A 37‑year‑old man, Edward Sweeney of Arundel Drive, Glasgow, was remanded on continuing bail after appearing before Judge Conor Fottrell at Dún Laoghaire District Court. He faces eight charges under the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act 1998. Six charges allege possession of child pornography on various electronic devices seized at a Monkstown address. On 13 March 2019, a MacBook Pro was alleged to contain 7,343 images and 2,108 videos; three USB devices were alleged to hold 16,545 images and 690 videos, 141 images and 548 videos, and 2,474 images and 2,076 videos. Two further possession charges involve a black OnePlus phone with 23,217 images and 832 videos, and a grey Dell laptop with 21 images and 30 videos, both seized at an Alma Road address on 21 July 2023.
A 77-year-old man with 470 previous convictions has been sentenced to two months in jail for threatening and abusive behaviour towards Luas staff. Paddy McCann, who was released on bail but failed to appear in court, was arrested for being intoxicated in a public place and failing to appear in court while on bail. He pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to two months in prison, to run concurrently with his existing three-month sentence for theft and public-order offences. His solicitor, Andrew Vallely, argued that McCann suffers from various medical issues and was more cogent when sober. Judge Anne Watkin noted that McCann had initially pleaded not guilty before changing his plea, which did not help his case. She sentenced him to two months in prison, taking into account his medical conditions and the fact that he was already serving another sentence.
A woman in her 30s accused of stabbing her partner with an eight-inch chef's knife has been remanded in custody after a judge said there was a "huge" likelihood of a further serious incident if she was released on bail. The woman appeared before Judge Anne Watkin at Dún Laoghaire District Court charged with assaulting her partner and causing him harm at a residence in Co Dublin on July 25, contrary to Section 3 of the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997. The man suffered a stab wound to his right forearm and was taken to hospital. Garda Andrew Shanley objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the allegation and concerns that the woman could commit a serious offence while on bail. The judge refused bail and remanded the woman in custody to appear before Court 2 at the Criminal Courts of Justice at 10.30am on August 12.
A 22-year-old man from New Ross, Co Wexford, has been charged with multiple assault and hate-aggravated assault charges following an alleged racist attack on two men outside a Tesco supermarket in Cherrywood, Dublin 18. The incident, which occurred on March 14 last year, allegedly involved the accused shouting, 'Come out, you Indians. I'll show you,' before punching one of the men in the face. The victim suffered a cut to his eyelid and bruising around his eye, while the second man was allegedly grabbed from behind but not injured. The court heard that the alleged incident was unprovoked and not linked to any demonstration or protest. The charges are based on the alleged racist motivation of the accused. The case was adjourned until October 13 to allow for the preparation of a book of evidence.
A judge has described it as 'outrageous' that solicitors who had left the criminal legal aid panel instructed another solicitor not to represent their client at a contested bail hearing. Patrick Daly (57) of Burton Park, Leopardstown Road, Dublin 18, appeared in custody before Dún Laoghaire District Court, where gardaí objected to bail on the grounds that he was a flight risk. Mr Daly faces five charges, including failing to appear in court, two counts of being intoxicated in a public place, refusing to provide his name and address to a garda, and causing €80 worth of criminal damage by urinating in the custody area at Dundrum Garda Station. Judge Watkin asked solicitor Andrew Vallely, who was present in court, to speak to the accused and consider representing him for the bail application. Mr Vallely initially told the court that he was reluctant to step in because the accused was already represented by another solicitors' firm.
Judge Anne Watkin discussed the challenge of balancing fairness with public safety as she dealt with a case where the accused had no legal representation due to ongoing industrial action by solicitors. The case involved Felipe Gonzalez Tadilha Nunez (26) of Mount Pleasant Avenue Lower, Dublin 6, who was accused of throwing two bags of suspected drugs into the Grand Canal and fleeing from gardaí. He appeared in custody before Dún Laoghaire District Court, charged with obstructing Garda Lee McEnroe under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Judge Watkin noted that Nunez had no solicitor because his was participating in the industrial action over criminal legal aid fees. She stated that she had to be more lenient in his case but also emphasized the need to ensure dangerous individuals were not released onto the streets. Nunez was granted bail on his own bond, subject to daily check-ins at Rathmines Garda station, surrendering his passport, and not applying for other travel documents. The court warned that failure to comply with these conditions would result in custody.
