The Central Criminal Court trial of Kieran Greene, Louise O'Connor, Stephanie O'Connor, and Keith Johnston is ongoing. Greene, 35, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Patricia O'Connor, 61, at her home in Rathfarnham, Dublin 14, on May 29, 2017. The other three accused have pleaded not guilty to charges of impeding the apprehension or prosecution of an offender. The jury was told that Augustine 'Gus' O'Connor, 75, originally part of the trial, pleaded guilty on the first hearing date to reporting his wife missing on June 1, 2017, while knowing she was dead. Evidence presented includes Detective Inspector Brian O'Keeffe's testimony regarding Greene's initial statements and subsequent retraction, where Greene alleged he was set up. The prosecution closed its case, and defence counsel made applications in the jury's absence. The court heard that Mrs O'Connor's remains were found dismembered in the Dublin and Wicklow mountains. Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned the proceedings, instructing the jury to return the following morning at 12pm.
In a High Court ruling, Ms Justice Teresa Pilkington granted a permanent injunction to Fun2see Learning & Activity Centre Limited, preventing landlord Pargo Properties One Limited from re‑entering or taking possession of Unit 21, Ashbourne Retail Park, Co Meath. The injunction, originally granted in September, remains in force until the full hearing of the landlord‑tenant dispute. Fun2see, which employs 32 people, disputes a €1.48 million rent arrears claim issued by the landlord after a notice of forfeiture. Fun2see argues it has always paid a reduced rent of €1,500 per week, a figure it claims was agreed orally in May 2012 and has not increased since. The court noted that no agreement was reached on the arrears and that the injunction is appropriate pending the full hearing, which is scheduled for March. The injunction also bars the landlord from interfering with Fun2see's business operations.
In October 2020, the Special Criminal Court will hear the case of Caolan Smyth, 28, who was arrested in October 2019 for attempted murder after a shooting at a Topaz garage in Clonshaugh, north Dublin, on 10 May 2017. Smyth, who was charged at Coolock Garda station, was found guilty of attempted murder and the DPP requested a trial in the Special Criminal Court, a request that was granted. The court also heard the case of Gary McAreavy, 52, of Castlebellingham, who faces a connected charge of impeding a prosecution for the same incident. McAreavy was ordered to sign daily at Dundalk Garda Station, obey a 9 pm‑7 am curfew, and was granted legal aid. Judge Tony Hunt set the trial date for 5 October 2020 and remanded McAreavy on continuing bail to appear again on 28 May 2021. The proceedings remain at the trial stage, with no verdict or sentencing announced.
Ben O'Reilly, a 21‑year‑old former youth rugby player, was convicted of assaulting Fernanda de Freitas, a transgender escort, at her home on 20 May 2017. The trial, held in December 2019 at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, found him guilty of assault but acquitted him of robbery. Judge Elma Sheahan sentenced him to two years' imprisonment, fully suspended on the condition he pays €10,000 in compensation to Ms de Freitas within 12 months. The judge noted the seriousness of the offence, the loss of support from family and friends, his suspension from the rugby club, and his good character and youth as mitigating factors. O'Reilly had no prior convictions and had been enlisted in the UK army, where a custodial sentence would have led to discharge. The case involved a dispute over payment for escort services, an initial payment of €150, and a subsequent assault after the victim demanded the remainder of the agreed €500. Ben O'Reilly pleaded not guilty.
The High Court approved a Personal Insolvency Arrangement for Neal Sweeney of Liscarton House, Navan, who owes over €2 million. The arrangement is the first approved by the High Court to involve a debt‑for‑equity swap. Sweeney's main secured creditor, Promontoria Scarriff DAC, accepted a 41 % share in his family home, valued at €600 000, in exchange for the debt. Other creditors include Promontoria Finn Ltd and Cabot Finance Ireland Ltd. The debt arose from arrears on the mortgage of the family home and residual debt from a previously sold property. Sweeney, who now works in the building sector, will continue to repay the €350 000 mortgage. The decision was made by Mr Justice Denis McDonald and was not contested by the creditors. The case is part of a broader trend of debt‑for‑equity swaps pending before the High Court.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, 19‑year‑old Jabari Crichlow was given a four‑year suspended sentence for violently attacking and robbing a 66‑year‑old retired delivery man on Deerhaven Avenue, Clonee, in November 2017. The victim suffered a broken nose, concussion, chipped teeth, and ongoing headaches and fear of further attacks. Crichlow pleaded guilty to robbery and was previously placed on a 12‑month probation bond. After a favourable probation report showing no significant attention and re‑establishment of a good relationship with his mother, Judge Melanie Greally suspended the sentence on strict conditions: cessation of association with negative peers and 240 hours of community service within 12 months. The court noted the victim's loss of over €1,000 in income and the physical and psychological impact of the assault. The case was adjourned twice before the final suspended sentence was imposed.
