At the Central Criminal Court, the sister of Sean McCarthy addressed the court during the sentencing hearing of Dean Caffrey, who was convicted of her brother's manslaughter. Nicole McCarthy stated she remained "baffled" at how Caffrey continued his daily life normally after killing her brother in his Drumcondra apartment on 2 August 2022. McCarthy's body was discovered wrapped in plastic inside a suitcase in Caffrey's wardrobe after a five-day search. The court heard that Caffrey, aged 38, of Beaucort, Achill Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9, pleaded not guilty to murder. A jury found him guilty of manslaughter by majority verdict in October 2024. The prosecution submitted that the case attracted a headline sentence of between ten and fifteen years. Caffrey's legal team highlighted his expressions of remorse and educational achievements whilst in custody. Mr Justice Paul McDermott will deliver sentence on 31 March.
Kevin Braney, aged 49, is appealing his conviction for the murder of Peter Butterly at the Special Criminal Court. The appeal, heard before a three-judge panel, centres on two main issues: the lawfulness of surveillance authorisation and the admissibility of evidence from an accomplice-turned-State's witness. Braney's counsel argues that gardai breached his privacy rights by deploying a listening device at a KFC restaurant in Charlestown Shopping Centre, Finglas without proper district court authorisation. The defence contends a superintendent in County Meath could have sought judicial approval at nearby Balbriggan District Court rather than relying on emergency powers under the Criminal Law (Surveillance) Act 2009. The Director of Public Prosecutions argues the superintendent acted appropriately given time constraints when the criminal meeting emerged. The prosecution also disputes whether private conversation expectations apply in a public restaurant setting. Additionally, Braney's legal team challenges the trial court's reliance on evidence from David Cullen, who pleaded guilty to firearms offences and entered witness protection. The defence characterises Cullen as unreliable and willing to lie in his interests.
The Court of Appeal is hearing an appeal by Kevin Braney, who was convicted by the Special Criminal Court of the 2013 murder of Peter Butterly. Counsel for Braney argued that the conviction should be overturned because the trial relied on the evidence of David Cullen, a State's witness described as a perjurer and accomplice. Cullen had previously pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol, receiving a seven-year sentence with half suspended, in exchange for dropping a murder charge. The defence contended that Cullen's credibility was undermined by his admitted dishonesty and personal animus toward Braney. The Director of Public Prosecutions countered that the circumstantial evidence, including observed movements of gang members, was compelling and supported Cullen's testimony that Braney instructed the killing. Braney, who was previously sentenced in 2018 to four years and six months for IRA membership, was found guilty of premeditated murder in February 2019. Co-defendants Edward McGrath, Sharif Kelly, and Dean Evans also received life sentences for the murder, with Evans identified as the shooter. The three-judge Court of Appeal will hear further submissions from both parties before making a decision.
The High Court has granted a second stay on Workplace Relations Commission proceedings within a fortnight, following an application by Vincent Maughan of Crossmolina, County Mayo. Mr Maughan, a former retained firefighter with Mayo County Council, claims he was prejudiced by the adjudicating officer and that she should have recused herself from the case. Permission for judicial review was granted, and Mr Justice Micheál P O'Higgins issued an injunction pausing the WRC hearing scheduled for today. Mr Maughan contends that the adjudication officer violated fair procedures requirements, breached public justice principles by conducting remote hearings without public accessibility, and refused recusal without allowing proper legal representation. He seeks declarations that the respondent acted unlawfully and that he is entitled to professional recording and transcription of proceedings. The case has been adjourned to April. Mr Maughan resigned from his position on 6 April 2023 and subsequently lodged complaints to the WRC regarding alleged breach of his statutory employment rights.
A hospital worker from Tallaght has received a fully suspended three-and-a-half-year sentence after pleading guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Daniel O'Neill, aged 40, admitted the offence relating to an incident on 12 November 2023 at Pinewood Park, Tallaght. The court heard that while hungover, O'Neill had given his cousin a lift to Cabra, where four suitcases containing €360,000 worth of cannabis and cocaine were placed in his vehicle. Upon detecting the smell of cannabis during the return journey to Tallaght, O'Neill realised what had occurred. Two suitcases were transferred to another car under garda surveillance, resulting in O'Neill's arrest within metres. The remaining cases were found to contain €138,568 of cocaine. His cousin and a third man, James Glynn of Claremorris, County Mayo, were also arrested. Judge Martin Nolan determined O'Neill did not merit imprisonment, considering he had been placed in an unfortunate position and had received no payment.
Three men who were convicted of a vigilante attack on security personnel at a repossessed farmhouse in Roscommon appeared before the Court of Appeal on 4 February to challenge the severity of their sentences. Martin O'Toole, aged 60, from Claremorris, County Mayo, discharged his legal representation and walked out of court after being refused permission to read a statement into the record, effectively withdrawing his appeal. Paul Beirne, aged 58, from Boyle, County Roscommon, subsequently indicated he would not continue with his appeal. PJ Sweeney, aged 59, from Ramelton, County Donegal, proceeded with his appeal, with counsel arguing the 15-year sentence was excessive and disproportionate, citing mitigating factors and good character. The Director of Public Prosecutions contended the sentence was appropriate given the serious and violent nature of the December 2018 attack at Strokestown. The court reserved judgement.