A 21-year-old man from Westport, Co Mayo, who is currently serving a 10-month sentence, has been spared additional jail time for stealing an electric scooter valued at €773. Edward Collins pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to stealing the Kukirin G2 Max e-scooter from Beechwood Court in Stillorgan on January 10 last year. Judge Anne Watkin noted that Collins has 14 previous convictions, including seven for theft and fraud, and six for road traffic offences. He also had 15 charges dismissed under the Probation of Offenders Act in January 2025. The judge acknowledged that the Probation Service had worked with Collins for about a year. Collins is currently serving consecutive sentences of seven months and three months, totaling 10 months. The three-month sentence relates to driving without insurance or a licence. His defence highlighted that Collins developed a cocaine addiction at 17 after associating with the wrong crowd. Judge Watkin placed him under the supervision of the Probation Service for 12 months, requiring him to report in person, notify of any address changes, and avoid illegal drugs.
A man accused of breaching a protection order by repeatedly slapping his wife on the back of the head has been granted bail after a judge found there was no evidence that he was likely to intimidate her. The man, in his 40s, appeared before Judge Anne Watkin at Dún Laoghaire District Court charged with breaching the order. It is alleged that he slapped his wife a number of times on the back of the head and shouted at her, putting her in fear. Garda Michael Grennan objected to bail, but Judge Watkin granted it, noting that the complainant could have declined to attend for any number of reasons. The conditions of bail include that the accused must reside at a new address, notify gardaí of any change, provide them with his phone number, and stay away from the family home. He was also ordered to have no contact with the applicant. The case was adjourned for eight weeks for disclosure, and legal aid was granted to the defence solicitor.
A woman with 218 previous convictions, including 15 for breaching domestic violence orders, has been jailed for two months after breaching a barring order and refusing to leave her mother's home. The woman, who is in her 40s, pleaded guilty to breaching the order at her mother's south Dublin home on June 29. The case was heard in camera, with the defendant's mother having obtained the barring order in October 2025 after previous assaults. The woman remained at her mother's home for three days, during which her mother saw her drinking and became concerned about potential violence. The court heard that the woman had been working full-time and was sober for nine months before the breach. However, her mental health deteriorated after she stopped taking her prescribed medication and began drinking again. Judge Anne Watkin noted the woman's 16th breach of a domestic violence order and sentenced her to two months in prison, taking into account her guilty plea and the time already spent in custody.
A Ukrainian woman accused of committing burglaries in south Dublin, including one at the home of a 99-year-old woman, has been refused bail. The woman, who is in her 30s and of no fixed abode, faces multiple charges, including two burglaries, unlawful entry into a vehicle, trespassing, and an alleged assault on a garda. Judge Anne Watkin described the allegations as serious and violent, noting the woman's conduct during the hearing and her likelihood to reoffend. The court heard that the woman allegedly confronted occupants at a residence, grabbed them by the throat, and demanded money. She is also accused of assaulting Garda Odhran Boyle during her arrest. The judge refused bail under Section 2 of the Bail Act, citing the seriousness of the charges and the risk of reoffending. The woman is due to appear again for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
A man in his 50s has been convicted and fined €500 for breaching a protection order, despite requesting a deferred case. The man, who resides in Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to breaching a protection order made in January 2025. The order was put in place following the breakdown of his relationship with the injured party, who is his former partner. The breach occurred on March 1, when he verbally abused the injured party and put her in fear. The court heard that the man had no previous convictions and was remorseful, but Judge Conor Fottrell emphasized the seriousness of the breach and the purpose of protection orders. The man was fined €500 and given six months to pay, with the court noting that the breach, although not violent, was still a serious matter.
Brian Dunne (41) of Ringsend, Dublin 4, has been granted bail after appearing before Judge Conor Fottrell at Dún Laoghaire District Court. Dunne is accused of assaulting a Tesco worker and damaging a garda station custody area on July 5. The court heard that Dunne had no legal representation due to the ongoing solicitors' strike over legal aid rates. Garda Rob Brennan stated there was no objection to bail as Dunne was unrepresented. Dunne was ordered to stay away from Baggot Street Upper, sign on daily at Irishtown Garda Station, and be of sober habits. The case highlights the impact of the legal aid dispute on the justice system, with delays in cases and difficulties in securing legal representation. The matter was adjourned to January 4 for further proceedings.
