A father and son sold a motorhome that had been stolen from the UK and fitted with fake plates eight times to an unsuspecting buyer who used his inheritance to buy it. John Tracey and Jordan Keogh pleaded guilty to handling stolen property. The motorhome had been cloned so that it was unrecognisable as a stolen vehicle. The buyer later discovered the motorhome was stolen and was left out of pocket. Keogh used part of the money to pay off a drug debt. Both men were sentenced to suspended terms, with conditions that they pay the victim back. The court noted that both men had enough experience with vehicles to be suspicious of the motorhome and were seriously reckless in their actions.
A man described as a 'suitable dupe' has been jailed for five years after transporting over €830,000 worth of heroin. Stuart O'Brien (46) of Rutland Grove, Crumlin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of heroin for sale or supply on March 15, 2023. Gardai were conducting a surveillance operation in north Dublin after receiving confidential information. O'Brien was seen meeting a co-accused at a service station on the Malahide Road, where he was handed a bag containing heroin. The bag was later transferred to a third man, who was stopped by gardai and found to be in possession of 12 slabs of heroin weighing 5.9kg with a value of €831,000. O'Brien was arrested, but no evidence was obtained during his interview. He has two previous convictions, and the other co-accused has since died. O'Brien's defence highlighted his medical history, including a brain hemorrhage over 20 years ago, and his lack of trappings of wealth or addiction issues. He also noted that O'Brien has a job offer and receives disability benefits when not working.
A robber who carried out a vicious raid on a shop was caught after gardai used CCTV to trace him back to his apartment. Keith Kinlan (50) pleaded guilty to robbery at Spar on Gardiner Street, Dublin 1. He was sentenced to four and a half years, with the final six months suspended. Gardai identified Kinlan through CCTV footage and found him in his apartment the following day. He has 125 previous convictions and was on bail for theft and fraud at the time. His defense argued it was a crime of desperation due to his drug addiction. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged his drug addiction and rehabilitation efforts, but sentenced him to four years and six months, with the final six months suspended on strict conditions.
Peter Kelly, a former teacher at a Spiritan-run school, has been jailed for 10 years for the indecent assault of eight boys over 30 years ago. Kelly was convicted of 28 counts of indecent assault at Willow Park School, where he was accused of being one cog in a machine of systematic abuse. The victims, now in their early 50s, described the abuse as traumatic and ongoing, with some suffering from psychiatric issues, addiction, and intergenerational harm. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the bravery of the victims and the significant damage caused by Kelly. The abuse occurred in various locations, including classrooms and the school gym, and involved games such as 'The Muppet Show' where Kelly would tickle and molest the children. The victims spoke of the lasting impact of the abuse, including PTSD, insomnia, and panic attacks. Kelly's defense argued that he never owned a passport and that the school had its own disciplinary regime. The judge imposed a global consecutive sentence of 10 years, noting the lack of acceptance of the verdict by Kelly. Peter Kelly pleaded not guilty.
A 34-year-old man was jailed for 21 months after pleading guilty to harassment, trespass, breaching a protection order, and assault. The man was found to have sent hundreds of messages to his former partner through the Revolut app after she blocked him on other platforms. He also turned up unannounced at her home and caused her physical harm. The victim stated that the man's actions left a deep psychological scar and changed her life significantly. The man also assaulted his current partner after discovering he had an affair with the first victim. He was found guilty of assault causing harm and was sentenced to 21 months in prison. The judge noted the impact of the man's actions on both victims and imposed a global sentence, including a 15-year no-contact order with the first victim.
Dean Joyce, 33, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to one count of threatening to kill and one count of simple assault of his then partner at an address in Tallaght on November 6, 2024. The court heard that Joyce had 341 previous convictions. Prosecution evidence alleged that Joyce pursued his partner, who was eight months pregnant, outside their home while brandishing a hammer, threatening to kill her and their unborn child before forcing her back inside. He allegedly confiscated her phone until the following morning. A further count of production of an article was taken into consideration. Judge Orla Crowe described the conduct as heinous offending towards a woman in advanced pregnancy. While acknowledging Joyce's childhood deprivation and mitigating factors, the judge set a headline sentence of six years, reduced to four years. To incentivise rehabilitation and protect society, the judge suspended the final six months of the sentence, conditional on Joyce remaining under the supervision of the Probation Service during that period. Joyce has been in custody since his arrest.
