A 33-year-old man, Patrick Fitzpatrick, arranged a 'straightener' in a Wicklow playground during which a father-of-seven, William Moorehouse, was stabbed to death, the Central Criminal Court has heard. Fitzpatrick pleaded guilty to charges related to the incident, which involved two armed groups. The court heard that Moorehouse, described as a 'loving son and devoted father,' sustained five stab wounds. Fitzpatrick, who had 28 previous convictions, was accused of arranging the fight following an earlier incident in which a youth was allegedly attacked. The 'straightener' was intended as a form of alternative dispute resolution, with members of two families involved. However, the situation escalated into a violent confrontation, with 14 people participating in the fight. Detective Sergeant Ger Brennan confirmed that Moorehouse was found unresponsive after the stabbing, and that weapons, including knives and firearms, were involved. Fitzpatrick's defence argued that the incident was not a Traveller feud but a misguided attempt at resolving a dispute. Victim impact statements were read by Moorehouse's sisters, who spoke of his popularity and the profound loss felt by the family.
Jamie O'Brien, a 32-year-old serial burglar, was jailed for three years with the final six months suspended for burglarizing staff lockers at a Dublin restaurant. O'Brien was identified by CCTV and arrested after fleeing the scene. He has 46 previous convictions, including 12 for burglary, and was on bail at the time of the offense. The court heard that O'Brien had significant mental health issues and was abusing drugs at the time. His defense highlighted his guilty plea and unreserved apology. The judge considered the mitigating factors and imposed a three-year sentence. O'Brien has a history of burglary, including a ten-year sentence in 2017 for the burglary, assault, and false imprisonment of an elderly woman. The court also noted that no property was recovered from the restaurant, and no victim impact statements were made.
Ian Hennessy, 40, admitted to damaging his former partner's property while intoxicated and was given a month to compensate her before a judge decides on his sentence. Hennessy pleaded guilty to two counts of criminal damage at Dún Laoghaire District Court, where a television and a clothes horse were damaged. Judge Ann Watkins noted that Hennessy had not shown remorse by compensating his victim more than 18 months after the incident. The judge emphasized that Hennessy, as an adult, is well able to take responsibility. Hennessy's defence highlighted that he had completed treatment for alcohol addiction, has been sober for six months, and has secured full-time employment. The court adjourned the case until July 27, with the judge instructing Hennessy to repay the damage by then before deciding on his sentence.
A 22-year-old man charged with threatening to kill his former partner lost an appeal against a High Court decision that upheld a District Court judge's refusal to hear formal submissions from his solicitor before refusing him bail. The man was charged with assault causing harm, making threats to kill, and breaching a safety order in Wicklow on April 20, 2026. During his bail application in the District Court, he denied the allegations, leading to his remand in custody. His legal team argued that the District Court judge failed to hear his submissions, but the High Court upheld the remand. The Court of Appeal dismissed the habeas corpus appeal, stating that the issue was moot as the original order was spent within eight days. The High Court judge was entitled to conclude that the bail hearing was fair, and the appellant had the opportunity for a full hearing in the High Court. The appeal was dismissed, and the man remained in custody.
Larry Connors (32) and Michael Connors (34), both of Newbridge, Co Kildare, were sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to assault causing harm at Fleet Street, Temple Bar, Dublin, on December 21, 2024. The incident occurred in a pub restroom following a Tyson Fury boxing match, where the victim was assaulted after shouting "up Usyk." The victim sustained a chipped tooth, bruising, swelling, and cuts to his face. Both defendants were already serving sentences for affray imposed by Wicklow Circuit Criminal Court in February and had been due for release in November. Judge Martin Nolan noted that while Michael Connors initiated the incident by pushing the victim, Larry Connors used the greatest force. Both men brought €1,500 each to court. The judge imposed a sentence of 20 months on each defendant, with the final year suspended on conditions. These conditions require them to hand over the total €3,000 to the garda to be offered to the victim or, if not accepted, donated to charity. The court acknowledged their apologies and good work histories, noting they would return to stable situations upon release.
A man charged with murder at a Wicklow playground has pleaded guilty to violent disorder and producing a knife during a fight. Patrick Fitzpatrick admitted to using unlawful violence and producing a knife in the course of a fight at Ballywaltrim playground in Bray. He had also been charged with the murder of William Moorehouse, but the trial for that charge has been vacated. Fitzpatrick will appear again in July for a sentencing hearing. The court heard that the incident involved multiple individuals and that Fitzpatrick's actions were part of a broader altercation. His guilty plea to the lesser charges has led to the dismissal of the murder charge for now, with the focus shifting to sentencing for the violent disorder and weapon-related offense.