Two individuals have been sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following their guilty pleas to conspiracy charges relating to a scheme to impersonate learner drivers during theory examinations. Alina Glont, aged 42, of Charlestown Place, Finglas, Dublin 11, and Daniel Stepien, aged 29, of Annfield Court, Clonsilla, Dublin 15, were convicted of conducting unauthorised theory tests on behalf of third parties between September 2018 and June 2021. Gardaí identified 124 incidents where members of a five-person group sat tests for others, with Stepien completing 68 examinations and Glont 20. Third parties reportedly paid between €1,000 and €2,000 each to the group. Judge Martin Nolan described the operation as a serious criminal enterprise generating approximately €100,000 in profits. Stepien received a 32-month sentence, backdated to December 2024, while Glont was sentenced to two and a half years, with the judge accepting elements of her duress claim involving an ex-partner.
Two individuals pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to conspiracy charges relating to a scheme in which they impersonated learner drivers and sat theory tests on behalf of third parties. Alina Glont, aged 42 of Charlestown Place, Finglas, Dublin, and Daniel Stepien, aged 29 of Annfield Court, Clonsilla, Dublin, carried out 88 tests between September 2018 and June 2021. Detective Garda Barry Cormack outlined that a total of 124 incidents were identified, with Stepien completing 68 tests and Glont 20. The Road Safety Authority initiated an investigation in January 2021 following confidential information, subsequently reporting 36 potential impersonations to gardaí. Evidence indicated third parties paid between €1,000 and €2,000 for the service. Upon searching Glont's home, gardaí recovered seven prepaid debit cards registered with false names and used to book over 100 tests. Both defendants presented mitigation, with defence counsel highlighting Stepien's status as lowest-ranking participant and Glont's claims of coercion by an ex-partner. Judge Martin Nolan adjourned sentencing to the following day.
Joseph Boyle, 42, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for violent offences committed while on bail. He pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm, robbery, theft, and threatening to kill or cause serious harm. Judge Martin Nolan jailed Boyle for eight and a half years, imposing a five-year sentence for the assault causing serious harm and a consecutive three-and-a-half-year term for the remaining charges. The court heard Boyle had 86 previous convictions and that his single punch to a victim's head on Phibsborough Road resulted in a life-threatening traumatic brain injury, requiring five and a half months of hospitalisation. Other offences included knife robberies of tourists and security staff. In a related matter, Kia O'Connor, 34, pleaded guilty to violent disorder for throwing a bottle at a woman during an altercation in which Boyle brandished a knife. Judge Nolan jailed O'Connor for one year. Both defendants were of no fixed abode. The judge noted Boyle's chronic drug problem and violent temperament, describing him as a menace. O'Connor's defence highlighted her personal setbacks and drug addiction. The matter was finalised with these custodial sentences.
Paul Arthur, 59, of Letterkenny, Co Donegal, was sentenced today at the Central Criminal Court to 10 years' imprisonment after being found guilty by a jury of two counts of anal rape and one count of vaginal rape of his former partner, Susan Lynch. The offences occurred between September 2017 and July 2018. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath described the attacks as a repeated, pre-meditated breach of trust. In mitigation, the judge noted Arthur had no previous convictions and health issues, but determined prison would not be unduly oppressive. The sentence was backdated to when Arthur entered custody following the guilty verdicts in November. Ms Lynch, who waived anonymity, read a victim impact statement detailing her trauma, including panic attacks, surgeries, and alopecia. She stated she declined counselling because notes could be used against her at trial, a regret she expressed to the court. She also highlighted financial losses and the loss of her home and identity. Defence counsel John Berry SC confirmed there would be no appeal against the conviction. The court heard that a proposed law to protect rape survivors' counselling notes from admissibility has yet to be passed.
Sam Collins, a 30-year-old electrician from Sandyford, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of drugs for sale or supply following an incident on August 26, 2023, at Charlestown Place, Finglas. Gardaí discovered approximately €58,879 worth of drugs during a search of his vehicle and home after he was observed at the location. The court heard Collins was storing the drugs for a third party and that he had no previous convictions. Defence counsel highlighted his mental health difficulties at the time and noted his otherwise solid work history and family circumstances. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a four-and-a-half-year prison sentence, fully suspended, citing exceptional circumstances including Collins' early guilty plea, clean record, and unlikely prospect of reoffending.
