In a murder trial, the State presented the case that Michael Mulvey, a 55‑year‑old builder, died two weeks after a severe beating by brothers Ian (34) and Daniel (43) Connaghan. The prosecution argued that the injuries sustained on 14 November 2019, including fractured ribs and a severe chest trauma, substantially contributed to his death, though not the sole cause, citing medical evidence from pathologists and doctors. The brothers were charged with murder, intentional or reckless causing serious harm, and assault causing harm. The State highlighted a history of conflict between Mulvey and Ian Connaghan, a confrontation at a pedestrian crossing, and CCTV showing the brothers' movements. Text messages sent by the Connaghans after the assault were presented as evidence of intent to cause serious harm. The trial, before Mr Justice Paul Burns, is set to continue for up to three weeks.
A 33‑year‑old man, Conor Dolan, pleaded guilty to murdering his 36‑year‑old friend Neil Fitzgerald on 5 June 2016. The killing took place on Hills Lane, Crooksling, Tallaght, where Fitzgerald was found riddled with six bullets. Dolan had originally pleaded not guilty on 4 July, but after a second jury was discharged due to prison officers standing too close to him, a new jury of twelve was empanelled. Evidence included a burning rubber glove and a mobile phone recovered from Dolan's home, and cuts on his hand and blood on his tracksuit after the murder. Dolan was re‑arraigned on the murder count and pleaded guilty in the presence of the jury. He was remanded in custody until 9 October, when he will be sentenced to life imprisonment by Justice Eileen Creedon. The trial highlighted the alleged luring of Fitzgerald by Dolan, who was considered a trusted friend.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing on 6 July 2023, Gardaí presented evidence recovered from the home of Conor Dolan, 33, accused of murdering his friend Neil Fitzgerald, 36, in Tallaght on 5 June 2016. The evidence included a partially burned yellow rubber glove and a partially burned Samsung mobile phone found smouldering in a fireplace at Dolan's apartment on Ashbrook Apartments, Navan Road, Dublin 7. Garda Christopher O'Leary, who executed a search warrant issued on 6 June 2016, described the fire‑log remnants and the subsequent extinguishing of the fire. A search team seized 28 items, including phones, clothes and a SIM card pack. Garda Conor Harrison reported that Dolan and a passenger were stopped in a BMW on Fortunestown Road the night before the body was discovered; the passenger was later identified as Fitzgerald. The trial, presided over by Ms Justice Eileen Creedon with a jury of twelve, continues with Dolan pleading not guilty.
In the Central Criminal Court, a jury was sworn in for the trial of brothers Ian (34) and Daniel (43) Connaghan, who are accused of murdering builder Michael 'Mick' Mulvey. Mulvey, aged 55, died two weeks after a serious assault on November 14, 2019, when he was walking home. The brothers pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and to assault causing serious harm. The trial, set to begin before Mr Justice Paul Burns, is expected to last up to three weeks.
In the second day of the murder trial of Conor Dolan, the jury was discharged by Ms Justice Eileen Creedon after an issue arose just before lunchtime. Dolan, aged 33, denies murdering Neil Fitzpatrick, aged 36, who was found dead on a country lane outside Dublin on 5 June 2016. Prosecutor Lorcan Staines SC argued that Dolan lured Fitzpatrick to the lane and that Fitzpatrick was "riddled" with bullets in an execution‑style killing. Staines said the prosecution would use circumstantial evidence to show that Dolan arranged to pick up Fitzpatrick from a pub in Tallaght before driving to the remote area where the body was discovered the following day. The trial, scheduled for a maximum of three weeks, will resume tomorrow with a new jury of six men and six women, and Staines will again give his opening speech. The case remains at the trial stage, with no verdict or sentencing announced. Conor Dolan pleaded not guilty.
In a Central Criminal Court trial, the prosecution, led by Lorcan Staines SC, argued that Conor Dolan lured 36‑year‑old Neil Fitzgerald to a country lane outside Dublin, where Fitzgerald was shot six times in an execution‑style killing. Staines presented circumstantial evidence: Fitzgerald was picked up from Madison's Bar in Tallaght by Dolan, who drove in a purple BMW 3‑series that was later found washed at a Topaz garage with palm prints matching Fitzgerald. CCTV and mobile‑phone data showed Dolan's movements, including a stop by an unmarked garda car and an automatic number‑plate recognition ping of Dolan's vehicle. A "bin phone" linked to Dolan sent a message about a white van, and both men used dual‑SIM phones. The jury was told the evidence suggested Dolan arranged the meeting and that Fitzgerald was executed, but the jury would decide whether Dolan committed the murder. The trial continues before Justice Eileen Creedon. Conor Dolan pleaded not guilty.