A Brazilian national, Gabrial Fereira Motta Valladares, is facing trial on three counts of attempted murder after allegedly slashing three men in Dublin's Stoneybatter area on February 9, 2025. The accused is also charged with assault causing harm to the same men, as well as possession of a black scissors and a Tactix box-cutter knife. The trial, which is expected to last three weeks, is scheduled to begin on November 9, 2026. The case was listed for case management on July 3, 2026. Gardaí, including unarmed officers and detectives supported by Armed Support Units, responded to the incident, and the accused was initially intercepted and detained by an unarmed plainclothes garda. The charges stem from the alleged slashing-type neck wounds sustained by the victims during the attack.
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.
Lawyers for the State defended the use of social media photos showing the Bray Boxing Club shooter holding a gun as evidence in his trial. Gerard Cervi was found guilty of murdering Robert Bobby' Messett and was sentenced to life imprisonment. His appeal argued that Facebook photos and CCTV footage should not have been shown to the jury. The State's counsel, Paul Murray SC, defended the admissibility of the photos, stating they showed Cervi's familiarity with guns. He also addressed concerns about the CCTV footage, noting that the judge gave clear directions to the jury. Cervi's counsel argued that the jury should have been given more warnings about identifying him from the footage. The court reserved judgment on the appeal. Gerard Cervi pleaded not guilty.
A 38-year-old man, Gerard Cervi, who was convicted of murdering Robert Bobby' Messett at Bray Boxing Club in 2018, is appealing his conviction. His barrister, John Fitzgerald SC, argues that the trial judge made errors in admitting Facebook photos showing Cervi holding a firearm, as they were irrelevant and prejudicial. He also claims that the jury should have received stronger warnings about identifying Cervi from CCTV footage. Additionally, Fitzgerald contends that surveillance photos of Cervi in his garden and evidence from the Volkswagen Caddy van were improperly admitted. Cervi was found guilty of Messett's murder but acquitted of attempting to murder Pete Taylor and Ian Britton. The appeal hearing continues, with the State's legal team to respond to Fitzgerald's submissions. The trial judge admitted the Facebook photos based on the stance Cervi adopted, which mirrored that described by Pete Taylor. Cervi was sentenced to life imprisonment in December 2023. The unnamed 38-year-old pleaded not guilty.
Philip Dignam, a 41-year-old man from Wicklow, was jailed for seven years after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a sleeping woman and recording the incidents. He had previously received a suspended sentence for possessing child abuse material. The victim, Kathleen Morris, discovered the videos in 2022 when her former partner used her phone. Dignam claimed the woman had consented to the acts as part of a role-play, but the court found that the assaults occurred while she was asleep or unconscious. Justice Burns noted that Dignam had committed the offenses for his own sexual gratification and had breached the trust of his partner. The judge imposed a sentence of eight years, with the final year suspended on strict conditions. The victim waived her anonymity to encourage others to come forward, and Dignam expressed remorse for his actions.
Edward McGregor, 55, was jailed for nine years for sexually abusing his two young cousins over eight years, from 1986 to 1993. The victims, Frances McGregor and Caitriona Carr, expressed frustration with the lengthy and difficult court process. McGregor pleaded guilty to multiple counts of sexual assault and attempted rape. Justice Eileen Creedon noted the abuse's severe impact on the victims' mental health and trust. She reduced the headline sentence of 13 years to 10 years, considering mitigating factors. The victims hope the case will lead to changes in how such cases are handled, emphasizing the need for victim support and reducing delays. McGregor's defense highlighted his lack of previous convictions and his remorse, requesting a sentence that allows for rehabilitation. The prosecution emphasized the severity of the offenses, including the breach of trust as a babysitter and the prolonged nature of the abuse.
Ethan Lacey has received a fully suspended two-and-a-half-year sentence for sexually assaulting a six-year-old girl. Lacey, 26, was found guilty of the assault, which occurred in 2022. The court heard that Lacey used sweets to distract the child before touching her. The judge noted the aggravating factors, including the child's age and the age gap between Lacey and the victim. The child was referred for counseling after the incident. Judge Sinead Ni Chulachain considered mitigating factors, such as Lacey's lack of previous convictions and his family support. The defense submitted a psychological report stating Lacey is at low risk of reoffending. The judge suspended the sentence for three years and placed Lacey under probation supervision for the same period. The court also noted that the child is undergoing therapy and showing signs of anxiety.