A 50-year-old man who assaulted three gardai and threw a gas canister at a Public Order Unit vehicle during the 2023 Dublin riots has been jailed for two and a half years. Don Sheridan, who was not an activist, became involved in the riots after hearing about the stabbing of a five-year-old girl. He pleaded guilty to riot, assaulting gardai, and criminal damage. The court heard that Sheridan was not politically motivated but was swept up in the frenzy. He was captured on CCTV throwing a gas canister and participating in the destruction of property. The judge noted Sheridan's health issues and drinking problem but sentenced him to two and a half years in prison. The riots caused extensive damage and injuries, with gardai deploying 600 officers to restore order.
A man with a brain injury from a meat cleaver attack, Wayne McCauley, has been jailed for 18 months for assaulting his mother by bending her finger until it broke. McCauley, 31, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm after a row with his mother, who was 63 at the time. The court was told that McCauley grabbed his mother's hand and bent her finger until it cracked, resulting in a fractured metatarsal. He was arrested and made full admissions, stating he was coming down from drugs at the time. McCauley has a long history of previous convictions, predominantly for public order and attempted robberies. His defense highlighted his brain injury and inability to deal with stress, but Judge Martin Nolan noted his long history of offending and sentenced him to 18 months. The judge acknowledged McCauley's remorse but emphasized the cruelty of the act towards his mother. The suspended sentence was given with the hope that McCauley would not hurt his mother again.
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.
A judge has given a suspended sentence to a young man who was found guilty of being a money mule in a scam that involved over €20,000 in stolen funds. Judge Martin Nolan told the defendant, Ryan Odusanya (20), that 'stupidity can only get you so far' and warned him that this was his future unless he 'wises up'. Odusanya pleaded guilty to holding €20,000 in criminal proceeds in his bank account on September 5, 2023. He was not involved in setting up or operating the scam, which affected an elderly couple from Kerry and a business owner from Galway. Judge Nolan expressed frustration with young people who commit money laundering offences, saying he was 'getting fed up' with them claiming they were 'young and stupid'. He sentenced Odusanya to 20 months in prison, which was suspended in full. The court heard that Odusanya had responded to an advert on Snapchat offering a small cash reward for the use of a bank account.
A 19-year-old man who participated in the Dublin riots two years ago, throwing glass bottles and burgling a Footlocker and Spar, has received a suspended sentence. The teenager pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including burglary, theft, and rioting. The riots were sparked by a stabbing incident that injured a child and a crèche worker. The Spar shop owner reported significant losses, including €17,150 in stolen goods and €9,000 in repair costs. The teenager was identified through CCTV footage and arrested in November 2024. He admitted to throwing an object at gardaí and expressed remorse, stating he is now working as an apprentice roofer and participating in boxing. His defense highlighted his cooperation, lack of prior convictions, and progress since the incident. The judge imposed a two-and-a-half-year suspended sentence with conditions, emphasizing the need for rehabilitation.
A burglar who entered a hotel with a suitcase pretending to be a guest, stole alcohol, and ordered breakfast before charging it to a room has been jailed for three years. Enda Murray (44) of Bellavista Mews, Deansgrange Road, Blackrock, Co Dublin, entered the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire on February 3, 2025, and stole €365 worth of alcohol. Murray, who admitted to committing four burglaries in the Deansgrange and Dun Laoghaire areas between December 2024 and April 2025, has 56 previous convictions, including 14 for burglary. Detective Garda Andrew Diamond detailed how Murray broke into Kelly's Beauty in Deansgrange on April 20, 2025, and was identified through CCTV footage. Murray was removed from the premises by the occupant and admitted to breaking in to charge an electric scooter. He was detained but deemed unfit for interview due to intoxication. Murray also entered a pub by placing a wheelie bin beside the wall, stole alcohol, and smashed some bottles. At Caribou bar, he stole an iPhone valued at €1,000. Enda Murray pleaded guilty.
A 24-year-old man, Lucas Calvert, has been jailed for four years and nine months after being found with 30 kilogrammes of cocaine in his suitcase at Dublin Airport. Calvert, who was homeless at the time, claimed he had no choice but to transport the drugs to pay off a drug debt. He admitted to gardaí that he knew what was in the bag and took full responsibility for it. Calvert had previous drug convictions from the UK and had been remanded in custody since his arrest in June. Judge Martin Nolan noted Calvert's previous convictions and the large quantity of drugs he was caught with. He accepted that Calvert entered early guilty pleas and was a young man, but stated that he deserved a custodial term for his actions.
