Tom Hassett, a retired post office manager, has been jailed for eight years for the rape and sexual abuse of a girl in the 1980s. Hassett was convicted of two counts of rape and five counts of indecent assault following a trial. The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, described the lasting impact of the abuse on her life, including her relationships, mental health, and confidence. She stated that the abuse had shaped her experiences and that she had carried the burden of the secret for many years. The judge, Mr Justice David Keane, noted the high breach of trust involved in the case and the significant harm caused to the victim. He imposed a headline sentence of 12 years for the rapes but reduced it to eight years, taking into account Hassett's age, health, and otherwise good character. The victim expressed gratitude for the verdict, stating that it confirmed the wrongfulness of the acts and that she was finally heard. Hassett denied the charges and was represented by Vincent Heneghan SC, who highlighted his work history and family life.
Two Westmeath brothers who sexually assaulted teenage girls in the mid-nineties have now been identified for the first time. John Owens (72) was jailed for eight years after pleading guilty to nine counts of sexual assault against three teenage girls. His brother, Martin Owens (66), was also found guilty of sexually assaulting two of the victims. The victims, aged 14 to 17, were babysitting for Owens' children. During the trial, it was revealed that Owens groomed the victims and used alcohol to manipulate them. Martin Owens was sentenced to five years and six months, with the final six months suspended. The victims described the lasting trauma and emotional impact of the abuse. John Owens was sentenced to eight years, with a total headline sentence of 15 years reduced due to guilty pleas. The victims expressed relief in finally having their abusers identified and acknowledged their suffering.
Seamus O'Callaghan, a retired Franciscan brother and convicted sex offender, has been jailed for 11 years for raping a teenage boy while working as a teacher in Offaly almost 30 years ago. O'Callaghan, 82, was convicted of one count of anal rape following a Central Criminal Court trial in May. The victim, who was 13 years old at the time, stated that the incident took his childhood away and caused long-term psychological damage. O'Callaghan has 11 previous convictions for indecent assault, all involving teenage boys. Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo noted the significant, long-lasting impact of the abuse on the victim's life and imposed a headline sentence of 13 years, which was reduced to 11 years due to O'Callaghan's age and medical issues. The court heard that O'Callaghan had cooperated with the investigation but his statements were found to be false self-serving denials. The case highlights the long-term consequences of sexual abuse and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
Gerard McCarthy, 64, of Clonlost, Killucan, Co. Westmeath, was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court after pleading guilty to 24 sample counts of rape and 24 sample counts of indecent assault. The offences, which occurred between 1979 and 1985, were committed against his niece, Catriona Mahon, when she was aged between seven and 13. Mr Justice David Keane imposed a sentence of seven years' imprisonment, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions for two years. The judge directed McCarthy to participate in a sexual offender's rehabilitation programme if deemed suitable and imposed a two-year post-release supervision order. Aggravating factors included the high degree of breach of trust, the victim's age and defencelessness, and the persistent nature of the offending. Mitigating factors included McCarthy's early admissions of guilt, his signed guilty pleas at the District Court, and his lack of previous convictions. The court acknowledged the victim's courage in coming forward after four decades of silence. McCarthy's defence counsel highlighted his cooperation, medical issues, and a letter of apology expressing shame. The judge affirmed that the shame lay solely with the convicted man and wished the victim well in her recovery.
The Court of Appeal has set a date in December to hear an application by a Polish cage fighter who is seeking to have his conviction for the murder of a 23-year-old man who was beaten unconscious and left to drown in the River Shannon declared a miscarriage of justice. Leszek Sychulec's legal team told the court today that they had written to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) seeking disclosure regarding an article published about a garda allegedly involved in organised crime who is connected to the case. Sychulec, now in his 40s, and his co-accused, Andrzej Gruchacz, had pleaded not guilty to murdering Patryk Krupa at Bogganfin, Athlone, Co Roscommon on June 20th, 2014. Mr Krupa drowned in the Shannon outside Athlone while incapacitated with a head injury from a violent assault. A Central Criminal Court jury deliberated for five hours before reaching unanimous guilty verdicts. The defendants were accordingly given mandatory life sentences by Mr Justice Tony Hunt on June 13, 2016.
The former CEO of Inland Fisheries Ireland, Francis O'Donnell, has denied allegations that he pestered and hounded the agency's former HR director, Róisín Bradley, for written assurances regarding his future employment. O'Donnell, who was dismissed from his position in June 2025, refuted claims that he asked Bradley to meet privately and sign a prepared letter in a hotel car park. He described the allegations as "appalling" and denied any such conduct, emphasizing that Bradley was a high-performing individual with whom he had a strong working relationship. O'Donnell's legal team argued that there was a precedent in IFI for previous CEOs returning to their old roles after stepping down, and he cited an email from Bradley in December 2025 to support his claim. The case is being heard under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 and the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, with O'Donnell alleging that the allegations against him were part of an effort to pressure him into ending his investigation into alleged theft and fraud within the organization. The tribunal has adjourned for further proceedings.
