists.
A man accused of murdering his mother at her home in County Sligo in May 2023 told gardaí during interviews that he delayed contacting emergency services for approximately 20 minutes after discovering her body. Nigel Canavan, aged 39, of Erris Gardens, Crossmolina, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Angela Canavan at St John's Terrace, Sligo on 1 May 2023. The Central Criminal Court trial heard that Mr Canavan said he initially telephoned a friend before calling an ambulance, claiming he panicked and was unsure what to do. Gardaí arrested him six days after her death. Detective Garda Brian McMahon testified that during questioning at Sligo Garda Station, Mr Canavan described an altercation with his mother, who he said was intoxicated and agitated. He stated he removed a knife from her possession and subsequently heard sounds from downstairs, where he found her unconscious. Mr Canavan denied involvement in her death. State Pathologist Dr SallyAnne Collis determined the deceased died from asphyxia. The trial continues before Justice Kerdia Naidoo and jury.
A pathologist has given evidence at the Central Criminal Court regarding the death of a 58-year-old woman from County Sligo in May 2023. State Pathologist Dr SallyAnne Collis told the trial of Nigel Canavan, aged 39 and with an address in Crossmolina, County Mayo, that the deceased died from external asphyxiation caused by suffocation and manual strangulation. Dr Collis outlined injuries consistent with smothering, including pinpoint haemorrhaging around the eyes and bruising to the neck bones. The deceased also sustained stab wounds to both thighs and bruises across her body. Mr Canavan has pleaded not guilty to murder at his mother's home in Sligo on 1 May 2023. Under cross-examination, the pathologist acknowledged that some injuries could have innocent explanations, including assistance provided the previous evening and the deceased's significant alcohol intoxication and medical history, which would have made her prone to bruising.
At the Central Criminal Court, a detective told jurors that Nigel Canavan appeared nervous and evasive when questioned hours after his mother's death in Sligo on May 1, 2023. Detective Garda James Conneely met the 39-year-old accused outside Angela Canavan's home on St John's Terrace and later conducted a voluntary interview at Sligo Garda Station. Mr Canavan, with an address in Crossmolina, Co Mayo, denies murder. The prosecution alleges fatal violence and manual strangulation caused Ms Canavan's death. In his recorded statement, Mr Canavan described hearing three loud bangs while upstairs and finding his mother on the ground surrounded by broken glass and a damaged chair. He told gardai he had been staying with his mother during a bank holiday weekend after recent separation from his wife. The trial, before Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo and a jury, continues tomorrow. Nigel Canavan pleaded not guilty.
A murder trial at the Central Criminal Court heard that Nigel Canavan told his then-wife his mother "went a bit mad" and struck herself with a knife before her death. Mr Canavan, aged 39, of Erris Gardens, Crossmolina, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Angela Canavan at her home in County Sligo on 1 May 2023. The prosecution alleges fatal violence and manual strangulation caused her death. Claire Conroy, Mr Canavan's former spouse, testified that he described his mother swinging her cane and becoming aggressive during an altercation. He said he went upstairs and later heard thuds before discovering her dead. A friend, John Gannon, told the court Mr Canavan telephoned him that evening in distress and later asked him to corroborate a story about discussing hurling rather than disclosing details of his mother's death. Mr Gannon said he instead told gardai the truth. The trial continues before Justice Kerida Naidoo and a jury.
A trial has commenced at the Central Criminal Court concerning the death of a woman in her Sligo home. The State alleges that Nigel Canavan, aged 39, of Erris Gardens in County Mayo, strangled his mother, Angela Canavan, aged 58, on 1 May 2023. Mr Canavan has pleaded not guilty to murder. The prosecution opening outlined that the deceased had enjoyed a successful career as a psychotherapist before developing severe alcohol dependency. She had sustained a brain injury following a fall and required periodic care. On the day in question, Mr Canavan had returned to his mother's home after work. Gardaí subsequently discovered her body in the kitchen and dining area, with evidence suggesting violent disturbance. A pathologist is expected to testify that death resulted from manual strangulation or asphyxia. The defence maintains the accused played no role in the death, asserting he discovered his mother's body after hearing noises. The trial continues before Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo.