Kassim Dembele, 28, of Clondalkin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for assaulting his girlfriend. He pleaded guilty to one count of assault causing harm to the young woman on James Joyce Street on July 30, 2023. Prosecution evidence indicated that following a minor disagreement, Dembele punched and kicked the victim to the head and body as she lay on the ground. The court heard that alcohol did not play a factor in the incident, and the victim suffered swelling, pain, and abrasions, though she has since recovered physically. Judge Orla Crowe noted that despite Dembele having no previous convictions or history of violence, his actions displayed an utter disregard and disrespect. The judge expressed concern that such an attack occurred within a previously good relationship. In determining the disposal, Judge Crowe stated that the offence had to be marked by a partly custodial sentence. She handed down a two-year sentence but suspended the final 12 months of it on strict conditions. Consequently, Dembele will serve one year in custody. The matter was finalised at the sentence stage.
Judge Martin Nolan has expressed frustration with young people who plead 'young and stupid' when convicted of money mule offences. Ryan Odusanya (20) pleaded guilty to holding over €20,000 in criminal proceeds in his bank account, which was used in an online banking scam targeting an elderly couple from Kerry and a business owner from Galway. Odusanya was not involved in the scam but was lured by an advert on Snapchat offering a small cash reward for using his bank account. His defence highlighted his good family background and academic achievements. Judge Nolan noted the increasing number of such cases and criticized the defendants for knowing that their actions would harm others. He adjourned the sentence and remanded Odusanya into custody until the next hearing.
Alex Onuh, 20, was jailed for seven years for a series of knifepoint robberies targeting teenage boys in south Dublin, including a vulnerable teenager with a brain injury. Onuh, who wore a distinctive Moncler jacket during the attacks, pleaded guilty to 15 counts of robbery and four of attempted robbery. Victims were often threatened with knives and forced to reset their phones. One incident involved a 17-year-old being chased and assaulted by Onuh and a gang. The court heard that stolen phones were sold online, and Onuh's defense highlighted his difficult childhood and lack of prior convictions. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the premeditated nature of the crimes and the impact on victims, imposing consecutive sentences with one year suspended on strict conditions.
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.
A dental nurse, Ruth Kavanagh, was given a suspended sentence after she broke a red light and knocked down a Leaving Cert student who was walking to school. Kavanagh, who was driving her usual route to work, failed to stop and assist the injured student. The student suffered serious injuries, including broken bones in her foot, and missed two weeks of school. Kavanagh later admitted to the incident and expressed remorse. She had a sum of €5,000 in court as a token of her remorse. The court heard that Kavanagh has a 10-year-old child and is now pregnant with her second child. She has worked as a dental nurse for nine years. The judge imposed a 15-month suspended sentence on the condition that Kavanagh keep the peace and be of good behaviour for two years. The €5,000 was ordered to be paid to the victim. Ruth Kavanagh pleaded guilty.
Jamie Malone, 23, of Swords, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to having drugs for sale or supply on November 27, 2024. Judge Martin Nolan suspended a three-year prison sentence in full, imposing conditions that Malone keep the peace and be of good behaviour. The court heard Malone was not the primary target of a National Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau operation targeting Shane Mulvey, 26, of Shankill. Mulvey, who was jailed for eight years last June, pleaded guilty to possessing drugs for sale or supply, possessing the proceeds of crime, and possessing an article in connection with a crime. During the surveillance, Mulvey was observed handing one kilogram of cocaine to Malone in a Swords car park. The drugs were later discovered in a hidden compartment in Malone's vehicle, which had a street value of approximately €72,000. Prosecutors noted that Mulvey's apartment contained further drugs and €66,700 in cash, with total seized drugs valued at €2.6 million. In mitigation for Malone, his counsel highlighted his youth, guilty plea, 12 weeks of rehabilitation, and clean urine analysis. The judge considered these factors alongside Malone's statement that he was forced to transport the drugs due to a debt.
A survivor of sexual abuse at a Spiritan-run school testified in court that the institution tolerated widespread abuse, with 37 identified abusers across Willow Park and Blackrock College. Peter Kelly, 73, was convicted of indecently assaulting eight boys in the 70s and 80s. The victims, now in their 50s, described long-term impacts including addiction, PTSD, and struggles with relationships and mental health. One survivor stated Kelly was 'one cog in a machine of systematic abuse.' The court heard that Kelly used his position to exploit vulnerable children, often in classrooms and during games like 'The Muppet Show.' The judge noted the maximum penalties available at the time were limited, and Kelly was remanded in custody pending sentencing. The case highlights the systemic failures of the school in addressing abuse. Peter Kelly pleaded not guilty.
