Ian Flanagan, 24, of Lenihan Avenue, Prospect, Limerick, was found guilty of two counts of assisting an offender by hiding the family's CCTV device to impede the apprehension of his brother Seán Flanagan (28) and uncle Paul Colbert (46) in the murder of Gerard McMahon, 43, who was stabbed to death on 18 January 2012. Flanagan had pleaded not guilty but a jury returned a unanimous guilty verdict. He admitted moving the CCTV device away from the house, storing it on waste ground, and later retrieving it. Detective Sergeant Denis Treacy testified that the device was disconnected after the killers entered the home, but neighbouring cameras captured their movements. Flanagan had previous convictions, including possession of a realistic imitation firearm, and was on bail for another offence when he hid the CCTV device. He was remanded in custody and sentencing was adjourned to 20 January 2024. The case was heard in the Central Criminal Court.
In a murder trial in Dublin, a 36‑year‑old man, Criostoir MacCarthaigh, pleaded not guilty to the killing of 35‑year‑old David Whyte. The body was found in a ruined church on Mill Lane, Palmerstown, on 26 September 2008. Deputy State Pathologist Dr Michael Curtis testified that Whyte had suffered about 100 stab wounds, the most serious to the left of the neck, injuring the left internal jugular vein. The wounds were inflicted with a single‑edged blade, were relatively small, and included defensive injuries on the upper limbs and hands. Dr Curtis gave the cause of death as multiple stab wounds. A ballistics officer confirmed a violent stabbing assault at the scene, with no blood trail. A forensic scientist used fly‑larvae dating to place the time of death around 25 September 2008. The State alleges MacCarthaigh first stabbed Whyte on Ulster Street, Phibsborough, before driving him to Palmerstown where the attack continued.
A 35-year-old Polish national has pleaded not guilty to the murder of a Romanian man at an apartment in Cavan in October 2012. Przemyslaw Trebacz of Killynebber, Cavan faces a charge relating to the death of Costel Catalin Cretu at Connolly Court, Cavan. He has admitted guilty to criminal damage at the same location. During proceedings at the Central Criminal Court, evidence was heard that Mr Trebacz told gardai he stabbed Mr Cretu in self-defence, though he denied bringing a knife to the scene. He also stated he was to receive €74,000 from his mother's will. The State Pathologist found the deceased had two stab wounds, one to the chest proving fatal. Forensic examination of two knives recovered from the apartment found no blood transfer and no fingerprints. The trial continues.
Paula Whyte, sister of David Whyte, learned of her brother's murder on television news on 29 September 2008. She described seeing a description of a man who matched her brother's appearance and clothing, which shocked her. She called her brother's phone, found it out of service, and then called 999. Paula and her sister went to Ballyfermot Garda Station, where she identified David's remains. While in the witness box, the court showed footage of a man at a shop doorway on 24 September 2009, which Paula identified as her brother, the last recorded sighting. The trial also heard from Ivan Ennis, who said the accused, Criostoir MacCarthaigh, threatened him that night, saying "I will cut you." The State alleges MacCarthaigh stabbed David on Ulster Street and then drove him to the derelict churchyard in Palmerstown where he was killed. The trial is before Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury of seven men and five women. Criostoir MacCarthaigh pleaded not guilty.
The Central Criminal Court has heard evidence in the trial of Przemyslaw Trebacz, a Polish national accused of the murder of Costel Catalin Cretu (38) at Connolly Court, Cavan, between October 13 and 14, 2012. Mr Trebacz has pleaded not guilty to the murder charge but pleaded guilty to criminal damage to a door belonging to Brendan Cosgrove at the same location on October 13, 2012. During a garda interview, the accused admitted stabbing Mr Cretu but alleged he was acting in self-defence, claiming the deceased attacked him with a knife. He stated that Mr Cretu was still standing when he left the apartment and denied bringing a knife to the scene. State Pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy testified that the deceased sustained two stab wounds, one fatal to the chest and one shallow to the back, noting the injuries could have been caused by a large knife. The trial continues.
