Brendan Treacy, 35, will be sentenced in July for making a false emergency call that a gangland member had been shot at Peadar Kearney House, Railway Street, Dublin. The call prompted 11 Garda units, a fire brigade truck and an ambulance to respond, and the emergency operation lasted 24 minutes before being called off. Treacy admitted the call was a "moment of madness" while heavily intoxicated on tablets and vodka. He pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to making a false report at an unknown location in Dublin 1 on 23 August 2017. Treacy has 40 previous convictions, including theft, road traffic and drug offences. He has since detoxed from tablets, is methadone and heroin free, and seeks treatment at a residential centre. Judge Martina Baxter adjourned the case to allow Treacy to access treatment, warning that such conduct is unacceptable in a democratic society.
Kevin Braney, the Dublin leader of the New IRA, was convicted of murder for the killing of dissident republican Peter Butterly. The New IRA, formed in 2012 from remnants of the Real IRA, Republican Action Against Drugs, former Provisional IRA activists and criminal elements, is regarded by the gardai and PSNI as the biggest terrorist threat in Ireland. Braney's conviction followed extensive garda operations involving the Special Detective Unit, Garda Security and Intelligence and the National Surveillance Unit (NSU). NSU members observed Braney's movements before, during and after the murder, and provided evidence in court, though the public were excluded from the proceedings. Braney was also convicted of IRA membership in 2022 and is serving a four‑year sentence in Portlaoise Prison. The New IRA remains a primary target of Garda Security and Intelligence, with about 50 active members and several hundred sympathisers across the island.
The leader of the so-called New IRA in Dublin, Kevin Braney (44), was today jailed for life for the murder of Peter Butterly (35) almost six years ago. Braney was found guilty by the Special Criminal Court last Monday of the 'premeditated' murder of Mr Butterly, who was chased and shot dead outside The Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6, 2013. Braney had pleaded not guilty to murdering Mr Butterly. Mr Justice Paul Coffey, presiding, said the court was driven 'irresistibly' to the conclusion that Braney was involved in the organisation and planning of Mr Butterly's murder beyond a reasonable doubt. In 2018, Braney was sentenced to four years and six months after he was found guilty of IRA membership by the Special Criminal Court. Mr Justice Coffey, sitting with Judge Martin Nolan and Judge James Faughnan, then sentenced Braney to the mandatory term of life imprisonment, backdated to when he first went into custody for this matter on September 14, 2017. Ms Caroline Cummings BL asked the court that a 'nolle prosequi' be entered on the outstanding count of membership, meaning the State will not be proceeding with the prosecution in relation to this count. Edward McGrath (37), Sharif Kelly (49), and Dean Evans (27) have all received life sentences at the Special Criminal Court after they were convicted of Mr Butterly's murder. The court found that Braney had been involved and participated in Mr Butterly's murder.
Kevin Braney, 44, of Tallaght, Dublin, was found guilty by the Special Criminal Court of the premeditated murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly. The three-judge panel, presided over by Mr Justice Paul Coffey, concluded beyond reasonable doubt that Braney was involved in the organisation and planning of the killing, which occurred outside The Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, in March 2013. Mr Butterly, 35, was chased and shot dead in view of students waiting for a school bus. Braney had pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. The court accepted evidence from State's witness David Cullen, who testified that Braney attended a meeting at Cullen's Balbriggan flat the night before the shooting, where the plan was discussed. Circumstantial evidence further linked Braney to the location and the other perpetrators. The court noted that Edward McGrath, Sharif Kelly, and Dean Evans have already received life sentences for the same murder. In a separate 2018 proceeding, Braney was sentenced to four years after being found guilty of IRA membership by the Special Criminal Court. Following today's verdict, the convicted man was remanded in custody until Friday, when he will be sentenced.
In an appeal-stage pretrial motion, Mr Justice Senan Allen dismissed anti-eviction activist Ben Gilroy's application for an injunction under section 33 of the 2009 Defamation Act. Gilroy, who remains jailed in Mountjoy Prison for contempt of court after failing to complete 80 hours of community service, sought to compel autism rights campaigner Fiona O'Leary to remove a YouTube video pending the outcome of his defamation action. The judge found that Gilroy failed to meet the legal threshold for the order, noting that whether the video conveys defamatory meanings is a matter for a jury to decide. The court observed that a jury might view the case as "greatly over pleaded" and stated it could not conceive the Court of Appeal interfering with a jury verdict finding the video non-defamatory. O'Leary, represented by Patricia Sheehy Skeffington BL, denies the post contains defamatory remarks. Businessman Vincent Byrne, of Balrothery, Co Dublin, is a co-applicant in the suit against O'Leary. Following the ruling, the judge addressed concerns regarding statements Gilroy made in an interview, noting O'Leary could bring a motion if necessary. The judge then adjourned the case to a date in late April.
Silvergrove Nursing Home in Clonee, Co Meath, has filed a High Court challenge against a decision by the State's Chief Inspector of Social Services that cancelled its registration as a designated nursing home. The owners argue the cancellation was based on non‑existent legislative provisions, citing Section 52(1)(b) of the 2007 Health Act and the 2017 Health Act, which do not exist. They also claim the decision relied on inspection reports from February and June 2016, which showed the facility was compliant in most areas, and an October 2018 report by HIQA, an agency they say has no role in monitoring nursing home compliance. The challenge seeks to quash the cancellation, declare procedural unfairness, and stay the notice until the case is heard. Permission to proceed was granted ex‑parte by Mr Justice Seamus Noonan, with the matter scheduled for a March hearing.