Leah O'Toole (29), of Holly Court, Ballybrack, Dublin, pleaded guilty to public order offences and failing to appear in court arising from incidents in Ballybrack and Dún Laoghaire in May and June 2025. The court heard that gardaí were called to the home of the defendant's mother in Holly Court at around 9.55pm on May 18, 2025, where O'Toole was kicking the gate of the property. When gardaí approached her, she began 'shouting and roaring' at them. The court heard there was a smell of alcohol from her breath and she was intoxicated. The offences before the court included threatening or abusive behaviour, intoxication in a public place and failing to appear before Dún Laoghaire District Court on June 4, 2025. The court also heard she was fined €150 at Bray District Court on May 26, 2025, and had another public order conviction in Wexford earlier this year. Defence counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, said O'Toole is a mother of four and that most of the offending occurred over the past two to three years during an abusive relationship which drove her towards alcohol misuse. The court heard she has also struggled with serious alcohol issues since the death of her father. Counsel said she completed a residential treatment programme last year and is continuing with aftercare services at Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Outreach Project. The court heard O'Toole had been previously placed on a one-year probation bond by Judge Anne Watkin in April and is engaging well with treatment services. Judge Conor Fottrell said O'Toole's behaviour towards gardaí was 'unacceptable'. However, the judge said he accepted she was going through personal difficulties and commended her for engaging with treatment. Judge Fottrell convicted and fined her €100 on the intoxication charge and €150 on the public order offence, giving her six months to pay. The remaining matters were taken into consideration.
Jenifer Devine, a mother of eight, was given a suspended sentence for withholding information about her husband's involvement in the murder of her brother-in-law. Devine had fled with her husband, Christopher Devine, who was later convicted of murder. The court heard that Devine was afraid of her husband, who was described as a 'snake' and had a history of significant violence. Devine pleaded guilty to withholding information during the four-day period following the murder. The judge noted that Devine was the sole carer for her two youngest children while her husband was serving a life sentence. The court acknowledged her mental distress and the chaotic living conditions she faced. The judge imposed an 18-month suspended sentence, taking into account her guilty plea, lack of recent convictions, and her role as a primary carer. The victim's family expressed a significant rift due to the incident, and Devine's victim impact statement highlighted the emotional toll on her and her family. Christopher Devine pleaded not guilty.
Fergus Donegan, 57, accused of assaulting his next-door neighbour with a hammer and Stanley knife, has been granted bail on strict conditions. The alleged incident occurred on April 28, 2025, when Donegan is said to have injured his neighbour's hand with a hammer and caused a laceration above his eyebrow with a Stanley knife. Garda Aisling Power opposed bail, citing concerns about witness interference. Donegan's defence argued that he disputes the allegations and that he had been on the housing list for ten years, with arrangements to move to alternative accommodation. Judge Anne Watkin granted bail on a €500 bond, requiring Donegan to move out of his home and stay away from the area. He must also sign in daily at Bray Garda Station and avoid contact with the alleged victim. The case was adjourned for directions to September 15.
A 21-year-old digital marketing worker charged with assault causing harm to his former girlfriend has been granted bail. Daragh Fennell is accused of kicking her repeatedly in the leg during an incident in 2024. The court heard that no injuries were reported, and the parties are no longer in a relationship. Judge Anne Watkin ordered no contact with the injured party. Fennell, who has lived abroad in Thailand and Iraq, has family in Iraq and connections in Spain. Conditions for bail include daily sign-on at Stepaside Garda Station and surrendering his passport. Legal aid was granted, and Fennell is to appear again in July for a plea. The court noted the complaint was made 18 months after the incident, and gardaí had no objection to bail.
A 24-year-old Wicklow man was sentenced today at the Central Criminal Court after being convicted of eight counts of sexual assault following a trial last December. He had previously pleaded guilty to two further counts of sexual assault before the trial commenced. The offences, which occurred between December 2015 and July 2017, involved the defendant, then aged 13 to 15, abusing a girl aged 10 to 11 who was fostered by his mother. Ms Justice Eileen Creedon set a headline sentence of four years, reducing it to three years in light of mitigating factors including his early guilty pleas and lack of previous convictions. She suspended the final year of the sentence on conditions, including two years of Probation Service supervision post-release. The judge also ordered that the media must not identify the offender, despite the victim's wish to waive her anonymity, citing the defendant's age at the time of the offending. Defence counsel had argued for a suspended sentence, highlighting the defendant's youth, remorse, and community support. The court noted the victim's impact statement, which described lasting psychological harm. The matter was finalised with the imposition of the custodial sentence and the anonymity order.