A man has been convicted of manslaughter at the Central Criminal Court following a ten-week trial in connection with the death of a drug dealer in Dublin. Dean Caffrey, aged 38, of Beaucort, Achill Road, Drumcondra, was acquitted of murder but found guilty of the unlawful killing of Sean McCarthy, 28, on August 2, 2022. The jury reached their majority verdict after more than twelve hours of deliberation. The court heard that Caffrey, a cocaine and cannabis user with accumulated drug debts, allowed McCarthy to use his apartment to store drugs as part payment. On the day in question, Caffrey told gardai that McCarthy arrived agitated and armed, accusing him of theft and making threats. During a struggle, Caffrey claimed the gun discharged fatally. Following McCarthy's death, Caffrey placed the body in a wardrobe, where it remained for four days whilst he continued his daily routine. He attended work and visited his ex-girlfriend before presenting himself at Ashbourne Garda Station and directing gardai to the remains. Dean Caffrey pleaded not guilty.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has paused deliberations after approximately eleven hours of consideration in the trial of Dean Caffrey, who denies murdering Sean McCarthy. The twelve jurors will resume their discussions on Monday after being unavailable tomorrow. Mr Caffrey, aged 38 and from Achill Road in Dublin, faces charges of murder in connection with the death of Mr McCarthy, a 28-year-old drug dealer. Mr McCarthy died from a single gunshot wound to the head sustained at Mr Caffrey's residence. The defence maintains Mr Caffrey acted in self-defence during a struggle, while the prosecution contends he intentionally killed his victim. Mr McCarthy's body was discovered four days after he went missing on 2 August 2022, concealed in a wardrobe at the accused's home. Mr Justice Paul McDermott has instructed the jury they must determine guilt on the charge of murder, manslaughter, or acquittal. Mr Caffrey presented himself to gardaí days after the incident and disclosed the location of the deceased's remains. Dean Caffrey pleaded not guilty.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court is continuing deliberations in the murder trial of Dean Caffrey, aged 38, of Beaucourt, Achill Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9. The twelve-person jury has now deliberated for just under seven hours across three days in the case concerning the death of Sean McCarthy, aged 28, between 2 and 7 August 2022. Mr Caffrey has pleaded not guilty to murder. The prosecution alleged Mr Caffrey deliberately killed Mr McCarthy, while the defence maintains he acted in self-defence during a struggle over a firearm at Mr Caffrey's apartment in Achill, Mayo. Mr McCarthy's body was subsequently discovered concealed in a wardrobe. The jury must determine whether Mr Caffrey is guilty of murder, manslaughter, or not guilty of any offence. Yesterday the jury requested to examine the firearm involved. Deliberations will resume on the following day.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has asked to examine the firearm and clothing connected to a fatal shooting as they deliberate in a murder trial. Dean Caffrey, aged 38 of Achill Road, Dublin, has pleaded not guilty to murdering Sean McCarthy, a 28-year-old whose body was discovered in a wardrobe at Caffrey's apartment four days after he went missing in August 2022. McCarthy died from a single gunshot wound to the head. The defence argues Caffrey acted in self-defence during a struggle, while the prosecution contends the killing was an execution. The jury requested sight of the weapon and the deceased's shorts to assess whether they bore a drawstring. Justice Paul McDermott confirmed the shorts are agreed to have had a drawstring but cannot be presented due to biohazard concerns. The panel will resume consideration of their verdict tomorrow.
At the Central Criminal Court, defence counsel for Dean Caffrey has urged the jury to acquit his client of murdering Sean McCarthy, arguing that the prosecution case lacks foundation. Lorcan Staines SC submitted that conviction would constitute a travesty, contending there is no evidence Mr Caffrey lured the deceased to his apartment for execution. Mr Staines criticised the Director of Public Prosecutions for partisan presentation and breach of disclosure obligations, noting that material supporting the defence was withheld until six weeks into the trial. Mr Caffrey, aged 38 of Beaucourt, Achill Road, Drumcondra, Dublin, has pleaded not guilty to murder. The prosecution alleges Mr McCarthy was executed; the defence maintains he was shot during a struggle after arriving armed at Mr Caffrey's home in August 2022. Mr Staines emphasised Mr McCarthy's background as a drug dealer with known firearm access, contrasting this with his client's lack of violence history. The jury will hear Mr Justice Paul McDermott's charge on Friday before retiring to consider their verdict.
A 33-year-old man from Claremorris, County Mayo, has been sentenced to four and a half years imprisonment, suspended in full, after pleading guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. James Glynn was apprehended in November 2023 following a garda surveillance operation in Tallaght, Dublin, during which officers observed him receiving a suitcase containing 10.7 kilograms of cannabis valued at approximately €215,000. During interview, Glynn disclosed that he had accumulated a €1,000 drug debt whilst relocating from Dublin to Mayo. When he later sought to settle this obligation, he was informed the amount had escalated to €26,000, with additional "tax" imposed. He agreed to transport the drugs to repay the inflated debt under duress. Judge Pauline Codd noted the circumstances as exceptional, describing it as extraordinary that a modest debt could multiply so dramatically at the discretion of higher-level drug traffickers. The sentence includes 12 months' probation supervision and mandatory continuation of counselling.
At the Central Criminal Court in Dublin, a murder trial heard that Dean Caffrey (38) made enquiries about renting a storage unit shortly after the death of Sean McCarthy (28). Mr Caffrey, of Beaucort, Achill Road, Drumcondra, denies murdering Mr McCarthy, whose body was discovered in a wardrobe at the accused's apartment four days after he went missing in August 2022. Prosecution counsel Kathleen Noctor SC told the court that the accused had told gardaí the deceased arrived armed and threatened him over a suspected heroin theft, and that a struggle ensued during which he discharged a firearm fatally. Emma Flynn, an employee of a Dublin storage company, testified that on 3 August 2022, a man identifying himself as Dean Caffrey submitted an online request for a storage unit at the Charlestown depot. Ms Flynn confirmed she subsequently spoke with the customer by telephone. The trial, before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury, continues. Dean Caffrey pleaded not guilty.