Kevin Braney, 44, of Tallaght, was charged with murdering dissident republican Peter Butterly in March 2013. He pleaded not guilty to the murder and was also charged with possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol and seven rounds of ammunition. The Special Criminal Court, after the prosecution's case closed, refused a defence application for a direction to acquit on the firearm charges. The court directed an acquittal on those counts. Braney's defence argued that State witness David Cullen's evidence was unreliable and that no forensic or DNA links tied Braney to the crime. The court noted the absence of any evidence linking Braney to phones or the weapons. The case remains pending, with a judgment expected early next year. Braney was remanded in custody until 18 January.
The Special Criminal Court refused to exclude the testimony of former murder accused David Cullen, who has become a State witness, from the trial of Kevin Braney, accused of murdering Peter Butterly. The defence argued Cullen was a 'parody of a witness' and his evidence was riddled with inconsistencies, but the court found the circumstantial evidence supporting his testimony—such as CCTV footage, the recovered firearm and ammunition, and surveillance of Braney's car—sufficient to establish a prima facie case. The court also rejected two other defence applications: one to acquit Braney on related firearms charges and another to discharge the judges. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Paul Coffey with Judges Martin Nolan and James Faughnan, continues with Cullen's evidence admitted. Braney, aged 44, has pleaded not guilty to the murder and to possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol and ammunition. The prosecution closed its case on Monday.
Mr Charlie Jennings, a 65‑year‑old farmer from Carrickamon, Ravensdale, Dundalk, has filed High Court proceedings against the financial fund Promontoria (Oyster) DAC. He seeks to sell 46 acres of land in Castletown, Kilpatrick, Navan, Co. Meath, which he bought in 2005 and 2006 for €590,000 with loans from Ulster Bank that were later purchased by Promontoria in 2016. Jennings claims the fund has not supplied a net redemption figure that would allow him to clear an outstanding loan of about €257,000, preventing him from completing a sale agreed with a buyer since May. He alleges the fund is also demanding payment on other mortgages linked to his son's property and a joint mortgage with a business partner, citing 'all sums due' clauses. Jennings seeks orders compelling Promontoria to provide the redemption figure, to allow the sale, and to prevent interference, as well as damages.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, defence counsel for Kevin Braney, aged 44, argued that evidence from former murder suspect David Cullen should be excluded because Cullen's testimony was a "parody" and riddled with inconsistencies. Braney, charged with the 2013 murder of Peter Butterly, denied the murder and possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol and ammunition. Cullen, who had originally been charged with Butterly's murder, later became a State witness after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of a pistol. Braney's defence sought to exclude Cullen's evidence, withdraw it from the jury, and have the court discharge itself from the prosecution's opening address. The prosecution countered that independent evidence supported Braney's guilt and that opening speeches are not evidence. The court will rule on the applications tomorrow. Kevin Braney pleaded not guilty.
Judges at the Special Criminal Court trial of Kevin Braney have refused an application to exclude mobile phone evidence. Braney, 44, of Tallaght, Dublin, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly and the possession of a 9mm Beretta semi-automatic pistol and ammunition at Blackthorn Apartments, Balbriggan, on March 5, 2013. The defence argued that a recent High Court ruling in the case of Graham Dwyer rendered the retention of such data unlawful under EU law. However, presiding judge Mr Justice Paul Coffey, sitting with Judges Martin Nolan and James Faughnan, ruled the evidence admissible, stating there was no evidence that the operation of the 2011 Act was inappropriate at the time. The prosecution subsequently closed its case. The trial continues, with defence counsel Bernard Condon SC indicating he is unlikely to call evidence but may make a short application. The court previously heard from State's witness David Cullen, who pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol at the Huntsman Inn on the day of the shooting. Cullen described his role as picking up and burying a gun. Prosecution evidence stated that Butterly was shot multiple times outside the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston on March 6, 2013, while students waited for their school bus.
Lawyers for Henry Alinta, 44, who was found guilty of money laundering under Section 7.1 of the Criminal Justice Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Act 2010, have asked the Court of Appeal for guidance on how the complex legislation should be explained to juries. Alinta was convicted by a jury at Trim Circuit Criminal Court after 27 minutes of deliberation and sentenced to four years' imprisonment, with the final 18 months suspended by Judge Michael O'Shea. He was released early from serving his sentence. Alinta is appealing on the grounds that the trial judge allegedly confused the jury on the presumption of innocence and the burden of proof, and that the verdict was perverse given the dense, difficult language of the legislation. His barrister, Pauline Walley SC, argued that the judge failed to bridge the distinction between the burden of proof and the shifting presumptions, and that the legislation is widely drafted and complex. Henry Alinta pleaded not guilty.