A mother was jailed and her son walked free from court on a suspended sentence after being found in possession of almost €30,000 worth of cannabis. Laura Deering (50) and Alan Deering (30) pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply. Gardai discovered 460g of cannabis in an upstairs bedroom and another large package of cannabis hidden under clothes in a wardrobe, which had Alan Deering's fingerprints on it. Laura Deering was sentenced to four years with two years suspended for a period of two years, while Alan Deering was given a four-year sentence but Judge Orla Crowe suspended it in its entirety. Laura Deering took ownership of the cannabis found in the locker and said she had been paid to hold other items. She had previous convictions for drugs offences and was on a suspended sentence at the time of the offence. Alan Deering was not living at the address at the time and has a good work history.
Patrick Byrne, a criminal with a history of violence, was jailed for six years for assaulting his girlfriend over a prolonged period and holding a blade to her throat, before sending her threats from prison to drop the charges. Byrne has 44 convictions and was previously jailed for two years and nine months for an unprovoked assault. The court heard that Byrne assaulted his then partner several times, whipping her with a broom handle, holding a Stanley blade to her throat, and threatening to slit her throat. He also smashed up the house and upended a wardrobe, causing a television to fall on her. Byrne was arrested at a later date and pleaded guilty to one count of assault causing harm, one count of production of a broom handle, and one count of making a threat to kill. While in custody, Byrne sent threatening texts to the woman, urging her to drop the charges.
Gardai investigating a €27,000 'smishing scam' encountered resistance from Facebook, according to court proceedings. Mary Maughan (39) of Dun Laoghaire pleaded guilty to processing the proceeds of crime through her Bank of Ireland account in August 2022. The scam involved a text message from An Post, leading the victim to a fake website where her bank details were stolen. The money was transferred to Maughan's account, with €20,000 lost before the bank intervened. Maughan admitted to being approached by a man on Facebook who promised €400 for using her account. She was later forced to make cash withdrawals with two men, though she did not receive any payment. Detective Garda Cliff Singleton noted Facebook's resistance to garda inquiries. Maughan, who was in financial stress, expressed remorse. Judge Martina Baxter emphasized the need for deterrence in such cases and ordered a Probation Service report for community service and restorative justice.
A man has been jailed for eight months after he struck a child, leaving him needing surgery and in a wheelchair for six months, while driving as an uninsured and unaccompanied learner. Dennis Dunne (26) of Kilmahuddrick Lawns, Clondalkin, Dublin 22, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to careless driving causing serious bodily harm to the then eight-year-old boy on May 25, 2024. The court heard that the child later required surgery for two bones that were fractured just above his ankle. He was bed bound for a short time and also needed to use a wheelchair for six months. Garda Sean Birkby told David Staunton BL, prosecuting, that a witness to the accident saw three boys on their bikes and scooters on the footpath before she heard a loud bang and a young boy "went up in the air". She saw the child's leg was badly injured and he asked for his mother. The child's father arrived and an ambulance was called. The witness saw the car that was responsible for the accident had driven off.
A Brazilian national who swallowed about half a kilo of cocaine pellets before boarding a flight to Ireland has been jailed for 21 months. Antonio Bezerra Dos Santos pleaded guilty to importing drugs into the country at Dublin Airport. She was arrested by customs officers and taken to Beaumont Hospital, where she passed 47 pellets of cocaine over three days. An estimated 400-500g of cocaine with a street value of €32,000 was recovered. Dos Santos claimed she was forced to carry out the drug importation by a criminal organisation in Brazil. She has no previous convictions and was referred to as she/her in court. Her defence highlighted that she struggled to swallow all the pellets and was given a small reward. The judge noted that she is unlikely to re-offend and set a sentence of 21 months, backdated to when she went into custody.
A drug addict with 100 convictions who used to 'roam around the city' has been jailed for three years for targeting and robbing a man in the early hours of the morning. Gerard O'Toole pleaded guilty to one count of robbery. He has 99 previous convictions, including theft, robbery, and assault. The court heard that O'Toole was on bail when he committed the offence. Judge Martina Baxter noted that O'Toole has developed insight into his offending and has maintained it. A probation report highlighted his efforts in dealing with his addiction and his remorse. The judge set a headline sentence of six and a half years but reduced it to five years, suspending the final two years for two years. O'Toole was identified on CCTV footage during the robbery, which showed a disturbing incident. His defence highlighted his difficult childhood and the impact of being placed into care.