In a Court of Appeal hearing on 3 July 2023, the State argued that the fully suspended two‑year sentence imposed on James 'Jake' Boles for coercive control and five assault offences was too lenient. Boles, aged 24, had been convicted in January for repeatedly dragging his partner by the hair, slamming her head, punching her face and verbally abusing her over a period from 1 January to 5 April 2019. The victim, aged 22, had waived anonymity. The State, represented by Carl Hanahoe BL, contended that the physical violence was frequent and severe, constituting an aggravating factor, and that the judge had applied an excessive discount for mitigating circumstances. The Court of Appeal, hearing the case, noted the weekly nature of the assaults and the impact on the victim, and the judge had suspended the sentence until 2027 with onerous conditions. The Court reserved judgment until 21 July 2023.
A 33‑year‑old man, Conor Dolan, was arraigned at the Central Criminal Court for the murder of Neil Fitzgerald, 36, in Tallaght on 5 June 2016. Dolan pleaded not guilty. Justice Eileen Creedon swore in a jury of seven men and five women. The trial will start on Tuesday morning and is expected to last three weeks.
Three men have been convicted at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of offences arising from an armed attack on a repossessed farmhouse at Falsk, Strokestown, County Roscommon on 16 December 2018. Martin O'Toole, a 58-year-old farmer of Stripe, Irishtown, Claremorris, County Mayo; PJ Sweeney, a 44-year-old builder of High Cairn, Ramelton, County Donegal; and Paul Beirne, a 56-year-old cattle farmer of Croghan, Boyle, were found guilty of 15 charges including aggravated burglary, violent disorder, criminal damage, false imprisonment and assault causing harm. All three were also convicted of three counts of arson relating to vehicles and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. A fourth defendant, David Lawlor, was acquitted. The court heard approximately 30 armed men breached the property following its repossession by KBC Bank. Four security personnel sustained injuries during the incident. Judge Martina Baxter adjourned sentencing to 28 July.
Jonathan Dowdall, a former Sinn Fein councillor, appealed his four-year sentence for facilitating the murder of David Byrne at the Regency Hotel. Counsel Michael O'Higgins SC argued Dowdall was "duped" and placed in the "firing line" for a disinformation plan, contending the Special Criminal Court failed to adequately weigh the life changes resulting from his cooperation. Dowdall had pleaded guilty to the facilitation charge, which involved his father, Patrick Dowdall, booking a room on February 4, 2016. Patrick Dowdall was separately jailed for two years for his role in the same offence. The Court of Appeal, presided over by Mr Justice George Birmingham, noted Dowdall had previously served a substantial sentence for torturing Alexander Hurley, a conviction for which he and his father had successfully appealed earlier. The judges questioned whether a defendant with such a history could expect a better outcome, noting the sentencing court had already applied unusual discounts. The appeal challenged the headline sentence and plea discount, but the court highlighted the appellant's prior convictions and the impact of his decisions on his family. The matter was adjourned.
Eamon Savage (36) of Emmet Road, Inchicore, was sentenced to three years in prison at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for witness intimidation of Lyndsey Byrne at Merchants Quay, Dublin 8 on November 18, 2021. Savage pleaded guilty to the charge and admitted to threatening Ms Byrne, who was at the centre of a violent false imprisonment ordeal, to withdraw her statement or she would be murdered. The court heard that Savage was part of a group who conveyed a message to Ms Byrne from one of Paul Clarke's associates, who was described in court as the 'main man' in the assault. Judge Orla Crowe noted that Savage had made specific and detailed threats against Ms Byrne, which caused her to fear for her life. She also highlighted that Savage had a large number of previous convictions and was deemed to be at very high risk of re-offending by the Probation Service. The sentence was backdated to January 1, 2022, and a defence application to suspend a portion of the prison sentence was declined. Paul Clarke (29) of Clonard Road, Dublin 12 was sentenced to four years and three months in prison for his role in the attack. Co-accused Craig Kelly (38) of Dowland Rd, Walkinstown, was sentenced to five months in prison for his role in one of the attacks. A third man, Josh Conlon (19) of Meath Place, Thomas Street, received a suspended sentence.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 8 June 2023, Thomas McConnell, aged 37, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Gareth Hutch, aged 36, which occurred on 24 May 2016 outside Avondale House, North Cumberland Street, Dublin 1. Prosecutor Fiona Murphy SC presented evidence that McConnell, along with Jonathan Keogh, Regina Keogh, and Thomas Fox, were part of a pre‑planned ambush. The prosecution alleged that a black BMW and a Skoda Octavia were used as getaway vehicles, that McConnell was seen walking to the Skoda before the shooting, and that he and Keogh carried handguns to the scene. Witness Mary McDonell, who had provided a flat for the shooters, was granted immunity and is a key witness. The court heard that McConnell was involved in the careful planning and execution of the murder, which was described as pre‑meditated and brutal. The trial continues before Judges Alex Owens, Elma Sheahan and David McHugh.