Nathan Foley, 20, of Rosary Road, Maryland, Dublin 8, was sentenced at the Special Criminal Court for participating in or contributing to activity intending to facilitate the murder of David Douglas. The court heard that Foley acted as a 'foot soldier' and 'runner' for a criminal organisation, driving one of four vehicles used in the killing. Mr Douglas, 55, was shot six times at his partner's shop in Bridgefoot Street on July 1, 2016. Foley admitted to the charge under Section 72 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years. The court noted his early guilty plea and mitigating factors, including a mild intellectual disability and vulnerability, though the judge described his role as significant. Frederick 'Freddie' Thompson, 37, was previously found guilty of Mr Douglas's murder and sentenced to life imprisonment. The source text indicates Foley was remanded in custody until January 25 for sentencing, but the validated procedural stage is sentence. The report details the coordinated use of stolen vehicles, including a Mercedes and a Mitsubishi Mirage driven by Foley, and the subsequent recovery of evidence linking him to the scene. The court acknowledged his 32 previous convictions, including a concurrent sentence for cocaine possession.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Geraldine Saunders, mother of 21‑year‑old Jason Saunders, spoke after Judge Martina Baxter sentenced Paul Brannigan, 27, for assault. Brannigan was convicted of striking Saunders with a golf club; the jury acquitted him of a head‑butt assault claimed to be self‑defence and could not reach a verdict on manslaughter. Brannigan pleaded not guilty to manslaughter and two assault charges. The judge imposed a three‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence, suspended the last eight months, and credited 22 months already served. Saunders, who lost her son in a street altercation on 18 March 2014, described the loss as devastating, saying she feels she has "lost everything" and struggles to leave her home. The court noted Brannigan's lack of remorse toward the family.
Ex-wrestler Imre Arakas, a former Estonian separatist who was 'scarred deeply' by imprisonment in Russia, was remanded in custody until December 12 for sentencing. Arakas admitted to conspiring with others not before the court to murder James Gately in Northern Ireland between April 3rd and April 4th last year, contrary to Section 71 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006. The court heard that Arakas purchased a wig in Dublin and used an encrypted Blackberry phone to receive information about Gately's movements. Gardai began an intelligence-led investigation after receiving confidential information about the targeting of Gately by individuals involved in organised crime. Arakas was placed under surveillance upon his arrival in Dublin on April 3, 2017, and was followed to Blakestown Cottages in Dublin 15, where he was arrested the following day. A Blackberry phone, a piece of paper with Estonian writing and the name 'James Gately…in Newry' in English, a mirror, and cash were found at the scene. The Blackberry phone was encrypted and password protected, and messages were found on it that detailed plans to target Gately. The messages were almost instantly deleted after Arakas' arrest, but a garda managed to photograph the open messages before they were removed. The court heard that Arakas had four previous convictions, including causing deliberate bodily harm, escaping from prison, and unlawful handling of firearms. The matter was adjourned and will be sentenced on December 12.
Ben Gilroy, an anti-eviction activist from Athlumney Abbey, Navan, Co Meath, and Vincent Byrne, a businessman from Balrothery, Co Dublin, have initiated defamation proceedings against Fiona O'Leary, a West Cork-based mother of five. They allege that a 13-minute YouTube video posted by O'Leary on June 23rd last year contains defamatory remarks about them. O'Leary, represented by Patricia Sheehy Skeffington BL and Rossa McMahon, denies making any defamatory statements. O'Leary campaigns against the promotion of Miracle Mineral Supplement (MMS), a substance she claims contains bleach and is harmful to children with autism. In a pretrial motion before Mr Justice Senan Allen, Gilroy seeks an injunction requiring O'Leary to remove the video until the case is resolved. Representing himself, Gilroy asserts that the 'false allegations' have serious implications for his reputation. O'Leary opposes the injunction, citing freedom of expression. In September, Mr Justice Tony O'Connor ordered O'Leary to either remove the video or add a disclaimer. O'Leary claims she complied by inserting text, but Gilroy argues the video remains accessible without the text. The hearing of the injunction application continues.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Kevin Braney, 44, of Tallaght, Dublin 24, continued before Mr Justice Paul Coffey. Braney has pleaded not guilty to the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly in March 2013 and the unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol. Protected witness David Cullen, who turned State's evidence after his murder charge was dropped, was cross-examined regarding his credibility. Cullen admitted to past dishonesty, including retaining WPP rent allowance and avoiding prosecution for harassment of an ex-girlfriend, which he denied. The court heard that Cullen was sentenced on July 2, 2014, to seven years in prison for unlawful possession of a firearm, with three and a half years suspended. The trial remains ongoing, with the defence challenging the witness's reliability and the prosecution presenting evidence of the shooting at The Huntsman Inn in Gormanston.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Kevin Braney, 44, of Tallaght, Dublin, continues before a three-judge panel. Mr Braney, who has pleaded not guilty to the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly and the unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol and ammunition, faces evidence from protected witness David Cullen. Cullen, who turned State's witness after his murder charge was dropped, testified that he was asked to pick up a gun. He described an evening in March 2013 when Edward McGrath and Mr Braney visited his Balbriggan home, with Mr Braney allegedly stating, "Make sure this is done right and he doesn't get away." Cullen identified a silver Toyota Corolla used in the operation and stated that Dean Evans and McGrath stayed at his apartment the day before the shooting. He further testified that Sharif Kelly dropped him near the scene, where a gun was thrown from a vehicle, leading to his arrest. In related proceedings, Michael McDermott admitted to assisting an unlawful organisation in the murder. Frank Murphy pleaded guilty to impeding the prosecution of Cullen. Meanwhile, Edward McGrath, Sharif Kelly, and Dean Evans have all received life sentences at the Special Criminal Court after being convicted of Mr Butterly's murder. The trial of Mr Braney is ongoing.