A jury comprising ten women and two men has been sworn in at the Central Criminal Court for the trial of a 39-year-old man from Crossmolina, County Mayo, who denies murdering his mother in Sligo. Nigel Canavan pleaded not guilty to the charge of murdering Angela Canavan at an address in St John's Terrace, County Sligo on May 1, 2023. Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo presided over the arraignment. The trial is scheduled to commence the following day and is anticipated to run for approximately two weeks.
A man from Achill has been sentenced to eight years in prison following his conviction for manslaughter at the Central Criminal Court. Dean Caffrey (38) of Beaucort, Achill Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9, was found guilty by majority jury verdict of the manslaughter of Sean McCarthy on 2 August 2022 in Drumcondra. Mr Justice Paul McDermott imposed a nine-year sentence with the final year suspended. Caffrey claimed he acted in self-defence when the fatal shooting occurred during a confrontation over drug debts. The court heard evidence that after the killing, Caffrey placed McCarthy's body in a suitcase, disposed of the firearm in the River Tolka, and took steps to conceal the death, including using McCarthy's mobile phone to suggest he remained alive. The judge found Caffrey's conduct after the killing demonstrated no genuine remorse and rejected arguments for leniency based on his drug addiction since 2013 and cocaine dependency since 2016. Gardaí recovered McCarthy's remains from a wardrobe in the apartment after Caffrey directed them to the location. Dean Caffrey pleaded not guilty.
PJ Sweeney has lost his appeal against a 15-year prison sentence for his role in a violent attack on security workers at a repossessed farmhouse in Strokestown, Co Roscommon. In the Court of Appeal, Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, speaking for the three-judge court, dismissed the appeal, finding no error in principle in the original sentence imposed by Judge Martina Baxter. Sweeney, of High Cairn, Ramelton, Co Donegal, was convicted in June 2023 of 15 charges, including aggravated burglary, violent disorder, criminal damage, false imprisonment, assault, arson, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Defence counsel Michael Bowman SC argued the sentence was excessive and disproportionate, citing Sweeney's good character and lack of prior convictions, and requested a suspended element. However, the Appeal Court rejected these arguments, noting there was no evidence of insight, remorse, or apology from Sweeney. The court emphasized the brutal nature of the attack, which aimed to inflict fear and terror, and upheld the maximum penalty for several offences. Sweeney's co-accused, Martin O'Toole and Paul Beirne, had previously dismissed their legal teams ahead of their own appeals. The Appeal Court confirmed that the trial judge was entitled to impose a custodial sentence without suspension given the circumstances.
The Court of Appeal has dismissed the appeal by Shane Noonan against his sentence for the rape of Ciara Mangan. The offence occurred at an address in Castlebar, Co Mayo, on May 11, 2013. Noonan, who was 18 at the time, pleaded guilty to the charge. At his sentencing in July 2023, Ms Justice Eileen Creedon imposed a headline sentence of eight years in prison, with the final 12 months suspended, resulting in an effective custody period of seven years. In his appeal, counsel for Noonan argued that the sentence was too high given his lack of prior convictions and the late entry of his guilty plea. However, the Director of Public Prosecutions contended that the plea was entered on the day of the trial and that the suspension period appropriately reflected mitigating factors. Mr Justice Michael McGrath, delivering the judgment, stated that Noonan's culpability was high and the harm to the victim was great. Consequently, the court ruled that the sentence was appropriate in the circumstances and dismissed the appeal. Ms Mangan, who waived her anonymity, stated that the 22-month wait for the appeal decision had delayed her healing, but she expressed relief that the process had finally concluded.