The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) awarded €14,262 to applicant Krzysztof Bonarek, finding that his dismissal by Sean Doyle Windows Ltd in November 2024 constituted penalisation for safety complaints. Adjudication officer Davnet O'Driscoll determined that the termination breached the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, directing the firm to pay €11,200 in compensation for this penalisation. The WRC noted that Mr Bonarek had reported that the company van's brakes were not working properly to management, specifically Sean Doyle Jnr, and subsequently had the vehicle inspected by a mechanic who found it in poor repair. Following this, Mr Bonarek was told he was being laid off and later informed his position was terminated due to insufficient work. The respondent argued the dismissal was for performance reasons and that the applicant had agreed to immediate termination in exchange for a reference. However, the adjudication officer found no evidence of a disciplinary process, redundancy notice, or consultation, describing the situation as unusual. The officer concluded the dismissal was unfair on procedural grounds and amounted to penalisation. Additional redress was awarded for breaches of the Payment of Wages Act 1991 and the Terms of Employment (Information) Act 1994, bringing the total award to €14,262. Counsel for the applicant was Darach McNamara BL, and for the respondent, Cillian McGovern BL.
A Polish cage fighter serving a life sentence for the 2014 murder of a 23-year-old man in Co Roscommon has brought proceedings before the Court of Appeal seeking to have his conviction declared a miscarriage of justice. Leszek Sychulec, now in his 40s and previously resident in Ballymahon, Co Longford, was convicted alongside co-accused Andrzej Gruchacz in June 2016 of murdering Patryk Krupa at Athlone. The victim drowned in the River Shannon after suffering a head injury sustained during a violent assault. A jury returned unanimous guilty verdicts following five hours of deliberation, and mandatory life sentences were imposed. An earlier appeal in 2018 upheld both convictions. At a case management hearing before Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy on 15 May, Sychulec's legal representatives submitted that a miscarriage of justice arose from undisclosed material relevant to State witnesses. The court adjourned the matter to 3 July to allow the prosecution and defence to resolve disclosure issues, with an affidavit containing new evidence to be filed by 15 June. Andrzej Gruchacz pleaded not guilty.
A former accountant pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to theft and deception offences committed over six weeks in early 2025. Michelle Dillon, aged 59 and homeless, stole a bank card and medical card from an elderly patient at a Dublin hospital on 20 February. She subsequently travelled to Cork, Clare, Meath, Westmeath and Wicklow, presenting herself as the legitimate account holder at various banks to withdraw approximately €8,000 in cash. She also made contactless payments totalling €133. Withdrawals occurred in Cork city, Bray, Dublin city centre, Navan, Athlone and Ennis. When presenting at an AIB branch in Navan on 4 March, a warning mark was active on the account, yet she convinced staff she was the genuine holder. She was arrested in October 2025 at Cavan General Hospital after presenting under a false name. The victim's bank refunded all monies. Judge Elma Sheahan described the initial theft as despicable and the subsequent deceptions as planned, premeditated and brazen.
A former accountant has been sentenced to three years and nine months at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for laundering nearly €290,000 through his bank account. Cyril Keegan (54), with an address in County Cork, pleaded guilty to three counts of money laundering between 2017 and 2018. The court heard he acted as a conduit for convicted launderer Simon Gold, facilitating transfers including over €180,000 from a Canadian medical cannabis company. Funds were rapidly dispersed after arriving in Keegan's account. His partner, Ruth Kennedy (55), received a suspended two-year sentence after pleading guilty to failing to disclose information to gardaí. Judge Martin Nolan noted the substantial distress caused to defrauded parties. Gold, formerly of Athlone, County Westmeath, was previously jailed for seven-and-a-half years for laundering €1.6 million.
A Ukrainian national has been sentenced to six and a half years' imprisonment following a serious assault at a refugee accommodation centre in Dublin. The attack occurred on 31 March 2023 at Ballyogan Regional Temporary Rest Centre, when Vasyl Bolotnykov (57) struck another Ukrainian man in the face with a fire extinguisher in an unprovoked incident. The victim, in his late 50s, lost consciousness from the impact. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that medical assessment was delayed significantly, with a brain scan not conducted until nine days after the assault, revealing multiple brain bleeds and a skull fracture. The victim subsequently required surgery and spent eight weeks in intensive care. Judge Martina Baxter described the assault as ferocious and noted the victim has sustained permanent neurological effects, including memory difficulties and balance problems, preventing independent work. Bolotnykov pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm and production of an article capable of inflicting serious injury. The victim was later relocated to accommodation in County Roscommon during his recovery period.