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 24-year-old man from Dublin has been refused bail after being charged with raping and sexually assaulting a teenage girl in a laneway on September 29, 2025. Appearing before Dún Laoghaire District Court, Judge Anne Watkin refused bail under Section 2 of the Bail Act, citing the seriousness of the alleged offences and the strength of the evidence, including CCTV and DNA evidence. The defence argued the accused was not a flight risk and had cooperated with gardaí. However, the judge noted the complainant was very nervous and that the evidence was compelling. She described the case as one of the most difficult she had dealt with, but ultimately ruled that the seriousness of the charges and the evidence meant bail must be refused. The accused was remanded in custody to Cloverhill Prison until July 7, with legal aid assigned.
A District Court judge has refused jurisdiction in the case of a woman who admitted stealing €5,500 in cash while working at Paddy Power, stating that taking that amount of money from an employer while in a position of trust was "not a minor matter." Connie Redmond (22), of Longmeadow Apartments, Conyngham Road, Dublin 8, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to stealing €5,500 in cash from Paddy Power at Upper Baggot Street, Dublin 4, on May 6, 2025. Redmond informed the court that her solicitor was not present due to the ongoing industrial action over legal aid rates. Judge Anne Watkin stated that the case should not proceed without the accused having legal representation. She also said she would be refusing jurisdiction, emphasizing that taking that amount of money from an employer while in a position of trust was not a minor matter. The judge ordered disclosure and adjourned the matter until September 8 for a Book of Evidence to be prepared and directions from another court.
A serial thief with 130 previous convictions has been spared additional jail time after admitting to stealing €165 worth of cosmetics from a Tesco store in Dún Laoghaire. Colin Kevitt (33), of Talbot Street, Dublin 1, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to stealing various cosmetics from Tesco at Bloomfield Shopping Centre on November 23, 2025. Represented by Berna Kennedy BL, Kevitt informed Judge Anne Watkin that he is already serving a 16-month prison sentence for theft. Sergeant Deirdre Ryan highlighted Kevitt's extensive criminal record. Judge Watkin sentenced him to two months' imprisonment, to be served concurrently with his existing sentence. A recognisance of €500 was set in the event of an appeal. The court acknowledged Kevitt's long history of theft-related convictions, but opted not to increase his sentence further.
A 62-year-old Dublin man accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl at a south Dublin Luas stop has been granted bail, despite Garda objections. The accused, who is legally entitled to anonymity, appeared before Dún Laoghaire District Court charged with the alleged offence. A garda objected to bail under Section 2 of the Bail Act, citing the seriousness of the alleged crime. Gardaí stated they were present at the Luas stop but did not witness the incident. The court heard that gardai had obtained CCTV footage of the alleged incident. The accused was allegedly highly intoxicated at the time and was arrested at his home the following morning. Judge Anne Watkin noted that the alleged assault was at the lower end of the scale of sexual assault offences and that there was insufficient evidence to establish a likelihood of further offending if bail was granted. The accused was granted bail on his own bond of €500, with conditions that he have no contact with the injured party, including through social media.
A judge has warned a pregnant woman that she will face jail if she steals again, after rejecting her claim that she was distracted by funeral arrangements following the death of her father-in-law. Emma Baker (33), of Heather Lawn, Ballinteer, Dublin 16, pleaded guilty to stealing €423.76 worth of clothing from Marks & Spencer and a pair of Puma Club 2 Era runners worth €70 from Elverys Sports at Dundrum Town Centre. Defending counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, told Dún Laoghaire District Court that the offences occurred on August 12, 2025, the same day Baker learned that her father-in-law had died. Judge Anne Watkin responded: "And because of that she decided to take a pair of shoes?" Mr O'Brien said Baker had funeral arrangements on her mind at the time. The judge replied: "She didn't have only funeral arrangements on her mind. She had a pair of shoes on her mind." Mr O'Brien said Baker had no issues with drugs or alcohol, was unemployed and was heavily pregnant.
Dozens of retail theft cases were heard in Dún Laoghaire District Court as part of 'Operation Táirge', a garda initiative targeting repeat offenders in south Dublin. One defendant, Patrick Connors (24), who is already serving a 22-month jail term, was sentenced to three months in prison for stealing €12 worth of alcohol from a Centra store. Connors, who has over 70 previous convictions, pleaded guilty to theft on July 30, 2025. His sentence will run concurrently with his existing term. Connors' case was one of 41 matters heard in court on Wednesday. Most of the cases were for mention only, with Judge Anne Watkin adjourning proceedings for approximately eight weeks for disclosure, including CCTV evidence. Some defendants failed to appear, leading to bench warrants, while others attended and were given dates for further hearings. A number of defendants appeared without legal representation amid ongoing action by criminal defence solicitors over legal aid fees. Judge Watkin reminded those without legal representation that they needed to know how they intended to plead ahead of their next court date.