A man who engaged in a high-speed garda chase with his 13-year-old child in the car, reaching speeds of 160km/h and colliding with two garda cars, has been jailed for two years and nine months. The incident occurred in March 2023 when the man was driving his Jaguar in a suspicious manner. He reached speeds of 100 km/h on rural roads, drove on the wrong side of the road, and collided with one garda vehicle. The garda driver used his two feet to brake the car, which he managed to bring to a stop on the side of the road. The second collision occurred when the man sped up and collided with another patrol car. The child was cared for by authorities while the man was questioned and released that night. He pleaded guilty to two counts of endangerment, two counts of dangerous driving, and one count of driving without insurance. The man has 24 previous convictions, including robbery, attempted robbery, theft, and road traffic offences.
Kenneth Walsh, 57, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to one count of possessing cannabis for sale or supply at his home in Rathfarnham, Co Dublin, on August 28, 2024. Gardai seized eight cannabis plants valued at €6,400 and €15,192 worth of cultivated cannabis herb during a search of his residence. Walsh alleged he grew the substance for pain relief for himself and a neighbour with terminal cancer, following a serious accident that left him bed-bound. The prosecuting garda noted the large quantity but acknowledged Walsh had no prior drug-related convictions and no evidence of distribution was found. Defence counsel highlighted Walsh's 30-year work history and the inability to obtain a supporting letter from the ill neighbour. Judge Martin Nolan acknowledged the high quality of the seized cannabis but accepted the defence explanation as meeting the threshold of believability. The judge handed down a sentence of two years, which was suspended in full on a number of conditions. Walsh has 21 previous convictions, mostly for road traffic offences dating back to 2013.
A man was sentenced to one year in prison for a personal injury fraud after claiming he was injured in a collision with a reversing car. The incident occurred on Crumlin Road in 2019, where Dan Harna (49) falsely reported that his Audi had been bumped by a Kia. Gardai were called to the scene, but no injuries were reported. RSA insurance later suspected the collision was staged, leading to an investigation. Harna pleaded guilty to dishonestly inducing the insurance company to make a claim. Evidence suggested that Harna's account of having four occupants in his car was false, as witnesses reported only two people were present. The court noted that Harna had a history of nine previous convictions and that the fraud was considered 'amateurish.' Despite mitigation factors, the judge ruled that a prison sentence was necessary to deter similar fraudulent claims.
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 assaulted a former partner while naked in a hotel corridor has been given a suspended sentence. Shane McMorrow (44) of Fairways Park, Finglas, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault of the woman in a Dublin hotel on October 30, 2023. Judge Martin Nolan noted that the incident occurred during an argument after a dinner, with McMorrow following the woman into the corridor, naked, and attempting to drag her back into the room. The woman was left traumatised and humiliated, though the physical injuries were not serious. The judge did not believe McMorrow would reoffend and imposed a two and a half year suspended sentence on strict conditions. Evidence showed that McMorrow had previously smashed the woman's phone. The woman expressed feeling let down by the justice system and described the incident as deeply traumatic. McMorrow's defence highlighted his brain injury and his attendance at counselling, noting his remorse and current stable relationship.
A woman who stole just over €4,000 worth of National Lottery scratch cards from her employer because they gave "comfort" to her husband, who was suffering with dementia, has been given a suspended sentence. Sandra McCann (57) of Newbury Drive, Clonshaugh, Dublin 17, pleaded guilty to theft at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The court heard that the HR administrator of Daybreak Store noticed a safe room had been left unlocked, and CCTV footage showed McCann entering the room. Further investigations revealed a mismatch between the activation of scratch cards and their sale, with a total value of €4,330. McCann's solicitor explained that her husband was suffering from dementia at the time and she gave him the cards for comfort. Judge Martin Nolan accepted that McCann's actions were motivated by her husband's condition and imposed a one-year suspended sentence, requiring her to pay €1,000 to her former employer.
