Court archive
Court reports mentioning Golden, Tipperary
2025-12-18 · Tipperary
A jury at the Central Criminal Court unanimously convicted five men from Tipperary of colluding to inflate tender prices for school bus services in the south west of Ireland. The defendants—Raymond Heney, Andrew Walsh, Noel Browne, Larry Hickey and Anthony Flynn—were alleged to have coordinated bids for routes supplied by Bus Éireann, which handled 10% of school routes while contractors managed the remaining 90%. The prosecution argued that the men's concerted practice, led by Heney, aimed to prevent, restrict or distort competition, thereby affecting taxpayers and the Department of Education's €163 million budget for 2015. Each defendant pleaded not guilty. The court remanded all five on continuing bail pending a sentencing hearing on 23 March 2026. The case was brought by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission and the Director of Public Prosecutions. The trial focused on the alleged coordination and exchange of information among the operators, rather than any formal agreement.
2025-12-11 · Tipperary
The trial of five bus operators accused of colluding to inflate school transport tender prices is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court. Raymond Heney, Andrew Walsh, Noel Browne, Larry Hickey, and Anthony Flynn have all pleaded not guilty to alleged offences under the Competition Act 2002. The single charge against each accused alleges that between November 1, 2014, and December 31, 2016, they engaged in a concerted practice to prevent, restrict, or distort competition in the provision of school transport services. The prosecution alleges the men coordinated their bids to drive prices higher, affecting public funds. In his closing speech, defence counsel Dermot B Cahill SC argued that Heney acted as a consultant to assist other operators with administrative processes, stating that without him, there would be fewer drivers available to transport children to school. He contended that the accused were not a faceless corporation but local individuals supporting their trade. Conversely, prosecution counsel Dominic McGinn SC argued that the evidence showed a concerted practice to distort the market and load the dice against taxpayers. The jury is instructed to consider the evidence against each accused separately while viewing the overall context. The trial continues before Mr Justice David Keane.
2025-12-10 · Tipperary
Five school bus operators from Tipperary are on trial in the Central Criminal Court for allegedly colluding to distort competition in the provision of school transport services. The prosecution alleges that between 2014 and 2016, the accused engaged in a concerted practice to manipulate tender prices and allocate routes among themselves. Prosecution counsel Dominic McGinn SC stated that the accused discussed bidding strategies and pricing, which led to higher prices for taxpayers. The trial has heard that one of the accused arranged meetings to coordinate efforts, and that there was a degree of coordination among the parties. The prosecution argues that this was not a formal agreement but a form of collusion that distorted the market. The case is not about the importance of school transport for children but about the manipulation of public funds. The trial continues with the jury considering the evidence presented.
2025-11-28 · Dublin
A drug addict with 100 convictions who used to 'roam around the city' has been jailed for three years for targeting and robbing a man in the early hours of the morning. Gerard O'Toole pleaded guilty to one count of robbery. He has 99 previous convictions, including theft, robbery, and assault. The court heard that O'Toole was on bail when he committed the offence. Judge Martina Baxter noted that O'Toole has developed insight into his offending and has maintained it. A probation report highlighted his efforts in dealing with his addiction and his remorse. The judge set a headline sentence of six and a half years but reduced it to five years, suspending the final two years for two years. O'Toole was identified on CCTV footage during the robbery, which showed a disturbing incident. His defence highlighted his difficult childhood and the impact of being placed into care.
2025-11-06 · Tipperary
The trial of five school bus operators accused of anti-competition practices is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court. Andrew Walsh, Raymond Heney, Noel Browne, Larry Hickey, and Anthony Flynn, all from County Tipperary, have pleaded not guilty to a single charge under the Competition Act 2002. The prosecution alleges that between November 1, 2014, and December 31, 2016, the defendants engaged in a concerted practice to prevent, restrict, or distort competition in school transport services across Limerick, Tipperary, Clare, South Galway, and Waterford. Prosecution counsel Dominic McGinn told the jury that the accused allegedly coordinated their bidding behavior, including holding meetings to discuss route allocation and pricing, and submitting non-genuine bids to elevate tender prices. He stated that this alleged collusion removed true competitiveness from the process, which affects the public. The case is being brought by the Competition Authority, with evidence including documents, text messages, and expert testimony expected. The jury must determine if a concerted practice occurred and if each defendant was involved. The trial is presided over by Mr Justice David Keane and is expected to last up to six weeks. The matter continues before the court.
2025-11-04 · Tipperary
Five bus and taxi operators from Limerick, Tipperary, Clare, South Galway and Waterford have gone on trial at the Central Criminal Court. They pleaded not guilty to a single charge under the Competition Act 2002, alleging that between 1 November 2014 and 31 December 2016 they engaged in a concerted practice that prevented, restricted or distorted competition in school transport services. The prosecution is by the Competition Authority. Mr Justice David Keane empanelled a jury of seven men and five women; the trial is expected to last up to six weeks.