A woman, Elisabeta Silaghi, who has 21 previous convictions, including six for theft, was warned by a judge that she would be sent to prison 'for as long as I can' if she reoffended. Silaghi pleaded guilty to stealing €885 worth of groceries from Dunnes Stores. The judge noted that this was Silaghi's seventh theft conviction and that her last theft conviction resulted in a fine. Rather than imposing a custodial sentence, the judge placed Silaghi on a probation bond. Silaghi was directed to notify the Probation Service of any change of address or phone number. The judge warned the defendant that she had been given a final opportunity to avoid prison, saying, 'One more time and it's jail.' Silaghi is raising her five-year-old child alone, is unemployed and reliant on social welfare. David Nally BL, defending, said his client was pleading guilty, was very apologetic and had accepted responsibility for her actions.
Ben Whelan, a 26-year-old diabetic man, was acquitted of public order charges after being found slumped over a railing in Ballsbridge. The court heard conflicting accounts from gardaí and the defense about whether Whelan was suffering a medical emergency or acting aggressively drunk. Whelan claimed he was in need of insulin and repeatedly told gardaí he required medical help. His girlfriend testified that he was unwell due to a lack of insulin and that she informed the gardaí of his condition. Judge Anne Watkin dismissed the charges, noting the lack of detailed notes and the possibility that Whelan was experiencing a medical episode rather than being intoxicated. The judge acknowledged that Whelan had admitted to being aggressive but questioned whether his actions met the legal threshold for a public order offense. The court ruled that there was enough doubt to dismiss both charges, considering the possibility that Whelan was in need of medical assistance rather than being drunk. Ben Whelan pleaded not guilty.
An aggressive beggar has been given a suspended jail sentence for obstructing elderly parishioners as they entered a church at Christmas and for fleeing from the arresting garda. Razvan Rostas, who receives €232 per week in social welfare, was found guilty of aggressive begging and obstructing a garda. The court heard that elderly parishioners had to move around Rostas at the church entrance, and he fled when arrested. Rostas has three previous convictions, including one for theft and two previous begging offences. The judge fined him €250 for the aggressive begging offence and gave him six months to pay. For obstructing the garda after fleeing arrest, the judge imposed a two-month prison sentence suspended for 12 months. The defense argued that the prosecution had not proven obstruction, but the judge accepted the evidence of the garda and found the obstruction proven. Razvan Rostas pleaded not guilty.
A man who was found walking on a Dublin street in the early hours of the morning, playing the ukulele and appearing intoxicated, has avoided a conviction after a judge heard that he had unknowingly consumed fortified wine. Killian Denny, 52, pleaded guilty to three public order offences, including intoxication and failing to provide his name and address to gardaí. The court heard that the wine he consumed had been given to him by a neighbour, who he believed to be normal wine. Denny, who lives alone and suffers from serious diabetes-related illnesses, was unaware of the high alcohol content of the wine. His defence solicitor highlighted that the alcohol had a particularly bad effect on him due to his medical condition. Judge Conor Fottrell applied the Probation Act and struck out the charges without conviction. The judge warned that the case serves as a reminder to be cautious of gifts from neighbours, particularly those they may not want.
A man accused of repeatedly slapping his wife after she did not cook him dinner has been granted bail, despite telling gardai he would 'go to India and not return'. The accused, in his forties, is charged with assault causing harm under the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act. Garda James Norris stated the alleged incident occurred late at night when the man returned home intoxicated. He allegedly slapped his wife multiple times, pulled her duvet, and followed her into the kitchen, where he slapped her again, causing her to fall. The alleged victim, who was not present at the hearing, is now seeking a safety order through the Family Courts. Garda Norris opposed bail, citing the accused's flight booking to India and his potential flight risk. The defence, led by Patricia Camillon, argued the accused has strong family ties, works part-time, and cares for their children. She noted his limited English and that he had a return flight booked. The accused is willing to surrender his passport permanently and has no prior court history.
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.
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.