In Waterford, Joanna Kelly (40) and Michelle Hynes (41), both without fixed abode, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Joe O'Brien, a 60‑year‑old grandfather, at a party in an apartment on William Street on 23 April 2012. Patrick Keating, who used a dumbbell to strike O'Brien's head, is serving a life sentence for the murder. Detective Garda David Butler testified that five people were drinking in the apartment that night and that O'Brien was found lying on the floor after Keating struck him. Kelly and Hynes joined the assault, kicking the victim while he was defenseless. The detective noted that the assault may have been triggered by O'Brien's reference to oral sex and comments about Hynes's childhood. Both defendants have extensive criminal records and have been in custody since their arrest. Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy adjourned the hearing of Kelly's submissions until Friday and will impose sentences before Christmas.
In December 2013, a Dublin man, aged 46, was denied an appeal against his 11‑year jail sentence for raping and sexually assaulting his niece. The Central Criminal Court jury found him guilty of 17 counts of sexual assault, four counts of rape, one count of oral rape and two counts of attempted anal rape, covering incidents from September 1998 to December 2005 when the victim was between six and 13 years old. After the State and the applicant presented submissions, Mr Justice Adrian Hardiman dismissed the appeal in the Court of Criminal Appeal. The unnamed 46-year-old pleaded not guilty.
In a Dublin murder trial, Gary Walsh, a 35‑year‑old witness, testified that the accused, Criostoir MacCarthaigh, warned him to keep silent about the night David Whyte was stabbed to death. Walsh, who lived in the same Phibsborough house as MacCarthaigh, described a night of drinking and a taxi ride to a late bar. He recalled seeing a drunken man and later noticing blood where the man had stood. Walsh said MacCarthaigh and another tenant, Simon Griffin, told him to leave but returned, showing deep cuts on MacCarthaigh's hands. MacCarthaigh allegedly threatened Walsh, telling him he would know what they did and that Walsh should keep his mouth shut. The trial is before Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy with a jury of seven men and five women. Criostoir MacCarthaigh pleaded not guilty.
Christopher McNamara, a 21-year-old defendant from Good Shepherd Villas, Pennywell Road, Limerick, is due to stand trial at the Central Criminal Court. He has pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of James Boyce, aged 71, which is said to have occurred at St Munchin's Street, St Mary's Park, Limerick, between March 6 and 7, 2011. The matter is currently at the trial stage, with a jury of seven women and five men sworn in for the proceedings. The trial is scheduled to commence on Thursday and is expected to continue until the end of the following week. No findings, sentences, or final disposals have been recorded for this case subject at this procedural stage. The report attributes the charge of murder to the defendant, who contests the allegation. There are no suspended portions, effective custody periods, conditions, or adjournments noted in the available information. The summary reflects the validated facts that McNamara is accused of the killing and has entered a not guilty plea, without asserting a conviction or final outcome.
A 32‑year‑old man, Niall Stapleton of Glebe Lodge, Kilfane, Thomastown, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Siobhan Stapleton, aged 51, who was killed at that address on 25 May 2012. The Central Criminal Court will hear the case, with a jury of seven men and five women sworn in, starting Friday and expected to run until the end of next week.
A 47‑year‑old Gerald Vollrath of Tramore Heights, Tramore, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Veronica Vollrath, 83, at Killure Bridge Nursing Home, Killure, on or about 9 January 2012. The case is set to be heard at the Central Criminal Court, where a jury of seven men and five women will be sworn in. The trial is scheduled to begin on Thursday and is expected to last five days.
In a Dublin murder trial, Simon Griffin, a 36‑year‑old, testified that the accused, Criostoir MacCarthaigh, stabbed David Whyte more than 100 times, describing the act as "to pieces" in a church ruin. Griffin said he had been drinking in his Phibsborough flat that night and that MacCarthaigh was present. He claimed he was forced to help place Whyte in a van, drive to Mill Lane, and then to the ruin where the stabbing occurred. Griffin also said he was told to throw Whyte's phone into a ditch, and that MacCarthaigh later changed clothes at his mother's house before returning to the scene. Griffin admitted to pleading guilty to impeding the investigation and was sentenced to four and a half years in prison in 2011. The trial continues before Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury. Criostoir MacCarthaigh pleaded not guilty.