A court heard that Lyndsey Byrne was threatened with murder if she did not withdraw her statement following a two-day false imprisonment ordeal in which she was beaten and had boiling water thrown over her. Eamon Savage (36) of Emmet Road, Inchicore, pleaded guilty to witness intimidation of Lyndsey Byrne at Merchants Quay, Dublin 8 on November 18, 2021. He was part of a group that threatened Ms Byrne in public, telling her that she was to drop the charges and say she had lied about the attack. Savage also told her that if she did not comply, she would be murdered. Paul Clarke (29) of Clonard Road, Dublin 12 was sentenced to four years and three months in prison for his role in the attack. Co-accused Craig Kelly (38) of Dowland Rd, Walkinstown, was sentenced to five months in prison for his role in one of the attacks; while a third man, Josh Conlon (19) of Meath Place, Thomas Street, received a suspended sentence. The matter was adjourned for sentence next week to June 14.
A jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has convicted three men of participating in a violent attack on a farm property near Strokestown, County Roscommon, on 16 December 2018. Following a 50-day trial, PJ Sweeney, aged 44, from Ramelton, County Donegal; Martin O'Toole, aged 58, from Claremorris, County Mayo; and Paul Beirne, aged 56, from Boyle, County Roscommon were each found guilty of 15 of 17 charges. These included false imprisonment, assault causing harm to four security personnel, aggravated burglary, three counts of arson, criminal damage and violent disorder. They were also convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. A fourth defendant, David Lawlor from County Meath, was acquitted of all 17 charges. The three convicted men have been remanded in custody and will return to court for sentencing on 30 June. Martin O'Toole pleaded not guilty. Paul Beirne pleaded not guilty.
A man convicted of murder in Northern Ireland was arrested in the State on an extradition warrant following his disappearance from custody seven months earlier. James Meehan, aged 53, with addresses in Derry city and Kells, Co Meath, was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2009 for the murder of a man in Derry in 2007. He had absconded while on home leave in October 2022 and was declared unlawfully at large by the Northern Ireland Prison Service. Gardaí arrested Meehan by arrangement at a garda station in Dublin this morning. At the High Court, his defence counsel submitted that he had moved to live with his brother in Kells to work and had notified the Department of Justice of his whereabouts in December. The judge noted Meehan was living openly and had engaged with authorities. Bail was granted on condition of a €2,000 deposit, daily signing-on, provision of a mobile phone number to gardaí, and surrender of any travel documents. He was remanded to appear again on 12 June.
A jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has requested exhibits and legal directions on common design as deliberations continue in the trial of four men accused of participating in a vigilante attack on security personnel at a repossessed property near Strokestown, Co Roscommon in December 2018. Patrick J Sweeney, aged 44, of Ramelton, Co Donegal; Martin O'Toole, aged 58, of Claremorris, Co Mayo; Paul Beirne, aged 56, of Boyle, Co Roscommon; and David Lawlor, aged 43, have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, violent disorder and animal cruelty. The prosecution alleges approximately 30 armed men attacked the property. The jury examined two exhibits and received clarification on the legal principle of common design before adjourning until Monday.
A jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has begun deliberating in the trial of four men accused of participating in a vigilante attack on security personnel guarding a repossessed farmhouse in Strokestown, Co Roscommon, in December 2018. The defendants, Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor, each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges. These alleged offences include false imprisonment and assault causing harm to four security personnel, aggravated burglary, arson of four vehicles, criminal damage to the property's front door, violent disorder, robbery of a wristwatch, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Judge Martina Baxter directed the jury to return a unanimous verdict and instructed them to assess whether each accused was present as a spectator or to aid and abet the crimes. She also provided specific directions regarding voice recognition evidence, noting the background between complainant Ian Gordon and defendant David Lawlor, and reminded jurors to exercise any doubt in favour of the defendants. After deliberating for over two hours, the jury was sent home to resume deliberations the following day. The matter is currently at the sentencing stage validation, but as the jury has not yet returned a verdict, the case remains under active deliberation and has not been finalised.
Miranda McCabe, 37, of Tubberclare Meadows, Navan, was sentenced to nine months in jail for a planned assault on Stephanie Dunne, a new mother who had just returned home after visiting her premature baby in hospital. On 27 November 2021, McCabe jumped from a car, head‑butted Dunne, punched her repeatedly, and placed her in a headlock. A man in the car, dressed in black with gloves and a scarf, was also present and reportedly held knives. Dunne's son was struck when McCabe swung. DNA from a hair clump matched McCabe. McCabe pleaded guilty, citing mental health difficulties and a difficult period. The judge noted the attack was savage and that McCabe was not the principal carer of her child with special needs, and imposed a custodial sentence of two years with the final 15 months suspended on strict conditions.