2025-05-14 · Dublin
Nko Mpase, 62, of Rush, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to smuggling a Congolese national into Ireland. On 16 May 2020 she and the woman arrived at Terminal One on a Ryanair flight from Paris Beauvais, used the same immigration booth, and the woman presented a travel document that did not match her appearance. Garda Sean McGlynn noted that WhatsApp messages and a ticket photo on Mpase's phone linked the two women, and CCTV showed them together on the plane. Mpase admitted travelling with the woman from Paris but made no further admissions. She had two prior convictions for minor traffic offences and one for threatening behaviour. The court heard she had no financial gain and had visited family in Paris for five days. The maximum sentence for the offence is 10 years imprisonment. Judge Patricia Ryan adjourned sentencing to 25 July and ordered a probation report and further documentation of Mpase's educational and work history.
2025-04-09 · Tipperary
A Commercial Court case involving former Morgan Stanley broker Jeffrey Leo has been adjourned to the end of the month after the plaintiffs' lawyers attempted to remove Wenning Holdings Ltd from the proceedings. The case centres on allegations that Leo misappropriated US$60m (€58m) given by American couple Mary and James Wenning to invest in a portfolio of Irish properties, including Dundrum House Hotel, Pillo Hotel, Tullamaine Castle, Golden Vale Hotel, Drumonna House, Celbridge Manor and Powerscourt Arms Hotel. The Wenning couple claim the money was advanced as a loan or in exchange for equity, while Leo denies the claims. Liquidator Kieran Wallace seeks orders making Leo personally liable for Wenning Holdings' debts, against former auditor Colm Malone, and against Leo Financial Investments Ltd and Steelworks Investments Ltd. The court noted that the removal of Wenning Holdings was part of a "narrowing" of proceedings that did not prejudice the defence.
2025-04-03 · Tipperary
Padraic Troy, 29, of Golden Gardens, Dundrum, Co. Tipperary, was sentenced to ten years' imprisonment for two counts of rape, anal rape and two sexual assaults of a female acquaintance in 2021. The victim, who was discharged from hospital after an ambulance transfer, had called Troy for assistance. He met her at 3:24 am, accompanied her to a car, and during the journey he began kissing her. After another man left, Troy raped, anally raped and sexually assaulted her in her bedroom. The victim reported the assault the next day, and a DNA profile matched Troy. He denied the allegations, claiming consensual sex. The court noted the victim's life was profoundly affected, citing loss of employment, anxiety and trust issues. Justice Melanie Greally imposed the ten‑year sentence, back‑dated to the date Troy entered custody, and a one‑year post‑release supervision order.
2025-01-17 · Dublin
Abraham Adeniyi, aged 22, received a nine‑month suspended sentence for acting as a money mule. He pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to money‑laundering charges relating to an incident that occurred on 15 September 2021. The victim, who had no knowledge of the transaction, received a message that appeared to come from her bank, prompting her to click a link. The next day she was informed that €9,517 had been transferred from her account to Adeniyi's account. The bank later recalled the money and returned it to the victim. Garda Paul Kelly explained that the victim had no prior contact with Adeniyi and that the bank had been able to recover the full amount. During Garda interviews Adeniyi admitted that he had allowed his account to be used by a third party and that he had been used as a money mule. He was arrested after a court order was obtained for his bank account.
2024-07-01 · Tipperary
Kerry GAA has filed a High Court challenge against the Minister for Justice's refusal to include the sports body in the now-defunct Immigrant Investor Programme, arguing that the decision endangers more than €38 million in donations. The Gaelic games organisation contends that the refusal will jeopardise at least €27 million already committed to redeveloping FitzGerald Stadium in Killarney and an additional €11.6 million in new donations it has identified. Kerry GAA says it had submitted two parts of its development proposals—one for a Centre of Excellence and another for the stadium—before the scheme was scrapped in February 2023. The Minister's decision, made on 24 January, rejected the stadium application on the grounds that "no valid investor application was submitted" and that the investor must be new, not one already linked to another project.
2023-11-03 · Ireland
The Central Criminal Court has fixed a trial date for the first group of five defendants accused of anti-competition offences in the provision of school bus services. Mr Justice Paul McDermott, acting on an application by the Director of Public Prosecutions, set January 27, 2025, as the start date for this trial, which is estimated to last five weeks. The case will be managed by Mr Justice David Keane. The remaining eight defendants, including three companies, will also be managed by Mr Justice Keane, but no trial date has yet been assigned for this second group. The 13 accused, comprising individuals and entities such as Larry Hickey, Noel Browne, Frances Collison, Andrew Walsh, Margaret Callanan, Edward Callanan, Raymond Heney, Anthony Flynn, Elaine Glasheen, and Malachy Collison, are alleged to have entered into or authorized agreements between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2016. These alleged agreements purported to prevent, restrict, or distort competition in trade regarding school bus services in the State. The charges are brought under sections 4(1), 6(1), 8(1), and 8(6) of the Competition Act 2002. The prosecution, acting at the behest of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, previously sought to split the trial into two batches due to practical difficulties, a request the court acceded to. The matter remains at the pre-trial stage, with the first group's trial scheduled for 2025.