A Polish national pleaded not guilty at the Central Criminal Court to the murder of a Romanian man in Co. Cavan in October 2012. Przemyslaw Trebacz, aged 35, of Bramble Rise, Killynebber, is accused of fatally stabbing Costel Catalin Cretu, aged 38, at Connolly Court, Connolly Street, Cavan between 13 and 14 October 2012. He has pleaded guilty to criminal damage relating to a door at the same location on 13 October 2012. The court heard that two witnesses will not give evidence in the trial. Gardaí told the court that one woman's whereabouts remain unknown, whilst another witness is unlikely to appear. A garda described finding the victim on a couch with a stab wound to his chest upon arrival at the apartment. CCTV footage from the date in question was viewed by the jury. The trial is due to resume following an adjournment.
A 36‑year‑old Dublin man, Criostoir MacCarthaigh of An Gleann, Baile Phamar, is on trial at the Central Criminal Court for the murder of David Whyte, a 35‑year‑old man from New Cabra Road. The prosecution alleges that between 24 and 26 September 2008, MacCarthaigh stabbed Whyte more than 100 times, the most serious wound injuring his jugular. The case is based on a post‑mortem that found the excessive stab wounds and on testimony that MacCarthaigh and others were drinking in an apartment on Ulster Street when Whyte was outside. An acquaintance reportedly saw MacCarthaigh with a knife over Whyte's body. MacCarthaigh was then driven to Palmerstown, where he allegedly walked Whyte to a graveyard and repeatedly stabbed him, causing his death. He has pleaded not guilty. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, is expected to last up to 12 days.
The Central Criminal Court heard evidence in the trial of Przemyslaw Trebacz, a Polish national accused of murdering Romanian Costel Catalin Cretu (38) at Connolly Court, Cavan, between October 13 and 14, 2012. Trebacz has pleaded not guilty to the murder charge but pleaded guilty to criminal damage to a door belonging to Brendan Cosgrove at the same address on October 13, 2012. Prosecution witness Gary Malone, a taxi driver and former neighbour of the accused, testified that he was called by Trebacz at approximately 11:00 PM on the night in question. Malone stated that Trebacz and another man entered his vehicle, with Trebacz sitting in the passenger seat. During the journey, Malone heard Trebacz use the phrase 'Soviet attack' and observed him holding a green woolly sock containing a solid object. Malone reported seeing Trebacz kick in a door at Connolly Court before the men left the scene. He further testified that the other man threatened him, stating, 'shut up or you and your family will be next.' Malone subsequently reported the incident to gardai. The court heard that Trebacz had previously mentioned the IRA to Malone. Malone's evidence is ongoing, and the matter remains at the trial stage with no final verdict or sentence recorded.
A Romanian woman giving evidence at the Central Criminal Court has denied washing floors following the death of her partner at an apartment in Cavan in October 2012. Florentina Sotir (41) is a witness in the trial of Przemyslaw Trebacz (35) of Bramble Rise, Killynebber, Cavan, who has pleaded not guilty to murder. The prosecution alleges that Trebacz stabbed Costel Catalin Cretu (38) during a break-in at Connolly Court, Connolly Street, Cavan between 13 and 14 October 2012. Under cross-examination, Ms Sotir was questioned about a 26-minute gap between the departure of two men from the apartment and her entry to the lobby. She stated she was attempting to revive Mr Cretu by throwing water on him rather than cleaning. The court heard State Pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy concluded Mr Cretu died from a fatal chest wound. Trebacz has pleaded guilty to criminal damage. The trial continues.
In December 2013 a Limerick man, Kieran Lynch, aged 47, was ordered to await the outcome of his appeal after being sentenced to life imprisonment in March 2007 for the murder of his partner Catherine McEnery. Lynch had pleaded not guilty at a Galway sitting of the Central Criminal Court in July 2005. The appeal, heard by the Court of Criminal Appeal, focused on two main points: first, the alleged misdirection by Judge Paul Carney regarding provocation, and second, a motion to introduce fresh evidence about Lynch's recent near‑drowning experience and high‑dose medication that might have made him more susceptible to provocation. Lynch's counsel argued that this evidence could have rendered him more vulnerable to a loss of control. The State's counsel contended that the question was ambiguous and that no exceptional circumstances justified the new evidence. Judge Donal O'Donnell said the court would reserve its judgment. The case remains at the appeal stage.