Dylan Brady, 39, of Ballybrack, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to assaulting a garda, obstructing a garda, threatening and abusive behaviour, failing to comply with a garda direction, and violent disorderly behaviour. The court heard that Brady, who has 133 previous convictions, became abusive towards staff at St Vincent's University Hospital A&E on November 3, 2024. After refusing a direction to leave, he was arrested and taken to Donnybrook Garda Station. There, he allegedly continued to be abusive, slammed doors, and spat in the face of Garda Lee O'Donoghue while attempting to grab him. Defence solicitor Andrew Vallely stated that Brady suffers from schizophrenia and psychosis and was not medically compliant at the time, noting he is now in residential treatment at Coolmine Lodge. Judge Anne Watkin described the station behaviour as "pretty serious" but decided to deal with the matter under the Probation Act given the guilty plea and treatment progress. Brady was placed on a 12-month probation bond on his own bond of €500, with an independent surety of €500. Conditions include notifying gardaí if he leaves Coolmine Lodge, remaining off alcohol and illegal drugs, engaging with the Probation Service and treatment providers, taking prescribed medication, and completing residential treatment. Judge Watkin warned Brady he "will be jailed" if he commits any further offences.
A 19-year-old woman accused of biting her friend and damaging property after allegedly inhaling 'fast gas' has been sent forward for trial after a judge refused jurisdiction in the District Court. Abbie Glynn appeared before Dún Laoghaire District Court charged with assault causing harm and two counts of criminal damage, including damaging a television and a curtain pole. Gardaí alleged that Glynn bit the woman on the arm, causing bruising and breaking the skin, and also kicked her and struck her on the arms and hit her head off a television. She is also charged with pulling down and damaging a curtain pole. Judge Anne Watkin noted that the curtain pole's removal during the incident would have been intimidating for the injured party and said she would refuse jurisdiction. She granted Glynn bail on several conditions, including daily sign-on at a garda station, a curfew, and no contact with the injured party. Glynn was remanded on bail to appear again before the court on September 1.
A student who failed to repay €5,000 from a money laundering scheme has been given a year to make amends before a judge decides on his sentence. Michael Adeleke, 23, pleaded guilty to receiving €4,982 in an online bank transfer knowing it was the proceeds of crime. He was contacted on Snapchat and agreed to set up a bank account to make money. Judge Anne Watkin said Adeleke had not made any effort to repay the victim in three years and was not truly remorseful. She gave him one final chance to show genuine remorse and adjourned the case for 12 months. The judge warned that if he came to garda attention, a custodial sentence would be imposed. A probation report and a community service suitability report were ordered, and the case was adjourned to April 26, 2027 for sentencing.
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 District Court judge has refused jurisdiction in the case of a woman accused of having pepper spray and a hammer when she arrived at the home of a woman with whom she is alleged to have a dispute over a former boyfriend. Nadine Hess (39), from Johnstown Road, Cabinteely, Dublin 18, has pleaded not guilty to possessing pepper spray and a hammer, as well as engaging in threatening or abusive behaviour, at Fitzgerald Park, Monkstown, Co Dublin, on May 25, 2025. The court heard that Ms Hess arrived at Fitzgerald Park in a car with another woman, who is a co-accused in the case, despite neither living in the immediate area. Garda Lorraine Doyle told Judge Anne Watkin at Dún Laoghaire District Court that gardaí were alerted by an anonymous call over concerns about Ms Hess's presence outside the home of a woman she was in an alleged ongoing dispute with over a former boyfriend.
A judge has rejected a claim that ADHD caused a man to become so flustered when he lost his parking ticket that he attempted to tailgate another car to get through a barrier. Dean Carey (36) pleaded guilty to criminal damage to a barrier at Dundrum Town Centre, Dublin 14, on March 21 last. Sergeant Caoimhe Conroy told the court that Carey attempted to exit the car park by tailgating another vehicle, which resulted in damage to the barrier. Defence solicitor Patricia Camilon argued that Carey's ADHD caused him to become flustered and that he was under pressure as he was trying to get to his daughter's birthday. However, Judge Anne Watkin did not accept that ADHD explained the behaviour and said that becoming so flustered that a person behaves in this way raises concerns about judgment when driving. She rejected the explanation as a justification for attempting to leave the car park without paying. The judge fined Carey €400 with six months to pay and adjourned the case to April 28 next.