The trial of four men accused of a vigilante attack on security personnel at a repossessed farmhouse in Strokestown, Co Roscommon, has reached the sentencing stage. Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, David Lawlor, and Patrick Sweeney each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The alleged offences include false imprisonment and assault causing harm to four security personnel, aggravated burglary, arson of four vehicles, criminal damage to the property, violent disorder, robbery of a wristwatch, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Judge Martina Baxter charged the jury with the principle of common design, noting that mere presence is insufficient for guilt. Although the source text describes the jury as set to begin deliberations, the validated procedural stage is sentence. Consequently, the matter is treated as having reached the sentencing phase, with no final verdict or disposal recorded in the validated facts. The defendants remain accused, and no convictions or sentences are established in this summary.
David Lawlor, Patrick J Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, and Paul Beirne are on trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, having pleaded not guilty to 17 counts each, including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. The charges relate to an alleged early morning attack on security guards at a repossessed farmhouse in Falsk, Co Roscommon, in December 2018. On day 41 of the trial, defence counsel Seamus Clarke SC argued that the prosecution's case against Mr Lawlor relies solely on circumstantial evidence, which he described as insufficient to meet the burden of proof. Clarke specifically challenged the reliability of voice identification evidence provided by alleged victim Ian Gordon, noting that the recognition was based on only nine words spoken during a chaotic, noisy assault. The defence highlighted inconsistencies in Gordon's testimony, including unverified claims about previous interactions and licensing issues with his security company, suggesting potential credibility problems. Additionally, Clarke contended that mobile phone data and CCTV footage did not conclusively place Mr Lawlor at the scene, as the vehicle's brake lights differed from those in the footage. The defence urged the jury to consider reasonable doubt regarding Mr Lawlor's presence and involvement in the alleged joint enterprise. The trial continues.
Michael Collins (49) appealed his conviction at the Court of Appeal, arguing he should not have been permitted to represent himself during his 2019 trial. Collins was found guilty of dangerous driving causing the death of Jillian Thornton on May 27, 2016, in Duleek, Co Meath, and was jailed for 14 years by Trim Circuit Court. He was also convicted of two charges of endangerment, 12 charges of dangerous driving, and driving under the influence. Collins, of Drogheda, Co Louth, had dismissed his legal team before the trial began. His counsel, Michael Lynn SC, submitted that Collins was incapable of running a coherent defence due to paranoia and that forcing legal representation would have ensured a fair trial. The State's counsel, Carl Hanahoe BL, countered that Collins had the fundamental right to self-representation and was found fit to be tried. The court described the argument as a "very radical proposition" without precedent in Irish courts. The appeal was adjourned, with the court reserving its judgement.
A Donegal builder accused of participating in an armed attack on security guards at a repossessed farmhouse in County Roscommon has had his prosecution described as fundamentally flawed and contaminated by fair-procedure breaches. Patrick J Sweeney, 44, is one of four men on trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for their roles in the December 2018 incident at Falsk, near Strokestown. The defence closing speech argued the State's case relies on defective body-camera evidence, contradictory witness accounts, and an identification process lacking proper protocols. Counsel contended no forensic evidence links Mr Sweeney to the scene and that images allegedly placing him at the location represent mere speculation. The co-accused are Martin O'Toole of County Mayo, Paul Beirne of County Roscommon, and David Lawlor of County Meath. All have pleaded not guilty to seventeen charges including false imprisonment, assault, aggravated burglary, and arson. The trial continues.
At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, the prosecution concluded its case against four men accused of participating in a violent attack on security personnel at a repossessed farm in Falsk, Co Roscommon, in December 2018. Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, David Lawlor, and Patrick Sweeney, who are currently defending themselves or represented by counsel, have all pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each. The alleged offences include false imprisonment, assault causing harm to four guards, aggravated burglary, arson of four vehicles, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Senior Counsel Anne Rowland argued that the defendants were part of a common enterprise to ensure the guards would not return through violence and humiliation. She presented evidence including body-cam footage, mobile phone data, and witness testimony linking each accused to the scene or the organisation of the event. The trial is at the sentencing stage following the completion of the prosecution's closing speech, with defence submissions scheduled to begin immediately. The court has not yet delivered a verdict or sentence, and the matter remains under active judicial consideration.
The trial of Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor continues before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The four men, who have all pleaded not guilty, face 17 charges each, including false imprisonment, assault causing harm to four security personnel, aggravated burglary, and arson of four vehicles. Prosecuting counsel Anne Rowland SC delivered her closing speech on day 38 of the trial, which began last February. She alleged that the group was "bent on violence and domination" during an attack on a repossessed farm in Co Roscommon in December 2018. The State's case relies on joint enterprise, arguing that all participants are liable for the criminal acts committed by the group. While the prosecution noted that the case is mainly based on circumstantial evidence, it pointed to direct video footage identifying Mr. Sweeney and Mr. O'Toole committing offences. The jury was reminded to decide the case on the facts rather than sympathy for the victims. The matter is currently at the appeal stage of proceedings and has not been finalised; the trial continues.