A thief who was caught with a mobile phone he could not unlock has had his jail sentence more than halved on appeal. Judge Simon McAleese told Keith Commins (29) that he hoped he would not be proven "naive and overindulgent" in his decision to suspend part of the appellant's sentence. Commins was previously convicted of possessing stolen property, failing to comply with a garda member, and resisting or wilfully obstructing a garda. He received a three-month jail sentence and a one-month consecutive sentence. He later lodged an appeal against the severity of his sentence. Gardai found the phone during a patrol and noted that messages on the phone referred to a work presentation, despite Commins saying it belonged to his unemployed girlfriend. Defence counsel, Lydia Daly BL, said that her client is serving a nine-month sentence for another matter and has secured stable accommodation upon his release. Judge McAleese decided to suspend the three and one month consecutive sentences for a period of two years.
Gary O'Shaughnessy, 39, of Mullingar, Co Westmeath, has been committed to the Central Mental Hospital for inpatient care and treatment following a trial at the Central Criminal Court. The jury returned unanimous verdicts of not guilty by reason of insanity on two charges: the alleged attempted murder of his brother, Mark (42), and intentionally or recklessly causing him serious harm. The alleged offences occurred at the same address between May 15 and 16, 2024. O'Shaughnessy had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to both counts. The court heard evidence that the accused struck his vulnerable, partially blind brother with a hammer and cut his neck with a knife. Prosecution and defence psychiatrists testified that O'Shaughnessy was suffering from schizophrenia at the time, which prevented him from knowing the nature and quality of his acts or refraining from them. Mr Justice Tony Hunt, relying on a report by consultant forensic psychiatrist Dr Dearbhla Duffy, was satisfied that O'Shaughnessy suffers from a mental disorder and requires inpatient care. The judge ordered his commitment to the Central Mental Hospital in Portrane, Co Dublin, pursuant to section 5(3) of the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act 2006. This commitment will continue until a further order is made under section 13 of the Act. The judge described the case as "terribly sad" and noted the verdict aligned with the medical evidence.
A 39-year-old man from Mullingar, Gary O'Shaughnessy, was found not guilty of attempted murder by reason of insanity after attacking his partially blind brother with a hammer and knife. The jury reached a unanimous verdict within 32 minutes, noting that O'Shaughnessy suffered from schizophrenia and was under the influence of delusional beliefs that he and his brother were cursed. The defense argued that O'Shaughnessy's mental illness rendered him incapable of understanding the nature of his actions. Psychiatrists testified that he believed the only way to avert a post-apocalyptic curse was to kill his brother. The court accepted that O'Shaughnessy had not been drinking on the day of the attack and that his mental disorder prevented him from knowing the wrongfulness of his actions. Judge Tony Hunt commended the jury for their prompt decision and ordered O'Shaughnessy's commitment to the Central Mental Hospital for psychiatric assessment. The victim, Mark O'Shaughnessy, was found in a critical condition with severe injuries, and the case was described as a "terrible shroud of sadness" by the defense. Gary O'Shaughnessy was found not guilty by reason of insanity.
A care assistant described the moment she entered the home of her vulnerable and partially blind client to find him covered in blood and in the company of his brother, who told her he had "drained" his sibling. Gary O'Shaughnessy, 39, is charged with attempted murder and causing serious harm to his brother, Mark O'Shaughnessy, after an incident in May 2024. Two psychiatrists testified that Gary suffers from schizophrenia and fulfils the criteria for a special verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. Care assistant Louise McGloin testified that she found Mark covered in blood and Gary sitting on a couch, claiming he had "drained" his brother. Paramedics found Mark in a critical state with a catastrophic haemorrhage from a neck injury. Gary told gardai that he had been drinking heavily, heard voices, and was influenced by hallucinations to kill his brother. Forensic psychiatrists testified that Gary was suffering from schizophrenia and did not know the nature and quality of his actions.
A 39-year-old man, who has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the attempted murder of his vulnerable brother, told gardai that he tried to kill his sibling with a hammer and by slitting his neck and wrists, a Central Criminal Court jury has heard. Gary O'Shaughnessy is charged with the attempted murder of his brother Mark O'Shaughnessy (42) at the same address between May 15 and 16, 2024. The brothers were living at Ailesbury House at the time. He is further charged with intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to his brother on the same date and at the same location. Mr O'Shaughnessy has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to both charges. Opening the prosecution's case, Ronan Kennedy SC said there is no dispute that the accused attempted to kill and cause serious harm to his brother by stabbing him and striking him on the head with a hammer. Counsel said the case will centre on the mental state of the accused.
A 39-year-old man has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the attempted murder of his brother at the family home in Mullingar two years ago. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor at the Central Criminal Court today swore a jury of seven men and five women to hear the trial of Gary O'Shaughnessy. She told the jury it is alleged that Mr O'Shaughnessy attempted to murder his brother, Mark O'Shaughnessy, at Ailesbury House, Lynn Road, Mullingar Co Westmeath between May 15 and 16, 2024. The brothers were living at Ailesbury House at the time, she said. He is further charged with intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to his brother on the same date and at the same location. Mr O'Shaughnessy pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to both charges. Ms Justice O'Connor told the jury the trial will conclude by the end of this week.