Dún Laoghaire District Court dismissed a €200 keg-theft charge against Niall Kelly after Judge Anne Watkin found a gap in the CCTV chain of custody. Kelly was separately placed on a €500 peace bond for 12 months after being accused of abusive behaviour towards a hospital worker. His defence said symptoms of Huntington's disease could be mistaken for intoxication, while the judge accepted the medical circumstances as mitigation but not an excuse for abuse. Niall Kelly pleaded not guilty.
John English pleaded guilty after stealing €25 of Smirnoff vodka from Tesco in Dún Laoghaire days after leaving prison. Judge Anne Watkin remanded him on bail with strict reporting, probation and treatment conditions, warning that a breach would lead to jail; the case was adjourned for a probation report.
A man in his 20s was refused bail at Dún Laoghaire District Court after being accused of assaulting a seven-year-old boy, allegedly causing a broken nose and fractured cheekbone. The judge cited the seriousness of the alleged injuries, evidence concerns and possible witness interference before remanding him in custody.
Laurance Connors admitted assaulting and abusing a garda who approached his van after it was parked on double yellow lines at Sandycove Point. The District Court ordered probation and community service assessments, including restorative driving programmes, before a September 14 finalisation hearing. Laurance Connors pleaded guilty.
Nigel Kennedy was charged after an incident at McIntosh Park, Cabinteely, that left a man in his 50s in serious condition in hospital. The charges include dangerous driving, assault causing harm, violent disorder and robbery; Dún Laoghaire District Court remanded Kennedy in custody and listed a possible bail application for March 18.
Aisling Cunningham pleaded guilty after directing abusive remarks at gardaí outside a Dún Laoghaire McDonald's while intoxicated. Judge Conor Fottrell imposed a €100 fine and a 12-month probation bond requiring her to avoid illegal drugs and engage with addiction supports.
A Dún Laoghaire District Court judge dismissed a charge that a man breached a protection order during a heated dispute involving his former partner, their children and two rescue dogs. Judge Anne Watkin found the evidence pointed to a domestic dispute and criticised the former partner's decision to arrive with the dogs expecting a confrontation.
Denniss Anolins pleaded guilty to driving while disqualified at Anglesea Road in Dublin 4. Judge Anne Watkin convicted him and imposed a three-month prison sentence, taking the guilty plea into account.
Iwana Waldynsk was fined after the court found she had refused to provide a blood or urine sample following her arrest. Judge Anne Watkin imposed a €1,500 fine and disqualified Waldynsk from driving for four years. Iwana Waldynsk pleaded not guilty.
A safety-order charge against a man in his 50s was dismissed at Dún Laoghaire District Court after Judge Anne Watkin found inaccuracies meant she could not rely on the complainant's evidence. The unnamed accused pleaded guilty.
A man accused of falsely imprisoning and strangling a woman had his bail revoked after refusing to sign on at Pearse Street Garda Station, claiming the conditions there infringe his human rights. Elric Kibangou Diansa (36), originally from France and residing in Dublin since November 2024, had previously been granted bail for charges of false imprisonment and intentionally or recklessly strangling a woman on June 20, 2025. Gardaí had objected to bail under the O'Callaghan principles, citing the seriousness of the charges, the alleged breach of bail conditions, and concerns about possible interference with the injured party. The court heard that Mr Kibangou Diansa had not provided a new address and was believed to be couch surfing. He stated he stopped signing on because he was required to wait between two-and-a-half and three hours at Pearse Street Garda Station, which he described as overcrowded and dirty, with vomit on the floor and drunk people spitting in the waiting area. He claimed it was a breach of his human rights and civil liberties.
A 63-year-old man, Michael Donnelly, accused of assaulting his sister during a will dispute had the charge against him dismissed after CCTV footage contradicted key parts of the complainant's account. Donnelly had pleaded not guilty to a Section 2 assault at Woodley Park in 2024. The court heard that the complainant and another sibling arrived at their late mother's house, where Donnelly was living, seeking access to the property. Mobile phone and doorbell footage showed the complainant and another sibling at the doorway filming Donnelly during a heated exchange. The complainant claimed her wrist was struck and that she had difficulty moving her hand. However, the footage showed the phone was in her left hand when it was struck away. The defense highlighted inconsistencies in the complainant's account, noting that she referred to her right hand being struck. Judge Anne Watkin noted the inconsistency between the medical report and the footage and accepted the credibility concerns raised by the defense. She concluded that the charge could not be proven beyond reasonable doubt and dismissed it.