A witness at the Central Criminal Court has acknowledged inconsistencies between her testimony and statements made to gardaí. Przemyslaw Trebacz, aged 35, of Bramble Rise, Killynebber, Cavan, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Costel Catalin Cretu at Connolly Court, Cavan between 13 and 14 October 2012. He has pleaded guilty to criminal damage to a door at the same location on 13 October 2012. The chief prosecution witness told the court she initially stated she did not work during her first fortnight in Ireland, but later acknowledged telling gardaí she began working the day after arrival. She also conceded providing false information regarding how she believed she would be employed. The State Pathologist concluded the deceased sustained two wounds, including a fatal chest injury. Cross-examination of the witness is to resume.
Criostoir MacCarthaigh, a 36-year-old man from An Gleann, Baile Phamar (Palmerstown), has pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of David Whyte in the county and city of Dublin. The prosecution alleges that MacCarthaigh murdered Whyte on a date unknown between September 24 and 26, 2008. MacCarthaigh denies these charges, and the matter is currently at the hearing or decision stage. No finding of guilt, sentence, or final disposal has been recorded for this defendant. The case is scheduled to proceed to trial at the Central Criminal Court, with proceedings expected to begin on Thursday. The trial is anticipated to last up to 12 days. This report reflects the current procedural status where the defendant has entered a plea of not guilty, and the matter remains contested rather than concluded.
A woman giving evidence at the Central Criminal Court has described witnessing the stabbing of her partner during an incident at an apartment in Cavan in October 2012. Przemyslaw Trebacz, aged 35, of Bramble Rise, Killynebber, Cavan has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Costel Catalin Cretu, aged 38, at Connolly Court, Connolly Street, Cavan between 13 and 14 October 2012. The defendant has pleaded guilty to criminal damage to a door at the same location on 13 October 2012. The witness told prosecuting counsel that two men forced their way into the apartment, with the taller man stabbing her partner with a knife and subsequently taking money from the premises. She stated that the attacker held a knife to her throat whilst demanding money and that her partner was unresponsive after the incident. The court heard that gardaí were unable to trace a second woman who was present at the apartment. Cross-examination of the witness is scheduled to continue.
A Polish national has pleaded not guilty to the murder of a Romanian man at an apartment in Cavan town in October 2012. Przemyslaw Trebacz, aged 35, of Bramble Rise, Killynebber, is accused of fatally stabbing Costel Catalin Cretu during an incident at Connolly Court. The Central Criminal Court heard that Mr Cretu was present in the apartment to supervise two women engaged in sex work. According to the prosecution, Mr Trebacz and another man entered the apartment and left within minutes, with CCTV evidence supporting this timeline. The court was told that Mr Cretu sustained two stab wounds, including a fatal injury to his chest. A neighbour who worked as a taxi driver allegedly transported the accused to the location that night. Mr Trebacz has admitted to criminal damage to a door at the premises but maintains he acted in self-defence. He has pleaded guilty to the criminal damage charge. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Barry White at the Central Criminal Court, continues.
The Central Criminal Court trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert, and Ian Flanagan has reached the jury deliberation stage. Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert, both of Lenihan Avenue, Limerick City, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of 43-year-old Gerard McMahon, who was stabbed to death on January 18, 2012. Ian Flanagan has also pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender, allegedly by removing a CCTV recorder. Prosecution counsel Michael O'Higgins SC argued that Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert acted as a cohesive two-man unit, making it legally immaterial which individual inflicted the fatal wounds. Defence counsel presented distinct arguments: Anthony Sammon SC suggested provocation for Paul Colbert, while John Phelan SC contended Seán Flanagan intervened to prevent harm. Brendan Nix SC argued Ian Flanagan acted in panic without specific intent. Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan has begun charging the jury of eight women and four men, who will commence deliberations on Friday. The matter is currently at the trial stage, with no findings, sentences, or finalisations recorded.
The trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert, and Ian Flanagan continued at the Central Criminal Court before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan. Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert, both of Lenihan Avenue, Limerick, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of 43-year-old Gerard McMahon, who was allegedly stabbed to death at their front door on January 18, 2012. Ian Flanagan, also of Lenihan Avenue, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender, specifically accused of removing a CCTV recorder. During testimony, Sandra Flanagan, the accused men's mother, stated she lied to gardai about recycling the device to protect her sons from what she described as terrorising questioning. She revealed that her own father was murdered at the same front door 17 years prior. The prosecution, led by Michael O'Higgins SC, has begun its closing speech to the jury, which is scheduled to continue tomorrow. The matter remains at the trial stage with no findings, sentences, or finalisations recorded.
During a Central Criminal Court hearing, 18‑year‑old Tadhg Costello of Richmond Hill, Monkstown, admitted guilt for the attempted murder of 17‑year‑old Josh Leahy, who was stabbed six times in the back after leaving a nightclub on May 30, 2012. Costello had previously pleaded not guilty to the attempted murder, assault causing harm, and unlawful possession of a knife. The jury heard Leahy's testimony of being attacked by a group, the presence of a knife, and the subsequent medical treatment at St. James's Hospital. Prosecutor Mr Paul Burns informed the court that the other two charges would be considered. Judge Paul Butler accepted the plea, remanded Costello on bail, and scheduled sentencing for March 7, ordering victim impact reports for that date. No objection was raised to Costello remaining on bail. The case remains at the trial stage.
A 35-year-old man from Cavan has pleaded not guilty to murder at the Central Criminal Court. Przemyslaw Trebacz, of Bramble Rise, Killynebber, denies the murder of Costel Catalin Cretu at Connolly Court, Connolly Street, Cavan, between October 13 and 14, 2012. Trebacz has admitted criminal damage to a door at the same address on October 13, 2012. His trial is scheduled to commence on Thursday and is expected to run for three weeks.
A trial date has been set for a man accused of murdering two young boys in Co. Mayo. Sanjeev Chadha, aged 43 and residing in Co. Carlow, is charged with the murder of two children at Rosbeg, Westport on 29 July 2013. The Central Criminal Court fixed the trial to commence on 10 November 2014. During proceedings, the defence counsel requested that recordings of garda interviews with the accused be made available to the defence team ahead of trial.
The trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert, and Ian Flanagan continues before the Central Criminal Court, where all three accused have pleaded not guilty. Seán Flanagan and his uncle, Paul Colbert, are charged with the murder of Gerard McMahon, who was stabbed to death in Limerick City in January 2012. Ian Flanagan faces two counts of assisting an offender, allegedly for removing a CCTV recorder. Evidence presented by Detective Garda Pádraig O'Dwyer details a voluntary statement made by Paul Colbert, in which he alleged he attacked the deceased with a hatchet while Seán Flanagan stabbed him. Colbert claimed he acted out of fear after his house was previously shot at and stated he was later warned by Seán Flanagan to deny involvement. He identified himself and Seán Flanagan on CCTV footage and admitted they intended to seriously hurt the victim. The court heard that Colbert initially gave different accounts before confessing, citing fear of his nephews. The matter is currently at the trial stage, with no findings, sentences, or finalisations recorded. The proceedings are ongoing before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan and a jury.
A 42‑year‑old Polish man was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment, with one year suspended, for raping a 19‑year‑old former housemate in a Kerry town on 5 July 2010. The offence occurred in his apartment after the victim had been socialising with friends and other men. He allegedly pushed her down, removed her belt and trousers and raped her. The trial judge, Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan, found the man guilty after a Central Criminal Court jury. The man appealed to the Court of Criminal Appeal, arguing that the judge had erred by not warning the jury that CCTV footage did not corroborate an act of penetration. The Court of Criminal Appeal, presided over by Mr Justice John Murray, rejected the appeal, stating that the judge's discretion not to give a corroboration warning was justified and that no grounds existed to overturn the conviction. The unnamed 42-year-old pleaded not guilty.