A 62-year-old woman, Marcella Duffy, has been given a fully suspended sentence for causing the death of cyclist John Walsh in February 2024. Duffy's car crossed the road and struck Walsh on Malahide Road, leading to his death in hospital. Walsh was described as a devoted father to three young boys and an avid cyclist. His wife delivered a victim impact statement, highlighting the profound loss of her husband and the devastation faced by their family. Judge Martin Nolan noted that Duffy was driving slightly over the speed limit but found no aggravating factors. He emphasized her lack of prior convictions and early plea, resulting in a two-and-a-half-year suspended sentence and a six-year driving ban. The court heard that Duffy remained at the scene and cooperated with gardai. The incident was captured on dash cam footage, and no faults were found with the car or the bicycle. Duffy's defense highlighted her remorse and the impact of the accident on her life. Marcella Duffy pleaded guilty.
A man who was caught with almost 1.5 million images and videos of child sexual abuse after he began accessing such material as a 13-year-old boy has been jailed for 27 months. Stephen Byrne (26) pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of the images, termed child pornography in law, at his rented home in Terenure, Dublin 6, on March 2, 2022. Detective Garda Mairead McKinney confirmed that 1,440,675 images and videos were found, depicting children in sexually explicit interactions. Byrne admitted accessing such material from the age of 13 through the Dark Web and social media. His defence highlighted his cooperation with gardaí and his attendance at counselling. Judge Martin Nolan noted the significant aggravating factor of the number of images and the length of time Byrne had been offending. He imposed a sentence of 27 months, taking into account Byrne's co-operation and his admissions of guilt, despite acknowledging the severity of the offence.
A 24-year-old Slovenian man who met a 15-year-old girl through the online game Roblox and later harassed her by threatening to leak her sexualised images has been jailed for two and a half years. The man, who cannot be named to protect the victim's identity, communicated with the girl through various social media platforms, during which he convinced her to send him explicit images and videos. He then blackmailed her by threatening to share these images with her family and friends if she did not comply with his demands, including regular phone calls, sharing photos, and allowing him to watch her sleep. The victim described feeling like an object controlled by the man and expressed that the memories of the ordeal would haunt her forever. The man pleaded guilty to harassment and possession of child sexual abuse images, which were found on his phone after his arrest. A psychologist's report indicated that the man had mental health issues, including emotional unstable personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, though he was not formally diagnosed with these conditions.
Chengwen Guo, the Irish representative of a transnational crime organisation, was jailed for seven years for his involvement in a €10 million 'zombie' iPhone fraud. Guo owned several mobile phone shops called Murray Mobile and was involved in a scheme where fake iPhones were sent to Apple for repair, and genuine replacements were sent to Hong Kong to be sold outside the EU. The court heard that Guo also sold counterfeit Apple products in his shops. A significant quantity of counterfeit goods, including power adaptors and phone cases, were found during a search of his stores. Guo's co-accused, Lukasz Lupa, was also jailed for his role in the scheme. The court noted that Apple lost considerable value due to the fraud, and Guo was found to have used his stores to sell counterfeit Apple products. The court ordered the forfeiture of the cash sums involved and the Audi, which was in the possession of Guo's wife. Chengwen Guo pleaded guilty.
Lucas Valadares, a 42-year-old man, was jailed for 15 months after distributing and possessing child abuse material. Valadares pleaded guilty to one count of distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material. An investigation in 2018 led to the seizure of devices containing over 5,300 images and videos, including child exposure and sexually explicit content. Messages in a WhatsApp group revealed Valadares shared the material with others. He was arrested in 2021 but was not charged until 2024 due to delays in the investigation. Valadares has no previous convictions and moved to Ireland from Brazil over 20 years ago. Judge Martin Nolan emphasized the seriousness of the offence and noted the delays were partly due to limited garda resources. He imposed a 15-month sentence, considering Valadares' lack of sophistication in the crime and his steady work history.
Jake Kelly, 22, was sentenced to seven years in prison for dangerous driving that resulted in the death of his friend, Ross Rice, in a crash in July 2023. Kelly was driving at a speed of 162km/h on a road with a 60km/h speed limit when his car crashed into the back of an articulated lorry. The passenger side of the car was covered in tarmacadam, which poured out of the lorry upon impact. Ross Rice died instantly from blunt force injuries. Kelly was helped out of the car by the truck driver and then walked away from the scene. He later told gardaí he was unsure if Rice had gotten out of the car and thought he might have been in the fields nearby. Kelly pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death, failing to report an accident, and driving without insurance. He was on bail for other offences at the time. The court heard that Kelly had a history of addiction in his family and had been severely depressed since the incident.