A 28‑year‑old man, Caolan Smyth, has been charged with the attempted murder of James Gately, a 31‑year‑old father of two from north inner‑city Dublin, following a drive‑by shooting on 10 May 2017. Gately was shot five times at a Topaz garage in Clonshaugh, sustaining injuries to his neck and upper chest while seated in a car, but survived. Smyth was arrested at Coolock Garda station in October 2019 and appeared before Judge Geraldine Carthy at Dublin District Court. The State solicitor, Michael O'Donovan, requested that the case be heard in the Special Criminal Court, a request that Judge Tony Hunt approved. The trial is scheduled to commence on 5 October 2024 at 11 a.m. and is expected to last three weeks. The court also set a mention date of 28 May 2024 to ensure the proceedings proceed smoothly, noting that Smyth will not need to appear on that date.
The High Court will decide in five to six weeks whether to approve a personal insolvency arrangement (PIA) for musician Frank McNamara and barrister Theresa Lowe, who owe €3.7 million. Judge Denis McDonald had previously said he would not proceed until an affidavit clarifying Mr McNamara's inheritance was filed. Financial fund Tanager DAC, owed €2.26 million and secured against the couple's €550 000 home, objects to the PIA and raises a potential €4 000 tax liability linked to a €28 000 gift that was moved from Mrs Lowe's account to Mr McNamara's and then distributed to their four children. The couple's counsel argues all issues have been addressed and that the tax claim should not block the PIA.
A 41‑year‑old UK national, David Hunter, is accused of murdering Michael Barr, a 35‑year‑old manager from Co Tyrone, who was shot seven times at the Sunset House pub on 25 April 2016. Mr Justice Tony Hunt set the trial for the non‑jury Special Criminal Court to begin on 10 June 2020, with an expected duration of four weeks. The court also scheduled a mention on 3 April 2020 to ensure all matters are in order, and ruled that Mr Hunter need not appear on that date.
A 28‑year‑old man, Caolan Smyth, is charged with the attempted murder of 31‑year‑old James Gately, who was shot five times in a drive‑by shooting at a Topaz garage in Clonshaugh, north Dublin, on 10 May 2017. Gately was injured in the neck and upper chest but survived. Smyth was arrested in October 2019 and appeared before Judge Geraldine Carthy at Dublin District Court. The State solicitor requested that the case be transferred to the Special Criminal Court, and Judge Tony Hunt granted the order.
Ryszard Gieron, 42, was given a suspended two‑year sentence for dangerous driving that caused the death of taxi passenger Mark Gerety, 39, on 23 June 2017. Gieron drove through a red light at the junction of North Circular Road and Summerhill Parade, colliding with a taxi that had a green light. The taxi flipped over, and Mark sustained fatal injuries. Gardaí found no evidence of speeding, intoxication or fatigue. Gieron had no prior convictions, had been driving on a provisional licence for seven years, and behaved appropriately after the collision. The judge noted the absence of aggravating factors and accepted Gieron's explanation that he believed the light was green, deciding that imprisonment would be unjust. The sentence was fully suspended, with no custodial time imposed. The case was heard at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Ryszard Gieron pleaded guilty.
David Hunter, a 41‑year‑old UK national, faces trial in the Special Criminal Court for the murder of Michael Barr, a 35‑year‑old Dublin bar manager. Barr, a father of five from County Tyrone, was shot seven times at the Sunset House pub on Summerhill Parade on 25 April 2016. Hunter was arrested at Baldonnel Aerodrome, charged at Dublin District Court, and appeared before Judge John Hughes. On 16 October, State solicitor Ciara Vibien requested that he be tried in the Special Criminal Court, a request that Judge Paul Coffey granted.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Mr Justice Paul McDermott sentenced two 15‑year‑old boys to life with a review after 12 years and 15 years with a review after eight years, respectively, for the murder and sexual assault of 14‑year‑old Ana Kriegel. The boys will be detained in a young offenders centre until 18, then transferred to an adult prison. The judge noted the boys' ages as a mitigating factor, but emphasised their responsibility for Ana's death. He described the crime as calculated, violent and shocking, and highlighted the boys' lack of remorse and the severity of the assault. The sentences were back‑dated to the June convictions, and the judge ordered reports for the review periods. The hearing included statements from Ana's parents and Garda officials, who praised the investigation and expressed gratitude for the justice delivered.
Ben O'Reilly, 21, was found guilty of assaulting Fernanda de Freitas after a dispute over payment for an escort service. The trial, held at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, concluded with a jury of ten women and two men convicting him of assault but acquitting him of robbery. O'Reilly had been charged with robbing de Freitas of cash and her iPhone. He was remanded on continuing bail until January 24 for sentencing. The case involved a series of messages on Grindr and WhatsApp, a meeting at de Freitas's apartment, and an alleged exchange over money. De Freitas testified that O'Reilly punched her multiple times, put his hands around her neck, and took her phone. She sustained cuts to her mouth and swollen eyes, requiring stitches. O'Reilly admitted to grabbing what he thought was his phone but later realised he had taken de Freitas's mobile. The trial ended with the assault conviction and the robbery charge dismissed. Ben O'Reilly pleaded not guilty.