In the Limerick murder trial, CCTV footage captured the area around the time 43‑year‑old Gerard McMahon was stabbed to death on 18 January 2012. The footage shows two individuals leaving the home of the accused men, Seán Flanagan (28) and Paul Colbert (46), shortly after 12.30 am, moving toward McMahon's cousin's house on Lenihan Avenue. A second camera later records the same two people running, then walking back in the opposite direction, and finally entering the accused men's home. The prosecution alleges that Flanagan and Colbert acted in joint enterprise to attack McMahon, who died of stab wounds to his back and head, with fatal injuries to his lung, liver and kidney. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan, continues before a jury of eight women and four men. Ian Flanagan (24), Seán's brother, pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender for removing a CCTV recording device from the house.
During a Limerick murder trial, several unnamed schoolgirls testified in the Central Criminal Court that they heard the Flanagan brothers admit their involvement in the killing of 43‑year‑old Gerard McMahon. The girls, who were in a shopping centre on the evening of 18 January 2012, claimed to have overheard Seán and Ian Flanagan discussing the murder. One girl described the brothers saying they stabbed McMahon and that one had a hatchet while the other had two knives. The testimony was given while the trial was hearing the case against Seán Flanagan (28), Paul Colbert (46) and Ian Flanagan (24). Seán and Paul are charged with murder, and Ian with assisting an offender. The trial is proceeding before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan with a jury of eight women and four men. The State alleges the brothers acted in joint enterprise to attack McMahon outside his cousin's house. The trial continues tomorrow. Ian Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Seán Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Paul Colbert pleaded not guilty.
In a Limerick murder trial, forensic evidence showed DNA matching the deceased, Gerard McMahon, on clothing and shoes belonging to Seán Flanagan (28) and Paul Colbert (46). The DNA was found on a pair of tracksuit bottoms and runners attributed to Seán Flanagan, with a mixed profile indicating two individuals, the major profile matching McMahon's. Blood staining on the tracksuit bottoms was described as airborne, suggesting close proximity during the attack. The State Pathologist confirmed McMahon died from stab wounds to his back, with additional wounds to his head. A small axe found at the accused men's home was deemed capable of incising the head but not stabbing. Seán and Ian Flanagan are brothers; Paul Colbert is their uncle. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan, continues before a jury of eight women and four men. Ian Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Seán Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Paul Colbert pleaded not guilty.
During a Limerick murder trial, an expert witness testified that a CCTV system seized from a house in the city was the same system that had been missing from the home of the accused men shortly after the killing. The electronic engineer gave evidence to the Central Criminal Court in the case of three men charged with the death of a 43‑year‑old man. Seán Flanagan (28) and Paul Colbert (46) of Lenihan Avenue, Prospect, Limerick City, are charged with the murder of Gerard McMahon on 18 January 2012. They have pleaded not guilty to murdering him outside his cousin's house, also on Lenihan Avenue. Ian Flanagan (24) of the same address has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender on the same date. He is accused of removing a CCTV recording device from their house, knowing it might form evidence in a prosecution.
The murder trial of Michael Furlong, 36, of Enniscorthy, is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court before Mr Justice Barry White. Furlong has pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Patrick Connors, 37, which is said to have occurred between April 28 and April 29, 2011, at Carraig Túr apartments. Deputy State Pathologist Dr Khalid Jabbar testified that the cause of death was sharp and blunt force trauma, with acute alcohol intoxication as a contributing factor. He identified defensive injuries on the deceased's upper extremities, stating they were neither self-inflicted nor accidental. Dr Jabbar noted that two knives examined matched the serrations of specific head wounds. He also reported bilateral jaw fractures, a detached molar, and a blood alcohol level of 161mg per cent. Defence counsel Mr Michael Delaney SC presented psychiatric records indicating a history of self-harm, including attempted suicide and hearing voices, but Dr Jabbar maintained these did not alter his view on the cause of injury. The defence noted that another pathologist, Dr Declan Gilsenan, would disagree with the cause of death and wound infliction. The cross-examination of Dr Jabbar was adjourned to continue the following day.
