Anthony Cooney, a 38-year-old chronic drug addict, was jailed for nine and a half years for two violent car hijackings. During the first incident, Cooney held a knife to the throat of a 70-year-old woman and threatened to kill her. In the second, he used a fork to threaten a couple, stabbing the driver and demanding money. The stolen car was later involved in a collision with a commercial van, causing significant damage. Cooney was arrested at the scene and was too intoxicated to be interviewed. He later admitted to the hijacking and apologized. The judge noted the severity of the offenses and the trauma inflicted on the victims, emphasizing that Cooney's actions were deplorable and required a long prison sentence. Cooney was also disqualified from driving for eight years.
A pharmacist who was dismissed within weeks of disclosing her pregnancy has won €50,000 in compensation for discrimination. The Workplace Relations Commission has ordered Rose Finlay Pharmacy (Tullamore) Ltd to pay the sum to Dikeledi Nkele Mushapho, who lost her supervising pharmacist role last year. Ms Mushapho said she was treated poorly after informing her employer of her pregnancy in February 2025. She claimed that her performance was unfairly scrutinized following the arrival of a productivity consultant at the workplace. Ms Mushapho said she was told she had to take a demotion or face dismissal. She was eventually dismissed in March 2025 after refusing the demotion. Adjudication officer Conor Stokes found that her dismissal was discriminatory and based on her pregnancy. He noted that Ms Mushapho was a credible witness and that her employer failed to provide any exceptional circumstances justifying her dismissal. The decision highlights the breach of the Employment Equality Act 1998 by the employer.
Jozef Puska has failed in his attempt to have his life sentence for the murder of Ashling Murphy commence from the date of his arrest in January 2022, rather than the date of the trial jury's verdict in November 2023. Puska's legal team argued that the judge did not provide a valid reason for not backdating the sentence. However, the trial judge, Mr Justice Tony Hunt, stated that the backdate was academic and that the parole board would consider the time served in custody, not the date of arrest. The Court of Appeal upheld the judge's decision, noting that the judge had considered the seriousness of the case and the impact on the victim's family. The appeal was dismissed, and Puska remains in custody.
Gavin Hanway, of Limekiln Green, Walkinstown, Dublin, launched an appeal against his convictions for assault causing serious harm and aggravated burglary. He was previously found guilty by a jury at Portlaoise Courthouse of stabbing Kevin Kenny at a house in The Hermitage, Portlaoise, Co Laois, on July 26, 2016. Following the trial, Judge Keenan Johnson sentenced Hanway to 12 years in prison. In the current appeal, counsel James Dwyer SC argued that the seizure of Hanway's car breached his constitutional rights because the search warrant was issued in another garda's name. He also challenged the admission of evidence regarding Hanway's testosterone use, claiming it was prejudicial, and argued the jury verdict was not properly delivered under section 35(2) of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. The State's counsel, Aoife O'Leary BL, countered that the trial judge had correctly ruled the car evidence admissible in the interests of justice despite the procedural irregularity. She further noted that the testosterone evidence was probative and that the jury was merely polled on their numbers after returning the verdict. The Court of Appeal, comprising Mr Justice John Edwards, Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, and Mr Justice Alexander Owens, heard the arguments. The court reserved judgment in the case to a later date, meaning the matter was adjourned and not concluded.
Lawyers representing Jozef Puska, who is serving a life sentence for the murder of schoolteacher Ashling Murphy, have told the court that the scope of his conviction appeal may change. Puska's appeal was originally due to be heard on April 23, but was vacated after his barristers withdrew from the case. Senior Counsel John Berry confirmed he would represent Puska, and the Court of Appeal set a new hearing date of July 15. During a case management hearing, Mr Berry indicated that an instruction received in the last two days may change the scope of the appeal. The matter was adjourned to July 10. Puska, who had pleaded not guilty to murdering Ms Murphy, was found by the jury to have stabbed her 11 times in the neck and slashed her once with a blade. A monument now stands where she died. Puska was placed at the scene by the presence of his distinctive green and black bicycle, which was captured on CCTV. His DNA was found on the bike and under Ms Murphy's fingernails.
Two brothers, Patrick Pa' Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42), are on trial for attempting to murder two brothers at an unofficial halting site in Co Offaly. The victims, Anthony McDonagh (40) and Michael McDonagh (46), were shot in the chest, neck, and face with pellets from a shotgun. Anthony McDonagh testified that he locked eyes with Patrick Ward before being shot, while Michael McDonagh claimed John Pio Ward shot him. The prosecution, led by Kevin White SC, argued that the recognition evidence given by the McDonagh brothers was crucial, despite the lack of CCTV footage or maps of the incident. The defence, led by Damien Colgan SC, argued that there was no evidence to support the victims' testimony and suggested they were colluding to falsely accuse the accused. The trial continues with the jury considering whether the McDonagh brothers' accounts were truthful or if they were lying. The accused face further charges of possession of firearms and violent disorder. Patrick Pa' Ward pleaded not guilty. John Pio Ward pleaded not guilty.