The Workplace Relations Commission ordered Nical Engineering Ltd to pay refrigeration technician Nathan Collins €1,650 in unpaid wages. Nical said it had a counter-debt claim after a company van was recovered from outside Collins's address under garda supervision, but adjudicator Penelope McGrath ruled that wages could not be withheld. McGrath said the use of garda resources to recover the vehicle was unacceptable.
Sean Monaghan was jailed for three years after pleading guilty to eight counts of indecent assault against his younger sister in their family home in 1962 and 1963.
Craig Kennedy's four-month sentence after dangerous driving and criminal damage involving a scrambler bike and a garda patrol car was halved on appeal, with two months suspended subject to engagement with Men Overcoming Violent Emotions. Craig Kennedy was convicted.
A former scout leader is appealing five convictions for offences against three young cousins, including rape and sexual assault. His defence argues that an anonymous letter said to be from a juror, a complainant's reference to rape and the prosecution closing speech made the convictions unsafe. Ms Justice Nuala Butler said the court would reserve judgment; the man continues to deny the offences. The unnamed 63-year-old pleaded not guilty and was acquitted.
Christopher Fitzsimons, 40, of Athlone, Co Westmeath, was sentenced to 13 years in prison by the Central Criminal Court for rape and sexual assault. A jury convicted him last July of all 22 counts, including 18 counts of raping Claire Berry, aged 15 to 16, between 2010 and 2011; one count of raping Tara Berry, aged 16, in 2006; and two counts of sexually assaulting Tara Berry, aged 12. He was also found guilty of one count of sexually assaulting Chloe Berry, aged 14, in 2001. The abuse occurred over a 10-year period while Fitzsimons was in a relationship with the victims' older sister. Ms Justice Eileen Creedon described the conduct as an "egregious abuse of trust" and a "wolf in sheep's clothing." She set a headline sentence of 14 years, reduced to 13 years, citing his lack of previous convictions and work history as a butcher in mitigation. Fitzsimons has been in custody since the verdict. The victims, who waived anonymity, submitted impact statements detailing long-term trauma and his lack of remorse. Prosecutors requested consecutive sentences for the separate complainants, while the defense highlighted his good character.
An Army corporal from Athlone, Co Westmeath has initiated High Court proceedings against the Minister for Defence and the Attorney General, alleging he was prevented from promotion to a specialist IT sergeant position despite meeting all required qualifications. Corporal Adam Courtney, who joined the Defence Forces in 2011 and has completed multiple overseas deployments, claims he was the sole qualified candidate for the role under the 2025-2026 Junior Non-Commissioned Officer competition. He had been performing sergeant-level duties at Custume Barracks whilst receiving a substitution allowance and states he completed all mandatory courses before the September 2025 closing date. Corporal Courtney seeks a court order of mandamus requiring his promotion. He contends that military authorities subsequently filled the position with an already-promoted sergeant serving in a supernumerary capacity since 2024, who he asserts lacks the necessary qualifications. Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty granted his ex parte application at the High Court this week and adjourned the matter to March.
An air conditioning technician is seeking €1,650 in unpaid wages from his former employer, Nical Engineering Ltd, after leaving the job ten days into a new role in September 2024. The company admits it owes the money but claims the worker owes them around €3,500 for damage to a company van after it was seized by gardaí. The worker, Nathan Collins, denies the allegations and says the company is not following the law by offering cash instead of bank transfer. The company's representative, Hugh Hegarty, stated that the money is available in Mullingar and that the worker must collect it in person with the assistance of the gardaí and their solicitor. The company director, John Masterson, said the worker had issues with his work and that the van had to be cleaned and fumigated after being left in Galway. The case is being heard by the Workplace Relations Commission, with both sides presenting their arguments.
A convicted sex offender who was on bail when he attacked and raped his then partner in a Kildare woods, telling her he had dug her grave, has been further jailed for 10 years. Dylan McMahon (31) was convicted of rape, aggravated sexual assault, false imprisonment, and making threats to kill or cause serious harm. During the attack, McMahon pushed dog faeces, sticks, and leaves in her mouth, making her unable to breathe, and led her through the woods, telling her he had dug her grave. He denied the charges but pleaded guilty to assault causing harm. McMahon has 36 previous convictions and is currently serving a sentence of six years with the final year suspended for theft and assault causing harm to a sex worker. He is also serving a consecutive two-year and nine-month sentence for offences including robbery. The court heard that McMahon sustained a traumatic brain injury in 2015 and does not accept the verdict of the jury.