During the murder trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert and Ian Flanagan, the jury was shown a hatchet found in the home of the accused men on 18 January 2012, the day the 43‑year‑old Gerard McMahon was killed. Garda Josephine Falvey identified the black‑and‑yellow‑handled hatchet, measuring its handle 12.25 inches and blade 5.75 inches, and testified that she had searched the house that day. The hatchet was not immediately visible, lying behind a panel inside the door. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan, has heard that Seán and Ian Flanagan are brothers and that Paul Colbert is their uncle. The State alleges that Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert acted in joint enterprise to attack McMahon, who was stabbed numerous times as he climbed the steps of his cousin's house. The jury, composed of eight women and four men, continues to hear the case. Ian Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Seán Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Paul Colbert pleaded not guilty.
A Wexford man, Michael Furlong, aged 36, is on trial for the murder of his friend Patrick Connors, aged 37, who died between 28 and 29 April 2011 at CarraigTúr apartments. Furlong pleaded not guilty. He told Gardaí that he used a "sword or screwdriver" to open the sitting‑room door, which Connors had locked. He claimed he could have called an ambulance to break the door but Connors said he was fine. Furlong denied any argument earlier that evening, denied locking the door himself, and said he did not know why Connors did not want him to get the key. He also said he left the sword in the flat and did not remember how it ended up in the rear car park. The trial continues before Mr Justice Barry White and a jury, with post‑mortem evidence to be presented.
The Central Criminal Court trial of Michael Furlong, 36, of Enniscorthy, continued before Mr Justice Barry White. Furlong, who has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Patrick Connors, 37, at Carraig Túr apartments between April 28 and 29, 2011, faces charges alleging he caused fatal sharp and blunt force trauma to Connors' head, neck, and jaw. Prosecution counsel John O'Kelly SC highlighted evidence that Connors' injuries corresponded to two knives found in Furlong's apartment. Ballistics expert Detective Garda Janette O'Neill testified that she was satisfied the deceased was involved in a violent altercation, citing extensive bloodstains, an overturned table, and chaotic debris such as mayonnaise and ketchup. Under cross-examination by Michael Delaney SC, she acknowledged the possibility that events other than a struggle occurred. Garda Patrick Freyne testified that a sword was found in the apartment car park. The jury, comprising seven men and five women, heard that Connors had purchased wine prior to the incident. The matter was adjourned and is scheduled to continue on Monday.
Paramedics testified that the 43‑year‑old deceased was found in a pool of blood with puncture wounds all over his body. They were giving evidence to the Central Criminal Court in the trial of three men charged with his death. Seán Flanagan (28) and Paul Colbert (46) of Lenihan Avenue, Prospect, Limerick City are charged with murdering Gerard McMahon on 18 January 2012 at a house on Lenihan Avenue. They have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Ian Flanagan (24) of the same address has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender on the same date, accused of removing a CCTV recording device from the house, knowing it might form evidence. The jury has heard that Seán and Ian Flanagan are brothers and that Mr Colbert is their uncle.
The trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert, and Ian Flanagan continued at the Central Criminal Court before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan. Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert, both of Lenihan Avenue, Limerick, have pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Gerard McMahon on January 18, 2012. Ian Flanagan, also of Lenihan Avenue, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender on the same date. He is accused of removing a CCTV recording device from the house, allegedly knowing it might form evidence in a prosecution against the other accused men. The State alleges that Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert acted in joint enterprise to attack Mr McMahon. Witness Joe McEvoy testified that he opened his front door around 12.30am to find his cousin, Mr McMahon, bleeding from multiple stab wounds. Mr McEvoy stated he helped his cousin inside, where he collapsed, revealing stab wounds to his back. Garda Wayne Cahalan testified that he arrived at the scene at 12.38am, observing pools of blood and stab wounds on Mr McMahon's back, head, and neck. Mr McMahon was transported to Mid-Western Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 1.45am. The jury has heard that Seán and Ian Flanagan are brothers and that Mr Colbert is their uncle. The matter is ongoing and has not been finalised.