Ben O'Reilly, aged 21, was charged at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court with assaulting and robbing Fernanda de Freitas, a transgender escort, on 20 May 2017. He claimed he acted in self‑defence after a dispute over money. O'Reilly said he had been attracted to transgender women, met de Freitas through a dating app, and had agreed to pay her €400‑€500 for sex. He alleged that after the encounter, de Freitas demanded money, swiped at him with a stiletto, and removed his wallet. O'Reilly admitted holding her neck for five to ten seconds, punching her twice, and a third blow that caused her to fall and hit her head. He denied paying €180, claimed he took her iPhone by mistake, and pleaded not guilty. The prosecution argued he robbed her, while the defence argued she became violent when she learned he lacked full payment. The case remains pending.
John Fortune, 43, was sentenced to six‑and‑a‑half years in prison for his role in a €1.5 million cannabis trafficking scheme. He agreed to drive a van loaded with nearly 80 kg of cannabis from Carlow to Rathcoole. Fortune had no prior convictions and had built a €50,000 tax debt, defaulted on his mortgage, and was facing repossession of his home. He claimed financial desperation and a foot injury had prevented him from working. Garda surveillance stopped the van, revealing vacuum‑packed cannabis labelled "trip haze", "diesel haze" and "green poison". The drugs were valued at just under €1.5 million. The court noted his limited involvement, financial distress, and mental health issues, and imposed a headline sentence of 13 years, halved to 6.5 years. Fortune received no payment for his role, and he had no prior Garda record. John Fortune pleaded guilty.
Ben O'Reilly, 21, stood trial in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for assaulting and robbing Fernanda de Freitas, a transgender escort, on 20 May 2017. De Freitas, who worked as a sex worker, met O'Reilly through the app Grinder and arranged a meeting at her home. She claimed he offered €500 to stay, then paid €150 and received €30 back. After sex, O'Reilly allegedly behaved erratically, left the bathroom, masturbated, then returned, demanded his money back, and took her phone. He allegedly punched her many times, pressed his hands around her neck, and threatened her. De Freitas said she struck him in the groin to escape, returned the money, and an additional €50 fell to the floor. She was left with cuts to her mouth and swollen eyes. The trial continues before Judge Elma Sheahan and a jury. Ben O'Reilly pleaded not guilty.
The Court of Appeal quashed the money‑laundering conviction of Henry Alinta, 44, owner of Aligreen Recycling Limited, after a trial judge's instructions were found to have confused the jury about the presumption of innocence and the burden of proof. Alinta had been stopped at the M1 Toll Plaza outside Drogheda, where Gardaí found €127,000 and £146,940 in his BMW X6. He claimed the cash was collected on instructions from a Nigerian friend, Sanni, and that he did not know the amount. A jury convicted him after 27 minutes of deliberation and sentenced him to four years' imprisonment, 18 months suspended. The Court of Appeal held that the judge's explanation created "confusion" that was fatal to the trial's integrity, and the conviction was therefore quashed. The case will be reviewed for a possible retrial. Henry Alinta pleaded not guilty.
A man has been sentenced to twenty months' imprisonment following a fatal collision on the Naas Road in Dublin on 31 January 2016. Anthony Corcoran, aged 39, of Lyons Street, Newcastle, County Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to failure to remain at the scene with intent to escape civil or criminal liability. A charge of dangerous driving causing death was withdrawn by the State. The court heard that Corcoran struck a pedestrian while returning to County Cavan after an evening out. He subsequently informed gardaí of his involvement the following morning. Judge Martin Nolan noted evidence suggesting the defendant was over the drink-driving limit and concluded he panicked at the scene. The judge acknowledged significant mitigation including an early guilty plea, immediate contact with gardaí, lack of previous convictions, and good work history. Corcoran was disqualified from driving for three years.
In a High Court case, Mr Justice Denis McDonald has asked for further clarification on Frank McNamara's inheritance before deciding on a €2.9 million Personal Insolvency Arrangement (PIA) for him and his wife, barrister Theresa Lowe. The judge wants a letter from the solicitors handling the estate of McNamara's late father to confirm that the estate is not seeking money from the rental income McNamara received for a property inherited a decade ago. The PIA would allow the couple to write off about €2.9 million of debt and keep their family home in Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath, valued at €550,000. The court adjourned the matter for a week to obtain the requested letter. The dispute involves Tanager DAC, which is owed €2.26 million, and other creditors such as the Bank of Ireland and the Revenue Commissioners.