An amateur kickboxer who admits to killing but denies murdering his mother has testified at his trial, claiming he was 'groomed' into a life of drugs and violence by his abusive mother. Luke Donnelly told the Central Criminal Court that he was in fear for his life and 'lost all control' when he stomped on his mother's head after she hit and threatened to kill him. He admitted to using 'deplorable violence' to end his mother's life and had taken a cocktail of drugs before the incident. Donnelly, who has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, described a history of abuse and violence in his home. He said his mother had a relationship with a drug dealer and that he was put 'out on the street' at 14. The trial continues with the jury considering evidence, including CCTV footage and the accused's claim that he was 'Jesus Christ' and that his mother had threatened to kill him.
A trial in the Central Criminal Court heard that Luke Donnelly, 29, admitted to manslaughter but denied murder in the death of his mother, Catherine Henry, 62. His sister, Kathleen Donnelly, testified that their mother was physically, verbally, and emotionally abusive to her children on a daily basis. She also stated that Luke idolised their mother despite her abuse. Luke's father, Gerry Donnelly, recounted incidents where Catherine stabbed him with a steak knife and pushed him down the stairs. Luke had a history of mental health issues and drug use, and his sister described him as being in a trance-like state before the incident. Luke's sister also mentioned that he had gone missing for a few days in November 2023 and had attempted suicide multiple times. The trial continues with the court considering the evidence presented. Luke Donnelly pleaded not guilty.
A man who admits killing but denies murdering his mother accepts that he caused multiple fractures to her skull and that he left a blood-stained footprint on her back, a trial jury has heard. Luke Donnelly (29), of no fixed abode, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the manslaughter of Catherine Henry (62) at her apartment on Bridge Street in Dundalk, Co Louth on a date unknown between May 23 and 24 2023. Garret Baker SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said the panel would also hear that the accused was behaving in an erratic way before the killing, including by repeatedly asserting that he was 'Jesus Christ' and the son of God. The prosecution's case is that Mr Donnelly went to his mother's address on Bridge Street early on the morning of May 23 and that the deceased was murdered at that location. The court will also hear evidence from a State pathologist who had conducted a postmortem on May 25, which found extensive blunt force trauma to Ms Henry's face and head.
Ross O'Rourke, aged 31, was found not guilty by reason of insanity after stabbing his father, Stefan Nivelle Posschier, 65, 18 times during a psychotic episode in October 2022. A jury of five men and seven women returned a unanimous verdict. O'Rourke claimed he believed his father was linked to criminals and the IRA and that he had received coded messages urging him to kill. Psychiatrists for both sides agreed he suffered from a schizophrenic disorder at the time of the killing. Dr Dearbhla Duffy, at a hearing, stated he continues to lack capacity for informed decisions and needs ongoing inpatient care at the Central Mental Hospital. Mr Justice Paul McDermott ordered his commitment for treatment, with reviews every six months. The family of the deceased remains in grief. The case highlights the application of the special verdict under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act 2006.
A man who stabbed his 'friendly and soft-hearted' father 18 times during a psychotic episode has been found not guilty of murder by reason of insanity. Ross O'Rourke, who had a previous address in Tullow, Carlow, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to murdering his father, Stefan Nivelle Posschier, in Kinnegad, Co Westmeath in 2022. The jury returned a unanimous verdict in just 29 minutes, with the judge describing the trial as 'extremely difficult, especially for those who have lost a loved one.' Psychiatrists agreed that O'Rourke was suffering from a schizophrenic mental disorder at the time of the killing and met the criteria for the special verdict under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act 2006. The trial heard that O'Rourke developed a delusion that his father was mixed up with criminals and the IRA and that he posed a threat to his life. He stabbed his father to death and then drove to a hospital, where he told his grandmother he had killed her son.
A fire drill delayed jury deliberations in the trial of a man who stabbed his father to death during a psychotic episode. Ross O'Rourke, 31, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to murdering his father. Psychiatrists agreed he was suffering from a mental disorder and met the criteria for the special verdict. O'Rourke believed his father was involved with criminals and the IRA and heard voices telling him to kill him. He stabbed his father 18 times. His defense described his father as a kind and warm-hearted man. The prosecution argued O'Rourke intended to kill his father but the psychiatrists concluded he was unable to understand the wrongfulness of his actions due to his mental state. The jury was told to return on Monday after the fire drill.
A 31-year-old man who has pleaded not guilty to the murder of his father by reason of insanity told his grandmother that he had killed her son when she was lying in her bed in a hospital ward. Ross O'Rourke (31) of Tullow, Carlow, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of his father, Stefan Nivelles Posschier (65). During the opening of the trial, Shane Costelloe SC said that expert psychiatrists for both the prosecution and defence are in agreement about the accused's mental state at the time of the murder. The court heard that Ms Kingston, the grandmother of the accused, was in her bed in the hospital ward on October 25, 2022, when O'Rourke told her that he had killed her son. Gardai found the body of the deceased under plastic tarpaulin held down with bricks. The prosecution's case is that the accused caused the death of his father, and the court will hear evidence from expert consultant psychiatrists about the accused's mental state at the time.