Michael McDonagh, a 49-year-old banned roads offender with over 200 previous convictions, was jailed for three years after driving the wrong way down the hard shoulder of the Naas dual carriageway. McDonagh pleaded guilty to endangerment, dangerous driving, and driving without a licence or insurance. He stole a car and evaded gardai by speeding at high rates, breaking red lights, and driving on the wrong side of the road. The pursuit lasted seven minutes, with McDonagh reaching speeds of up to 120km/hr in a 60km/hr zone. Gardai broke off the chase due to the danger. McDonagh was extradited from the UK in 2024 and has been in custody since. Judge Martin Nolan noted the dangerous and reckless nature of the driving and imposed a three-year sentence, along with a five-year driving disqualification.
A 70-year-old German pensioner, Joachim Ruckweld, was sentenced to two years and three months in prison for importing over €280,000 worth of cocaine into Ireland. Ruckweld pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to importing the drugs at Dublin Airport in November 2024. Garda evidence revealed that 20 packages containing 4kg of cocaine were found in his luggage after an X-ray detected an anomaly. Ruckweld claimed the suitcase belonged to him and contained coffee beans, but he admitted he did not know what was inside. He stated he was instructed to meet someone in Ireland and had no prior criminal record. The court noted that while Ruckweld was naïve, he was aware of the wrongfulness of his actions. Judge Dara Hayes emphasized the negative impact of the drug trade and imposed a sentence with six months suspended on strict conditions.
Lukas Kaunietis, a Lithuanian man, has received a one-year jail sentence for causing thousands of euros in damage at Dublin Airport after missing his flight. Kaunietis pleaded guilty to three counts of criminal damage and one count of using threatening behavior. The court heard that he smashed computers, glasses, and a metal barrier post at Terminal One. Stills from CCTV footage showed over €9,452 in damage. Kaunietis was arrested by gardai and was co-operative during the incident. Judge Martin Nolan noted that Kaunietis was upset about missing his flight and lost control, causing significant damage and inconvenience. Kaunietis has no previous convictions and entered an early guilty plea. His defense counsel stated that he is a construction worker who had been employed in Belfast and intended to return to Lithuania upon release. The sentence was backdated to March 17 last year, and Kaunietis has been in custody since that date.
Ronaldo Lupo (24) of Rusheeney Avenue, Clonsilla, has been jailed for an additional four months for his role in a fraud conspiracy involving falsely posing as driver theory test candidates. Lupo pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy between September 2018 and June 2022. He was previously jailed for two years and nine months for assaulting two women at a party. The court heard that Lupo sat 10 driver theory tests and was paid €250 each time, totaling €2,500. The fraud involved 124 tests, with all accused being from eastern Europe. A person would pay €2,000–€2,500 for a test to be taken on their behalf, with a false Romanian identity document presented. Judge Martin Nolan noted that Lupo was part of a group exploiting others to pass their driving tests. The judge said Lupo would serve an additional four months in prison, extending his sentence. Defence counsel Oisin Clarke BL said Lupo expressed remorse for his actions.
A man and woman who were due to be sentenced for student accommodation fraud in south Dublin have failed to appear in court. Michael Ward (33) and Melissa Collins (26) were scheduled to appear before the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court but did not show up. Judge Martin Nolan issued a bench warrant for their arrest. Ward, from Moyne Park, Moyne Road, Baldoyle, previously pleaded guilty to stealing €1,800 from a bank account between September 9, 2022, and September 18, 2022, in an unknown location within the State. Collins, from Cherryfield Walk, Hartstown, pleaded guilty to stealing €600 from a bank account on July 27, 2022, in an unknown location within the State. The District Court previously heard that the case involves fraud against a number of international students in south Dublin. The case has drawn attention due to the nature of the fraud and the involvement of international students.
John Stokes, an on-bail offender, has received a fully suspended 12-month sentence for causing serious injury in a head-on collision. Stokes was driving at high speed on Lower Lucan Road, leading to a collision that left a woman with a fractured spine. He pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious harm and was on bail for another offense at the time. Judge Elma Sheahan noted that Stokes had failed to appear for sentencing and was on bail for another offense. Stokes has since been working and is engaging with therapeutic services. Conditions of the suspended sentence include engaging with probation services, providing urine analysis, and being disqualified from driving for 12 months. The court heard that Stokes was a learner driver and was not under the influence of intoxicants. Victim impact statements highlighted the physical and mental health struggles faced by the victims, with the woman who suffered spinal injuries having to change jobs and struggle with rent payments.