Anthony Corcoran, aged 39, of Newcastle, County Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to failure to remain at the scene with intent to escape civil or criminal liability following a collision on the Naas Road, Dublin on 31 January 2016. The court heard that Corcoran struck Peter Maunde, who was walking on the motorway in dark clothing during poor weather conditions. A charge of dangerous driving causing death was withdrawn by the State. Corcoran informed gardaí of his involvement the following morning after his father contacted local police in County Cavan. During interview, Corcoran admitted consuming alcohol that evening. Garda evidence indicated multiple witnesses observed a man crossing the motorway barrier near Red Cow Roundabout, while other motorists initially mistook the casualty for an animal. Judge Martin Nolan remanded Corcoran on continuing bail for sentencing, indicating he would consider the case overnight. A victim impact statement from the deceased's family was submitted to the court.
The Special Criminal Court directed not guilty verdicts for Laurence Murphy and Ray Kennedy, who had pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation, styling itself the Irish Republican Army, otherwise Oglaigh Na hÉireann, otherwise the IRA on March 6th, 2013. Ms Justice Tara Burns ruled that Detective Chief Superintendent Anthony Howard's "belief evidence" was inadmissible due to "issues of unfairness" arising from a "blanket" claim of privilege over underlying material. The judge noted that without this evidence, the case was "inherently tenuous." The ruling also highlighted "worrying aspects" regarding the handling of statements by State's-witness David Cullen, who claimed Murphy was "never a member of the IRA." The court found that the refusal to release secret material to the prosecution or defence prevented meaningful cross-examination. A further charge against Mr Kennedy of carrying out an act intending to pervert the course of justice, by destroying a SIM card on March 6th, 2013, has been adjourned until January 13 next.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 3 December 2019, defence counsel Hugh Hartnett SC and John D Fitzgerald SC challenged the admissibility of a senior Garda's "belief evidence" that Laurence Murphy (62) and Ray Kennedy (40) were members of the IRA. They argued the evidence was "valueless" and that the Director of Public Prosecutions had treated the court's rulings with "casualness", making the process "impossible to understand". The defence noted that no prosecution for IRA membership has relied on belief evidence since 1972 and that the Garda's belief was formed from material held by the Gardaí in December 2017, which had not been disclosed to the prosecution, defence or judges. They also highlighted that the Garda's claim of privilege was broad, that cross‑examination was "sterile", and that the Assistant Commissioner had not made the Garda aware of a statement by David Cullen that Murphy was "never a member of the IRA". Laurence Murphy pleaded not guilty. Ray Kennedy pleaded not guilty.
During the Special Criminal Court trial of Laurence Murphy and Ray Kennedy for the murder of Peter Butterly, Detective Chief Superintendent Anthony Howard testified that his belief that the accused were members of the IRA was not affected by information that a key witness, David Cullen, had said he would deny IRA membership if called to testify. Howard, head of the Special Detective Unit, had formed his belief based on material he claimed privilege over, gathered in December 2017. He confirmed that no one in the investigation, including the DPP, had informed him of Cullen's statement, and he insisted the statement had no impact on his belief. Howard also denied any formal protocol or coaching on how to express such beliefs, and the defence will apply to exclude his evidence tomorrow. The trial continues. Laurence Murphy pleaded not guilty. Ray Kennedy pleaded not guilty.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Brendan Treacy, 36, was sentenced to a suspended two‑and‑a‑half‑year term for making a false emergency call about a gangland shooting at Peadar Kearney House, Railway Street. Treacy claimed a gangland member had been shot and a black Toyota Avensis had fled the scene, prompting eleven Garda units, a fire brigade truck and an ambulance to respond for 24 minutes before the operation was called off. He later admitted the call was a "moment of madness" while he was "completely wasted" on tablets and vodka. Treacy, who has been clean of heroin for two years and now helps others recover from addiction, pleaded guilty to the false report. The judge noted the diversion of Garda resources and commended his rehabilitation efforts, suspending the sentence on a number of conditions. Treacy has 40 prior convictions, including theft, road traffic and drug offences.