Evidence heard at the Central Criminal Court on Monday has revealed that modified blank-firing pistols are becoming increasingly prevalent, with one such weapon used in a 2022 fatal shooting in Dublin. Detective Garda Janette O'Neill testified that a converted Zoraki blank pistol was recovered during the investigation into the death of Sean McCarthy. The firearm had been deliberately altered with a new barrel and had its serial number removed, making it capable of firing .32 calibre ammunition. Det Gda O'Neill stated that such modifications are illegal under the Firearms Act and that these weapons appear to be arriving from Europe with growing frequency. Dean Caffrey, aged 38, of Achill Road, Drumcondra, Dublin, has pleaded not guilty to Mr McCarthy's murder between August 2 and 7, 2022. The prosecution contends Mr Caffrey intended to kill or cause serious injury when discharging the firearm. The trial, heard before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury, continues.
At the Central Criminal Court, the jury heard that the family of Dean Caffrey became fearful when three men visited their parents' home in Achill, County Mayo, seeking information about the accused. Alan Caffrey, the defendant's brother, testified that he received a concerning phone call four days after drug dealer Sean McCarthy was last seen, with the caller asking if his brother had "answers to questions" and making reference to "dead bodies". Alarmed for his family's safety, Alan Caffrey resolved to locate his brother and bring him to gardaí. Dean Caffrey subsequently attended Ashbourne Garda Station in County Meath, where he informed officers that Mr McCarthy's body could be found in a wardrobe in his apartment. Mr Caffrey has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Sean McCarthy between 2 and 7 August 2022. The prosecution contends he discharged a firearm with intent to kill or cause serious injury. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury.
A murder trial at the Central Criminal Court has heard evidence concerning the day after a man's death in a Drumcondra apartment. A work colleague testified that Dean Caffrey, who is accused of murdering Sean McCarthy on August 2, 2022, appeared to be in good form while working at Dublin Airport three days after the alleged incident. The witness said Caffrey chatted about sport and women during their shift and was frequently on his phone, mentioning plans for a holiday. Separately, Caffrey's ex-girlfriend told the court she had planned to visit his home that day but changed her mind after he said he had been napping. The trial heard that Caffrey later attended Gardaí voluntarily and directed officers to McCarthy's body, which was found wrapped in plastic inside a suitcase in a wardrobe. Caffrey, aged 38, of Beaucort, Achill Road, Drumcondra, has pleaded not guilty to murder. The prosecution alleges he intended to kill or cause serious injury. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury.
James Kilroy, 51, from Kilbree Lower, Westport, Co Mayo, has been granted legal aid to appeal his murder conviction. He was unanimously convicted at the Central Criminal Court of murdering his wife in June 2019, following his third trial after two previous proceedings collapsed. The jury rejected Kilroy's insanity defence, which centred on cannabis-induced psychosis. During the trial, psychiatric experts disagreed on whether such a condition constitutes a valid legal defence under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act. The trial judge noted the jury's verdict accorded with legislative policy, as self-induced scenarios are not recognised defences. Kilroy received a life sentence last summer. The Court of Appeal granted him legal aid for two counsel to pursue his conviction appeal, one of twelve applications heard that morning.
The Central Criminal Court has heard evidence during the murder trial of Dean Caffrey, aged 38, of Beaucourt, Achill Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9. Mr Caffrey has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Sean McCarthy between August 2 and 7, 2022. Garda Brian Davis confirmed to the defence that the deceased was known to gardaí as a drug dealer in the Ballymun area. According to the prosecution, Mr Caffrey presented himself at Ashbourne Garda Station two days after Mr McCarthy was reported missing and disclosed the location of a body in his apartment wardrobe. The accused has stated that Mr McCarthy was fatally shot during a struggle over a firearm after demanding €5,000. State Pathologist Dr SallyAnne Collis confirmed death resulted from a gunshot wound to the head. CCTV evidence charting the deceased's movements on August 2, 2022, was presented to the jury. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul McDermott.
At the Central Criminal Court, the State Pathologist has given evidence in the murder trial of Dean Caffrey, aged 38, of Beaucort, Achill Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9. Dr SallyAnne Collis examined the remains of Sean McCarthy, aged 28, discovered in a suitcase within a wardrobe at the accused's home. The body had been wrapped in bubble wrap and plastic bags secured with tape. Dr Collis identified a gunshot wound to the head as the cause of death, with a bullet lodged in the back of the skull and an entry wound above the left eyebrow. She noted the body was significantly decomposed, consistent with a four-day interval before discovery. The pathologist also observed facial fractures and bruising. Under cross-examination, Dr Collis acknowledged she could not determine the distance from which the firearm was discharged or confirm the bullet's trajectory beyond its entry and exit points. Mr Caffrey has pleaded not guilty to murder allegedly committed between 2 and 7 August 2022. The prosecution alleges the shooting occurred during a confrontation over a drug debt.