2023-07-24 · Dublin
Five men were sentenced to suspended prison terms for a violent assault on three friends in Dublin. The men—Vasilii Birca (32), Ion Mustesta (19), Gheorge Onila (32), Nicanor Ionas (29) and Ion Soponari (24)—had believed they were helping a friend who had been misled into thinking he was the victim of an assault. They pleaded guilty to one count each of affray on Golden Lane on 3 April 2022. All had no prior convictions. The court heard they offered €26,000 in compensation and sincere apologies to the injured parties, and that probation reports placed them at low risk of reoffending. Judge Pauline Codd imposed headline sentences of two and a half years for each, suspended in full for 18 months (Birca, Onila, Ionas), 12 months (Musteata), and 16 months (Soponari). The men were ordered to keep the peace and behave well during the suspension period. The sixth man involved remains before the courts.
2023-07-21 · Dublin
In a Circuit Court hearing on 21 July 2023, a 52‑year‑old man, David Mullen, pleaded guilty to possession of an imitation firearm after brandishing a 6mm green gas‑operated air pistol that resembled a Glock in a residential estate on a summer evening. Gardaí responded at 9 pm, evacuated the surrounding houses, and requested armed assistance. Mullen, intoxicated with whiskey and Valium, was arrested within ten minutes of the gardaí's arrival. The air pistol was seized and sent to the Ballistic Technical Bureau. Judge Martina Baxter sentenced Mullen to 15 months in prison, suspended in full for 15 months under strict conditions, and ordered him to remain under probation supervision for one year, with random urine analysis and addiction counselling. The judge highlighted Mullen's remorse, his role as his mother's carer, and the aggravating factors of the weapon's appearance and the public setting. The court commended the gardaí for their swift and careful action.
2023-07-07 · Ireland
The Central Criminal Court has heard that the trial of ten individuals and three companies accused of anti-competition offences regarding school bus services may be split into two separate proceedings. Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions, Ms Tessa White BL, informed Mr Justice Paul McDermott that trying all 13 accused together posed practical difficulties. She applied to divide the cases into two batches, with the first indictment covering five accused and the second covering the remainder. The DPP alleged that the defendants, including Larry Hickey, Noel Browne, Frances Collison, Andrew Walsh, Margaret Callanan, Edward Callanan, Raymond Heney, Anthony Flynn, Elaine Glasheen, and Malachy Collison, entered into or authorized agreements that prevented, restricted, or distorted competition in the provision of school bus services between January 2014 and December 2016. These alleged offences are contrary to the Competition Act 2002. Defence counsel noted they had only recently received the proposal, with one stating he had no instructions on their attitude. Mr Justice McDermott adjourned the matter to the next list on July 26 to fix dates for the first trial, estimated to last four to five weeks, noting the second trial could be scheduled later. The cases were taken forward by the DPP at the behest of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission following a 2016 investigation.
2023-04-25 · Dublin
The Central Criminal Court will hear a case involving ten individuals and three companies accused of anti‑competition offences in the provision of school bus services in the State. The prosecution alleges that between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2016 the accused entered into or authorised agreements that prevented, restricted or distorted competition in the trade of school bus services. The charges are under sections 4, 6, 8 and 8(6) of the Competition Act 2002 and were brought by the Director of Public Prosecutions on behalf of the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission following a 2016 investigation. Ms Tessa White BL presented the case to Mr Justice Paul McDermott, who adjourned the matter to 9 June to review progress and consider pre‑trial applications. The trial is expected to last 12 weeks and will be heard as a single trial with all parties together.
2022-11-09 · Dublin
Daniel Walsh, a 30-year-old college student from Rush, Co Dublin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for drug offences. He pleaded guilty to possession for sale or supply of cannabis herb and ketamine on the Skerries Road on January 9, 2021. He also admitted to having MDMA and cannabis for sale or supply at his home on the same date, as well as the unlawful possession of proceeds of crime. Gardaí stopped Walsh's van after observing it cross a white line, discovering nearly 2kg of cannabis, ketamine, and €6,900 in cash. A subsequent search of his home recovered additional drugs, including MDMA, with a total estimated street value of €42,924. Walsh told officers he was instructed to test the cannabis quality before handing over cash and stated he was selling drugs to support his own use. Defence counsel highlighted that Walsh is a third-year student who has removed himself from criminal associates following a psychotic episode linked to heavy drug use. Judge Martin Nolan acknowledged it was unlikely Walsh would reoffend but noted the serious quantity of drugs warranted a prison term. The court imposed a four-year sentence, suspending the final two years on the condition that Walsh keep the peace for the four-year period.
2022-06-24 · Tipperary
Michael Golden, aged 73, of Crosspatrick, Killala, County Mayo, was convicted unanimously by jury at the Central Criminal Court last month of seven counts of indecent assault, four counts of sexual assault, and nine counts of oral rape against four children between 1980 and 1997. The victims were aged between five and fourteen at the time of the offences. Golden had pleaded not guilty to all charges. He died in custody on 6 June 2022 while awaiting sentence. At a hearing where victim impact statements were presented, Justice Mary Ellen Ring noted that had Golden survived, he would have faced a custodial term of significant length. The judge acknowledged the victims' right to be heard and recognised the permanent damage caused by childhood sexual abuse. She expressed that only the victims' willingness to come forward had enabled the investigation and prosecution to proceed.