The Special Criminal Court has adjourned proceedings involving Laurence Murphy and Ray Kennedy, who have pleaded not guilty to alleged membership of an unlawful organisation, styling itself the Irish Republican Army, otherwise Oglaigh Na hÉireann, otherwise the IRA on March 6th, 2013. Mr Kennedy is also charged with carrying out an act intending to pervert the course of justice by destroying a SIM card on the same date. The procedural stage remains at charge or pretrial, with the trial set to continue on Monday. Ms Justice Tara Burns stated the court would not review sensitive material after the Director of Public Prosecutions failed to comply with a ruling to view it. The judge expressed shock at the DPP's refusal to disclose a letter from Assistant Commissioner Michael O'Sullivan to the defence, questioning the office's thought process. Defence counsel argued that the court viewing the material would create perception problems and depart from judicial norms. The DPP maintained security concerns regarding the material. No findings, sentences, or finalisations were recorded, as the matter was adjourned.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Judge Tara Burns considered whether the court should review sensitive material that Gardaí have refused to hand over to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The material concerns two men charged in connection with the 2013 murder of Peter Butterly. Gardaí cited security concerns for senior and junior counsel, claiming that disclosure could expose them to danger. Defence counsel for Laurence Murphy and Ray Kennedy objected to the court viewing the material, arguing it could create a conflict of interest. Judge Burns noted that the DPP was unable and unwilling to provide the material, but the court retains a supervisory role over disclosure. She ruled that the prosecution must ensure proper disclosure, but the court would not compel Gardaí to release the material. The trial is set to resume tomorrow at 10:30 am. Laurence Murphy pleaded not guilty. Ray Kennedy pleaded not guilty.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 27 November 2019, Ms Justice Tara Burns ruled that prosecution counsel must view sensitive material relating to two men charged with the murder of a dissident republican. The material, held by An Garda Siochana, concerns Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, who was shot dead on 6 March 2013 at the Huntsman Inn car park in Gormanston, Co. Meath. Laurence Murphy (62) and Ray Kennedy (40) are charged with membership of an unlawful organisation, the IRA, and Kennedy with destroying a SIM card. Detective Chief Superintendent Anthony Howard, head of the Special Detective Unit, claimed the material was essential to his belief that the men were IRA members, citing security concerns. Garda Siochana cited fears for the safety of prosecution counsel as the reason for withholding the material, but the court found no legal basis for that claim. Laurence Murphy pleaded not guilty. Ray Kennedy pleaded not guilty.
In November 2019 the Central Criminal Court struck out contempt of court proceedings against Facebook Ireland Limited and Twitter International Company that had been brought over the sharing of the identities of the two 15‑year‑old boys who murdered schoolgirl Ana Kriegel. The injunction, originally imposed by Mr Justice Michael White on 19 June 2019 and extended by Mr Justice Paul McDermott on 26 July 2019, required the platforms to remove any photographs or material identifying the boys. The court noted that the injunction had been discharged and the proceedings struck out after the boys' sentencing on 5 November 2019, with the platforms having cooperated in removing offending material and halting its proliferation online. The court also confirmed that any breach of the injunction would constitute contempt of court and a criminal offence under the Children Act 2001.
A Detective Chief Superintendent has given evidence at the Special Criminal Court regarding two men charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Peter Butterly in March 2013. The victim, aged 35, was killed in a car park at Gormanston, Co Meath. Laurence Murphy, aged 62, of Bettystown, Co Meath, and Ray Kennedy, aged 40, of Blanchardstown, Dublin, have pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army. Mr Kennedy faces an additional charge of perverting the course of justice. Detective Chief Superintendent Anthony Howard, head of the Special Detective Unit, told the three-judge court of his belief that both men were members of the IRA. He declined to disclose the material upon which his belief rested, citing security concerns and the protection of life and property. Evidence was also heard of items recovered from the scene. Four men have previously received life sentences for Mr Butterly's murder, with two others also imprisoned for roles in the killing.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the ongoing trial of Laurence Murphy and Ray Kennedy, who have pleaded not guilty to IRA membership charges dated March 6, 2013, and April 2010. Mr. Kennedy also faces a charge of perverting the course of justice by destroying a SIM card. Prosecution witnesses described a meeting at Bewleys Hotel, Dublin Airport, on May 22, 2010, where Mr. Murphy was observed with Marian Price, Alan Ryan, and Anthony Ryan. The group entered a private function room, though the Ryans did not. Other testimony detailed Mr. Kennedy's presence at a 2011 meeting in Mulhuddert and at a 2012 bail hearing. The court also heard about a 2012 funeral for Alan Ryan, where three shots were fired over the coffin. While four men have already received life sentences for the murder of Peter Butterly, and Michael McDermott and Frank Murphy have been jailed for their roles in the killing, the current proceedings against Murphy and Kennedy remain at the trial stage. The matter was adjourned and continues before Justice Tara Burns, Judge Sarah Berkeley, and Judge Michael Walsh.
A man charged in connection with the 2013 murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly was observed on multiple occasions with slain Real IRA leader Alan Ryan, the Special Criminal Court heard. Laurence Murphy, aged 62, of Bettystown, Co Meath and Ray Kennedy, aged 40, of Blanchardstown, Dublin have pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the IRA on 6 March 2013. Mr Kennedy faces an additional charge of perverting the course of justice. Detective gardaí gave evidence they saw Mr Ryan and Mr Kennedy together in Donaghmede, Dublin on separate occasions in 2011 and 2012. The court heard garda interviews wherein Mr Kennedy stated he and Mr Butterly had arranged to meet at the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath at 2.30pm on the day of the shooting. Mr Murphy was interviewed and denied IRA membership. Four men have already received life sentences following convictions for Mr Butterly's murder, with two others imprisoned for roles in the killing. The trial before Ms Justice Tara Burns continues.