The trial of Patrick Pa' Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42), both of Kilcruttin, Tullamore, Co Offaly, continued at the Central Criminal Court before Mr Justice Paul McDermott. The accused, who have pleaded not guilty to all charges, face allegations of attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh (40) and Michael McDonagh (46) at an unofficial halting site on March 21, 2025. They also face charges of possession of firearms and violent disorder. Defence witness Eileen McDonagh, the sisters of the alleged victims and partner of Patrick Ward, testified that she did not believe Patrick committed the shootings. She stated she was with him that night and denied lying to the jury. An unnamed alibi witness for John Ward testified to hearing loud bangs near the site around 10:05 pm and seeing John Ward outside. Another unnamed witness claimed to have been in John Ward's yard around 9:40 pm when he heard two bangs. The prosecution case has concluded, and the defence is currently presenting its evidence. The matter was adjourned and the trial continues tomorrow.
Patrick Pa' Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42) are on trial at the Central Criminal Court for attempting to murder the McDonagh brothers at an unofficial halting site in Co Offaly on 21 March 2025. Patrick Ward is charged with attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh (40) and John Ward with attempting to murder Michael McDonagh (46). Both men denied the allegations, describing the accusations as "lies 100 percent" and claiming they were shocked to be named. They said they had no contact with the McDonaghs and had never left their own yards that night. Garda investigations found small black guns in Patrick Ward's shed and in John Ward's caravan, which the accused said were air guns or BB guns belonging to their children. Both accused pleaded not guilty to all charges, including possession of firearms and violent disorder, and the trial continues tomorrow before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of seven men and five women.
In an attempted‑murder trial at the Central Criminal Court, Patrick Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42) are charged with trying to kill Anthony McDonagh (40) and Michael McDonagh (46) at an unofficial halting site in Co Offaly on 21 March 2025. Dr Chloe Doran testified that Anthony had innumerable shotgun pellet wounds to the chest, heart, lungs and major vessels, with a CT scan showing pellets in the heart, jugular vein, aorta and collapsed lungs. Michael also suffered numerous pellets in the torso, neck and chest, with a CT scan revealing pellets in the heart, neck and large arteries. Both men were treated by multiple doctors and nursing staff, monitored in intensive care, and were described as "very lucky" not to suffer serious complications or death. The accused pleaded not guilty to all charges, including possession of firearms and violent disorder.
The trial of Patrick Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42) continues at the Central Criminal Court, where both men have pleaded not guilty to all charges. They are accused of attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh (40) and Michael McDonagh (46), respectively, at an unofficial halting site in Kilcruttin, Co Offaly, on March 21, 2025. Both accused also face charges of possession of firearms and violent disorder. During testimony, Michael McDonagh stated he was 100 percent certain that John Pio Ward shot him in the chest with a shotgun-type gun. He described seeing a crowd of 12 to 15 men approaching the site before the incident. Under cross-examination, the defence challenged his certainty, noting he did not initially identify the shooter to gardai that night, though McDonagh denied lying to the jury. The trial is ongoing before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of 12, with proceedings scheduled to continue tomorrow.
Patrick Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42), both of Kilcruttin, Tullamore, Co Offaly, are on trial at the Central Criminal Court, charged with attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh (40) and Michael McDonagh, respectively, at an unofficial halting site on March 21, 2025. Both accused have pleaded not guilty to all charges, which also include possession of firearms and violent disorder. The trial is ongoing before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of seven men and five women. During testimony, Anthony McDonagh stated he was "100% sure" Patrick Ward was the shooter, describing how Ward pointed a gun at him from a distance of up to three feet. McDonagh suffered a chest wound, a broken nose, and embedded pellets. He denied cross-examination suggestions that he was mistaken or had a motive to implicate Ward, asserting his identification was correct. Defense counsel for John Pio Ward questioned whether the shooter could have seen the victim, but McDonagh maintained his view was unobstructed. The matter was adjourned and continues tomorrow.
Patrick Ward and John Pio Ward are on trial at the Central Criminal Court, having pleaded not guilty to all charges. They are accused of attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh and Michael McDonagh, respectively, at an unofficial halting site in Kilcruttin, Co Offaly, on March 21, 2025. Both men also face charges of possession of firearms and violent disorder. The trial is currently in the evidence stage, with Anthony McDonagh testifying before a jury of seven men and five women under Mr Justice Paul McDermott. McDonagh alleged that he locked eyes with Patrick Ward, who he identified as his sister's partner, before being shot in the chest with a shotgun. He claimed Ward fired a second shot towards his son while a crowd of up to 15 people descended on the site. McDonagh stated he believed he, his wife, and children were going to die. The prosecution has noted the victims knew the accused for years. The matter is ongoing, with McDonagh's evidence scheduled to continue on Monday.
A court has heard how there was 'pandemonium' with shots fired and children searching for cover during an attack on an unofficial halting site in Co Offaly. Two brothers are on trial at the Central Criminal Court, charged with attempting to murder another pair of brothers at the site last year. The victims were shot in the chest, neck, and face with pellets from a shotgun embedded near vital organs. Prosecuting barrister Kevin White SC told the jury the victims were fortunate it was not a fatal shooting. Patrick Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42) are charged with attempted murder and possession of firearms. Both have pleaded not guilty. The incident followed a violent altercation outside Tullamore Accident and Emergency Hospital, captured on CCTV, involving Michael McDonagh, his son, and three members of the accused's family. Moments later, a large group from the official Kilcruttin halting site attacked the McDonaghs' unofficial site. The group was in possession of firearms, and shots were fired, causing chaos. The victims will testify that they recognized the shooters, Patrick and John Ward.