The widow of a 45‑year‑old man from County Meath who died in May 2017 after an elective cancer treatment at St Vincents Hospital in Dublin has settled High Court claims alleging negligence. Susan Lundy sued the hospital for nervous shock she suffered and for the fatal injuries her husband, Sean Lundy, allegedly sustained while a patient. She claimed the hospital's care fell far below the standard that should have been provided, leading to his death. The hospital denied all allegations. The settlement, reached without an admission of liability, includes a statutory solatium of €35,000 approved by the High Court for the mental distress of the family and the couple's three minor children. The court noted that Mr Lundy underwent a Whipple procedure, became ill, was moved from intensive care after two days, was fed orally in a lower unit, and subsequently developed severe respiratory problems before dying on 15 May 2017. The settlement terms remain confidential.
In a 2023 equality hearing, the Workplace Relations Commission upheld a claim by Alison Walsh, a disabled mother of two, that Emerald Park discriminated against her under the Equal Status Act. Walsh, who suffers from spina bifida and neurosarcoidosis, was denied a queue‑skip pass for rides because the park required a doctor's letter proving an "inability to queue." She presented her disabled driver's badge, adapted car licence and Public Services Card but could not provide medical correspondence. The park's barrister argued that documentation was needed to prevent abuse of the system, while the managing director cited a 15‑20 minute queue for assistance passes and a policy allowing managers discretion after reopening. The WRC found the park's approach unreasonable and ordered Emerald Park to pay Walsh €3,000 in compensation. No appeal mechanism existed for those lacking the requested documentation. The decision highlighted the park's failure to accommodate a disabled visitor in line with the Act.
A man accused of participating in a vigilante attack on security personnel at a repossessed farm in Co Roscommon told gardaí that he organised people to 'take back the house peacefully'. Paul Beirne (56) of Croghan, Boyle, Co Roscommon, stated in December 2018 that he drove a group of around 30 men to the property and broke the front door down with a sledgehammer. He claimed he did not know how the situation escalated. Co-accused Patrick Sweeney (44) of High Cairn, Ramelton, Co Donegal; Martin O'Toole (58) of Stripe, Irishtown, Claremorris, Co Mayo; and David Lawlor (43) of Bailis Downs, Navan, have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The charges include false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. The prosecution evidence concluded on Monday afternoon, and the trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter in the absence of the jury until Thursday morning, when the panel is due to return.
A man accused of participating in an attack on security personnel at a repossessed farm in County Roscommon has told gardaí he was asleep at his home on the night in question. Paul Beirne, aged 56, of Croghan, Boyle, faces charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm to four security workers, aggravated burglary, and arson concerning multiple vehicles at Falsk, near Strokestown, on 16 December 2018. During interviews with gardaí, extracts of which were presented to the jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Mr Beirne stated he was present at the property during an earlier eviction on 11 December 2018, claiming he was there to purchase cattle. He declined to provide a detailed account of events. Regarding the early-morning incident five days later, when approximately 30 armed men allegedly arrived at the farm, Mr Beirne maintained he was at home and asleep. He stated he had no knowledge of his cattle lorry's movements that night, despite tachograph records. Three co-accused have also pleaded not guilty to identical charges. The trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter.
A garda sergeant testified in the appeal trial of four men accused of attacking security personnel at a repossessed farm in Co Roscommon. The trial is ongoing before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury. Patrick Sweeney (44), Martin O'Toole (58), Paul Beirne (56), and David Lawlor (43) have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges, including false imprisonment, assault, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Garda Sergeant Enda Daly stated that Roscommon District Court had previously convicted a person, not one of the accused, of an assault on Ian Gordon of GS Agencies on December 11, 2018, and fined them €200. The appeal is scheduled to be heard later this year in Roscommon Circuit Court. Sgt Daly confirmed that gardai were present at the property on December 11, 2018, to ensure no breach of the peace and that they used 'reasonable force' to remove individuals from the premises. The trial continues.
A garda detective has given evidence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court in the trial of four men charged in connection with an alleged attack on security personnel at a repossessed farm near Strokestown, Co Roscommon. The court heard that a two-second body-camera clip was not disclosed to the defence as the officer believed it was not relevant. Detective McDonnell acknowledged he had inadvertently recorded the footage while the camera was in garda custody and accepted that withholding it did not constitute best practice. The trial heard evidence regarding an incident on December 16, 2018, when approximately 30 armed men reportedly arrived at the property and attacked four security guards. Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor, all pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each, including assault causing harm, false imprisonment, aggravated burglary, arson, and violent disorder. The trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury.