Frank Murphy, 58, pleaded guilty in the Special Criminal Court to impeding the apprehension or prosecution of State witness David Cullen, who had previously pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol. Murphy had originally pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly, a trial underway since October, but the DPP directed that he be recharged under Section 7(2) of the Criminal Law Act, 1997. Prosecution counsel confirmed the DPP would not proceed with the original murder charges against Murphy. Co-accused Michael McDermott, 59, pleaded guilty last Friday to assisting an unlawful organisation in the murder of Mr Butterly. Both men were remanded in custody by Mr Justice Paul Coffey, sitting with Judges Martin Nolan and James Faughnan, until January 28, 2019, for sentencing. Kevin Braney, 43, who pleaded not guilty to the murder and related firearm charges, remains in the trial. The court refused Braney's application for the judges to discharge themselves. The trial against Braney continues.
A man from Cavan has pleaded guilty before the Special Criminal Court to assisting an unlawful organisation in the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly. Michael McDermott, aged 59, of Ballinagh, Co. Cavan, admitted to knowingly rendering assistance to the IRA in furthering the unlawful killing of Mr Butterly at various locations between 3 and 6 March 2013. Mr Butterly was shot outside the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, Co. Meath, on 6 March 2013 in the presence of schoolchildren awaiting buses. McDermott had initially pleaded not guilty to murder and related firearms charges, with trial proceedings commenced in October. He was recharged under the Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005 this morning and entered a guilty plea to the fresh count. The prosecution entered a nolle prosequi on the three original charges. McDermott has been remanded in custody pending sentencing on 28 January 2019. Two further defendants, Frank Murphy and Kevin Braney, both deny murder and firearms possession charges relating to the incident. The trial continues before the three-judge court.
A man on trial at the Special Criminal Court for the murder of a father-of-two was removed from proceedings in an ambulance after falling unwell before the hearing commenced. Frank Murphy, aged fifty-eight, of McDonough Caravan Park, Bettystown, County Meath, is one of three defendants charged in connection with the fatal shooting of Peter Butterly outside The Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, County Meath, on March 6th, 2013. The thirty-five-year-old victim was shot in view of schoolchildren awaiting transport. Paramedics assessed Mr Murphy outside the courtroom and conveyed him by stretcher to the waiting ambulance. His barrister assured the three-judge court that his client was not deliberately absenting himself. The trial, which began in October, was adjourned until afternoon to allow Mr Murphy's solicitor to receive instructions once his medical situation had been clarified. Mr Murphy has pleaded not guilty to murder and to firearm possession charges. Two co-accused, Michael McDermott of County Cavan and Kevin Braney of Dublin, also deny the allegations against them.
Karl Zambra, 31, of St Teresa's Gardens, Donore Avenue, was sentenced to two and a half years in prison, with the final six months suspended for 12 months, after pleading guilty to possessing drugs for sale or supply. The offence involved selling €40 of cocaine to undercover Gardaí who had posed in plain clothes to test whether he would offer drugs. Zambra and another man approached the officers, spoke briefly, and then Zambra signalled to the other man and said, "Them boys are okay, sort them out?" After the officers purchased the cocaine, Zambra gave them his brother's mobile number and suggested they call it to sort themselves out in the future. He was not arrested until almost a year later to avoid blowing the undercover operation. Zambra has 77 previous convictions, including drug misuse, burglary, dangerous driving, drunk driving and a violent disorder offence in a Garda station.
Patrick Nevin, aged 37, is set to be sentenced for two rape offences committed after meeting victims on Tinder in July 2014. He pleaded guilty to raping a woman in Bellewstown and sexually assaulting another in County Meath. Both victims testified that Nevin had convinced them to meet for a drive, then raped them in secluded locations. The first victim described feeling "tainted, dirty and stupid" and said the attack altered her life. The second victim recounted being forced into sexual acts and later experiencing severe anxiety. Nevin's prior convictions include assault on a former partner in 2001 and a firearms offence in 2012. He remains in custody awaiting sentencing on 17 December, with the court considering his guilty pleas and expressions of remorse. The court heard that Nevin had completed education while in custody and had worked as a software engineer.
Tony Rochford, 50, of Trim, was sentenced to six months in prison for damaging an M50 toll gantry with an angle‑grinder on 30 May and threatening Gardaí. He pleaded guilty to criminal damage and possession of an angle‑grinder. The judge set a headline sentence of four years, suspended the final two years, and imposed a two‑and‑a‑half‑year term for a prior offence, making the sentences consecutive. Rochford had previously damaged the gantry in June 2017, causing over €500,000 in damage and a 26‑hour outage. He posted videos on social media explaining his motives and was described by a security guard as "hyper." The court noted his history of PTSD, prior convictions, and a claim of political motivation for the earlier offence. The damage to the gantry was estimated at €500‑€1,000.