A man accused of murder appeared at the Central Criminal Court on October 10th after voluntarily presenting himself to gardaí with information about a body. Dean Caffrey, aged 38, of Beaucort, Achill Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Sean McCarthy, aged 28, between August 2nd and 7th, 2022. The prosecution outlined that Mr Caffrey attended Ashbourne Garda Station two days after Mr McCarthy was reported missing, stating the deceased was located in his apartment wardrobe. During subsequent interviews, the accused alleged Mr McCarthy had arrived at his home armed and demanding €5,000 over a heroin-related debt, and that a struggle over the firearm resulted in a fatal shot. A pistol was recovered from the Tolka River near Mr Caffrey's residence. The trial before Mr Justice Paul McDermott continues with a jury of seven men and five women.
Dean Caffrey, a 38-year-old man from Drumcondra, Dublin 9, has been arraigned at the Central Criminal Court and is set to stand trial on Thursday. He has pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Sean McCarthy, aged 28, which is said to have occurred on a date unknown between August 2 and 7, 2022, in the State. The victim's body was reportedly found in Drumcondra two years ago. Justice Caroline Biggs swore in a jury of seven men and five women to hear the case. The trial is scheduled to begin before Justice Paul McDermott and is expected to last six weeks. As the matter is at the trial stage, no findings, sentences, or final disposals have been recorded. The defendant's plea remains not guilty, and the allegations are contested. No adjournments, suspended portions, or effective custody periods have been reported in this procedural update.
Three men have had their convictions upheld by the Court of Appeal following a vigilante attack on security personnel at a repossessed farmhouse near Strokestown, County Roscommon, in December 2018. Martin O'Toole, aged 60, of Claremorris, County Mayo; PJ Sweeney, aged 59, of Ramelton, County Donegal; and Paul Beirne, aged 58, of Boyle, County Roscommon, were each sentenced to fifteen years imprisonment after being convicted of fifteen charges including aggravated burglary, violent disorder, false imprisonment and assault causing harm. Mr Justice Peter Charleton described the offences as "the most barbaric violations of human rights", rejecting arguments regarding evidence admissibility and identification procedures. The judge noted that approximately thirty to forty people participated in the incident, during which armed assailants beat security staff, set vehicles alight, and fatally injured a dog. The court dismissed all appeals and affirmed the convictions.
James Kilroy was sentenced to life imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court today following his conviction for the murder of his wife, Valerie French, at their home in Kilbree Lower, Westport, County Mayo, between 13 and 14 June 2019. Kilroy had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, but a jury rejected that defence. The State Pathologist determined that Ms French died from ligature strangulation combined with blunt force trauma and a stab wound to the neck. During sentencing, Ms French's family called for legislative change to prevent convicted murderers from retaining parental rights over their children, citing similar protections in the United Kingdom. The victim's brother told the court that Kilroy has demonstrated no remorse and attempted to avoid accountability for the killing. Ms French's family emphasised the widespread impact on relatives, friends and the community, and urged women experiencing abuse to contact gardaí.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has unanimously convicted James Kilroy of the murder of his wife, Valerie French Kilroy, at their home in Kilbree Lower, Westport, County Mayo, in June 2019. The conviction marks the conclusion of his third trial since 2021, with previous proceedings having collapsed due to unforeseen difficulties. Kilroy had mounted an insanity defence, claiming he was suffering cannabis-induced psychosis when he fatally beat, stabbed and strangled his wife. The jury of eight women and four men rejected this claim after deliberating for approximately two hours. Expert psychiatric evidence was divided on whether cannabis-induced psychosis constitutes a valid defence under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act, though the prosecution's consultant psychiatrist argued such conditions fall within the definition of intoxication rather than mental disorder. Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding, stated the verdict represented the correct outcome, noting that self-induced scenarios cannot serve as defences. Kilroy will receive the mandatory life sentence at sentencing on the following Monday, when the victim's family will be afforded the opportunity to address the court.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court is considering whether cannabis-induced psychosis constitutes a mental disorder that could support an insanity defence in the trial of James Kilroy, charged with the murder of his wife Valerie French Kilroy at their home in Kilbree Lower, Westport, County Mayo, between 13th and 14th June 2019. Mr Justice Tony Hunt charged the jury following conflicting expert psychiatric evidence. The defence called Dr Ronan Mullaney and Dr Lisa Wootton, who concluded that Mr Kilroy was experiencing drug-induced or acute psychotic disorder and met criteria for a special verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. The prosecution's Professor Harry Kennedy argued that cannabis-induced conditions fall within intoxication, which cannot constitute a legal defence. The judge instructed the jury to determine the ordinary meaning of "intoxicating influence" in this context. The prosecution closing submission questioned whether the defence experts' conclusions withstand scrutiny, whilst the defence emphasised toxicology evidence showing no THC intoxication. The jury, having deliberated less than an hour, will resume tomorrow. The unnamed man was acquitted.
A former seminarian's prison sentence has been increased by two years following a Court of Appeal ruling that his original five-year term was unduly lenient. Aidan Gallagher, aged 41, of Dadreen, Killadoon, Westport, County Mayo, was convicted by jury in May 2023 of six counts of oral rape of his cousin on dates between 1998 and 2003. The Central Criminal Court jury sat in Carrick-on-Shannon, County Leitrim. Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy found that the sentencing judge had erred by treating all offences as committed while Gallagher was a minor, despite one occurring when he was 19 years old. The court imposed a revised sentence of seven years on each count, running concurrently. Gallagher had denied the allegations across two trials. The victim waived anonymity to allow her cousin's naming in reporting. Gallagher, who was due for ordination, has no previous convictions.