A trial involving two brothers from Offaly charged with attempted murder at an unofficial halting site has begun. Patrick Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42) are each charged with attempting to murder two men on March 21, 2025. They also face charges of possessing firearms and violent disorder. Both pleaded not guilty. The trial is expected to last until May 21 and will be presided over by Mr Justice Paul McDermott. Meanwhile, in a separate case, defence counsel for three men accused of familial sexual abuse argued that the complainant's claims were unreliable. John Peart SC suggested the evidence was 'nonsensical' and full of holes. Hugh Hartnett SC highlighted the lack of reliability in the evidence, noting the complainant did not initially report the abuse. Marc Thompson Grolimund SC argued that the prosecution's case was weak and that the evidence lacked detail. The trial continues with the jury's charge from Ms Justice Caroline Biggs.
An appeal brought by Jozef Puska against his conviction for the murder of schoolteacher Ashling Murphy has been rescheduled for July. Puska is serving a life sentence for stabbing Ms Murphy 11 times in the neck and slashing her once with a blade in January 2022. The appeal was delayed after Puska changed his barristers shortly before the original hearing date. The new date for the appeal was set for July 15, with a case management hearing scheduled for May 15. Puska, who was identified by CCTV footage and DNA evidence, had pleaded not guilty to the murder. The court heard that Puska's DNA was found on the murder weapon and under Ms Murphy's fingernails, indicating she had fought back. The appeal will be heard by the Court of Appeal, with the judge noting the need for an early hearing date.
Jozef Puska's appeal against his conviction for the murder of Ashling Murphy has been adjourned after he changed legal representation less than a week before the scheduled hearing. Puska, who pleaded not guilty to murdering Ms Murphy at Cappincur, Tullamore, on January 12, 2022, was convicted and is serving a life sentence. His counsel informed the Court of Appeal that Puska instructed his solicitor to engage new senior counsel, necessitating a withdrawal from the case. The DPP's counsel expressed concern over the delay, noting the family's anxiety to proceed. Ms Justice Kennedy vacated the April 23 hearing date and listed the matter for April 24 to determine the earliest possible future date. Separately, in June 2025, Puska's brothers Marek and Lubomir were convicted of withholding information and sentenced to 30 months each. Their wives, Viera Gaziova and Jozefina, were sentenced to 24 and 21 months respectively for burning evidence. Puska's partner, Lucia Istokova, pleaded guilty to withholding information and received a 20-month sentence. All five individuals were living with Puska at the time of the 2022 offences.
The Court of Appeal has granted the State additional time to file its response to Jozef Puska's appeal against his conviction for the murder of Aishling Murphy. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy extended the deadline for the Director of Public Prosecutions to submit replying submissions to April 14, maintaining the scheduled hearing dates of April 23 and 24. The extension was necessitated by a delay in Puska's legal team filing their extensive submissions, which were due in January but received in early March. The judge also granted an application for a Slovakian interpreter. Puska, who pleaded not guilty to murdering Ms Murphy in Tullamore, Co Offaly, in January 2022, is serving a life sentence. His appeal challenges the admission of his confession and CCTV footage. Separately, in June 2025, his brothers Marek and Lubomir Puska were convicted of withholding information and sentenced to 30 months each. Their wives, Viera Gaziova and Jozefina, were sentenced to 24 and 21 months respectively for burning evidence. Lucia Istokova, Puska's partner, pleaded guilty to withholding information and received a 20-month sentence.
Patrick McDonagh, aged 25, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison after he threw a carton of chips at pensioner Michael Whitfield and then struck him with his car on Clonshaugh Road on 3 November 2021. Whitfield, now 66, suffered a catastrophic head injury that left him unable to walk, with severe speech difficulties and requiring full‑time care. He spent five weeks in an induced coma, ten months at Beaumont Hospital, five months at the National Rehabilitation Hospital and is now a full‑time patient in a specialist brain‑injury care setting. McDonagh pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm; the court noted his lack of previous convictions at the time but recorded 17 prior convictions thereafter. The sentence was set to run consecutively with a seven‑year term for false imprisonment, assault, threats to kill and burglary, with six months suspended on conditions including Probation Service supervision.
Michael Murray, a 60-year-old cattle farmer from Moneygall, County Offaly, is appealing his conviction for importing €730,000 worth of cannabis. In 2023, a jury at Tullamore Circuit Court found him guilty of importing a controlled drug in excess of €13,000 and having drugs for sale or supply, rejecting his not guilty plea. He was sentenced by Judge Keenan Johnson to ten years in prison, with the final two years suspended. The appeal before the Court of Appeal centers on whether the jury was misled by prosecution evidence suggesting Murray was the specific target of a garda operation. Defence counsel argued that the solicitor failed to recognize the prejudicial nature of this evidence, which was introduced during the trial. State counsel countered that the defence solicitor explicitly agreed to the introduction of this material. The court noted that no requisition was made to the trial judge to object to the evidence, implying an agreement. The presiding judge, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, reserved judgment, and the matter was adjourned.
The Court of Appeal ruled that it would be 'unjust' to jail a former Bank of Ireland employee who stole almost €200,000 and attempted to set the bank branch on fire, despite finding her original sentence too lenient. Maureen McCormack, who stole the money to pay for IVF treatment debts, was sentenced to community service and a suspended prison term. The Director of Public Prosecutions sought a review of the sentence, arguing that it was unduly lenient. The Court of Appeal found that the sentences imposed were too lenient and should have included custodial sentences. However, the court decided not to impose custodial sentences at this stage, as McCormack had successfully completed her community service and made restitution. The court noted that the sentences were not an indicator for similar cases but rather an exception. McCormack had paid over €115,886.82 in compensation and had a successful work history. The incident came to light when a fire broke out in the bank's storeroom, and an inspection of the vault revealed a significant shortfall in the money. Maureen McCormack pleaded guilty.