Karl Zambra, 31, of St Teresa's Gardens, Dublin, pleaded guilty at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of drugs for sale or supply after an undercover operation on 18 August 2014. Two plain‑clothes Gardaí entered St Teresa's Gardens to see if they would be offered drugs. Zambra and another man were on the steps when the Gardaí approached; they spoke briefly before Zambra signalled to the other man and said, "Them boys are okay, sort them out?" The Gardaí then purchased €40 of cocaine. Zambra gave them his brother's mobile number and told them to call it to "sort themselves out" in the future. The Gardaí believed Zambra was "directing" the drug operations. He was not arrested until almost a year later to preserve the undercover operation's cover. Zambra has 77 previous convictions, including drug misuse, burglary, dangerous driving, drunk driving and a violent disorder offence in a Garda station.
At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, two men have been sentenced for sexually assaulting a 19-year-old woman while she lay asleep in a private room at a nightclub in Swords, Dublin in July 2017. Joshua Sykes, of Ardlo Manor, Mullagh, County Cavan, and Adam McCabe, of Clusker Park, Navan, County Meath, both pleaded guilty to the offence. Each received a three-year sentence, with the final eighteen months suspended. Judge Cormac Quinn described the case as shocking, noting the woman was vulnerable at the time and had been preyed upon. CCTV footage showed the assault occurring over five minutes while the woman remained unresponsive. Both men, who were attending a birthday party, claimed memory loss but were identified on camera. In a victim impact statement, the woman detailed ongoing psychological harm, including self-harm, panic attacks, and anxiety. The judge considered the men's early guilty pleas, youth, cooperation with probation services, and expressions of remorse when imposing sentence.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing on 7 November 2018, Karl McDermott, aged 21, was sentenced to five and a half years' imprisonment, with the final 12 months suspended, for a robbery at Dunnes Stores on 25 May 2018. McDermott used a homemade machete‑type weapon that his brother, a metal fabricator, had constructed for a Halloween costume. The weapon was described as a long silver knife with a padded handle covered in tin foil, and was found in the back of a drawer at the family home. McDermott pleaded guilty to robbery and the production of the homemade machete. He had 45 prior convictions, including robbery, possession of knives, criminal damage, violent disorder and drug offences. The court noted that McDermott had been taking tablets and alcohol, and that he had been struggling mentally. The judge accepted his early guilty plea but emphasised that the weapon was capable of serious injury.
A Dublin man has been sentenced to two and a half years imprisonment following his assault on a garda with a glass bottle. Christopher Reilly (28) pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assaulting Garda Daniel Sweeney, causing him harm, on Ratoath Road, Cabra, on 10 November 2015. During the incident, Reilly swung a glass bottle at the garda, causing a serious leg wound that required thirteen stitches and resulted in permanent sensory loss. The victim, in a statement read to the court, described losing considerable blood and being unable to walk for a month following the attack. Judge Melanie Greally imposed a three and a half year sentence with the final twelve months suspended, noting the assault fell within the upper range of seriousness. She ordered Reilly to complete any violent offender programme directed by the Probation Service and to address his drug use. Reilly has sixty-seven previous convictions.
A man has pleaded guilty to assaulting a garda with a glass bottle at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Christopher Reilly, aged 28, of Cabra, Dublin, assaulted Garda Daniel Sweeney on Ratoath Road, Cabra, on 10 November 2015, causing him serious harm. The court heard that during a confrontation, Reilly swung a bottle at the officer, inflicting a leg wound that required 13 stitches. The garda has permanently lost sensation from his calf to his ankle as a result of the injury. Reilly, who has 67 previous convictions, initially disputed the circumstances but subsequently entered a guilty plea. The court was informed that Reilly has begun addressing personal difficulties and secured employment. Judge Melanie Greally remanded him on continuing bail pending sentencing the following week.
Jason Keating (27), of Rush, Co Dublin, pleaded guilty in the Special Criminal Court to facilitating a criminal organisation in the murder of Noel 'Duck Egg' Kirwan. Keating had previously pleaded not guilty to the murder charge, which has been the subject of a trial since October 2. The State Solicitor informed the court that the DPP directed a new charge under Section 72 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006, which Keating admitted. Prosecutors requested a nolle prosequi be entered on the original murder count at the sentencing stage. Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding with Judges Sinead Ni Chualachain and Cormac Dunne, remanded Keating in custody until November 22 for sentencing. The judge noted the court would require details on Keating's assistance and state of mind. He referenced the recent sentencing of Martin Aylmer (31) to three years and nine months for a similar offence involving the murder of Michael Barr. Mr Justice Hunt described the new charge as useful for providing sentencing flexibility in cases where defendants do not directly commit the act. The matter was adjourned until November 22.
The High Court wound up Jax Miller Unlimited, the company run by writer Ann O'Donnell (pen name Jax Miller), after it failed to pay a €83,000 tax demand from the Revenue Commissioners. The demand, issued in March, covered unpaid PAYE, USC, LPT, Corporation Tax and interest. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Caroline Costello, found the firm insolvent and unable to meet its debts. Mr Myles Kirby was appointed liquidator. The company's directors, Ann O'Donnell and her husband John O'Donnell, both from New Inn, Enfield, Co. Meath, had no assets or income in the last two years. Ann O'Donnell had received advance payments for a two‑book deal in 2014; the first book, published in 2015, sold moderately worldwide, while the second was rejected by the publisher and she was dropped by her agent in 2017. She is now in the US seeking publication, and her husband works at a petrol station.