2021-07-26 · Dublin
Evelyn Corrigan, 68, of Tallaght, was charged with possession of 325.7 g of cannabis for sale or supply. She pleaded guilty to possession but denied selling, claiming she grew the plants to make medicine for her pain. The court found no evidence of intent to distribute; a jury returned a not‑guilty verdict on the charge of possession for sale or supply. Judge Pauline Codd dismissed the charge under the Probation Act. Corrigan admitted the quantity but stated she had never intended to give it to anyone else. The trial included testimony that she used the cannabis to produce a CBD‑oil extract for her glaucoma, emphysema, asthma and arthritis. No prior convictions were recorded. The case ended with the jury acquitting her of the charge of possession for sale or supply.
2020-10-14 · Louth
Aaron Brady has been sentenced to life imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court for the capital murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe in January 2013. Brady, aged twenty-nine and from New Road in Crossmaglen, County Armagh, was convicted in August following a trial lasting more than six months. Under the Criminal Justice Act 1990, he must serve a minimum of forty years before becoming eligible for parole. Justice Michael White imposed an additional concurrent sentence of fourteen years for robbery in connection with the credit union raid in County Louth, during which seven thousand euros was stolen in fifty-eight seconds. The court heard victim impact statements from Detective Donohoe's family and colleagues. Brady has maintained his innocence despite conviction, with supporters gathering outside the Courts of Criminal Justice to protest the outcome.
2020-07-07 · Dublin
David Johnston, 38, of Golden Lane, BrideStreet, Dublin 8, was sentenced to four years in prison, with the final two years suspended on strict conditions, after pleading guilty to burglary at a flat on Cooke Street on 14 November 2019. He had previously been convicted 28 times. Johnston broke into the flat by kicking in a glass panel of the front door while the occupants were watching television. He forced his way in, threatened the victim with a Stanley knife held to the victim's neck, and demanded €20 that the victim owed him. The victim received a small cut to his throat that did not require medical attention. After the victim paid the €20, Johnston left the flat, elbowing a kitchen window as he exited. He was later arrested and has been on remand in prison since his arrest. The victim did not submit a victim impact statement.
2020-02-04 · Tipperary
A former detective garda testified at the Central Criminal Court that he feared for his life when armed raiders confronted him and his colleague during a credit union escort at Bellurgan, County Louth on 25 January 2013. The witness described how one raider pointed a shotgun at him and made threats, while another held a handgun. He stated that Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe was fatally shot during the incident. Aaron Brady, aged 28 from Crossmaglen, County Armagh, has pleaded not guilty to the capital murder of Detective Garda Donohoe and to robbing approximately €7,000 in cash and cheques from Lordship Credit Union on the same date and location. The witness, who has served as a garda since 1992, detailed the sequence of events and provided descriptions of the raiders' appearance and accents. The trial, heard before Mr Justice Michael White and a jury, continues.
2020-01-28 · Louth
The trial of Aaron Brady, 28, from Crossmaglen, Co Armagh, is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court before Mr Justice Michael White. Brady has pleaded not guilty to the alleged capital murder of Det Gda Adrian Donohoe and the robbery of approximately €7,000 in cash and cheques at Lordship Credit Union, Bellurgan, Co Louth, on January 25, 2013. Prosecution counsel Brendan Grehan SC opened the case, alleging that a gang of four raiders targeted the Garda escort for a "base criminal motive" driven by money. He stated that one raider allegedly shot Det Gda Donohoe in the face with a shotgun, killing him instantly, while another threatened Det Gda Joe Ryan with a handgun. The prosecution contends the operation was highly organized, with the getaway car later found burnt out in South Armagh. Grehan argued that Brady was under financial pressure and allegedly lied about his whereabouts. Evidence will include CCTV, mobile phone data showing a "telecommunications blackout" during the incident, and conversations Brady allegedly had after moving to New York. The jury of 15 is hearing the prosecution's case, which relies on circumstantial evidence to link Brady to the crime. The trial continues.
2018-06-06 · Tipperary
David Drumm, former CEO of Anglo Irish Bank, authorised €7.2 billion of back‑to‑back transactions with Irish Life & Permanent in September 2008 that inflated the bank's customer deposits from €44 billion to €51 billion. The scheme, described by the prosecution as a "massive con", involved circular routes through the assurance arm of ILP and was presented as legitimate funding. Drumm pleaded not guilty but admitted the transactions occurred, disputing they were fraudulent. He did not call witnesses. The trial, one of the longest in Irish criminal history, concluded with a unanimous guilty verdict. The prosecution alleged Drumm conspired with former Anglo executives, including Denis Casey, Willie McAteer and John Bowe, to falsify the balance sheet and mislead investors. The case highlighted the bank's desperate liquidity situation amid global financial turmoil and the role of the Financial Regulator in overseeing the transactions. The court found Drumm's actions constituted fraud and conspiracy to defraud.