Court of Appeal President Ms Justice Caroline Costello has fixed a hearing date for Jozef Puska's appeal against his conviction for the murder of Ashling Murphy. The appeal is scheduled for April 23 and 24, 2026. Puska, who pleaded not guilty to murdering Ms Murphy at Cappincur, Tullamore, Co Offaly on January 12, 2022, was convicted by a jury and is serving a life sentence. His legal team indicated that submissions are advanced but await two relevant Court of Appeal judgments. Ms Justice Costello noted that waiting indefinitely was not viable and set the date to progress the listing of cases. The appeal is expected to last two days. Puska has been granted legal aid for the appeal. In related matters, his brothers Marek and Lubomir Puska were each sentenced to 30 months in prison for withholding information. Their wives, Viera Gaziova and Jozefina, received sentences of 24 and 21 months respectively for burning evidence. Additionally, Puska's partner, Lucia Istokova, pleaded guilty to withholding information and was sentenced to 20 months. These sentences were handed down earlier this year, prior to the start of the relatives' trial.
The Court of Appeal has reserved judgment on appeals against the sentences of three men convicted of the gang rape of a 17-year-old student in December 2016. The defendants, Gabriel Gomes Da Rocha, Eduardo Dias Ferreira Filho, and Marcus De Silva Umbelino, were unanimously convicted by a Central Criminal Court jury. In June 2022, Ms Justice Tara Burns sentenced Da Rocha to 20 years, Ferreira Filho to 18 years, and Umbelino to 15 years, suspending the final year of each term. The appeals argue these sentences are excessive. Counsel for Da Rocha and Ferreira Filho contended the trial judge erred in categorizing the offending in the highest band, suggesting a 10-to-15-year range was appropriate given their ages and lack of prior convictions. For Umbelino, who was a minor at the time, counsel argued the reduction for youth was insufficient, citing UK guidelines. The Director of Public Prosecutions maintained the trial judge correctly applied the law and considered mitigating factors. The matter was adjourned pending the court's decision.
Five members of Jozef Puska's family were sentenced at the Central Criminal Court for withholding or destroying evidence of the murder of Ashling Murphy. Puska's brothers Marek (36) and Lubomir (37) received 30‑month prison terms each. Lubomir's wife Viera Gaziova (40) was sentenced to 30 months, and Marek's wife Jozefina Grundzova (27 months) with the last six months suspended. Puska's partner and mother of his children, Lucia Istokova (36), received a 26‑month sentence, also with the final six months suspended. The judge, Ms Justice Caroline Biggs, cited psychological reports on Roma women's roles to justify the suspensions. The sentences reflect the defendants' collective decision to conceal information and destroy evidence, including burning clothes that may have contained forensic evidence. The court noted that the offences were committed to protect a family member rather than for personal gain. Viera Gaziova pleaded not guilty. Lucia Istokova pleaded not guilty.
The Court of Appeal has reserved judgment in an appeal by the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding the sentencing of Maureen McCormack. McCormack, a former Bank of Ireland employee, pleaded guilty to arson at a Banagher branch in October 2021 and three theft charges involving approximately €200,000. In October 2024, Judge Keenan Johnson at Tullamore Circuit Court sentenced her to 240 hours of community service in lieu of four years' imprisonment for the arson charge. Additionally, a four-year prison sentence for one theft charge was suspended for six years. The DPP argues this fully suspended sentence is unduly lenient, asserting that the custodial threshold was clearly passed and the decision represents a substantial departure from the norm without deterrence. Counsel for the DPP highlighted the planning involved and McCormack's disregard for public safety. In response, McCormack's legal team emphasized substantial mitigation, including her early guilty plea and the repayment of over €115,886 in compensation, arguing the judge was entitled to exercise discretion given the exceptional circumstances. The matter was adjourned, with the court set to deliver its decision at a later date.
Ms Justice Caroline Biggs adjourned the sentencing of five defendants to October 22, warning them to prepare for the real risk of imprisonment. Lucia Istokova, who pleaded guilty to withholding information regarding the murder of Ashling Murphy, faces a maximum five-year sentence. Her counsel requested a fully suspended sentence, citing her motivation to protect her children, though the judge noted a probation report stating she initially denied wrongdoing to avoid prison. Prosecution counsel Anne-Marie Lawlor SC confirmed Istokova, along with Marek Puska and Lubomir Puska, faces a maximum five-year penalty for withholding information. The other three defendants, including Jozefina Grundzova and Viera Gaziova, who pleaded not guilty to burning clothes to impede prosecution, face a maximum ten-year sentence. Counsel for the not-guilty defendants highlighted the impact of imprisoning six parents with 14 children and difficulties faced by foreigners in Irish prisons. The court will also hear statements from the Murphy family on the adjournment date. Jozef Puska, convicted of murder, is serving a life sentence.
A 39‑year‑old man who raped his pregnant partner in their bed six years ago was still employed by a local authority until he was taken into custody earlier this month. The partner, who was five months pregnant, recorded the assault and could be heard saying she was not consenting. She testified at the trial in Tullamore, where the man pleaded guilty to one count of rape on 13 October 2019. He was sentenced to eight years in prison, with the final year suspended, and is now in custody. The judge described the recording as "distressing" and praised the victim's courage. The man has one prior drug‑related conviction and was granted visitation rights to his child, which the victim says has caused her ongoing anxiety and nightmares. The case was delayed twice before the hearing. The man's defence cited heavy alcohol consumption and lack of memory of the incident.