Tsvetomir Velikov, a 42-year-old Bulgarian national from Navan, Co. Meath, was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court for defiling a female under the age of 17. He pleaded guilty on his trial date to the charge relating to an incident in Cork on February 28, 2015. Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly imposed a two-year prison sentence, suspending the final six months. The sentence was backdated to June 26, the date Velikov pleaded guilty. The court noted that while there was no physical violence, Velikov had doubts about the victim's age but proceeded with the act. He was described as a "model prisoner" who completed various courses while awaiting sentence. In a related matter, Ivan Peev, also of Coolfore Road, previously received a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for defiling the victim's 15-year-old friend in a circus caravan on the same date. The prosecution highlighted that the girls had consumed significant amounts of alcohol and appeared intoxicated, with CCTV showing them holding each other up upon leaving. Velikov admitted to being reckless regarding their ages. The judge emphasized that the law protects young people regardless of alcohol consumption. Velikov has no previous convictions in Ireland or Bulgaria.
Martin Aylmer, 31, of Dublin 3, was sentenced to three years and nine months imprisonment by the Special Criminal Court for participating in activity intended to facilitate the murder of Michael Barr. Aylmer pleaded guilty in July to assisting a criminal organisation in the April 2016 shooting of Barr, the manager of the Sunset House pub. The court found that Aylmer purchased mobile phones used in the crime and visited a lock-up premises, though it could not be established that he knew a murder was planned. Presiding Judge Tony Hunt, sitting with Judges Sinead Ni Chulachain and Cormac Dunne, noted Aylmer's assistance was not at the higher end of the scale and applied a 25% discount for his early guilty plea. The final sentence includes one year suspended, with the judge stating it is appropriate for Aylmer to serve the last portion of his sentence in the community. This follows the January sentencing of Eamonn Cumberton, who was jailed for life after being found guilty of Barr's murder. Chief Superintendent Sean Ward stated the investigation remains live, with two individuals yet to be spoken to, while highlighting the significance of prosecuting those who facilitate organised crime.
Gerard Kelly, of Ballybough Road, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to the production of an article capable of inflicting serious injury on March 27, 2015. The court heard that Kelly allegedly held a large kitchen knife to the throat of a man drinking at Lowry's pub on Summerhill Parade. Although another patron was reportedly stabbed in the leg, no assault charges were before the court. Kelly was arrested nearby while in a state of alcohol delirium. His defence counsel, Luigi Rea BL, stated that Kelly did not know the victims and has since taken steps to address his alcoholism. Detective Garda Michael O'Brien described Kelly's rehabilitation as a "remarkable turnaround," noting he is a different person than when first met in 2015. Judge Martin Nolan acknowledged the seriousness of the offence, rejecting intoxication as an excuse. However, noting Kelly's remorse and efforts to reform, the judge suspended a sentence of two and a half years. Judge Nolan warned that if Kelly re-offends, he will go to prison. The record noted that Kelly has 48 previous convictions, all for District Court offences including theft and possession of knives.
A 16‑year‑old youth, now 17, pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of a stolen phone after attacking a delivery man on Deerhaven Avenue, Clonee, Dublin. The victim, a pensioner, was repeatedly kicked and beaten, sustaining a broken nose, concussion and chipped teeth, and suffered ongoing headaches and fear of further attacks. The court heard the youth had no prior convictions, a good educational record, supportive family and a favourable probation report, and had pleaded guilty early. Judge Melanie Greally set a headline sentence of six years but imposed a four‑year suspended sentence, to be suspended in full if the youth keeps the peace for four years and undergoes 12 months' supervision by the probation services. The start of the sentence was deferred until 31 July 2019 in accordance with the Children Act. The case involved two other youths who fled the scene, and the victim's impact statement highlighted financial loss and ongoing trauma.
Three men have been arraigned at the Special Criminal Court on charges of murdering a dissident republican shot dead outside a public house in Meath over five years ago. Michael McDermott, aged 58, of Ballinagh, County Cavan; Kevin Braney, aged 43, from Dublin; and Frank Murphy, aged 58, of Bettystown, County Meath, have all pleaded not guilty to murder. McDermott and Braney also deny possessing a 9mm semi-automatic pistol and ammunition in March 2013, while Murphy denies possession of the same firearm and rounds on the date of the killing itself. The prosecution opened its case before three judges, outlining that the victim was shot multiple times in a carpark whilst in his vehicle, with witnesses present. The court heard that a stolen vehicle was used in the attack and subsequently recovered. The prosecution indicated that accomplice evidence will feature prominently, noting that a protected witness will testify regarding the planning and execution of the murder. The trial is expected to last approximately ten weeks.
Blaine Coakley, a 31‑year‑old chronic heroin addict with 100 prior convictions, pleaded with Judge Karen O'Connor in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to be readmitted to the Coolmine drug rehabilitation centre after robbing a Gala shop in August 2017. He claimed he had changed since the robbery and that prison had not helped him, describing how he had been with another drug user upon release and struggled to cope. Judge O'Connor noted that Coakley had absconded from Coolmine, which limited her options, but she accepted his remorse and desire to address his drug problems. She imposed a four‑year sentence with the final 18 months suspended, ordered 18 months of post‑release supervision, and required him to complete a Coolmine residential treatment programme when a bed becomes available. The robbery involved €780 taken with a bread knife while he was on a suspended sentence for theft. Blaine Coakley pleaded guilty.