2018-03-23 · Dublin
In the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Mr David Drumm, 51, pleaded not guilty to conspiracy and false accounting charges related to Anglo Irish Bank's 2008 deposits. He claimed that external auditors Ernst & Young issued a clean opinion on the bank's year‑end accounts, though he suggested a qualified opinion could have been issued. Drumm admitted that multi‑million euro transactions occurred between Anglo and Irish Life & Permanent (ILP) in 2008 but denied they were fraudulent or dishonest. Witness Kevin Kelly, an accountant, testified that Ernst & Young auditors entered Anglo's headquarters in November 2008 and that the audit team had been briefed beforehand. Kelly also noted that the transaction with ILP was described as "technically sound" and that he was only informed of its details in 2009. The trial, now on day 43, is proceeding before Judge Karen O'Connor and a jury of ten men and four women.
2018-03-13 · Tipperary
During the trial of David Drumm for conspiracy to defraud, former Anglo Irish Bank finance head Colin Golden testified that he was unaware that the €7.2 billion transactions with Irish Life and Permanent were a straight cash exchange without underlying security until after they occurred. Golden said he first learned of the scale and nature of the deals in early October 2008, after being told they were collateralised. He recounted that Ciaran Cunningham informed him of the €7.2 billion deal on 30 September 2008 and that he later forwarded details to Mary Burke at the Financial Regulator. Golden also noted that Ernst & Young auditors had been briefed on the transactions and that Vincent Bergin described them as "technically sound." He expressed surprise at the regulator's hostile reaction and explained that he did not grasp the significance of who placed the money first until months later.
2017-12-18 · Tipperary
James Conlon, a 35-year-old from Clonmel, Co Tipperary, had his jail term reduced on appeal after pleading not guilty to two counts of attempting to pervert the course of justice. The offences occurred during the investigation into the 2012 murder of Shane Rossiter. Conlon was originally found guilty by a jury at Clonmel Circuit Criminal Court and sentenced to eight years imprisonment, with the final year suspended, by Judge Thomas Teehan in February 2012. The Court of Appeal, presided over by Mr Justice George Birmingham alongside Mr Justice Alan Mahon and Mr Justice John Edwards, quashed these sentences. The court substituted new terms of four years and three years imprisonment to run concurrently, resulting in an effective four-year term. The appeal judgment noted that Conlon and Maurice Power, who was convicted of Rossiter's murder at the Central Criminal Court in 2014, sought to remove a computer chip from a CCTV system. Conlon also allegedly sought to dissuade a potential witness from giving evidence. While the court acknowledged the seriousness of perverting justice in a murder case, it found the original sentencing range inappropriately high, noting the absence of violence, threats, or intimidation.
2017-11-09 · Dublin
The High Court approved a scheme that allows FCR Media Ltd, the publisher of the Golden Pages directory, to exit examinership and continue trading as a going concern, thereby safeguarding 73 jobs. The scheme, devised by examiner Neil Hughes, was supported by the majority of creditors and the trustees of the firm's pension scheme, and received a neutral stance from Revenue. Mr Justice Robert Haughton approved the arrangement on Thursday. FCR Media Ltd, which employs 103 workers, has decided to cease printing the Golden Pages and focus on its online business, resulting in redundancies in the printing section. The company secured fresh investment during examinership and has a reasonable prospect of survival, with forecasts for 2017 and 2018 positive.
2017-11-02 · Tipperary
In a 2017 appeal, lawyers for Maurice Power, a 34‑year‑old from Kilmoyler, argued that Gardaí supervising his cigarette breaks during an interview on suspicion of murdering Shane Rossiter violated proper procedure. Power, who had pleaded not guilty to Rossiter's 2012 murder, was found guilty by a jury of 11‑1 and received a mandatory life sentence in 2014. His barrister, Dominic McGinn SC, contended that the Gardaí's involvement in the breaks, supposedly due to resource constraints, effectively influenced Power's confession. He claimed the Gardaí provided information that Power repeated, thereby inducing the confession, and that the trial judge failed to question the admissibility of the confession and related evidence. The Director of Public Prosecutions' counsel dismissed these claims, describing them as lacking substance, and the court was to reserve judgment.
2017-07-05 · Louth
The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) applied to the High Court for transcripts of the Special Criminal Court's proceedings involving Adrian Crevan Mackin, who shot Garda Anthony Golden in 2015 and later committed suicide. GSOC's request, made by counsel Mr Ronan Kennedy, sought transcripts from the twelve occasions Mackin's case was mentioned, including his bail status. The Special Criminal Court, a non‑jury court, ruled that it lacked both inherent and express jurisdiction to grant the application, stating that the High Court had the authority to consider such requests. Justice Isobel Kennedy, with Judges Gerard Griffin and Gerard Haughton, advised that the application should be directed to a High Court judge. The DPP's counsel, Mr John Byrne, agreed that the Special Criminal Court did not have jurisdiction and that the matter should be brought before the High Court. The court thanked the parties for their remarks. The ruling was issued on 5 July 2017.