In the Special Criminal Court, the prosecution presented evidence regarding the March 6, 2013, shooting death of Peter Butterly at the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath. Laurence Murphy and Ray Kennedy, both accused of IRA membership on that date, have pleaded not guilty. Mr Kennedy is additionally charged with perverting the course of justice by destroying a SIM card. Prosecutors read witness statements from Mr Kennedy, who alleged he met Mr Butterly to discuss false car logbooks and claimed he destroyed his phone's SIM card in panic when a garda requested the device. Mr Kennedy denied IRA membership, stating he attended marches with slain Real IRA leader Alan Ryan because he was "nosy." He also denied luring Mr Butterly to the scene. The court heard that Mr Kennedy knew David Dodrill, who was convicted of IRA membership in April 2010, and acknowledged knowing Dermot Gannon, jailed for IRA membership in 2001. The matter is at the sentence stage, with the accused maintaining their not guilty pleas to the alleged offences.
In the Special Criminal Court, the prosecution presented an audio clip from a listening device secretly placed in a Nissan Primastar van, showing Joseph Kelly and Alan Wilson discussing a planned murder of Gary Hanley. The men talked about routes to Fairview, traffic, and how to approach Hanley, who walks to the gym at 5 pm. They also considered how to escape the area and how to handle the van after the act. Liam Brannigan, 37, is charged with conspiring to murder Hanley and has pleaded not guilty. Three other men—Luke Wilson, Joseph Kelly and Alan Wilson—have already pleaded guilty to the conspiracy and have been jailed. The trial continues with the court hearing further evidence from surveillance officers who observed Brannigan driving the van in various locations in September and October 2017. The case remains an ongoing criminal proceeding.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the trial of Ray Kennedy and Laurence Murphy, who have pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation, styling itself the Irish Republican Army, otherwise Oglaigh Na hÉireann, otherwise the IRA on March 6th, 2013. Mr Kennedy is also charged with carrying out an act intending to pervert the course of justice by destroying a mobile telephone SIM card. Prosecution evidence detailed that Mr Butterly was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on that date. Detective Garda Shane Curran testified that a text was sent from Mr Kennedy's phone to the victim's wife at 1.43pm, joking about an IRA arrest, minutes before the killing. The prosecution alleged Mr Kennedy destroyed a SIM card to pervert the course of justice. While four other men have already received life sentences for the murder, and Michael McDermott and Frank Murphy have been jailed for their roles, the current proceedings against Mr Kennedy and Mr Murphy remain at the trial stage. The matter was adjourned to continue on Monday before Ms Justice Tara Burns, presiding alongside Judge Sarah Berkeley and Judge Michael Walsh.
In a hearing before Mr Justice Paul McDermott, the Central Criminal Court set the earliest possible release dates for two teenage boys convicted of murdering and sexually assaulting 14‑year‑old Ana Kriegel. Boy A, now 15, faces a life sentence with a review after 12 years and an additional eight‑year term for aggravated sexual assault; his earliest release from the custodial portion is June 18, 2031. Boy B, also 15, received a 15‑year detention sentence with a review after eight years; his earliest release is June 18, 2027. Both boys will be detained at a young offenders centre until age 18, then transferred to an adult prison. Mr Justice McDermott ordered bi‑annual probation, governor and education reports to be prepared for the reviewing court, beginning after their release from Oberstown detention centre. The reports aim to inform the court of the boys' development and progress, not to micro‑manage their sentences.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Laurence Murphy and Ray Kennedy, both charged in connection with the killing of Peter Butterly, entered legal argument regarding the retention of mobile phone data under the Communications (Retention of Data) Act 2011. This legal challenge is linked to the case of convicted murderer Graham Dwyer, whose appeal against a High Court declaration that the Act breached EU law is due before the Supreme Court in December. Murphy and Kennedy pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation, styled the IRA, on March 6, 2013. Kennedy is additionally charged with carrying out an act intending to pervert the course of justice by destroying a mobile telephone SIM card. The prosecution alleges the killing was meticulously planned. Four men—Kevin Braney, Edward McGrath, Sharif Kelly, and Dean Evans—have already received life sentences for the murder. Michael McDermott and Frank Murphy, the latter being Laurence Murphy's brother, have also been jailed for their roles in the killing. The trial continues before Ms Justice Tara Burns, Judge Sarah Berkeley, and Judge Michael Walsh.