In a High Court hearing on 2 October 2018, MJH Property Management, owners of 41 Belvedere Place, Dublin 1, reported that protestors had not vacated the building despite a court‑issued injunction. The injunction, granted last month, required unknown persons to leave the premises immediately and cease unlawful trespass. The owners said the occupation began on 8 September when members of the "Take Back the City" campaign forcibly entered the vacant Georgian building, which they plan to develop into apartments. They argued the building is unsafe and unsuitable for the occupation, and that continued trespass would breach fire safety regulations and jeopardise insurance. No representation was made on behalf of the occupants at the hearing. The judge adjourned the matter for two weeks, noting the owners were taking steps to resolve the situation. The case follows similar High Court actions at other north inner‑city properties occupied by protestors.
In a Cork case, Bulgarian circus worker Tsvetomir Velikov, aged 42, pleaded guilty to defiling a 16‑year‑old girl on 28 February 2015. The girl, almost 17, and a 15‑year‑old friend had arrived at the circus after drinking vodka. Velikov admitted he had been reckless about their ages. He was to be sentenced later that month. The case also involved Ivan Peev, another Bulgarian circus worker, who received a two‑and‑a‑half‑year prison sentence for a similar offence involving a 15‑year‑old on the same date. The court heard that the girls were given more alcohol, were intoxicated, and that the 16‑year‑old had vomited that night. The victim's impact statement described feelings of shame and unhappiness after the incident. The court adjourned the sentence until later that month.
Martin Aylmer, 31, was convicted in July for aiding a criminal organisation in the murder of Michael Barr, the manager of the Sunset House pub, on 25 April 2016. A mobile phone he had purchased two days earlier was found dropped beside the getaway Audi A6, linking him to the crime. CCTV showed Aylmer buying three prepaid phones at Ilac Shopping Centre and another three at a shop on Moore Street, all unregistered. The phone was used for calls after the shooting. Aylmer's fingerprints were found on a bleach bottle at a lock‑up premises visited by him on 24 April, where firearms and cleaning products were seized. He was arrested on 17 June, exercised his right to silence, and was remanded in custody until 15 October for sentencing. The case was the first prosecution under the 2006 organised crime legislation for this offence. Eamonn Cumberton, 30, had already been jailed for life for the same murder. Martin Aylmer pleaded guilty.
In a week‑long spree in November 2016, 21‑year‑old Jordon Boyle, of Sheephill Green, Blanchardstown, used large knives to rob an Esso garage on Navan Road, a petrol station in Castleknock, and attempted to hijack a Bentley in the same garage forecourt. During the first robbery he held a butcher's knife to a cashier's face, demanded money, stole a bottle of vodka and fled. The second robbery involved a woman in her 60s whom he grabbed from behind, held a machete to her face, and forced a cashier to hand over money. The third incident saw him jump onto a Bentley's hood, threaten the driver and try to open the door before the car was driven away. Boyle pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery, one of false imprisonment and one of attempted unlawful seizure of a vehicle.
Neil O'Brien, 62, of Rathbeggan, Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath, pleaded guilty to forging cheques, transfer instructions and withdrawals from bank accounts in the names of his former wife and daughter between 2002 and 2008, and to false accounting between 2009 and 2013. He admitted fraudulently obtaining €721,000, largely used for family expenses, including a credit card not in his name and a €3,000 cheque drawn by his daughter. The court heard that O'Brien had no previous convictions, was estranged from his family, had serious mental health issues and no financial means. Judge Karen O'Connor, noting exceptional circumstances, imposed a three‑year fully suspended sentence on the condition that O'Brien continue psychological services and medication. The sentence was granted without a custodial term, reflecting the court's view that a custodial sentence would not benefit the victims. The case involved no evidence of greed or gambling, and the prosecution highlighted O'Brien's financial inadequacy and early guilty plea.
Martin Aylmer, 31, of Casino Park, Marino, Dublin 3, pleaded guilty today to facilitating the murder of Michael Barr, 35, the manager of the Sunset House pub in Dublin 1, which occurred on 25 April 2016. Aylmer admitted that between 23 and 25 April 2016 he participated in or contributed to activities that could facilitate the commission of the murder by a criminal organisation or its members. He also admitted reckless conduct that could facilitate the murder. The prosecution, led by Dominic McGinn SC, presented the first count to the Special Criminal Court, where Aylmer was arraigned and pleaded guilty. Judge Tony Hunt remanded him on continuing bail until his sentencing hearing on 1 October, noting that his guilty plea would be treated as an early plea with significant credit. The case is the first prosecution under the 2006 organised‑crime legislation. Eamonn Cumberton, 30, was jailed for life in January for the same murder.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Kevin Braney (44) and Ciaran Maguire (30) were found guilty of IRA membership. The men had denied membership on August 2, 2017, but evidence from Detective Chief Superintendent Tom Maguire and CCTV showed they travelled from Dublin to an estate in County Meath on July 13, 2017. There, they threatened an accident victim, claiming to be the IRA and saying they would shoot him if he did not withdraw a claim against a former employer. The victim, who had suffered a fall and injuries, had filed a claim for unpaid wages and hospital bills. The court, satisfied beyond reasonable doubt of the men's IRA membership, found the threat a planned, joined enterprise to intimidate. Both men were remanded in custody until sentencing on July 31. The offence carries a maximum sentence of eight years. The court noted the men's family circumstances and prior convictions but did not yet impose a sentence.