In a Wexford murder trial, Michael Furlong, aged 36, pleaded not guilty to the killing of Patrick Connors, aged 37, which occurred between 28 and 29 April 2011 at Carraig Túr apartments. The jury heard that Furlong had a history of schizophrenia, while Connors had mental health problems, including depression and episodes of hearing voices. Witness Shauna Young, who had been engaged to Connors, confirmed his psychiatric hospitalisations and his attempts at self‑harm, though she denied knowledge of a 2010 suicide attempt. Dr Stephen Bowe testified that Furlong, at the time of the incident, had an odor of alcohol, claimed to have consumed two bottles of wine the previous night, and described a past schizophrenia diagnosis. He also noted scratches on Furlong's legs that were inconsistent with walking dogs, suggesting trauma. The case remains before Mr Justice Barry White and a jury of seven men and five women.
Three Limerick men—Seán Flanagan (28), Paul Colbert (46), and Ian Flanagan (24)—are on trial at the Central Criminal Court for the death of 43‑year‑old Gerard McMahon, who was stabbed to death on 18 January 2012. Seán and Paul pleaded not guilty to murder; Ian pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender. The prosecution alleges McMahon was attacked while heading to his cousin's house on Lenihan Avenue, receiving 16 stab wounds: seven to the back of the head, three to the side, and three to the back of the trunk, and a hatchet was also used. The State claims the men acted in joint enterprise, leaving the house armed with a common intention to attack McMahon. The trial will resume on Thursday before Justice Garrett Sheehan and a jury of eight women and four men.
A 36‑year‑old Wexford man, Michael Furlong of Meadowfield, The Moyne, Enniscorthy, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Patrick Connors (37) at the Carraig Túr apartments in Enniscorthy between 28 and 29 April 2011. He was arraigned before the Central Criminal Court, where a jury of seven men and five women was sworn in for a three‑week trial that will commence on Tuesday morning before Mr Justice Barry White.
Three men are set to appear before the Central Criminal Court in Limerick. Sean Flanagan, aged 28, and Paul Colbert, aged 46, both from Lenihan Avenue, Prospect, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Gerard McMahon on 18 January 2012. Ian Flanagan, aged 24, from the same address, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender on that date. The trial is scheduled to begin tomorrow and is expected to last four weeks.
Three men are on trial at the Central Criminal Court for the 2012 killing of Gerard McMahon in Limerick. Sean Flanagan, 28, and Paul Colbert, 46, both from Lenihan Avenue, Prospect, plead not guilty to murder. Ian Flanagan, 24, also from the same address, pleads not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender. The trial began Thursday and is expected to last up to six weeks.
A 37‑year‑old Cork mother of three, Catherine O'Connor, was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of her 42‑year‑old neighbour, John Forrester, on 12 November 2011. O'Connor pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court. Forrester's body was found on 15 November 2011 in the River Bandon, wrapped in carpet and tied with a belt from O'Connor's cardigan. The autopsy revealed blunt force trauma, asphyxia, a broken hyoid bone, bruising to the throat, a fractured skull, broken ribs, a broken hip and lacerations to the head and mouth. Evidence included O'Connor's fingerprints on a broken Man Utd cup and Forrester's blood on a mobile phone in her flat. O'Connor had been in custody since 28 January 2012 and had 55 prior convictions, including a previous murder. Mr Justice Paul Carney imposed a mandatory life sentence, and O'Connor was led away in a grey hooded jacket, black trousers and boots.
A 20‑year‑old man from Lisanalta, Dooradoyle, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for an unprovoked attack that left a 16‑year‑old schoolboy with permanent brain damage. The assault, captured on CCTV, involved 65 kicks, 26 punches and several stamps to the boy's head, chest and body, and continued after the victim had stopped moving. The victim was left on the forecourt in a pool of blood and later required eight days on life support before transfer to the National Rehabilitation Hospital. The man, who was a teenager in HSE care at the time, was originally charged with attempted murder but pleaded guilty to intentionally causing serious harm. He has appealed the sentence, arguing that mitigating factors such as his youth, guilty plea and expressions of remorse were insufficiently considered. The Court of Criminal Appeal has reserved judgment on the appeal, to be delivered in due course.