A jury has been sworn in to hear the trial of a 31-year-old man who has pleaded not guilty to the murder of his father by reason of insanity. Ross O'Rourke, from Tullow, Carlow, is accused of murdering Stefan Nivelles Posschier at The Stables in Rattin, Kinnegad, Westmeath, between October 24 and 25, 2022. The accused entered a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity. The trial will be presided over by Mr Justice Paul McDermott and will involve a jury of five men and seven women. The trial is expected to last up to four days. Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions is Shane Costello SC, while Michael Bowman SC represents the defence. Evidence will be presented by Dr Ronan Mullaney for the defence and Dr Anthony Kearns for the prosecution. The trial will commence tomorrow.
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.
A 48-year-old man from Dublin has been sentenced to one year in prison at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material. Alan Keating, formerly of County Galway, was arrested following a 2017 investigation initiated by Swiss authorities and Interpol. Gardaí executed a search warrant at his home while he was abroad, seizing a laptop containing 330 images and 719 videos depicting child sexual abuse. Among the most serious material were extreme images showing children bound and confined. A further 23,604 uncategorised files were also discovered. During the search, gardaí located a document outlining inappropriate conduct with children. The court heard Keating had shared files on an online platform on ten occasions. Judge Martin Nolan acknowledged mitigating factors including Keating's early guilty plea, cooperation, clean record, and engagement with therapy following seizure of the device. However, the judge noted the distribution element and the disturbing nature of documentation found. Keating will be placed on the Sex Offender Register.
The High Court has ruled that the fast-tracked process used to establish an International Protection Accommodation Service centre in Athlone was flawed, but a four-month stay has been placed on the final order. The court has ordered that, following the stay, the site will be considered 'unauthorised development'. Aoife Carroll SC, representing the State, informed Ms Justice Emily Farrell that the proposed centre, which was intended to house up to 1,000 asylum seekers, is currently vacant and that a stay is being sought to allow time for remedial legislation. The legal challenge was brought by Westmeath Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan and four other local representatives, who argued that the minister failed to adequately screen the project for environmental impacts and lacked the necessary expertise to conduct such assessments in an expedited manner. The State conceded the legal challenge and requested a stay on the order quashing the use of the statutory instrument used to fast-track the facility. Ms Justice Farrell awarded costs to Cllr Hogan's side up until July 25 last. A bill is expected to be presented to cabinet in the coming weeks to address the error in the statutory instrument. The matter remains under consideration, with the stay in place for four months.
Oliver Berry, aged 68, failed to reduce his seven‑year sentence on appeal for indecent assault of his daughter Sharon between 1980 and 1986. He had pleaded not guilty to 25 counts but was convicted in June 2023 and sentenced by Ms Justice Patricia Ryan on 25 July 2023 to run consecutively to a prison term he was already serving for the sexual abuse of his other daughter, Jennifer. The court found Berry abused Sharon up to three times a week, subjected her to physical violence, and she ran away at age 12. Berry had previously been jailed for ten years in 2018 for 104 counts of rape and sexual assault of Jennifer, aged 7 to 19, between 1982 and 1994; that sentence was increased by three years after a State appeal. Berry maintained his innocence, and his mother, who has since separated, gave evidence in his defence.
Two men have been sentenced at the Central Criminal Court following a serious assault arising from a feud between Traveller families in Mullingar, Co Westmeath. Michael Nevin, aged 41, of Grange Heights, Mullingar, was sentenced to ten years imprisonment with the final two years suspended. Christopher Nevin, aged 31, of Grange Crescent, Mullingar, received five-and-a-half years with the final eighteen months suspended. The assault occurred on 2 August 2024 on Austin Friars Street during a busy Friday afternoon. The victim sustained multiple stab wounds, including a perforated liver requiring emergency surgery and blood transfusions. Michael Nevin pleaded guilty to causing serious harm whilst Christopher Nevin pleaded guilty to violent disorder. Mr Justice David Keane described the attack as particularly severe and vicious. He noted the assault was deliberately planned rather than impulsive and occurred against a background of ongoing incidents between the families. Both men's sentences included credit for early guilty pleas. The families have since engaged the Traveller Mediation Service to resolve their differences.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Noel Smullen, 58, of Silverdale, Clara, Co. Offaly, was sentenced to six and a half years' imprisonment for the unlawful importation of 40 kilos of cocaine, worth €2.8 million, hidden beneath a legitimate cargo of Lego toys. Smullen's role was described as lower than that of co‑accused Killian McNay, 40, who received a seven‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence earlier that month. Smullen pleaded guilty to the offence, which occurred at Dublin Port on 22 September 2024, after customs officers detected a concealed metal compartment in his lorry's trailer. He had nine prior convictions, including burglary and possession of stolen property. The judge, Martina Baxter, noted his cooperation, early guilty plea and lack of drug‑dealing convictions, and suspended the last 18 months of his sentence for two years on the condition of good behaviour and engagement with the Probation Service.