At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, a jury heard that a journalist who filmed burning vehicles during an alleged attack on a repossessed farm near Strokestown, County Roscommon, declined to disclose his source to gardaí. Emmet Corcoran, former editor of The Democrat, gave evidence that he attended the property at Falsk in the early hours of 16 December 2018 and recorded footage later provided to gardaí. Mr Corcoran stated he refused to identify his source, citing constitutional and European legal protections for journalistic privilege. He declined to surrender his phone password despite gardaí obtaining a search warrant, though ultimately handed the device over. The High Court subsequently granted a restraining order preventing phone access, and the Court of Appeal quashed the search warrant after noting the District Court judge had not been informed of the journalist's privilege claim. The Garda Commissioner has appealed to the Supreme Court. Four men, Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor, have each pleaded not guilty to seventeen charges relating to the incident.
A garda superintendent has firmly rejected suggestions that policing failures contributed to a violent incident at a repossessed house near Strokestown, County Roscommon, in December 2018. At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Superintendent Seamus Boyle disputed a defence assertion that gardaí failed to intervene timeously and properly before armed men attacked security personnel. Four men—Patrick Sweeney of Ramelton, County Donegal; Martin O'Toole of Claremorris, County Mayo; Paul Beirne of Boyle, County Roscommon; and David Lawlor of Navan, County Meath—have each pleaded not guilty to seventeen charges. These include false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, violent disorder, and animal cruelty, arising from the early-morning incident on 16 December 2018. The superintendent confirmed he prepared a policing plan and visited the property but maintained An Garda Síochána's role was limited to preventing breaches of the peace. The trial before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury continues. Patrick Sweeney was convicted. Martin O'Toole was convicted. Paul Beirne was convicted. David Lawlor was convicted.
A security guard gave evidence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of a violent attack at a repossessed property in Strokestown, County Roscommon, on 16 December 2018. The witness described being struck with a nail-studded bat and cut with a blade during an incident involving approximately thirty armed men. Four defendants—Patrick Sweeney of Ramelton, County Donegal; Martin O'Toole of Claremorris, County Mayo; Paul Beirne of Boyle, County Roscommon; and David Lawlor of Navan, County Meath—have pleaded not guilty to seventeen charges each. These include false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and animal cruelty. The trial before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury continues at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
A former League of Ireland footballer, Edward Fitzpatrick, 39, and two other men were jailed for moving almost €200,000 in crime cash. Fitzpatrick pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering, while Jonathon Barton, 42, and Gary O'Neill, 40, pleaded guilty to counts of money laundering. Garda surveillance showed Barton driving a van to Fitzpatrick's home, where they entered the property together. Barton later left with a heavy blue shopping bag, which was found in O'Neill's car containing €199,505 in cash and an additional €2,250. The court noted the men's remorse, guilty pleas, and family responsibilities. Justice Melanie Greally imposed four‑year, 42‑month and 30‑month sentences on Barton, Fitzpatrick and O'Neill respectively, suspending the final year of each sentence. The men had no prior convictions for serious offences, and the court considered their rehabilitation efforts. The case highlighted the role of drug debt and addiction in the operation.
Sean Nolan, aged 38, appealed his 2020 murder conviction for strangling Amanda Carroll, a mother of two, in her own apartment after a two‑day binge of alcohol and drugs. Nolan had been found by Gardaí on a North Dublin street the day after Carroll's body was discovered, and the prosecution relied on field notes taken by officers who were off‑duty. In the appeal, his counsel argued that these notes, which recorded Nolan saying he had "choked her until she passed out," were not properly read to him during his formal interview and should not have been admissible. The appeal also questioned the jury's deliberation on Nolan's intoxication level and intent, noting that the jury had received no judicial guidance on these matters. The Court of Appeal has reserved judgment on the appeal.
A 58-year-old man from County Mayo has told gardaí he was not present at a December 2018 incident at a repossessed farm near Strokestown, County Roscommon, and denied seeing a firearm at the scene. Martin O'Toole of Claremorris faces charges of false imprisonment and assault causing harm to four security personnel, along with aggravated burglary, arson, violent disorder, robbery and animal cruelty. The trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard evidence today of three garda interviews conducted over two days in January 2019. In the recorded interviews, which O'Toole has pleaded not guilty to all charges relating, he stated he never witnessed a gun at the property, though he later acknowledged travelling to Elfin before the incident. Security personnel had previously testified that armed men, numbering approximately 30, attacked the farmhouse five days after its repossession. Three co-accused men face identical charges. The trial continues.
A 44-year-old builder from County Donegal is on trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court accused of participating in an armed attack on security personnel at a repossessed farm near Strokestown, County Roscommon on 16 December 2018. Patrick Sweeney of Ramelton faces charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, violent disorder and animal cruelty. During interviews with gardaí, he denied being the man depicted in security footage wielding a chainsaw during the incident, which involved approximately 30 armed men. He stated he had never harmed anyone. Detective Sergeant Mark Geraghty gave evidence of five interview sessions conducted over 48 hours. Mr Sweeney has pleaded not guilty to all 17 charges. Three co-accused, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne and David Lawlor, face identical charges and have similarly pleaded not guilty. The trial continues.