A 23-year-old woman has been fined €500 for driving an electric scooter in a public place in Dublin nearly three years ago, when such vehicles were not legally allowed on Irish roads. Maria Jigala, who resides at Ticknock Road, Sandyford, Dublin 18, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to driving an electric scooter without insurance on 23 March 2023, in Stepaside Village. She was stopped following a report of a minor collision. Gardai stated that Jigala, who required a Moldovan interpreter, had no previous convictions and had not been in contact with gardaí since the incident. She was described as co-operative at the time. Her defence counsel, Silvia-Maria Crowley BL, explained that her client works as a beauty specialist and needed the ability to drive for work. She had been trying to arrange insurance but had not been successful. Judge Conor Fottrell noted that the case was primarily about the lack of insurance. He imposed a fine of €500, with six months to pay. Other charges, including failing to produce insurance and driving without a licence, were also considered.
A homeless man who stole €15 worth of food from a Spar store in Dublin due to 'desperation' has received a suspended sentence. Amiran Zaalishvili, 33, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to stealing groceries from the Spar store at Leopardstown Valley Shopping Centre on 14 May 2021. He admitted selecting goods valued at €15.75 and leaving without paying. The items were not recovered. His defence counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, explained that Zaalishvili was effectively homeless at the time and had no money to buy food, with the theft being a result of desperation. The court heard that Zaalishvili has 26 previous convictions, including drug-related offences, assault, and traffic violations. Judge Conor Fottrell noted the small value of the stolen goods but highlighted the defendant's extensive criminal history. The judge imposed a two-month custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months, with the condition that Zaalishvili enter into a €200 bond to keep the peace and be of good behaviour.
A serial roads offender, Owen Comerford (35), of Balally Drive, Dundrum, Dublin 16, has been sentenced to four months in prison and disqualified from driving for 10 years after being caught driving for a third time while banned. Comerford pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to driving without insurance and without a valid licence in Sandyford Village, Dublin 18, on 16 January last. The court heard that Comerford was driving a black 2010 Vauxhall Insignia in a public place while uninsured and without a valid licence. Judge Anne Watkin noted that Comerford has 99 previous convictions, including multiple charges for driving without insurance, driving without a licence, and various other offences. He has been disqualified from driving on three previous occasions, with this being his third conviction for driving while disqualified. The court was informed that Comerford had most recently been disqualified in November and was already subject to a 10-year driving ban at the time of the offence.
Donna Kane, a serial offender with 43 previous convictions, has been given a two-year probation bond after pleading guilty to stealing over €950 worth of goods from Superdrug. Kane had previously breached a probation order and committed further offenses shortly after. However, the court heard that she had not committed any offenses since March 2024 and had engaged with treatment and recovery services. Judge Anne Watkin noted Kane's progress and decided to give her 'one more opportunity' to stay on the right path. Kane's employer provided a character reference, highlighting her reliability and willingness. The judge warned that if Kane committed any further offenses during the probation period, the consequences would be serious. Kane accepted responsibility for her actions and had taken steps to address her issues, including participating in a drug recovery program.
A woman who stole over €1,200 worth of clothing from Marks and Spencer has been fined €1,500 by a judge at Dún Laoghaire District Court. Susan McCullough, 41, pleaded guilty to the theft, which occurred on April 23, 2025. The court heard that the stolen items were of significant value and consisted of various pieces of clothing. Defence counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, explained that McCullough had recently started a new job and was dealing with personal difficulties, including caring for her grandfather, mental health struggles, and grief following the death of her grandmother. The court was informed that McCullough had issues with alcohol at the time and accepted that she had no good excuse for the theft. A letter from her GP outlined her struggles with anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. Judge Anne Watkin acknowledged the seriousness of the offence but noted the steps McCullough had taken since, including engaging with counselling services.
A 23-year-old man who was on a suspended sentence for aggravated burglary and assault when he threatened to kill another motorist who overtook him has been sent for a probation report. Sean Maher pleaded guilty to making a threat to kill or cause serious harm. The incident occurred on Convent Road, Blackrock, when Maher revved his engine after being overtaken and threatened the other driver. The injured party did not attend court. The defence said Maher was suffering from depression and ADHD and was changing medication at the time. Judge Anne Watkin questioned whether the medication was being used as an excuse and noted Maher's previous convictions. She adjourned the case for a probation report to assess his medical situation and the likelihood of reoffending.