2017-07-03 · Louth
The Garda Siochana Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) has applied to the Special Criminal Court for transcripts of the court's appearances concerning Adrian Crevan Mackin, who shot Garda Anthony Golden in 2015 and then committed suicide. GSOC says a "public interest investigation" has been launched after complaints about the nature of interactions between Gardaí and Mackin before and after his January 2015 arrest. Counsel Ronan Kennedy requested transcripts of the twelve occasions Mackin's case was mentioned, noting that Mackin had been granted bail on a 100‑Euro bond and a 5,000‑Euro surety. The court was told Mackin was charged with membership of the IRA and that the DPP did not oppose the application but questioned the court's jurisdiction, suggesting the request should go to the High Court. The court will rule on the application on Wednesday. The case involves Mackin's 25‑year‑old status and the fatal shooting of Garda Golden on 11 October 2015 in Omeath, Co. Louth.
2016-04-06 · Tipperary
The trial of four former senior bankers, including Denis Casey, is ongoing at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Casey, along with Peter Fitzpatrick, John Bowe, and Willie McAteer, has pleaded not guilty to conspiring to mislead investors through financial transactions between March 1 and September 30, 2008. On day 43, witness Colin Golden, Anglo Irish Bank's Head of Group Finance in 2008, testified regarding a €7.2 billion transaction. He stated that during a November 2008 audit committee meeting, non-executive director Donal O'Connor asked if the transaction was "window dressing," to which then Head of Finance Willie McAteer responded it was "balance sheet management." Golden testified that the transaction was treated as a straight cash-for-cash deal, not collateralised, and was included grossly in the bank's balance sheet, inflating customer deposits and loans by €7.2 billion. He noted he was unaware until February 2009 that the sequence of deposits and loans had been incorrectly represented to auditors. Defence counsel Michael O'iggins SC, representing Casey, argued that the failure to consult the trader who executed the transaction constituted a "massive system's failure." Judge Nolan intervened to stop counsel from abusing the witness. The matter remains at the trial stage with no finalisation or sentence recorded.
2015-11-05 · Louth
The Special Criminal Court in Dublin formally disposed of an IRA membership charge against Adrian Crevan Mackin, who killed Garda Tony Golden and later committed suicide. The court marked Mackin's indictment as "accused deceased" and ordered the return of his €100 bail and €5,000 independent surety. Mackin, 25, had been complying with bail conditions when he shot Garda Golden and seriously injured his partner Siobhan Phillips at their home in Omeath, Co. Louth. His counsel, Tony McGillicuddy BL, requested the hearing be treated as a trial day, which the judge agreed to.
2015-10-27 · Louth
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, the charge of IRA membership against Adrian Crevan Mackin, who killed Garda Tony Golden and wounded his partner before taking his own life, was struck out. Prosecutor Michael O'Donovan instructed the court to withdraw the single charge. Mackin, 25, had been granted bail on a €100 bond with a €5,000 surety and was complying with bail conditions at the time of the murder. Judge Paul Butler noted that the deceased could not defend himself against bail breach allegations, and the matter was scheduled for re‑mention on November 5th.
2015-02-06 · Dublin
During the 42‑day trial of 42‑year‑old Graham Dwyer at the Central Criminal Court, a detective presented a hand‑drawn map supplied by Dwyer's solicitor that led Gardaí to two knives in the basement of A&D Wejchert Architects. The map, titled 'Items of Interest', identified a shelf and two file boxes where the knives were found. One knife was a Buck Special 119, delivered to the office on 21 August 2012, and the other a flick knife. Dwyer is charged with the murder of 36‑year‑old childcare worker Elaine O'Hara, who disappeared on 22 August 2012 after leaving a mental health hospital. The trial also heard evidence of a spade found near O'Hara's remains and other items linked to Dwyer, but no verdict has yet been reached.
2015-02-04 · Dublin
In the Graham Dwyer murder trial, the jury heard that a search of Dwyer's home and workplace on 17–18 October 2013 yielded 219 exhibits, including computers, hard drives, and financial documents. Among the seized items were letters from A&D Wejchert Architects informing Dwyer of pay cuts: a 10 % reduction from €87,350 to €78,615 in December 2010, and a further cut to €70,000 in June 2011. The prosecution argued the pay‑cut documents were relevant, while Dwyer's defence counsel noted no instruction to seek such documents. Other seized items included a jacket, a wetsuit, and a two‑drawer filing cabinet containing the pay‑cut letters. The trial also covered CCTV stills from Ms O'Hara's apartment block and the discovery of her skeletal remains at Killakee, but the focus of this hearing was the evidence of the pay cuts and the breadth of the search.
2015-02-03 · Dublin
In a Central Criminal Court trial, a jury examined CCTV footage from Belarmine Plaza in Dublin that appears to show Graham Dwyer, aged 42, with Elaine O'Hara, aged 36, outside her home in the months before her murder. The footage, covering January to August 2012, includes several instances where Dwyer is seen entering and leaving the building, sometimes accompanied by O'Hara, and carrying a backpack that matches a bag recovered from Vartry Lake. The prosecution highlighted these clips to suggest a relationship between Dwyer and O'Hara. Dwyer is charged with O'Hara's murder, which occurred on 22 August 2012 after she was discharged from a psychiatric hospital. The trial also covered the discovery of her skeletal remains at Killakee and the subsequent search of Dwyer's home and workplace, where various items were seized. The case is proceeding before Mr Justice Tony Hunt with a jury of twelve.