The Central Criminal Court has adjourned the sentencing of four family members convicted in connection with the murder of Ashling Murphy to October 7. Ms Justice Caroline Biggs set the date after hearing that the defendants accept the jury's verdict and will not appeal their convictions. Lubomir Puska Jnr and Marek Puska, who pleaded not guilty, were found guilty of withholding crucial information from gardai. Their wives, Viera Gaziova and Jozefina Grundzova, also pleaded not guilty and were convicted of burning bloodstained clothes to impede the prosecution. Lucia Istokova, Jozef Puska's wife, pleaded guilty to withholding information. Counsel for the appellants confirmed their clients now accept the verdicts and have engaged with Probation Services. Ms Justice Biggs extended legal aid to facilitate the preparation of psychological reports, noting she could handle sentencing in one stage or two. She opted for a single date to ensure all probation and psychological reports are available. The matter was adjourned to October 7 for sentence, where the court hopes to have all necessary reports in hand. Jozef Puska, who murdered Ms Murphy in January 2022, is serving a life sentence. The four family members were living with him and their children in Co Offaly at the time of the offences.
The High Court heard that Ryan Casey, partner of murdered teacher Ashling Murphy, has settled a defamation claim against the BBC over comments made about his victim impact statement during a 2023 live broadcast. Casey said he was "finally free" to speak again and to honour Ashling, while the BBC clarified it does not view him as a criminal or hateful figure. The settlement, reportedly a six‑figure sum, was reached without any court order. Casey's statement at the sentencing of Ashling's murderer, Josef Puska, had highlighted the victim's contributions and the perceived failure of the state to protect people. The case was struck out by Mr Justice Alexander Owens, ending the legal dispute. The settlement resolves the dispute between Casey and the broadcaster.
A 89‑year‑old Tipperary man, Sid Green, was sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment, with the final five years suspended, for 22 counts of rape and one count of sexual assault of a child committed between 1993 and 1998. The victim, who remains unnamed, testified that the abuse began when she was seven and continued until she was about twelve, describing lasting emotional and psychological damage. Green, who has no prior convictions and is now in a nursing home in Offaly, was found guilty at the Central Criminal Court in Tullamore. The judge, Mr Justice Patrick McGrath, noted Green's advanced age and medical difficulties, including limited mobility and the need for nursing care, as mitigating factors. The sentence will take effect from 10 July 2025, with the prison service prepared to accommodate Green's medical needs. The victim praised her resilience and the support she received from her husband and family.
A cattle farmer, Martin Murray, 59, was convicted of importing €730,000 worth of cannabis and was sentenced to ten years' imprisonment, with the final two years suspended. He appealed his conviction at the Court of Appeal, arguing that his solicitor had not understood the significance of hearsay evidence presented to the jury. Defence counsel Michael Bowman SC contended that confidential information, including details of Garda confirmation that drugs would be found in the truck and Murray's identity as the target, was improperly introduced without warning to the jury. He claimed the trial judge should have clarified that this was hearsay. State counsel Kevin White BL defended the prosecution's use of the evidence, stating that the solicitor had consented to its presentation. The court adjourned the matter to allow the Director of Public Prosecutions to address the factual issues, with a further hearing scheduled for July 14. Martin Murray pleaded not guilty.
Lucia Istokova, 36, pleaded guilty at trial to withholding information from gardai investigating the murder of Ashling Murphy. The single charge alleged that on January 14, 2022, Istokova failed without reasonable excuse to disclose to An Garda Síochána that Jozef Puska had visible injuries when he returned to their home in Tullamore, Co Offaly. The charge further alleged she failed to tell gardai that Puska admitted to killing or seriously injuring a female with a knife, or that he owned a bicycle found near Ms Murphy's body. It was alleged Istokova knew or believed this information might assist in securing Puska's apprehension or conviction for an offence involving loss of human life or serious personal injury. During a 12-day pre-trial hearing, Istokova had challenged the admissibility of her statements to gardai. Ms Justice Caroline Biggs ruled the statements could be used as evidence for a jury. Following this ruling, Istokova entered her guilty plea. Her co-accused, Jozefina Grundzova, 32, also sought to exclude evidence of two interviews she had with gardai but opted for a trial by jury after the admissibility ruling. Ms Justice Biggs ordered that Istokova's plea could not be reported until verdicts were reached in respect of the other four defendants to protect their fair trial rights. Istokova was released on continuing bail following the plea. Her co-accused were also on bail throughout the trial.
At the Central Criminal Court, a jury convicted Jozef Puska's brothers, Lubomir Puska Jnr and Marek Puska, of withholding information from An Garda Síochána regarding the murder of Ashling Murphy. The brothers were found guilty of failing to disclose that Jozef Puska returned home on the night of January 12, 2022, with visible injuries and admitted to cutting a female with a knife. Their wives, Viera Gaziova and Jozefina Grundzova, were convicted of burning Jozef's bloodstained clothes to impede his prosecution. Gaziova was convicted by an 11-1 majority, while Grundzova was found guilty by a 10-2 majority. All four defendants had pleaded not guilty. Jozef Puska's wife, Lucia Istokova, had previously pleaded guilty to withholding information. Ms Justice Biggs ordered probation reports for all five defendants. The matter was adjourned to July 7 for sentencing, with the defendants remanded on continuing bail until that date. Jozef Puska is currently serving a life sentence for the murder, having been convicted in November 2023.