Philip Ogbewe, a 61-year-old man from Drogheda, Co Louth, appeared at the Court of Appeal to challenge his sentence for performing illegal circumcisions on seven boys between January 2018 and October 2019. Ogbewe pleaded guilty to seven counts of endangerment and seven counts of assault causing harm. In July 2024, Judge Elma Sheahan imposed a four-and-a-half-year sentence on each endangerment count, with one running consecutively and the rest concurrently. After applying the principles of totality, the effective sentence was reduced to seven and a half years, with the final 12 months suspended. Ogbewe's counsel, Giollaosa Ó Lidheada SC, argued the headline sentence was too high and that Ogbewe was not given sufficient credit for his remorse and reformation after "seeing the light." He contended that Ogbewe's prior three-year sentence for a separate 2015 offence, which expired just before these charges were laid, should have influenced the totality calculation. The Director of Public Prosecutions, represented by Shane Costelloe SC, maintained the sentence was sound, citing grave aggravating factors including the number of victims and Ogbewe's knowledge that his actions were illegal. The court reserved its judgment, meaning the matter was adjourned and not concluded.
A man suffered life-threatening injuries when stabbed multiple times during an assault on Austin Friars Street in Mullingar on August 2nd, 2024, arising from an ongoing feud between Traveller families. The Central Criminal Court heard that Anthony Dinnegan Jnr sustained serious wounds to his head, chest and leg, with doctors confirming a perforated liver that required immediate surgery and transfusions. He spent twenty-four hours in critical condition at Midlands Regional Hospital. Christopher Nevin, aged 31, and Michael Nevin, aged 41, both from Mullingar, faced charges of attempted murder. Michael Nevin pleaded guilty to causing serious harm, whilst Christopher Nevin pleaded guilty to violent disorder. The Director of Public Prosecutions accepted both pleas. Detective Gardaí presented evidence of prior threatening incidents between the families and CCTV footage showing Michael Nevin carrying a knife during the assault. Both families have since engaged with the Traveller Mediation Service to resolve their differences. Mr Justice David Keane adjourned sentencing to October 31st.
Killian McNay, 40, of Ardilaun Green, Mullingar, Westmeath, was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison by Judge Martin Nolan at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. McNay admitted to possessing 40 kilograms of cocaine for sale or supply at Dublin Port on 22 September 2024 and to having imported the drugs, valued at €2.8 million, concealed under a Lego shipment destined for Lidl stores. The cocaine was hidden in specialised containers in the base of a flat‑bed trailer that had been carrying legitimate Lego goods. McNay had hired a driver and travelled to Holland to ensure proper loading; the driver remains before the courts. McNay was under significant financial pressure and had a history of minor road‑traffic convictions. He was interviewed six times and admitted his presence during loading. The court noted his debt‑driven circumstances and his role in the haulage industry. Judge Nolan described his actions as a grievous misjudgement and sentenced him accordingly.
Jordan Domican, aged 24, of Collinstown Grove, Clondalkin, Dublin, has been sentenced to seven and a half years imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. He pleaded guilty to two counts of facilitating a criminal organisation between May 9 and May 11, 2024. The court heard that Domican procured vehicles used in serious criminal incidents, including an arson attack on a Dublin house and a firearms discharge. Judge Martin Nolan described him as occupying a significant role within the organisation, describing him as "indispensable". Evidence included phone records, CCTV footage showing his vehicle in convoy with those used in the offences, and his involvement in purchasing vehicles under false identities. Domican, who has thirty previous convictions, was credited with a guilty plea and mitigating personal circumstances. He has been remanded in custody since February 2025. Several co-accused remain before the courts regarding the same offences.
A man with over 70 previous road traffic convictions has been sentenced to five years' imprisonment for dangerous driving causing the death of a pregnant woman at Galway Circuit Criminal Court. Frank Barrett, aged 44, of Ballybane, Galway, was driving a car in which Irene Lynch was a passenger when it crashed into a wall and became submerged in water near Menlo in the early hours of March 2024. Ms Lynch, who was 17 weeks pregnant, died in hospital a week later from a hypoxic brain injury, as did her unborn daughter. Barrett was disqualified from driving at the time of the incident and had consumed significant quantities of alcohol and cocaine. He pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death, drink driving and driving without insurance. Judge Brian O'Callaghan imposed a headline sentence of eight years, reduced to six years with the final 12 months suspended for three years, citing Barrett's early guilty plea and remorse as mitigating factors. Barrett was disqualified from driving for ten years and fined €1,500.