2014-10-30 · Dublin
In October 2014, a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced Alan Hatch, 38, to six‑and‑a‑half years in prison for the one‑punch manslaughter of Liam Bennett, 46, who died a week later after a severe brain injury. The incident occurred on August 8, 2013, along the canal near the Golden Bridge Industrial Estate. CCTV showed Bennett swinging his elbow at Hatch as they passed, but the footage did not capture contact. Hatch pleaded guilty to the unlawful killing and to a separate handbag robbery. The judge accepted that Hatch did not intend to kill Bennett but found the assault gratuitous and without justification. A 12‑month portion of the sentence was suspended, and the term was back‑dated to August 3, 2013, the date of Hatch's custody for the offence. Bennett's family expressed deep grief and a hope that no one else would suffer similar violence.
2014-10-09 · Dublin
In October 2014 the High Court heard a case involving the trade union Unite and several of its members who had mounted a picket at a construction site in Lucan where JJ Rhatigan was building a new school. Rhatigan sought injunctions against Unite, two of its officials and other members, alleging that the picket had caused vehicles to be blocked, a lorry to be damaged, a senior employee to be assaulted and a bus driver to be racially abused. Two Unite members had also scaled a 200‑ft crane on the site, leading to its closure by Gardaí. Mr Justice Paul Gilligan accepted undertakings from the defendants not to trespass, intimidate, assault or damage property at Rhatigan sites, and to limit the number of picketers at each site. He also granted an injunction restraining anyone with knowledge of the orders from interfering with access to the sites.
2014-10-08 · Dublin
In a High Court hearing on 8 October 2014, lawyers for builders JJ Rhatigan & Co argued that protests at a new school site in Lucan had been "appalling" and should be restrained. They claimed that Unite members had blocked vehicles, damaged a lorry, assaulted a senior employee, racially abused a bus driver, and had two protesters climb a crane at the site. The site was closed, and the builders sought injunctions against Unite, Patrick Molloy, Stephen Gleeson, and others to prevent interference with access and to vacate the crane. The court granted Rhatigan's permission to serve short service proceedings. Unite's counsel said any order prohibiting picketing would be "too far" and offered an undertaking not to intimidate or block entrances. The judge expressed concern about Unite's control over its members and noted the two men on the crane were not helping anyone. The hearing was set to resume the following day.
2014-10-07 · Dublin
Builders JJ Rhatigan & Co have taken High Court action against the trade union Unite over a dispute at a new school site in Lucan. The builders seek injunctions to stop Unite members from blocking vehicles and interfering with access to the site, citing incidents where protesters allegedly damaged a crane and caused the Gardai to shut the site for health and safety reasons. JJ Rhatigan denies Unite's claim that subcontracted workers were paid less than €5 per hour and says the subcontractor was paid €25,000. The court granted the builders permission to serve short service proceedings on Unite, its members and the subcontractor Gleeson & Molloy Bricklaying Services. The injunctions also cover other Rhatigan sites, including Griffeen Valley, St Patrick's College Drumcondra, the Radisson Blu Hotel and Golden Lane. The case is set to return to the court on Wednesday.
2014-06-13 · Tipperary
In a 2014 Central Criminal Court hearing, Maurice Power, aged 31, was found guilty of murdering his childhood friend Shane Rossiter, 30, in October 2012. Power denied the murder but admitted to a long‑standing feud, including a stabbing seven years earlier. He claimed fear for his family and himself. The trial, lasting four weeks, included Power's full confession after his arrest on 11 December 2012. Pathologist Marie Cassidy described shotgun entry wounds to Rossiter's chest and abdomen, with no exit wounds, causing fatal internal injuries. The jury, composed of seven women and five men, deliberated over two days and returned a guilty verdict by 11 to 1. Justice Deirdre Murphy sentenced Power to life imprisonment. The impact statement by Rossiter's sister, Jenna, highlighted the sudden loss of a brother and the profound grief felt by the family.
2014-05-21 · Tipperary
In the trial of Maurice Power, 31, of Dranganbeg, Kilmoyler, Cahir, the accused pleaded not guilty to the murder of 29‑year‑old Shane Rossiter on 17 October 2013. Power admitted to the Gardaí that he had "let a shot" at Rossiter at 6.45 am that morning. He claimed the shooting was a "kill or be killed" situation, citing a seven‑year history of conflict and a belief that he was being set up. Power said he fired a sawn‑off shotgun twice – once from the passenger seat of his car and again from inside Rossiter's house – killing him in the chest and on the right side. He also stated that he had burned his car and disposed of the weapon. The case is proceeding before a jury presided by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy.
2014-05-20 · Tipperary
In a murder trial in County Tipperary, Maurice "Mossy" Power, aged 31, pleaded not guilty to the killing of Shane Rossiter on 17 October. The prosecution alleged Power fired two shots at Rossiter, causing fatal injuries. Power was also alleged to have received a CCTV camera chip from resident Sharon O'Donnell in Clonmel in October 2012, which he claimed was for his own peace of mind. Garda Larry Burgan reported that Power was not arrested on 17 October and was free to leave the station after a brief interview. Power claimed he had been driving around with friends, met Rossiter and his brother, and later went to his father's house. The trial is proceeding before a jury presided by Justice Deirdre Murphy.