In a High Court hearing on 18 July 2018, Inspiredspaces Bundle 5 (Ireland) Ltd, a joint venture with Carillion and the Dutch Infrastructure Fund, obtained a temporary injunction to stop subcontractors from blockading the construction sites of five new schools and an Institute of Further Education. The injunction was granted after subcontractors claimed unpaid work following the collapse of Carillion and the liquidation of Sammon Contracting Ireland Ltd, the original contractor. Inspiredspaces, represented by Brian Conroy BL, argued that the blockade threatened the completion of schools in Wexford and Bray, where works were almost finished, and that the protestors had no legitimate claim against the joint venture. Ms Justice Caroline Costello issued the order, preventing any blocking, interference, or removal of items from the sites, and requiring any claims to be dealt with by Inspiredspaces. The injunction was made ex parte and is returnable later that week.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the ongoing trial of Thomas Fox, Jonathan Keogh, and Regina Keogh, who have all pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Gareth Hutch. The prosecution alleges the killing was premeditated, with Mr. Keogh and an uncharged man, Mr. AB, acting as shooters, while Mr. Fox and Ms. Keogh are accused of planning the crime. Evidence presented includes a text message sent from a UK number to a phone associated with Mr. Fox hours after the shooting, stating, "your scot free pal" and "there all poxy blaming me." Senior crime analyst Paul Hibbitts confirmed that this UK number also contacted Denise King, Mr. Keogh's former partner, and Ms. Keogh. The court previously viewed CCTV footage of Mr. Keogh in Belfast on the night of the shooting and at the Stenaline Port Terminal the following day. Testimony indicated that Ms. Keogh arranged for money to be brought to Mr. Keogh before he traveled to Scotland. Additionally, analysis of SIM cards found in a car linked to Mr. Keogh revealed significant interaction with numbers associated with Mr. Fox and Mr. AB on the morning of the incident. The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt, sitting with Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh.
The trial of Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh, all accused of murdering Gareth Hutch, continued before a three-judge court presided over by Mr Justice Tony Hunt. The defendants, who have pleaded not guilty to the murder, faced the admission of extensive CCTV evidence after the court rejected a defence application to exclude the footage on privacy grounds. Prosecutors presented clips from May 22, 2016, allegedly showing the accused and linked vehicles, including a white Ford Transit van, a black BMW, and a silver Honda Civic, in Dublin 7. The State alleges the defendants purchased Milton sterilising fluid and that Mr Keogh and an accomplice, Mr AB, were the shooters. Mr Fox also faces a charge of unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9mm handgun, which he denies. The prosecution characterised the killing of Mr Hutch, who died from four gunshot injuries on May 24, 2016, as premeditated. The trial is ongoing and continues tomorrow.
Martin Sherlock, aged 30, was convicted of raping a woman he met on the dating app Badoo. The victim had told him they could not have sex without a condom and repeatedly said "no" during the encounter. Sherlock admitted stealing her mobile phone. He was found guilty after a four‑day trial and sentenced to five years' imprisonment, with a three‑year post‑release supervision order. The court noted that Sherlock had no prior convictions, had lost his job and cancelled wedding plans, and that the victim had a history of mental illness. The judge emphasised that the conviction was based on the victim's refusal to have sex without a condom and that the sentence was not an act of vengeance. No further legal actions or appeals are mentioned in the article. Martin Sherlock pleaded not guilty.
Sabrina O'Connor, a former care worker aged 37, was acquitted on ten charges of theft and deception after a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court found her not guilty. The case involved allegations that she stole over €43,000 from an elderly stroke victim she cared for between June 2010 and December 2011. The jury could not reach verdicts on three counts and remanded her on continuing bail until July 9 to address those charges. O'Connor admitted that accepting money from a client was against her work policy and said she had been under pressure. She claimed she had attempted to repay the largest sum of €15,000 but the victim said the money was "in custody." The judge ordered that sum to be paid back to the complainant. The trial also covered allegations of bank account theft, use of cheques, and a vehicle purchase, but these were not resolved in the verdict.
The jury in the trial of former care worker Sabrina O'Connor, aged 37, will enter its third day of deliberations at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. O'Connor denies 13 theft counts and one deception count relating to alleged theft of over €43,000 from an elderly stroke victim between 2010 and 2011. The prosecution claims the largest sum stolen was €15,000, used to secure a house option, and that O'Connor also stole an €8,500 bank draft to purchase a Land Rover. Evidence shows she used 11 cheques, ranging from €1,000 to €2,500, totalling €20,100, to withdraw money from the victim's account for her own benefit. The victim, who suffered a stroke, said O'Connor had access to her account and that O'Connor had claimed gifts of €8,000, €10,000, and a €15,000 loan for a house deposit, which she has not repaid.