An 81-year-old huntsman, Maurice Mahon, was convicted of recklessly discharging a firearm and assaulting a man in his back garden during a deer cull. The victim, Innokenti Belaga, was meditating when a bullet from Mahon's rifle shattered his femur, leaving him with severe physical and psychological injuries. Mahon, a licensed gun holder and karate grandmaster, claimed he thought he was shooting a fox or a dog. The victim's life was drastically altered, with him losing his home, his ability to work, and his ability to engage in physical activities. He described the incident as a life-changing event, with the biggest impact being on his young daughter, who lost her father's presence. Mahon was found guilty after a trial and is awaiting sentencing. His defense highlighted his long-standing involvement in hunting and his good character, but the court heard that the victim's injuries were severe and life-altering. The case has also led to civil proceedings, and the court ordered a Probation Service assessment before finalizing the sentence. Maurice Mahon pleaded not guilty.
Cheryl Robinson, a 49-year-old accountant from Rathdrum, Co Wicklow, has been jailed for two and a half years for stealing nearly €30,000 from Foxrock Golf Club between October 2018 and July 2020. She pleaded guilty to ten charges of theft at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Robinson has a prior conviction for similar offenses, having stolen €125,000 from a former employer in 2010 and serving two years in prison. Judge Orla Crowe noted that the theft was an unsophisticated series of actions, with Robinson routinely transferring money to pay bills. She acknowledged Robinson's difficult personal circumstances, including mental health issues, and suspended 18 months of the sentence on the condition that she engage with the Probation Service. Gardaí discovered the theft during a forensic investigation into the club's accounts, revealing that Robinson had redirected payments to her own account. Robinson's defense highlighted her role as the sole carer for her three children and her lack of financial support from her former husband.
Jenifer Devine, 43, pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to withholding information regarding the murder of her brother-in-law, Michael Tormey. The court heard that Devine stayed in two hotels with her husband, Christopher Devine, during a Garda manhunt. Christopher Devine, 44, had previously pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter; a jury convicted him of murder in December, finding he was not suffering from a substance-induced psychotic disorder. Devine admitted to booking accommodation at the Osprey Hotel in Naas and The Glenview Hotel in Wicklow between January 9 and 13, 2022, which hindered police efforts to locate her husband. Defense counsel Michael Bowman SC argued that Devine was in an emotionally abusive relationship and acted under extreme distress, requesting a suspended sentence. Prosecution counsel Garret Baker SC noted the maximum penalty is five years. Ms Justice Melanie Greally remanded Devine on continuing bail until April 16, when she will be sentenced. The matter was adjourned.
Paul McCarton pleaded guilty to offences including possessing articles for use in theft, handling stolen property, possessing a knife, theft and public order offences in Tallaght. Judge Áine Shannon ordered probation and welfare reports and a restorative justice assessment before sentencing.
A man received a four-year sentence, with the final 12 months suspended, for harassment and threatening to distribute intimate images of his then-girlfriend. The unnamed 47-year-old pleaded guilty.
A 45-year-old man with a long criminal record has been jailed for six and a half years for hijacking a car and threatening a woman with violence. Joseph Rafferty, identified by a port-wine birthmark, was sentenced by Judge Orla Crowe after pleading guilty to multiple offences, including stealing a woman's iPhone and dental veneers during the hijacking. He also admitted to robbing a service station and attempting another robbery later that evening. The judge described the incidents as a series of violent crimes by a repeat offender. She noted the terror inflicted on the victim, who was cleaning her car when Rafferty threatened her with death. The woman was forced to jump from the moving vehicle, and her personal items were not recovered. Rafferty, who has 61 previous convictions, including lengthy prison sentences, was also found to have a history of drug addiction and a difficult upbringing. His defence highlighted his remorse and intention to rehabilitate. The judge imposed a seven-and-a-half-year sentence, with the final year suspended.
Avoca has been accused of overreacting by sacking its head chef, Giorgio Romano, after a company investigator claimed he falsified refrigeration records for two batches of curry. The Workplace Relations Commission heard that Avoca informed health inspectors that there was no food safety risk and did not recall the meals. Romano's lawyers argued that the company acted disproportionately, as Romano made a genuine mistake under pressure. Romano, who had worked for Avoca for 17 years, stated he was under pressure due to a shortage of staff and was operating new equipment for the first time. He explained that he took the curries out of the chiller himself because a kitchen assistant was missing. The tribunal was told that Avoca had no evidence of a food safety risk and that firing Romano was inconsistent with their earlier statements. The adjudicator is expected to deliver a decision in about 12 weeks.