David O'Brien, aged 67, was sentenced by Judge Karen O'Connor at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to a total of eight years' imprisonment for indecent assault on four boys between 1972 and 1981. The sentence was imposed on four separate counts, each carrying two years, and the final 18 months were suspended on the condition of 12 months' probation. O'Brien pleaded guilty to eight counts of indecent assault and had previously been jailed for six and a half years in 2015 for similar offences. He admitted to molesting a number of boys while a scout leader, including fondling and non‑penetrative acts, and claimed he had abused between 30 and 40 children. The court noted his guilty plea and expressed remorse, but emphasised the breach of trust and the victims' loss of childhood innocence. The victims gave impact statements describing lasting physical and emotional harm, and the judge praised their courage.
A witness in the Special Criminal Court has testified that the shooting of dissident republican Peter Butterly in Gormanston, County Meath on 6 March 2013 was an "IRA operation". David Cullen, now in the Witness Protection Program, gave evidence in trials of Laurence Murphy and Ray Kennedy, both charged with membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the IRA. Mr Kennedy also faces a charge of perverting the course of justice. Cullen said he was asked to dispose of a firearm immediately after the shooting and that he knew beforehand someone would be targeted, though not the victim's identity. He recovered the gun near Gormanston College and was arrested shortly after. Four men have previously received life sentences for Mr Butterly's murder, while two others received custodial sentences. During proceedings, Justice Tara Burns ruled on disclosure issues concerning Cullen's earlier statement that Mr Murphy was "never a member of the IRA", which defence counsel argued was belatedly provided. Laurence Murphy pleaded not guilty. Peter Butterly pleaded not guilty.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Mr Justice Paul McDermott sentenced Boy B, then 13, to 15 years' detention for luring 14‑year‑old Anastasia Kriegel to an abandoned farmhouse where she was sexually and violently assaulted and murdered by his friend. The judge noted Boy B watched the assault, did not intervene or seek help, and was aware of the events, yet remained indifferent. He had fabricated lies about the incident, which the judge described as "clear and brazen." Boy B has not accepted the jury's verdict and maintains he had no part in the crime. Defence counsel highlighted his low risk of re‑offending, personal difficulties, and suicidal tendencies, while also noting his remorse for not intervening. The sentence includes a review after eight years. The case remains at the sentencing stage, with no further outcome reported. The unnamed boy was convicted.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing on 5 November 2019, Mr Justice Paul McDermott sentenced a 15‑year‑old boy, referred to only as Boy A, to life imprisonment for the violent sexual assault and murder of 14‑year‑old Ana Kriegel. The sentence will be reviewed after 12 years. The judge described the crime as the most serious, disturbing and shocking type, citing the extreme violence used, including a headlock, choke hold, kicking, striking with a stick and a block. Boy A had previously denied the sexual assault and offered an alternative explanation for forensic evidence. The prosecution presented CCTV footage, DNA evidence linking Boy A to Ana's body and scene, and circumstantial evidence of injuries he claimed were from a random assault. Ana was found dead in an abandoned house in Lucan on 14 May 2018, with blunt‑force injuries to the head and neck. The unnamed accused was convicted.
A High Court judge warned activist Ben Gilroy that he could face imprisonment if he attempts to arrest employees or agents of Start Mortgages DAC. Justice Leonie Reynolds told Gilroy that such actions could lead to charges of assault and false imprisonment, and that he had been ordered not to arrest, restrain or assault any of Start's officers, agents, lawyers or employees. The judge also cautioned that Gilroy's videos, which he posted on social media and claimed to give legal advice, could mislead viewers. Gilroy, who represented himself, said he intended to appeal the ruling and that he believed he had the right to arrest those he thought had committed fraud. He also objected to the removal of his posts, citing freedom of speech. The court reiterated that any attempt to arrest people associated with Start could result in criminal charges and that Gilroy should report alleged fraud to the Gardaí, not act on his own.
Start Mortgages DAC secured a temporary High Court injunction preventing Ben Gilroy, who contested the European Parliament Elections, from arresting, restraining or assaulting any of its current or former officers, agents, lawyers or employees. The injunction also restrains Gilroy from publishing or posting online any information relating to the home addresses or property of any of Start's current or former employees, officers, and lawyers. The orders apply to any other person who has knowledge of the orders, as well as Gilroy. Start obtained the injunction in response to videos posted on social media in which Gilroy alleged that Start is involved in fraud and called for people acting for or working with the fund to be arrested. The High Court granted the injunction on an ex‑parte basis, with the matter returnable to Friday's sitting.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Laurence Murphy and Ray Kennedy, both accused of IRA membership on March 6, 2013, continued with the court listening to a secret audio recording from a KFC in Charlestown. Both men pleaded not guilty to the membership charge; Mr. Kennedy also faces a charge of perverting the course of justice by destroying a SIM card. The prosecution alleges the men attended a "debrief" meeting the day after the murder of Peter Butterly. The court heard that gardai surveillance identified Kevin Braney, Frank Murphy, and Laurence Murphy at the outlet. Kevin Braney was previously sentenced to life imprisonment for the premeditated murder of Mr. Butterly, a finding he had denied. Frank Murphy, a brother of the accused, was jailed for three years, with the final year suspended, after pleading guilty to impeding the prosecution of State witness David Cullen. Other individuals, including Edward McGrath, Sharif Kelly, and Dean Evans, received life sentences for the murder. The trial, presided over by Ms Justice Tara Burns, Judge Sarah Berkeley, and Judge Michael Walsh, was adjourned and resumes next Wednesday.