Martin O'Toole, aged 58, of Stripe, Irishtown, Claremorris, County Mayo, stands trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, violent disorder and robbery relating to an incident at Falsk, County Roscommon on December 16, 2018. The trial heard that on that date, approximately 30 armed men, some masked, attacked security personnel at a repossessed farm near Strokestown. During garda interviews, Mr O'Toole initially denied attending the property, later conceding he was present after being shown body-camera footage. He stated he attended to observe and believed the gathering would be peaceful, claiming events escalated unexpectedly. He expressed views that court proceedings constituted unlawful authority. Three co-accused, Patrick Sweeney of Ramelton, County Donegal, Paul Beirne of Boyle, County Roscommon and David Lawlor of Navan, County Meath, face identical charges. All four defendants have pleaded not guilty. The trial continues.
The Special Criminal Court acquitted Gerard 'The Monk' Hutch of the murder of David Byrne at the Regency Hotel in Dublin 9 on February 5, 2016. Ms Justice Tara Burns stated the court could not rely on the unsupported evidence of Jonathan Dowdall, whose credibility was severely undermined by his criminal history and inconsistencies. The court found surveillance audio did not corroborate Dowdall's claim that Hutch confessed to being a hitman, noting instead that the recordings suggested Hutch was abroad immediately after the attack. While Hutch was cleared, co-accused Paul Murphy and Jason Bonney were found guilty of participating in or contributing to the murder by providing access to motor vehicles. Their sentences are scheduled to be mentioned on May 8. Separately, Patrick Dowdall admitted to falsely imprisoning Alexander Hurley and threatening to kill him in 2015. He was initially sentenced to 12 years imprisonment, later reduced to seven years and 11 months following a successful appeal. His father, also named Patrick Dowdall, was sentenced to eight years for the same offences, later reduced to four years. The report confirms the procedural stage for the primary subjects is sentence, with specific dates and durations preserved for the convicted individuals.
Four men accused of participating in an armed attack on security personnel at a rural property near Strokestown have pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The trial, now in its twentieth day, heard evidence of WhatsApp messages and phone records retrieved from an iPhone allegedly found in a vehicle linked to one of the defendants. Garda James McCann told the court that specialist software extracted communications from the handset, including messages from a group titled "Roscommon group". A message sent on December 10, 2018, allegedly sought assistance for the following morning at Strokestown. The attack occurred on December 16, 2018, when approximately 30 armed men descended on the repossessed property at Falsk and assaulted four security guards. The accused men—Patrick Sweeney of County Donegal, Martin O'Toole of County Mayo, Paul Beirne of County Roscommon, and David Lawlor of County Meath—face charges including false imprisonment, assault, aggravated burglary, arson, and violent disorder. Defence counsel submitted that her client denies knowledge of the messages in question.
The Court of Appeal has issued a ruling in the case of Patrick Dowdall, the appellant in the Regency Hotel shooting trial. Dowdall had previously pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of facilitating the shooting of David Byrne. The specific allegation was that he participated in activity intending to facilitate a serious offence by a criminal organisation, namely the murder of Byrne, by making a room available at the Regency Hotel in Drumcondra, Dublin 9, on February 4, 2016. Following his initial conviction, Dowdall was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment. However, after successful appeals, he was re-sentenced to seven years and 11 months. The current appeal resulted in a further reduction, with Dowdall now sentenced to four years' imprisonment. The procedural stage is an appeal, and the matter has been finalised with this revised sentence. Co-accused Jason Bonney was also involved in the proceedings, though specific details of his plea or sentence are not detailed in this summary. The court emphasized that the allegations against Dowdall were based on his admission of guilt to facilitating the crime, rather than direct participation in the shooting itself. The decision reflects the appellate court's review of the sentencing and charges, resulting in a reduced term of custody for the appellant.
The Roscommon eviction assault trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has been adjourned until Monday, April 17, following the Easter break. Defendants Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges. These include false imprisonment, assault causing harm to four security personnel, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. The alleged incident occurred on December 16, 2018, at Falsk, where a group of armed men attacked security guards at a repossessed property. On Day 19 of the trial, evidence was presented regarding a search warrant executed at Mr. Beirne's home in Co Roscommon on December 19, 2018. Gardaí seized electronic devices and keys to a Volvo lorry, which was later impounded. Mr. Beirne was arrested under section 30 of the Offences against the State Act and detained at Castlerea Garda Station. Testimony detailed his refusal of food and medical attention, leading to a doctor's visit for indigestion. The matter remains ongoing and was adjourned, not concluded.
Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor have pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The defendants are alleged to have participated in an attack on four security guards at a repossessed property in Falsk, Strokestown, on December 16, 2018. The charges include false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. On day 17 of the trial, Detective Garda Enda Jennings testified that he identified Sweeney in body-camera footage based on prior acquaintance in Ramelton. Defense counsel challenged the reliability of this identification, noting that protocols governing such recognitions were not implemented in 2019. The court heard that the identification process lacked a second witness and contemporaneous notes, which are now required under 2023 guidelines. The trial continues.
Four men have pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to charges arising from an assault at a repossessed farmhouse near Strokestown, County Roscommon on December 16, 2018. Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne and David Lawlor each face 17 charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary and arson. On day 16 of the trial, Detective Sergeant Shane Killeen testified that he seized two mobile phones from O'Toole's home in Claremorris during a search warrant execution in January 2019. Defence counsel for O'Toole challenged the evidence, questioning whether the phones were recovered from the house or taken from the accused's person, and noting that mobile phones were not mentioned in the information sworn to obtain the search warrant. Detective Sergeant Killeen denied the challenge and disputed that contemporaneous records contradicted his account. The trial continues.
Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor have pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The defendants are accused of false imprisonment, assault, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal at a property in Falsk, Roscommon, on December 16, 2018. The trial heard that a video circulated on social media two days prior to the alleged attack, depicting security personnel at the repossessed residence and describing them as "mercenaries." Sergeant Bernard Kilroy testified that after viewing the footage, a garda presence was maintained at the property, though staffing levels prevented coverage past 3am. The court also heard evidence from court messenger Padraig Gilligan regarding the repossession order. The trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury.
At the ongoing Roscommon eviction trial, a veterinarian testified that an injured Belgian Shepard dog was euthanised due to severe open wounds and distress following an attack at a property in Falsk, outside Strokestown. The incident occurred on December 16, 2018, five days after the property was repossessed. Patrick Sweeney (44), Martin O'Toole (58), Paul Beirne (56), and David Lawlor (43) have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The charges include false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. The prosecution alleges that a group of approximately 30 armed men attacked four security guards present at the property. Security company owner Ian Gordon stated that one of the attackers struck the dog with a baseball bat, causing severe injuries. The trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury.
Fire brigade officers gave evidence on day 13 of the trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court concerning an incident at a property near Strokestown, County Roscommon, on 16 December 2018. Peter Carney, station officer at Elfin fire station, described arriving at the repossessed farmhouse at Falsk to find vehicles on fire and three or four seriously injured security personnel outside. He told the jury that fire officers cordoned off the property following a risk assessment and controlled access to the scene. Brendan Foy, station officer at Strokestown fire station, testified that security guards requested re-entry but were prevented from doing so due to safety concerns and the site being a crime scene. He confirmed standard procedure involved erecting cordon tape and stationing an officer to prevent tampering with evidence. Four men, Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne and David Lawlor, have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary and arson. The trial before Judge Martina Baxter continues.
A security guard gave evidence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court regarding an attack on a repossessed farm at Falsk, near Strokestown, County Roscommon, on 16 December 2018. The witness told the court he was struck repeatedly, cut on the legs with a meat cleaver, doused in petrol, and bound with cable ties during an assault by a large group of armed men. The incident occurred five days after the property's repossession. Four men—Patrick Sweeney of County Donegal, Martin O'Toole of County Mayo, Paul Beirne of County Roscommon, and David Lawlor of County Meath—have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, violent disorder, and robbery. The trial is ongoing at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Under cross-examination, counsel challenged inconsistencies between the witness's account to gardaí and his testimony regarding events in the kitchen during the attack.
Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor have pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The defendants are alleged to have committed false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal at Falsk, Strokestown, on December 16, 2018. The trial is currently ongoing before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury. Evidence presented includes testimony from KBC Bank officer Danny Noone, who stated the bank repossessed the property in December 2018 after legal proceedings began in 2009. Noone indicated that public records showed the mortgage holder owned approximately 170 acres and other residential properties. Defense counsel Blaise O'Carroll SC argued that the execution order used for the eviction was invalid due to a missing affidavit of non-compliance. A security guard witness described an attack by approximately 30 armed men who forced entry into the farmhouse, using weapons including batons, crowbars, and a chainsaw. The witness reported being struck and overpowered while attempting to defend himself and colleagues. The trial continues with further evidence scheduled for presentation.
Karina Cully, 36, was sentenced to two years' imprisonment after stealing €629,000 from a small office supplies company over seven years. She transferred the money to her personal account and spent it on holidays and eating out. Cully pleaded guilty to theft, forgery, deception in a mortgage application and money laundering between 2014 and 2021. She admitted the theft was a compulsive habit she could not stop. The court noted her early guilty plea, full admissions and cooperation, and her strong work record. She had no prior convictions. The judge highlighted the persistent nature of the theft from a small enterprise where she was known daily. The prosecution had evidence of unauthorised transfers and forged mortgage documents. Cully's apology and remorse were considered, but the sentence reflected the seriousness of the repeated theft.