2014-05-08 · Tipperary
In the Central Criminal Court, Maurice "Mossy" Power, aged 31, pleaded not guilty to the murder of 29‑year‑old Shane Rossiter, who died after being shot twice on 17 October 2012. The prosecution said the shots were fired at about 6.30 am following a house party in Church Lane, Golden, Co. Tipperary. Witnesses included Paul McCarthy, who fled to a graveyard after the first shot, and Rachel Keating, who had known Rossiter for a week and testified that Rossiter had called Power to arrange a delivery of weed. Keating described a conversation about money owed and a kiss goodnight before Rossiter was shot. Paramedic T.J. Connolly reported that Rossiter was taken to South Tipperary General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead an hour later. The trial is now addressing legal issues before a jury of twelve, presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy.
2014-05-07 · Tipperary
In the Central Criminal Court trial of Maurice Power, a 31‑year‑old Tipperary man charged with the murder of Shane Rossiter, the sister of the 29‑year‑old victim testified that Power had told her he was planning to sort out differences with her brother shortly before the shooting. Power was said to have approached the Rossiter family after the victim's return from Australia, apologising for past conflicts. Witnesses described a brief encounter between Power and the victim the evening before the killing, with no apparent tension. Liam O'Sullivan, a neighbour, heard two gunshots at 6.30 am on 17 October 2012 and saw a man in a grey hoodie leave the house. Paul McCarthy, who called emergency services, reported seeing a gun barrel exit a car window and hearing a shot. The prosecution noted that a black Audi A4, later burnt out in a Waterford bog, was linked to Power's partner. The trial continues.
2014-05-06 · Tipperary
In the trial of Maurice Power, 31, accused of murdering 29‑year‑old Shane Rossiter on 17 October 2012, a witness, Paul McCarthy, testified that he felt he was being set up by Rossiter. McCarthy, who is now in custody, said he was in the house on Church Lane, Golden, when Rossiter asked him to go outside. He claimed to have seen a gun barrel from a car, ran, and called emergency services after hearing one shot. McCarthy admitted taking drugs that night and that he could not recall details, including Rossiter's name. He also denied calling for weed delivery and said he had told Gardaí he was being set up. The prosecution alleged Power fired two shots, causing Rossiter's death. The trial is set to continue before a jury presided by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy. Maurice Power pleaded not guilty.
2014-05-02 · Tipperary
In the Central Criminal Court, Maurice Power, aged 31, pleaded not guilty to the murder of 29‑year‑old Shane Rossiter, who died on 17 October 2012 after being shot at a house party in Church Lane, Golden, Co. Tipperary. State Pathologist Marie Cassidy testified that a post‑mortem at Waterford Regional Hospital revealed two shotgun entry wounds to Rossiter's chest and abdomen, with no exit wounds, causing catastrophic internal injuries and massive blood loss. The wounds damaged the right lung, heart, liver, spleen, bowel, aorta and inferior vena cava, leading to death by blood loss. Cassidy noted Rossiter had taken cocaine, heroin, amphetamine and benzodiazepam, but these substances were not the cause of death. The trial continued on Tuesday before a jury of seven women and five men, presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy.
2014-05-02 · Dublin
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters, including the sentencing of Karl Robinson. Robinson pleaded guilty to driving without insurance and while disqualified at Station Road in Lusk on June 29, 2013. Judge Dermot Dempsey ordered him to complete 240 hours of community service in lieu of a three-month prison sentence, following a Probation Services consultation. He was also disqualified from driving for four years. In separate proceedings, Patricia Ferris, alleged to have refused or failed a breath sample at Balbriggan Garda Station on April 21, was remanded on continuing bail for a hearing at Swords District Court on June 9. Emma Nevin, charged with selling counterfeit cigarettes at Balbriggan Sunday Market on April 27, was also remanded on continuing bail for a plea hearing on June 9. Debbie Whelan, alleged to have produced a wheel brace during an argument on Chieftain's Road on July 8, 2013, was remanded on continuing bail for a hearing on May 16. Finally, Bridget O'Leary pleaded guilty to the theft of €54.81 worth of groceries from Tesco in Balbriggan on October 8, 2013. She was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on June 12 for the facts of the case to be heard.
2014-05-01 · Tipperary
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, 31‑year‑old Maurice Power of Dranganbeg, Kilmoyler, Cahir pleaded not guilty to the murder of 29‑year‑old Shane Rossiter, who died on 17 October 2012 after being shot twice at a house party in Church Lane, Golden, Co. Tipperary. Prosecutor Anthony Sammon SC presented evidence that Power fired the shots, citing a black Audi A4 registered to Power's partner that was later burned in a bog in Co. Waterford. Power was arrested on 11 December 2012 for murder with a firearm. During a lengthy detention he allegedly made a full confession to the Gardaí, stating a long‑standing feud with Rossiter that began seven years earlier and involved a stabbing. The trial is proceeding before a jury of seven women and five men, presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy. The case remains at the trial stage.