A 23‑year‑old substitute teacher pleaded guilty to two counts of defilement for having sex with a 16‑year‑old pupil. The offences occurred in early 2018 at Gormanston Beach and the Carlton Hotel, after the teacher had bought the boy gifts on his birthday. She waited until his 16th birthday, believing that was the legal age of consent, and then engaged in sexual activity in her car and at the hotel. Judge Martin Nolan accepted her belief but found her reckless and that, as a teacher, she should have known the law. He sentenced her to three years' imprisonment, suspending the final two years on the condition of good behaviour for two years after release. The judge noted her early guilty plea, cooperation and lack of prior convictions as mitigating factors. The teacher's contract was terminated and she is no longer employed in education. The boy suffered anxiety and depression as a result of the abuse.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, a 23‑year‑old substitute teacher pleaded guilty to two counts of defilement after having sex with a 16‑year‑old pupil. The teacher, who had been working at the school when the boy was in his fifth year of secondary school, met him in an over‑18s nightclub and began communicating via Snapchat. In early 2018, on the boy's 16th birthday, she drove him to Gormanston Beach where they kissed and had sexual intercourse. A month later, she took him to a hotel room she had booked, where they again kissed and had sex. The boy later told his parents he had stayed at a friend's house, and the teacher's contract was terminated after the school discovered her identity. The teacher claimed she believed 16 was the legal age of consent and had no prior convictions. The court adjourned the case for a verdict.
Gerard Ryan, a 44‑year‑old butcher, was sentenced to eight years in prison after being found with more than €2.5 million worth of drugs hidden in packets of men's boxer shorts. Ryan admitted to possessing ketamine, MDMA and cannabis for sale or supply at his Kilbarrack home on 17 July last year. He claimed he was pressured to collect the drugs from a warehouse in Ashbourne to satisfy a €1,500 debt and deliver them to unknown parties, fearing harm to his family if he identified the dealers. Gardaí seized €1.73 million of MDMA, €840,000 of ketamine and €16,000 of cannabis during a search of his van and garden shed.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, the mother of 14‑year‑old Ana Kriegel described her daughter as an "ephemeral angel" and said her family was devastated by her murder. The court heard that the defendant known as Boy A admitted he caused Ana's death but denied sexually assaulting her, while Boy B rejected the unanimous jury verdict that found him guilty of murder. Boy A was also convicted of aggravated sexual assault involving serious violence. The court noted that Boy A's semen was found on Ana's top and that forensic evidence showed she had been sexually assaulted, her clothes torn, and her blood on the walls of the derelict building where she was found. Both boys were 13 at the time of the crime and are now 15, having been convicted by unanimous jury verdicts earlier this year. The judge will sentence them on November 5.
During a sentence hearing, Boy A, now 15, admitted choking Ana Kriegel, striking her with a stick and a concrete block, but denied sexually assaulting her. Detective Inspector Mark O'Neill informed Brendan Grehan SC that psychiatric and psychological reports led Boy A to accept responsibility for Ana's death. He described actions such as a headlock, choke hold, kicking, and hitting her with a stick and a block, which he either threw or struck off her head on three occasions. Boy A maintains he did not sexually assault Ana and offered an alternative explanation for forensic evidence. Inspector O'Neill noted that semen was found on Ana's top and that the boys had planned the murder. The hearing continues at the Central Criminal Court before Mr Justice Paul McDermott. The two 13‑year‑old boys were convicted by unanimous jury verdicts earlier this year for Ana's murder and, for Boy A, her aggravated sexual assault involving serious violence.
In a sentencing hearing for two 15‑year‑old boys convicted of murdering Anastasia Kriegel, Mr Justice Paul McDermott limited the number of journalists to five. He said the restriction was to protect the boys' rights, physical and mental well‑being, and dignity, citing the United Nations Convention on Human Rights and the need to reduce the "considerable toll" the case has taken on the children and their families. The court will be televised in a separate room where any number of journalists may watch, but the judge rejected an application by RTE and newspapers to increase the number of reporters in the courtroom. The boys, known as Boy A and Boy B, were 13 when the murder occurred in May 2018 and were convicted by unanimous jury verdicts earlier this year. The judge also ordered the media to pay the costs of the boys' legal teams for the hearing.