A jury of twelve, comprising seven men and five women, will return to the Central Criminal Court tomorrow to continue deliberating on the verdicts in the trial of family members of Jozef Puska. The trial concerns charges of obstructing the arrest of Puska, who murdered school teacher Ashling Murphy in January 2022. The jury began deliberations last Wednesday and has spent 10 hours and five minutes in the jury room. Judge Caroline Biggs announced that the jurors would be dismissed for the day after a request to cease deliberations on Monday. The jurors will resume at 11.30am tomorrow. The accused—Lubomir Puska Jnr (38), Marek Puska (36), Viera Gaziova (40) and Jozefina Grundzova (32)—all pleaded not guilty to the charges. The case remains at the deliberation stage.
In a trial at the Central Criminal Court, jurors paused their deliberations over the weekend. The case concerns family members of Jozef Puska, who murdered school teacher Ashling Murphy in January 2022 and is serving a life sentence. The accused—Lubomir Puska Jnr (38), Marek Puska (36), and their wives Viera Gaziova (40) and Jozefina Grundzova (32)—are charged with withholding information from gardai and impeding the apprehension or prosecution of Jozef by burning his clothes. All pleaded not guilty. The jury asked the judge whether the accused needed to know their actions were unlawful to be guilty, and whether protecting the family could be a reasonable excuse. Justice Caroline Biggs explained that preventing Jozef's apprehension or prosecution cannot be a reasonable excuse, though self‑incrimination may be. She advised the jury to consider evidence beyond witness statements but warned against speculation.
In a Central Criminal Court case, a jury will continue deliberating on the trial of four Puska family members charged with obstructing the arrest of Jozef Puska, who murdered school teacher Ashling Murphy. Jozef, convicted of murder and serving a life sentence, was stabbed and slashed by Jozef on January 12, 2022. His brothers, Lubomir Puska Jnr (38) and Marek Puska (36), face charges of withholding information, while their wives, Viera Gaziova (40) and Jozefina Grundzova (32), are charged with impeding the apprehension or prosecution by burning Jozef's clothes. All accused pleaded not guilty. The indictment was amended to specify that the brothers knew Jozef had committed the murder or another arrestable offence. Prosecutor Anne Marie Lawlor SC argued that the brothers failed to disclose vital information, while defence counsel Karl Finnegan SC highlighted the right to remain silent to avoid self‑incrimination. The jury, composed of seven men and five women, will resume deliberations tomorrow.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Judge Caroline Biggs instructed a jury to assess whether the brothers of Jozef Puska, charged with withholding information about the murder of schoolteacher Ashling Murphy, had a reasonable excuse rooted in fear of self‑incrimination. The judge clarified that protecting a family member is not a valid excuse, but the jury must consider if the brothers, Lubomir Jnr (38) and Marek (36), genuinely feared that providing information would implicate them. Puska, who stabbed Murphy to death on 12 January 2022, is serving a life sentence. The brothers and their wives, Viera Gaziova (40) and Jozefina Grundzova (32), are charged with withholding information and burning Puska's clothes to impede his apprehension. All accused pleaded not guilty. The judge emphasized that the prosecution must prove the brothers had no reasonable excuse for failing to disclose the information, and the jury must decide if the fear of self‑incrimination was present.
The Central Criminal Court trial of Marek Puska, Lubomir Puska Jnr, Jozefina Grundzova, and Viera Gaziova is ongoing, with the judge's charge to the jury currently underway. All four accused, who have pleaded not guilty to all charges, are alleged to have been involved in the aftermath of the murder of Ashling Murphy by Jozef Puska in January 2022. Marek Puska and Lubomir Puska Jnr are accused of withholding information relating to the murder, while Ms Grundzova and Ms Gaziova are accused of impeding Jozef Puska's apprehension or prosecution by burning his clothes. Defence counsel argued that the women did not believe Jozef Puska was capable of murder and acted on second-hand information without knowledge of the crime. Counsel for Lubomir Puska Jnr contended that he delayed reporting information due to family loyalty but ultimately cooperated with gardai. The prosecution maintains that all accused knew of the murder shortly after it occurred and acted to prevent Jozef Puska's prosecution. The matter is not concluded; the judge's charge is in progress and will continue tomorrow.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, defence counsel Karl Finnegan SC argued that Marek Puska (36), Jozef Puska's brother, had a reasonable excuse for withholding information from gardai after the murder of Ashling Murphy. Finnegan said Marek was protecting himself, fearing that his statements could implicate him in assisting his brother. He noted that Marek had not believed Jozef had stabbed Murphy when he spoke to investigators two days after the crime. Prosecutor Anne Marie Lawlor SC countered that Marek knew Jozef's confession shortly after 9.30 pm on the night of the murder and, along with brother Lubomir Jnr (38), failed to disclose vital information. Lawlor also accused Jozefina Grundzova (32) and Viera Gaziova (40) of burning Jozef's clothes to impede his arrest, a charge they admit. All accused pleaded not guilty. Jozef Puska was convicted of murdering 23‑year‑old Ashling Murphy and is serving a life sentence.