At the Central Criminal Court, two toxicologists have given evidence that it is "highly unlikely" a man accused of murdering his wife was intoxicated from cannabis at the time of the alleged killing. James Kilroy, aged 51, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of his wife at their home in Kilbree Lower, Westport, County Mayo, between 13th and 14th June 2019. Dr Johann Grundlingh, called by the defence, based his assessment on blood and urine tests taken after Mr Kilroy's arrest, both of which were negative for THC. He noted the symptoms described by Mr Kilroy—including hallucinations and delusions—were inconsistent with cannabis intoxication or withdrawal. Dr Atholl Johnston, called by the prosecution, concurred with these findings. The trial has heard conflicting psychiatric evidence regarding Mr Kilroy's mental state at the time. Mr Justice Tony Hunt adjourned proceedings, describing the expert evidence as complex, before the jury returns to hear closing speeches on Thursday.
A murder trial at the Central Criminal Court heard that a Westport man accused of killing his wife was experiencing acute and transient psychotic disorder at the time of the alleged killing. James Kilroy, aged 51, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of Valerie French Kilroy at their home in Kilbree Lower between June 13th and 14th, 2019. Defence psychiatric expert Dr Lisa Wootton testified that Mr Kilroy was likely suffering from the condition rather than cannabis-induced psychosis. She outlined that he held various delusional beliefs, including that his wife was involved in a plot with associates of Donald Trump to have him captured and killed, and that he was on a divine mission. Dr Wootton stated such delusions would have prevented him from understanding the wrongfulness of his actions. The prosecution called Professor Harry Kennedy, who offered a different diagnosis relating to cannabis intoxication. The trial continues.
A former clinical director of the Central Mental Hospital has told the Central Criminal Court that drug-induced psychosis does not constitute a mental disorder qualifying for an insanity verdict. Professor Harry Kennedy gave expert evidence in the trial of James Kilroy, aged 51, from Kilbree Lower, Westport, County Mayo, who has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of his wife, Valerie French Kilroy, in June 2019. The accused accepts responsibility for the killing but claims diminished responsibility due to mental illness. The defence called Dr Ronan Mullaney, who suggested the accused suffered cannabis-induced psychosis at the time. Professor Kennedy disputed this diagnosis, stating that cannabis-induced psychosis results directly from drug use and therefore constitutes intoxication rather than a qualifying mental disorder under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act. He told the jury that the accused understood the nature of his actions and knew they were wrongful.
Three men have appealed their convictions for involvement in a vigilante attack on security personnel at a repossessed farmhouse near Strokestown, County Roscommon, in December 2018. Martin O'Toole, PJ Sweeney, and Paul Beirne were convicted in June 2023 of fifteen charges including aggravated burglary, violent disorder, and animal cruelty. During the incident, a group of armed men forced entry to the property at Falsk, attacking security guards with weapons including a baseball bat, meat cleaver, and chainsaw. The guards were beaten, restrained with cable ties, and a dog was beaten unconscious and subsequently euthanised. At the Court of Appeal, the appellants' counsel challenged the admissibility of video evidence and questioned whether guilt could be established given the number of people present. They also contested identification procedures and the lawfulness of certain detentions. The State's counsel argued that video footage clearly identified the appellants and demonstrated a common design among those involved. Mr Justice Peter Charleton reserved judgement.
A psychiatrist has testified at the Central Criminal Court that a Westport man accused of murdering his wife was not suffering from a mental disorder at the time of her death. James Kilroy, aged 51, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the charge of murdering Valerie French Kilroy at their home in Kilbree Lower between June 13 and 14, 2019. The court heard that the accused accepts responsibility for killing his wife, who died from strangulation, blunt force trauma, and a stab wound to the neck. Consultant psychiatrist Dr Camilla Curtis assessed Mr Kilroy shortly after his arrest and concluded he did not meet the criteria for detention under the Mental Health Act. The trial before Mr Justice Tony Hunt continues, with the prosecution indicating that conflicting psychiatric evidence will be presented. The defence accepts the defendant killed his wife.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has viewed the bloodied knife and hatchet used in the killing of a woman at her home in Westport, County Mayo. James Kilroy, aged fifty-one, a park ranger, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to murdering his wife Valerie French Kilroy at Kilbree Lower between June thirteenth and fourteenth, 2019. During the trial, gardaí gave evidence that a twenty-centimetre knife, bent at nearly ninety degrees, was discovered at the scene with the victim's blood upon it. Detective Garda Sergeant Michael Doherty of Castlebar Garda Station outlined how the accused demonstrated to gardaí how the killing occurred and sketched the weapon. The defence has accepted that the accused killed his wife. A pathology report established that Mrs French Kilroy died from ligature strangulation, blunt force trauma to the head, and a stab wound to the neck. The trial, before Mr Justice Tony Hunt, continues.