More than 70 asylum seekers at an accommodation centre in Athlone, County Westmeath, have been offered alternative housing while the government prepares emergency legislation to address accommodation pressures, the High Court heard. Of approximately 125 people remaining at the facility, offers have been extended to 70 residents, with responses expected within a week. The High Court action, taken by Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan through judicial review, centres on the validity of a statutory instrument used to expedite construction at Lissywollen. The State has conceded the instrument was invalid and is developing remedial legislation. Ms Justice Emily Farrell adjourned proceedings to next week but cautioned against further deferrals, noting the government had sufficient opportunity to bring legislation before the Dáil. Counsel for Cllr Hogan argued that November dates for legislative submission had become untenable, with the minister's process alleged to be unlawful and irrational. The government cited significant systemic pressure in seeking to maintain the status quo pending legislation.
In a Court of Appeal hearing on 17 July 2025, three men were found to have received sentences that were too lenient for a "targeted and pre‑meditated" arson that took place on 17 May 2022. The incident involved a stolen Toyota Avensis being rammed into the ground floor of the Tip Top Tanning Studio on Tullow Street, Carlow, and set alight with an accelerant. The blaze spread to the building's upper residential apartments, where families were sleeping. Keith McCormack Smith (24), Jason Ryle (26) and PJ Lyons (21) had all pleaded guilty to arson and related offences. Their original sentences—four, three‑and‑a‑half and three‑and‑a‑half years respectively—were increased to seven, six and four‑and‑a‑half years. The Court of Appeal quashed the original sentences and imposed new headline sentences of ten, nine‑and‑a‑half and nine years, each with a suspended portion, to reflect the seriousness of the offence.
James Duffy, a part‑time taxi driver and pensioner from Finglas, has pleaded not guilty to a charge that he brought 14,000 cigarettes into Ireland without paying excise duty. The alleged offence, which would amount to over €11,000 in duty, is said to have occurred on 26 April 2024 at Dublin Airport. Duffy's lawyers applied to the High Court for a judicial review of the summons issued to him, arguing that the summons lacked written information on his procedural rights under EU regulations. They contend that this omission prevented Duffy from making an informed decision when he represented himself and entered a not‑guilty plea. The High Court granted permission for the challenge, stayed the Circuit Court proceedings, and adjourned the matter to October, with a trial date set for next April. The case remains pending in the Circuit Court.
A High Court judge has deferred judgment on the State's application to overturn a December order quashing a statutory instrument used to fast-track emergency accommodation development at Lissywollen in Athlone, County Westmeath. Ms Justice Emily Farrell said she would await draft legislation from the Oireachtas aimed at remedying a procedural breach concerning environmental assessments. The judge acknowledged the vulnerability of residents at the facility and stated the Minister has an obligation to provide alternative accommodation or demonstrate efforts to do so. She imposed restrictions on the centre, permitting only essential maintenance and prohibiting new admissions beyond those accommodated in February. The State submitted that closure risks homelessness among asylum seekers currently residing there. The judicial review was brought by Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan, who successfully argued the expedited development process was unlawful. The matter was adjourned to 21 July, with the judge directing that resident numbers be substantially reduced by that date.
In a High Court hearing, the State applied for a stay on a December order that quashed the use of a statutory instrument to fast-track the development of a refugee facility at Lissywollen, Athlone. The applicant, Independent Ireland Westmeath Councillor Paul Hogan, had previously secured a finding that the expedited development was unlawful due to inadequate environmental screening and a lack of ministerial expertise. Hogan alleged the process was unlawful, irrational, and breached fair procedures. The State's counsel, Aoife Carroll SC, argued that closing the facility posed a serious risk to the dignity and safety of asylum seekers, noting that 137 residents remained. She described the conceded breach as procedural rather than substantial and stated that corrective legislation was imminent. Counsel for Hogan, Oisín Collins SC, countered that the State should use existing planning laws and enforcement notices rather than seeking a stay. Justice Emily Farrell heard the arguments and adjourned the matter, indicating she would deliver her judgment on the stay application on Wednesday.
Two men previously charged with the attempted murder of Anthony Dinnegan in Mullingar have pleaded guilty to lesser offences at the Central Criminal Court. Christopher Nevin (31) and Michael Nevin (40) appeared before Mr Justice David Keane regarding incidents on August 2, 2024, at Austin Friars Street. Michael Nevin entered a guilty plea to causing serious harm, while Christopher Nevin pleaded guilty to violent disorder. The Director of Public Prosecutions, Fiona Murphy SC, indicated that nolle prosequi could be entered for the original attempted murder charges. Defence counsel Dominic McGinn SC requested governor's, educational, and counsellor reports for Michael Nevin, while Christina Burke BL asked for a probation report for Christopher Nevin. The court directed the preparation of these reports and set a sentence hearing for October 13. Both men were remanded on continuing bail to that date.