At the Central Criminal Court, the trial of Jozefina Grundzova, Marek Puska, Viera Gaziova, and Lubomir Puska Jnr continued. All four accused, who pleaded not guilty to all charges, are alleged to have impeded the apprehension or prosecution of Jozef Puska, who was previously convicted of murdering Ashling Murphy in January 2022. Grundzova and Gaziova face charges of assisting in burning clothes, including a bloodstained t-shirt, while Marek Puska and Lubomir Puska Jnr are charged with withholding information from detectives. Evidence presented by Detective Garda James Duffy indicated that Grundzova told gardaí that Gaziova received a phone call instructing her to burn specific items. Grundzova stated she observed blood on the lower half of a t-shirt and that she herself threw socks into the fire. The court heard that the accused were living with Jozef Puska and his family in Co Offaly at the time. Presiding Judge Caroline Biggs adjourned the proceedings, informing the jury that they would not be required again until the trial resumes on June 9th.
In the Central Criminal Court, Lubomir Puska Jnr, aged 37, denied that he had asked anyone to dispose of the knife used to murder school teacher Ashling Murphy or to dispose of his brother Jozef's clothes on the day of the murder. He also denied that he had asked anyone to dispose of the clothes. The court heard that Jozef Puska, aged 35, attacked Ms Murphy, aged 23, on the canal towpath at Cappincur in Tullamore on 12 January 2022, killing her with 12 sharp force injuries, 11 of which were stab wounds. Lubomir Jnr had made two statements to Gardaí, first on 18 January 2022 and again on 26 January 2022, in which he described Jozef's condition and alleged that Jozef had tried to explain his actions. He also denied that he had asked anyone to dispose of the knife or the clothes. The unnamed accused pleaded not guilty.
In the Central Criminal Court, Lubomir Puska Junior, aged 38, admitted to lying to Gardaí about his brother Jozef Puska's whereabouts on the day of Ashling Murphy's murder. He first claimed Jozef had been "a bit sad" and left the house in the early afternoon, but later apologized and revealed he had seen Jozef again after 9 pm, describing him as looking beaten and with lacerations. The court heard that Jozef, who was convicted of murdering 23‑year‑old teacher Ashling Murphy on 12 January 2022, had been living with Lubomir and another brother Marek at Lynally Grove. Lubomir and Marek are accused of withholding crucial information, while Jozefina Grundzova and Viera Gaziova are accused of impeding the investigation by burning clothes. All accused plead not guilty. The trial is before Ms Justice Caroline Biggs with a jury of seven men and five women.
The trial of five accused persons in Tullamore, Co Offaly, continues before Ms Justice Caroline Biggs and a jury. Jozef Puska has been convicted of murdering Ashling Murphy, a 23-year-old schoolteacher, in January 2022. His brother, Marek Puska (36), and Lubomir Puska Jnr (35), are accused of withholding information crucial to the investigation, charged under the Offences Against the State, Amendment Act 1988. Their wives, Jozefina Grundzova (31) and Viera Gaziova (38), are accused of impeding Jozef Puska's apprehension or prosecution by burning his clothes, charged under the Criminal Law Act 1997. All five defendants, who reside at Lynally Grove, Mucklagh, have pleaded not guilty. The court heard that Marek Puska alleged his brother unintentionally "cut" a woman and described the incident as "probably bad." It is alleged that Marek and Lubomir failed to disclose that Jozef returned home with visible injuries and admitted to causing harm. The women are alleged to have burned clothing between January 12 and 14 to impede justice. The trial is ongoing, with no sentencing or finalisation recorded for the current accused.
The trial of four accused persons in connection with the murder of Ashling Murphy continues before Ms Justice Caroline Biggs and a jury. Marek Puska (36) and Lubomir Puska Jnr (35) are accused of withholding information under the Offences Against the State, Amendment Act 1988, while their wives, Jozefina Grundzova (31) and Viera Gaziova (38), are accused of impeding Jozef Puska's apprehension by burning his clothing under the Criminal Law Act 1997. All four defendants have pleaded not guilty. During testimony, Detective Garda Cian Steers detailed Marek Puska's voluntary statement from January 14, 2022, in which he described the family's living situation and his search for Jozef Puska on the day of the murder. Marek stated he wished to provide further information but was hindered by medication for back problems. In cross-examination, it was noted that Marek accurately identified Jozef's bicycle. Garda Joanne O'Sullivan testified that Marek later revealed Jozef returned home on the night of the murder with visible injuries, including holes in his abdomen, and admitted to causing harm to a woman. It is alleged that Marek and Lubomir withheld this information, while the women assisted in destroying evidence. The matter was adjourned and the trial continues on Monday.