A teenage boy has been awarded €90,000 by the High Court after sustaining a knee injury during an obstacle course at a sports activity centre, which prevented him from playing sports for 15 months. Dylan Callaghan (15), suing through his father, Wesley Callaghan, brought the case against Alive Outside Activity Centre and Blessington No 1 School over an incident in June 2022. Dylan suffered a five-centimetre wound to his knee on the obstacle course during a school excursion. The plaintiffs claimed the injury was caused by a hidden trap or danger in a pool of water. Dylan received medical treatment at Our Lady's Children Hospital, including surgery and antibiotic treatment. He was discharged in December 2022 with a full range of motion and normal gait, though he was left with a scar and had to curtail his sporting activities for 15 months. At the High Court, Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds approved a €90,000 settlement for the Callaghan family. The judge noted that Dylan had since recovered mobility and was playing golf with a nine handicap.
A woman who was on probation when she slapped a garda, causing him to bleed, has been given a two-month prison sentence. Samantha Maughan pleaded guilty to a public order offence and being intoxicated in a public place. The incident occurred on Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, when she shouted at members of the public and hit a garda, causing him to bleed. Judge Anne Watkin said the charge was at the higher end of a public order offence and noted Maughan's 28 previous convictions, including 12 public order offences. The defence said she was remorseful and receiving support from her partner. The judge said the incident amounted to an assault on a garda, though no assault charge was brought. Maughan was sentenced to two months in prison with a recognisance set at €500 in the event of an appeal.
A 15-year-old driver, now 18, broke a garda's hand during a struggle as he was being removed from a stolen car during a high-speed chase on the M50. The incident occurred on August 24, 2023, when the teenager drove dangerously, including on the wrong side of the motorway and ramming a patrol car. The garda, Detective Garda Kate Gilligan, described the danger posed to road users and herself during the pursuit. The defendant pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including reckless endangerment, assault, and damaging a garda vehicle. Judge Orla Crowe noted the danger of the driving and commended the gardai for their evidence. The judge imposed suspended custodial sentences of 18 months and required the defendant to engage with the Probation Service. The garda sustained two broken bones in her hand and was out of work for 11 weeks. The defendant expressed remorse and cooperated with gardai, though he claimed he did not steal the car. His legal team highlighted his maturity and cooperation with the investigation.
Jordan Gannon (28) was fined and disqualified from driving after being caught behind the wheel while already banned and uninsured. The incident occurred on December 14, 2024, when Gardaí stopped Gannon at a checkpoint and found him unable to produce a valid driving licence or insurance certificate. Gannon had been disqualified from driving for three years as of December 5, 2024. His legal team highlighted his personal circumstances, including his young child with an ongoing illness, and his current apprenticeship in carpentry. Judge Conor Fottrell expressed sympathy for Gannon's situation but emphasized the seriousness of the offences. Gannon was fined €500 for driving without insurance and disqualified from driving for an additional year. An application for legal aid was granted. Jordan Gannon pleaded guilty and was convicted.
An accountant with a prior conviction for theft stole nearly €30,000 from Foxrock Golf Club, a court has heard. Cheryl Robinson (49) from Rathdrum, Co Wicklow, pleaded guilty to ten charges of theft between October 2018 and July 2020. She previously served a two-year jail sentence in 2010 for stealing €125,000 from a former employer, using the name Cheryl Byrne. Garda Padraig Nagle explained that staff at the golf club noticed discrepancies in the accounts and initiated a forensic investigation, which revealed that Robinson had redirected supplier payments to her own account. Although she did not admit to the theft during garda interviews, the transactions were easily identifiable. Robinson's defense, led by Ronan Kennedy SC, highlighted her personal circumstances, including her separation in 2022, sole care of her three children, and financial difficulties. She has no financial support from her ex-husband and is in arrears on her mortgage. Kennedy stated that Robinson is deeply ashamed and acknowledges her mistakes, emphasizing her efforts to support her children.
A 38-year-old man from Avondale Heights, Rathdrum, has been sentenced to six months in prison after being caught driving on the M50 while under seven active driving bans. Stephen O'Brien pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to driving without insurance and without a licence on 18 November last year. Garda Shane Hogan stated that O'Brien has 33 previous convictions, 31 of which are related to road traffic matters. Nine of these convictions are for driving without insurance and seven for driving without a licence. The court heard that O'Brien has been disqualified from driving nine times, with seven of those disqualifications currently in place. His defence solicitor, Patricia Camilon, said O'Brien works as a tree surgeon and had been relying on an unreliable driver to get to work. O'Brien has since sold his car and accepted that he should not have driven. Judge Conor Fottrell described O'Brien as a serial offender and said he had no choice but to impose a custodial sentence.
Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced Bayleigh Fox and Saoirse Richardson for the robbery and assault of a trans woman at Devil's Lane, Cabinteely. Fox, 22, pleaded guilty to robbery and assault causing harm aggravated by hatred, while Richardson, 22, pleaded guilty to robbery and assault causing harm. Judge Martin Nolan described the incident as a "savage attack" where the victim was lured to a quiet area and assaulted. The court noted the victim suffered significant physical injuries and psychological trauma, including PTSD. Although the judge found the motive regarding an Xbox unclear, he emphasized the outrageous nature of the attack on a defenceless victim. Both defendants offered mitigation, including early guilty pleas, young ages, cooperation, and participation in rehabilitative programmes for addiction. The judge acknowledged their "close to perfect mitigation" but stated they must endure prison terms. Fox was sentenced to 18 months in prison, and Richardson received a one-year sentence. The prosecution was brought under legislation introduced late last year, highlighting the hate-aggravated nature of the offence against the victim.
A jury has unanimously convicted Christopher Devine of murder, rejecting his claim that he suffered from a substance-induced psychotic disorder due to heavy cocaine and alcohol use. Devine, who shot Michael Tormey five times in the victim's front garden, argued that his mental state diminished his capacity to control his actions. However, the court accepted the prosecution's argument that Devine acted deliberately. The trial revealed that Devine had no psychiatric history and had never taken psychiatric medication. The jury rejected the defense's claim that he was too intoxicated to form an intention to kill. The judge, Ms Justice Melanie Greally, adjourned the case until December 19, when Devine will face a mandatory life sentence. The Tormey family will be invited to make statements on that date. Devine had pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. The trial heard conflicting expert opinions on whether Devine met the criteria for diminished responsibility or cocaine intoxication. The jury deliberated for over four hours and found Devine guilty of murder.
A man who held down a normal day job for 25 years has been jailed for five and a half years for his role in the distribution of drugs with an estimated street value of over €142,000. On May 26, 2023, gardai raided a house in Dublin City Centre and found five men around a kitchen table with drugs and money. They seized €4,198 in cash and significant quantities of heroin, cocaine, MDMA, ketamine, and cannabis resin, with a combined street value of €15,847. Wicklow resident Roy Gunning (46) was arrested at the scene. A bank card found during the raid was linked to a flat in Santry, where Gunning's passport was also found. A follow-up search of the flat uncovered drugs with a street value of approximately €49,000, including €48,000 worth of MDMA powder and over 370 Zopiclone tablets. Two months later, gardai raided another flat in Santry where Gunning was living and found drugs with a combined street value of nearly €16,000. Roy Gunning pleaded guilty.
Thomas Murray, a 43-year-old man with 52 previous convictions, has been jailed for six years for carrying out four robberies in Dublin. Murray pleaded guilty to four counts of robbery, including using weapons during the crimes. Judge Martin Nolan noted Murray's long history of offending and his addiction issues but acknowledged his cooperation and current status as an enhanced prisoner. The judge imposed a seven-year sentence, with the final year suspended and probation supervision for nine months post-release. Murray's crimes included using a screwdriver and a knife during robberies at a sweet shop, a café, and two restaurants. He was identified on CCTV and arrested after the incidents. His defense highlighted his difficult life, homelessness, and drug addiction, requesting leniency. The judge acknowledged these factors but emphasized the seriousness of the robberies, including the use of weapons. Murray's sentence was backdated to when he entered custody, and he will begin his jail term in the New Year.
A man who admitted to killing but denied murdering his relative with a submachine gun was not found to be suffering from a mental disorder, according to the prosecution. Christopher Devine (44) pleaded guilty to manslaughter but not guilty to murder in the 2022 shooting of Michael Tormey (49) in his front garden. The prosecution argued that the killing was murder and that the accused was under the influence of cocaine, not suffering from a mental disorder. Evidence suggested that Devine had consumed significant quantities of cocaine before the incident. The prosecution will call two psychiatrists as expert witnesses, with one claiming that Devine had a substance-induced psychotic disorder and the other stating that he met the criteria for cocaine intoxication. The trial will continue with the jury considering the issue of diminished responsibility.