A Central Criminal Court jury has heard that psychiatric evidence is disputed in the trial of James Kilroy (51), charged with murdering his wife Valerie French Kilroy (41) at their rural home near Westport and Castlebar in County Mayo in June 2019. Anne-Marie Lawlor SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, told the court that the accused is expected to accept he caused his wife's death by blunt force trauma, strangulation, and stabbing. A defence psychiatrist will testify that Mr Kilroy was experiencing cannabis-induced psychosis at the time and meets the legal criteria for a not guilty verdict by reason of insanity. A prosecution psychiatrist will contradict this assessment. The jury will also hear from toxicologists regarding intoxication, which cannot constitute a legal defence to murder. The court has been informed that four possible verdicts are available: guilty of murder, not guilty by reason of insanity, guilty of manslaughter on grounds of diminished responsibility, or acquittal. Mr Kilroy has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt.
Eddie Rockets (Ireland) Limited and Rockets Franchising DAC have secured a temporary injunction from the High Court restraining the alleged unauthorised transfer of two restaurant franchises. The proceedings concern franchises at Charlestown Shopping Centre in Finglas and at Clarehall in North Dublin, which the plaintiffs claim were transferred in breach of sale and franchise agreements. The defendants include Ziggy Investments Limited, which held the franchises since 2020, shareholders Lisa Marie Deegan and Jacinta Deegan, and businessman Brian Dunne, a former Eddie Rockets franchise holder alleged to have acquired Ziggy Investments. The court heard that Eddie Rockets had agreements in place to purchase the franchises, but learned this month that Ziggy Investments had been sold. Mr Justice David Nolan granted the temporary injunction on an ex-parte basis, restraining the defendants from breaching the franchise agreements and preventing Mr Dunne from interfering with the plaintiff's intellectual property. The matter returns to court later in the week.
A barrister from Castlebar has had his public order conviction overturned on appeal. Simeon Burke, aged 25, was convicted in July 2023 at Dublin District Court and fined €300 following an incident at the Four Courts on Inns Quay in March that year. The breach of the peace charge related to his behaviour during proceedings involving his brother's legal case before the Court of Appeal. At the District Court Appeals hearing on 15 April, Judge John Martin allowed Mr Burke's appeal and quashed the conviction. The judge found insufficient evidence that Mr Burke's conduct met the criminal threshold required for a public order offence under the relevant legislation. Garda witnesses had testified that Mr Burke resisted and obstructed officers during removal from the courtroom, including making comments about unrelated matters. However, Judge Martin concluded the requisite standard for criminal conviction had not been established beyond reasonable doubt. Mr Burke had argued that gardaí adopted an overzealous approach and removed him without a valid judicial order to do so.
A man convicted of killing his wife in Finglas, Dublin in 2021 has been returned to the Central Mental Hospital for continued treatment. Diego Costa Silva, aged 35, was found not guilty of murder by reason of insanity following his trial at the Central Criminal Court earlier this month. He had pleaded not guilty to the charge relating to the death of his wife on November 4, 2021 at their home in Charlestown Place. Evidence presented to the jury established that Mr Costa Silva was suffering from cannabis-induced psychosis at the time, causing him to believe his wife was possessed and posed a threat to him. Two forensic psychiatrists confirmed he met the criteria for a finding of insanity under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act 2006. At today's hearing, Mr Justice Michael MacGrath ordered his return to the Central Mental Hospital, where a consultant psychiatrist confirmed he continues to require in-patient treatment. His case will be reviewed again on July 29.
A man from Charlestown, County Mayo, has been found not guilty of murdering his wife by reason of insanity at the Central Criminal Court. The jury unanimously determined that Diego Costa Silva was suffering from cannabis-induced psychosis when he killed his wife, Fabiola De Campos Silva, at their home in Finglas, Dublin, on 4 November 2021. Two forensic psychiatrists gave evidence that Mr Silva's mental disorder caused him to believe his wife was possessed by a serpent and would kill him. Medical professionals had noted signs of psychosis after he was detained two days before the killing and recommended he remain as a voluntary patient, but he left hospital. Mr Silva was remanded to the Central Mental Hospital for assessment, with the case to return to court on 22 March for a psychiatric report on his current condition. The jury deliberated for two hours and 24 minutes before reaching their verdict.
Diego Costa Silva, 35, pleaded not guilty to the murder of his wife, Fabiola Camara De Campos Silva, 33, at their home in Charlestown Place, Finglas, Dublin 11, on November 4, 2021. The Central Criminal Court heard evidence from two consultant psychiatrists who agreed that Mr Costa Silva suffered from a cannabis-induced psychotic disorder, a mental disorder under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act 2006. They testified that he believed his wife was possessed by a serpent and that he had to decapitate her to ensure the serpent was dead. Both experts stated that due to this disorder, Mr Costa Silva did not understand the nature and quality of his actions or that they were wrong. Prosecution and defence counsel both submitted that the evidence supports a finding of not guilty by reason of insanity. Mr Justice Michael MacGrath has begun charging the jury, who will consider their verdict tomorrow. The matter is at the sentencing stage following the validated procedural stage, though the final verdict is pending.