The trial of four accused persons regarding the murder of Ashling Murphy continues before the Central Criminal Court. Jozefina Grundzova and Viera Gaziova, who have pleaded not guilty to charges under the Criminal Law Act 1997, are alleged to have assisted in burning clothing to impede the prosecution of Jozef Puska. Marek Puska and Lubomir Puska Jnr, also pleading not guilty, face charges under the Offences Against the State, Amendment Act 1988 and the Criminal Law Act 1997 for allegedly withholding information about Puska's return home with injuries and his subsequent travel to Dublin. Evidence presented includes testimony from Detective Sergeant Anthony Quinn, who described sifting fireplace ashes at the family home in Mucklagh, Co Offaly, for forensic evidence of burned clothing, though nothing of note was found. Witness Jenna Stack testified to seeing Murphy struggling with a man near Cappincur Bridge on January 12, 2022, describing her as "kicking out really hard" while the man appeared angry at being interrupted. The matter is currently at the trial stage and has not been finalised; it remains ongoing before Ms Justice Caroline Biggs and a jury.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, the prosecution explained that Jozef Puska's sisters‑in‑law, Jozefina Grundzova (31) and Viera Gaziova (38), burned the clothes he wore when he murdered 23‑year‑old schoolteacher Ashling Murphy on 12 January 2022. The prosecution's barrister, Sean Gillane SC, noted that the brothers Lubomir Puska Jnr (35) and Marek Puska (34) had given voluntary interviews to Gardaí two days after the murder but allegedly misled investigators by withholding information about Puska's return home with visible injuries and his admission of killing or seriously injuring a woman. The brothers are charged with withholding information under the Offences Against the State, Amendment Act 1988, while the sisters‑in‑law are charged under the Criminal Law Act 1997 for assisting in burning the clothing to impede Puska's arrest or prosecution. The trial is before Justice Caroline Biggs and a jury of twelve. Lubomir Puska Jnr pleaded not guilty. Marek Puska pleaded not guilty. Jozefina Grundzova pleaded not guilty. Viera Gaziova pleaded not guilty.
The trial has commenced at the Central Criminal Court for four individuals accused of impeding the investigation into the murder of Ashling Murphy. Ms Justice Caroline Biggs swore a jury to hear the case, which is expected to last up to five weeks. The defendants are Jozef Puska's brothers, Marek and Lubomir Puska, and their respective wives, Jozefina Grundzova and Viera Gaziova. All four have pleaded not guilty. The brothers are charged under the Offences Against the State, Amendment Act 1988 with withholding information. It is alleged they failed to tell An Garda Síochána that Jozef Puska returned home to Mucklagh on the night of January 12, 2022, with visible injuries and admitted to "cutting" a female with a knife. They are also alleged to have known he travelled to Dublin that night. Marek Puska is further alleged to have been aware of an arrangement to burn clothing worn by Jozef Puska. The women are charged under the Criminal Law Act 1997 with assisting in burning clothing between January 12 and 14, intending to impede the apprehension or prosecution of Jozef Puska. The prosecution alleges the defendants knew or believed the withheld information or actions might assist in securing the conviction of Jozef Puska for a serious offence. Jozef Puska was previously tried and convicted of Ms Murphy's murder. The trial will begin with an opening statement by the prosecution.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Padraig Delaney, aged 44, was found guilty of murdering his friend Shane Knott, aged 37, who was discovered in a dog pen in Delaney's back garden wrapped in carpet underlay. Delaney claimed self‑defence after an alleged attack with scissors, but the jury rejected this defence. The court described the killing as brutal, with Knott suffering multiple head and brain injuries and his left face crushed. Delaney's statements about a Kinahan crime organisation sending Knott were deemed unfounded. Delaney, a former cabinet maker with a history of alcohol and substance abuse, was sentenced to life imprisonment. The judge called the murder "particularly brutal" and the treatment of the body "callous and disrespectful.".
Georgina Tuohey, mother of three children who were raped and sexually abused by Brendan Cornally, spoke from the court during his sentencing at the Central Criminal Court. Cornally was sentenced to a total of 17½ years for the rape and sexual assault of her two sons and the sexual assault of her daughter. He had previously served 10 years for the rape of a boy aged 10‑14 and 21 months for the assault of a sister aged 13‑15. The judge imposed a headline sentence of 20 years, with the final two and a half years suspended on strict conditions for five years. Tuohey expressed that the sentence was lenient and that the justice system would let people like her down, while the judge noted the impact of Cornally's actions on her son, who suffered a severe decline in health and became catatonic. The sentencing was consecutive to his existing 11‑year‑nine‑month term. Brendan Cornally pleaded guilty.
Garda Nicholas Keogh, aged 46, has been granted permission by the High Court to pursue a judicial review against the Garda Commissioner over the reduction of his sick pay. Keogh, who joined the force in June 1999, had not taken sick leave until October 2011. He suffered a musculo‑skeletal injury in 2012, followed by periods of alcohol addiction treatment and work‑related stress diagnoses in 2012, 2013 and 2014. He claims that the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission failed to address his complaints of bullying, harassment and unfitness for work, and that his salary was reduced during his sick leave. The Disclosures Tribunal in July 2021 found his complaints unjustified, but Keogh seeks to quash the Commissioner's decision to end the special arrangement that allowed him full pay and to have his illness recorded as ordinary illness. Mr Justice Garrett Simons granted leave for the hearing, which is adjourned to 25 March.
Gerard Harrington of Marian Road, Boyle, Co Roscommon, has been unsuccessful in his application to the Supreme Court seeking to appeal his conviction for making a false report to gardaí. Harrington was convicted in July 2021 at Tullamore Circuit Criminal Court of making a false statement to gardaí regarding missing cattle and was fined €6,500 in October 2021. The cattle were subsequently discovered in a neighbour's shed at Breedogue, Co Roscommon, with six animals bearing tag numbers matching those he had reported as missing in October 2015. Harrington's appeal to the Court of Appeal last May, which raised 34 grounds including claims the trial judge erred in admitting a Garda interview, was dismissed. The Supreme Court last week rejected his application to hear a further appeal, finding he had not met the constitutional threshold required. The court noted Harrington had not made admissions during his voluntary interview at the garda station and had been informed he was not under arrest and not obliged to answer questions.