Edward Bradbury, a solicitor, has been granted permission to challenge an order that he pay €500 to the District Court 'poor box' after he was unable to attend a hearing. Bradbury was acting for a bailed defendant in a criminal case when he was required to attend another court in Dublin on the same day. He asked a colleague to represent the client, but the case was adjourned because the defendant wished for Bradbury's office to be present. Later, Bradbury received an email from the court stating that he had been fined €500 to be paid to the poor box. Bradbury's solicitors argued that the judge did not have jurisdiction to impose such a penalty and that the fine was issued without formal notification. Bradbury submitted that the poor box is a common law creation and has no place in the supervision of a member of a regulated profession. The High Court granted leave to pursue the challenge, and the matter was adjourned to the New Year.
Kenneth Kelly, 54, of Monaseed Demesne, Gorey, was sentenced to six years in prison by Judge James McCourt at Wexford Courthouse for demanding €1,000 from a victim over an alleged drug debt on 31 January 2024, a crime that involved threats and the possession of a .177 calibre air pistol and ammunition. Kelly had 12 prior convictions, including armed robbery. He appealed, arguing the judge had wrongly linked his threats to the victim's subsequent suicide and that the eight‑year headline sentence was excessive. The Court of Appeal, led by Mr Justice Anthony Collins, rejected the appeal, noting the maximum penalty for such an offence is 14 years and that the judge had not erred in assessing the gravity of the crime or Kelly's culpability. Collins upheld the six‑year sentence, stating no evidence justified suspending any part of it. The appeal was dismissed. Kenneth Kelly pleaded guilty.
In a case heard at Dún Laoghaire District Court, a dangerous driving charge against ambulance driver Josh Hayes (24) was dismissed after the judge reviewed dash‑cam footage. The footage, captured by a different driver, showed a learner motorist who had unintentionally edged into Hayes's lane moments before the collision. The learner's car, coming from a slip road, merged into the lane and then moved further left into the inner lane directly in front of the ambulance. The ambulance struck the back of the learner's car, causing it to overturn. Both the driver and passenger sustained whiplash and bruising. Hayes had been driving with lights and sirens on while transporting a psychiatric patient. The judge, Anne Watkin, found that the learner's movement was the decisive factor and that the ambulance driver's actions were justified under the circumstances, leading to the dismissal of the charge. Josh Hayes pleaded not guilty.
Mark Duffy, aged 44, was convicted of burglary under section 12(1b)(3) of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001 and of trespassing, possession of stolen property and possession of certain articles. He was sentenced to nine months imprisonment for burglary and six months consecutive for trespassing, with the final three months suspended, for a total of 12 months in custody. Duffy appealed against the severity of the sentence. Judge Deirdre Browne, hearing the appeal, noted that Duffy had "been around the block" and was "well aware of what he was doing". She affirmed the original sentence, stating that the District Court had "considered matters very thoroughly" and that the order was "carefully thought through and structured". The appeal was dismissed and the original 12‑month custodial sentence was upheld. Mark Duffy pleaded not guilty.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, two defendants, David O'Brien (22) and Elisabeth Bello (50), received suspended sentences for acting as money mules in a romance fraud that defrauded an 85‑year‑old pensioner of €27,000. The victim was deceived by a woman posing as a divorced American mother on Match.com, who persuaded him to purchase iTunes gift cards, transfer €2,800 to a solicitor for an "anti‑money laundering certificate," and pay €24,516.13 in storage fees. The victim's funds were moved into O'Brien's AIB account and later into Bello's account. Both defendants pleaded guilty to handling or processing proceeds of crime. Judge Orla Crowe sentenced O'Brien to one year and Bello to two years, suspending both on the condition of good behaviour and peacekeeping. No further convictions or outcomes are mentioned in the article.
In a Court of Appeal hearing on 6 November 2025, the court found that a judge had erred by attributing the suicide of a man who had been threatened over a €1,000 drug debt to the actions of Kenneth Kelly, a 54‑year‑old convicted armed robber. Kelly, who had pleaded guilty to demanding money with menaces and was sentenced to six years in prison in June 2025, had been accused of a prolonged campaign of threats. Defence counsel argued that the judge over‑extended the causal link between Kelly's conduct and the victim's death, noting the victim's mental health difficulties. The appeal focused on the severity of the sentence, with counsel suggesting a seven‑year term would have been more appropriate. The court, led by Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, upheld the original sentence but reserved further judgment, with a decision scheduled for 20 November 2025.
A barman at Old Conna Golf Club, James Keegan, has filed an employment rights claim with the Workplace Relations Commission, alleging that several of his female co‑workers have received higher pay and better conditions despite his seniority. Keegan, who has worked part‑time at the club since January 2018, says the club hired three women after him who earned higher wages and had more favourable working hours. He has requested rosters and payscales for these employees and has tried to raise the issue with the club's general manager, former manager and president before taking sick leave in April 2025 due to workplace stress. The club's solicitor said it was unclear why Keegan was comparing himself to groundsmen if his complaint is a gender equality claim. The tribunal adjourned the hearing, with parties to exchange documents, and noted the case is unlikely to be re‑listed before year‑end.