Diego Costa Silva, 35, pleaded not guilty to the murder of his wife, De Campos Silva, 33, at their home in Charlestown Place, Finglas, on November 4, 2021. The Central Criminal Court jury is being asked to return a special verdict under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act 2006. Detective Garda Carl Smith testified that Mr Costa Silva told gardai he heard voices and believed his wife was possessed, stating, "sometimes you have to behead somebody." He alleged he felt unsafe after confessing to infidelity and feared his wife would kill him. He described striking her with a cup, choking her, stabbing her, and cutting off her head with a knife. Det Sgt Louise McHugh stated that following interviews, Mr Costa Silva was released from detention before she arrested and charged him with murder. Garda Colin Miley testified that two days prior, he found Mr Costa Silva distressed and disorientated while running barefoot in Dublin city centre. Mr Costa Silva was detained under the Mental Health Act and taken to the Mater Hospital, where he expressed suicidal thoughts. A urine analysis was positive for cannabis. The accused has only previous convictions for minor road traffic matters. The trial continues before Mr Justice Michael MacGrath.
A trial at the Central Criminal Court has heard allegations that Diego Costa Silva, aged 35, fatally attacked his wife at their apartment on Charlestown Place, Finglas, Dublin in November 2021. The prosecution alleges that Mr Costa Silva struck his wife, Fabiola Camara De Campos Silva, aged 33, with knives and severed her head from her body. Emergency services were called in the early morning of November 4th, with the accused telling responders he believed he had killed his wife. Gardaí discovered the deceased in a doorway with knife wounds and a blade protruding from her chest. Mr Costa Silva has pleaded not guilty to murder. The defence has made admissions regarding the death but indicated it will seek a special verdict under the Criminal Law Insanity Act 2006, centring on the accused's mental state at the time. Psychiatric evidence from both prosecution and defence experts will be presented to the jury. The trial before Mr Justice Michael MacGrath continues.
A 35-year-old Brazilian man pleaded not guilty at the Central Criminal Court today to the murder of his wife at their home in Dublin in November 2021. Diego Costa Silva is charged with the killing of Fabiola Camara De Campos Silva at Charlestown Place, Finglas. The trial, which opened before Mr Justice Michael MacGrath and a jury, is expected to last approximately five days. The court will consider the question of insanity as a special verdict. The prosecution's case will be supported by evidence from gardaí, emergency service personnel, and two consultant forensic psychiatrists. Both the accused and his wife had emigrated from Brazil, with Mr Costa Silva having worked at a public house in Blanchardstown.
James Kilroy, 50, will face a third trial for the alleged murder of his wife, Valerie French Kilroy, 41, at the Central Criminal Court. Mr Justice Paul McDermott set the new trial date for May 29, 2024, following the collapse of the second trial last week. The previous proceedings, which had heard two weeks of evidence, were halted because an expert witness was unable to complete their testimony. The defence is currently seeking a replacement for that witness. Mr Kilroy had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the killing of Ms French Kilroy at their rural home in Kilbree Lower, Westport, Co Mayo, between June 13 and June 14, 2019. The jury in the collapsed trial heard evidence that Ms French Kilroy died from strangulation with a ligature, blunt force trauma to the head, and a stab wound to the neck. As the matter is at the trial stage and has been adjourned for a future date, it has not been concluded or finalised. No sentence or finding has been recorded for this procedural stage.
The murder trial of James Kilroy, accused of killing his wife Valerie French Kilroy at their home in Kilbree Lower, Westport, Co Mayo, has collapsed for a second time at the Central Criminal Court. The trial, which had been in progress since November 8th, was unable to continue after a key defence witness, psychiatrist Professor Keith Rix, became unavailable to complete his testimony. Mr Justice Paul McDermott discharged the jury of five men and seven women, informing them that the evidence given by Professor Rix was significant but could not now be finished. The trial will proceed afresh before a different jury on a date to be fixed on November 28th. Mr Kilroy, aged 50, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of occupational therapist Ms French Kilroy, aged 41, who died between June 13th and 14th, 2019. The defendant was remanded in custody.
A clinical toxicologist has given evidence at the Central Criminal Court that a Westport man accused of murdering his wife was likely not under the influence of cannabis at the time of her death, despite a long history of drug use. James Kilroy, aged 50, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of Valerie French Kilroy at their home in Kilbree Lower between 13 and 14 June 2019. Dr Johann Grundlingh told the court that whilst Mr Kilroy's urine tested clear of cannabis two days after the killing, chronic exposure to the drug may have triggered a psychotic episode in a vulnerable person. The witness stated that intoxication from cannabis typically lasts hours rather than days. Under prosecution cross-examination, Dr Grundlingh acknowledged it remained possible Mr Kilroy had consumed cannabis after his last admitted use on 7 June. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury.
At the Central Criminal Court, a forensic psychiatrist testified that James Kilroy experienced a psychotic episode in October 2001, some eighteen years before the alleged killing of his wife. Professor Keith Rix told the jury that medical records from that earlier episode showed the accused had used cannabis approximately two weeks prior and subsequently developed abnormal beliefs and perceptions. The witness outlined that in the weeks preceding the death of Valerie French Kilroy at their home in Kilbree Lower, Westport, Co Mayo, the accused exhibited an escalating pattern of delusional thinking, including beliefs about surveillance and poisoning. The psychiatrist stated that cannabis use two weeks before the incident constituted a substance-induced psychotic episode in a vulnerable person rather than simple intoxication. Mr Kilroy, aged fifty, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder charge. Ms French Kilroy, aged forty-one, an occupational therapist, died in June 2019 from strangulation, blunt force trauma, and a stab wound. The trial is ongoing before Mr Justice Paul McDermott.