A former Christian Brother, Jack Manning (89), has had his prison sentence extended by one year for indecently assaulting two additional boys in the 1970s while working as a teacher in a Dublin school. Manning, who is already serving a four-year sentence for abusing eight boys between 1973 and 1974, was found guilty of four counts related to the new abuse allegations. The victims were aged between seven and eight at the time. Judge Martin Nolan emphasized the betrayal of trust by Manning, who held a position of authority, and noted the significant trauma experienced by the victims. The judge stated that the additional sentence was necessary due to Manning's continued harmful behavior. Both victims expressed the long-term impact of the abuse on their lives, including trust issues and emotional distress. The court heard that Manning had a history of 22 previous convictions and that the abuse occurred in a hostile classroom environment. The victims requested anonymity, and the court ensured their identities were protected.
Anthony Ainscough, an on-bail offender, was given a fully suspended sentence after punching an off-duty garda in a Dublin nightclub. Ainscough pleaded guilty to assault causing harm, which occurred during a confrontation where he believed the garda had spoken to his girlfriend. The incident was captured on CCTV, and the garda required medical treatment for a broken nose and tooth. Ainscough, who has previous convictions and was on bail at the time, was intoxicated and did not know the garda was off-duty. His defense highlighted his remorse, noting he had €10,000 in court as a token of apology and would provide additional funds. The court acknowledged his guilty plea and suspended the sentence, emphasizing the need for him to address his behavior.
A master of a fishing vessel, Gerard Caulfield (55) of Abbey Street, Howth, Co Dublin, was fined €2,000 for exceeding the haddock quota while fishing off the south coast of Ireland. He pleaded guilty to charges under the Sea Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006. The court heard that Caulfield was responsible for ensuring quotas were not exceeded and that catch data was accurately recorded. An inspection of the vessel, the Endeavour, on February 28, 2023, found that the haddock quota had been exceeded by 4.5 tonnes, with a market value of over €8,200. The court was told that the quotas are in place to ensure the sustainability of fish stocks and protect the fishing industry for future generations. Caulfield, who has no previous convictions, claimed he had a genuine misunderstanding of the quotas and was working with new crew members who had language barriers. His defence also highlighted his financial situation, noting he is a single man living with his elderly mother and currently earns €23,000 per year.
Fergal Doherty, a repeat offender with a history of road traffic violations, avoided jail after reversing into a supermarket customer, causing a fractured elbow. Doherty pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious bodily harm in Dalkey, where he had a blood alcohol level just below the legal limit. CCTV footage showed him reversing into the victim, who was walking through the car park. Doherty, who has 20 previous convictions, including 15 for road offenses, was disqualified from driving for two years and received a ten-month suspended sentence. The court acknowledged his guilty plea and the fact that his alcohol level was under the legal limit, but noted the need for him to take greater care while driving. The victim did not prepare a victim impact statement, and the court emphasized the importance of safe driving practices.
A Portuguese dentist, Andreia Funicio, was jailed for a sustained campaign of harassment against her ex-partner, which included creating fake online dating profiles and Instagram accounts in her name. This led to numerous men contacting the victim, causing significant distress and trauma. Funicio admitted to harassment between December 2022 and March 2023. Judge Martin Nolan described the harassment as calculated and intense, resulting in the victim experiencing suicidal thoughts. Funicio received a two-year and three-month suspended sentence, reduced from four and a half years, due to her guilty plea and caregiving responsibilities. The court ordered her to have no further contact with the victim for 20 years. The victim detailed the emotional and psychological impact of the harassment, including feeling targeted in a narcissistic smear campaign and struggling with her mental health. Funicio's actions were found to be premeditated and aimed at damaging the victim's reputation and sense of safety.
A Brazilian man has been jailed for two years after using his skateboard to strike a man outside a chipper in Dublin, causing him a fractured skull and a brain bleed. Aquila Batista (33), who has no fixed address and no previous convictions, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing harm on September 2, 2022. The incident occurred near Parnell Street, Dublin 1, when Batista attempted to engage in conversation with the victim's girlfriend inside the chipper. After she pushed him away, a verbal altercation ensued. Batista later returned on his skateboard and struck the victim on the head. The victim required reconstructive surgery and was left with a permanent facial scar. Batista remained at the scene and was also taken to the hospital for minor cuts. He claimed self-defence during his interview. The court heard that the victim has since moved out of Dublin and has physically recovered, though the attack affected his confidence and mental health. Judge Martin Nolan noted the attack appeared to be motivated by revenge or bad temper.