Michael Lynn, a former solicitor convicted of stealing €18 million from Irish banks, is appealing to the Supreme Court to reduce his five‑and‑a‑half‑year prison term by crediting the four‑and‑a‑half years he served in Brazil's Cotel Prison. The Supreme Court will consider how remission for good behaviour, normally a 25 % discount in Ireland, should apply to time served abroad. Lynn was convicted on ten counts in February 2024 and sentenced by Circuit Court Judge Martin Nolan to 13 years, later reduced to 5 years 9 months after the Court of Appeal added three months for severity. The appeal focuses on whether the courts should aggregate his Brazilian imprisonment and apply remission for the entire period, rather than only time served in Ireland. The Supreme Court has allowed the challenge to proceed, noting no statutory formula exists for crediting time abroad. The outcome could increase or decrease his sentence.
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.
Rebecca Rolleston, 39, of Tallaght, was banned from driving for four years after refusing to give a blood or urine sample when arrested on 4 October 2024 for suspected drink‑driving. She pleaded guilty to the refusal, was fined €450 with a five‑month payment period, and was also found guilty of stealing four cans of Captain Morgan rum from a Maxol station in Bray on 28 April 2024. The court noted her two prior convictions and applied the Probation Act to the theft, requiring a €100 bond for good behaviour.
In a Workplace Relations Commission hearing, a migrant chef, Mohammad Usman Ghani, claimed he was unaware of a debit card opened in his name after he left Daata Restaurant. Ghani, a commis chef on a 2023 work permit, said he had no knowledge of the card until a Garda raid in December 2024 uncovered his documents at the restaurant's premises. He alleged that his wages were withheld while working about 70 hours a week and that the director, Fahid Saleem, pressured him repeatedly. Saleem denied threatening deportation or harassment, stating he treated staff as family and had no knowledge of any wage withholding. The case was reported as "amicably resolved" after talks, with no further public hearings scheduled. The restaurant, founded in 1999, operates several locations in Wicklow and Dublin.
In a High Court settlement, Christopher Miley's family will receive €185,000 after his death on 28 October 2021 when a loader shovel at Behan Quarry in Rathcoole, Dublin, struck and crushed him. Miley, 31, was refuelling vehicles for Shannon Valley Plant Hire while employed by Euro Oil. His partner, Shelly Keating, brought a personal injury claim against five defendants: Shannon Valley Plant Hire Unlimited Company, Laurence Behan Senior, L Behan and Sons Ltd, L Behan Aggregates and Recycling Ltd, and MPM Oil trading as Euro Oil. The claim alleged negligence, breach of statutory and contractual duty, and failure to provide a safe work environment, including inadequate lighting after dark. No defendant admitted liability. The court approved the settlement, waiving claims from Miley's sisters and mother, and expressed sympathy for Keating and the children.
Patrick O'Connor, a 75‑year‑old Peace Commissioner from Ashford, Co Wicklow, forged the signatures of his two co‑directors when filing an A1 form for JP&P Property Limited in October 2022. He claimed he had no time to travel to obtain the signatures and that the co‑directors had consented to the forgery. The forged signatures were discovered by the Corporate Enforcement Authority during an investigation into a separate breach of the Companies Act. O'Connor pleaded guilty to one count of providing false information under the Companies Act. The court imposed a headline sentence of 18 months, reduced to 12 months, which was suspended in full. He was also disqualified from acting as a company director for five years. O'Connor has a small number of prior road‑traffic convictions and had previously worked for the Office of Public Works and ESB. The company never commenced trading.
The former Ireland hockey international Catriona Carey, aged 47, faces a money‑laundering trial in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court scheduled for 27 January 2027. She is charged with three offences under Section 7 of the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010, one each in 2019, 2020 and 2021, for allegedly converting, transferring, handling, acquiring, possessing or using proceeds of crime. The alleged proceeds were held in a bank account in the name of Careysfort Asset Estates Ltd at Wise Europe SA. Carey's barrister, Kevin Roche BL, requested a trial date and indicated the trial would last four to six weeks. Judge Orla Crowe set the trial date and bailed Carey to that date. Two co‑accused, John Steadmond (48) and Paddy Maher (57), were also before the court, each charged with 17 related offences, including unlawful solicitor activity and false representation to induce deposits.