The Special Criminal Court will hear the closing submissions of the three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, on Monday. The trial began in September and has lasted almost four months. The defendants – Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44) – have pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), who was involved in the planning, turned State witness and gave evidence in November implicating the three. The court has considered evidence including Cullen's testimony, clothing, fingerprints and forensic samples taken from Evans and McGrath after their arrest. The proceedings will be heard by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy, Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan and Judge Cormac Dunne. The case is set to conclude with the court's decision on the admissibility of the evidence and the final judgment.
The State has closed its case in the Special Criminal Court trial of three Dubliners charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, outside a Meath pub. The incident occurred on 6 March 2013 in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston. The accused—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—had pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), had previously testified against them. The prosecution's evidence, including testimony that Butterly was lured to the car park by a man who fired shots from a Toyota Corolla, was fully presented. With all evidence called, the State has formally closed its case, and the trial will continue before the judges on Friday. The summary is based solely on the article text.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 14 January 2015, Sharif Kelly, 44, denied that the clothing found in his car after the murder of Peter Butterly was a change of clothes for the killer. Kelly said he had been driving from tending his horse when his engine light came on and the car conked on Flemington Road. He claimed to have restarted the vehicle before Gardaí approached and arrested him. He also denied any knowledge of the murder or of following the murder vehicle. Kelly stated the duvet cover in his boot was to keep the car clean while collecting hay, not for forensic purposes. DNA evidence linked tracksuit clothing to Dean Evans, a balaclava and gloves to Evans, and a wig to Edward McGrath. The trial was in its 48th day, with prosecution evidence to finish on Thursday. Sharif Kelly pleaded not guilty. Dean Evans pleaded not guilty. Edward McGrath pleaded not guilty.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, forensic evidence was presented linking firearms residue to the clothing of two of the three men charged with the 2013 murder of Peter Butterly. Dr John O'Shaughnessy testified that a grey jumper worn by Dean Evans and a grey jacket worn by Edward McGrath contained gunshot residue. DNA analysis of items linked to Sharif Kelly's wife's vehicle revealed a match to Evans on a tracksuit, a balaclava and gloves, and a match to McGrath on a black wig. The court heard that DNA can be transferred between individuals and persist for long periods. The trial, now in its 47th day, is expected to conclude with the prosecution's evidence on Wednesday, before a three‑judge panel presided by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy. The defendants remain not guilty on all charges.
Two men from Louth were granted bail by the Special Criminal Court pending the service of a book of evidence for separate offences. Michael Connolly, 42, of Dundalk was charged with membership of an unlawful organisation, the Irish Republican Army, on 16 December. Brian Fitzpatrick, 49, of Dundalk was charged with two counts of possession of an explosive substance under suspicious circumstances, alleged to be two complete Improvised Explosive Devices, on the same day at Mitchelstown Cross, Castletown, Navan, Co. Meath. Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding with Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan and Judge William Hamill, ordered bail for both men on terms agreed with counsel. The conditions include daily signing at Dundalk Garda station, a curfew from 11 pm to 7 am, surrendering passports, remaining within the jurisdiction, residing at addresses known to Gardaí and providing a mobile phone number for contact. Independent sureties of €20,000 each and bonds of €100 were set, and legal aid was granted.
Two men from Louth, aged 42 and 49, were brought before the Special Criminal Court on 18 December 2014. Michael Connolly of Dundalk was charged with membership of an unlawful organisation, the Irish Republican Army (IRA). Brian Fitzpatrick of Dundalk was charged with two counts of possession of an explosive substance under suspicious circumstances, alleged to be two complete improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Both men were arrested on 16 December at the same car park outside Drogheda Garda Station. Connolly denied membership of the IRA when cautioned, and Fitzpatrick denied possession of explosives. Garda Colm Finnerty and Detective Garda Niall Armstrong gave evidence of the arrests, charges and cautions. The court granted an order to preserve any external CCTV footage from Drogheda Garda Station and remanded both men in custody until Tuesday, when Connolly will apply for bail and legal aid.
The trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly for the alleged murder of Peter Butterly and related firearm offences continued at the Special Criminal Court. All three defendants, who are accused of killing the 35-year-old father of two in Gormanston, Co Meath, have pleaded not guilty. Evans and McGrath also face firearm charges on the same occasion. On the fortieth day of the trial, David Cullen, a former accused who turned State's witness, testified that he would have "lied through his teeth" if he had stood trial for murder. Cullen admitted to a history of dishonesty, including lying to gardai and committing thefts, but denied being prepared to commit perjury. He stated he would lie to avoid life imprisonment. The prosecution alleges Cullen was part of the murder plan before his cooperation. The court heard evidence regarding Cullen's credibility and past criminal conduct, including a faked burglary and theft of rings and a phone. The trial is ongoing, with no findings, sentences, or finalisations recorded at this stage.
The trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly for the murder of Peter Butterly is continuing before the Special Criminal Court. The three defendants, who are alleged to have murdered the 35-year-old father of two and committed firearm offences on the same occasion, have all pleaded not guilty. During cross-examination, State witness David Cullen, a former co-accused who turned State's witness, denied that joining the Witness Protection Programme would be an attractive option. Defence counsel for Sharif Kelly suggested Cullen had little to lose and that leaving Ireland would be a fresh start, citing Cullen's limited family connections. Cullen rejected this characterization, though he acknowledged a phone conversation with his father where he described going abroad as a "fresh start" to escape local issues. Cullen, who is currently serving a three-and-a-half-year sentence for lesser offences, agreed he faced a serious risk of a life sentence for the Butterly murder. He also acknowledged offering the State information on other high-profile murders to secure his deal. The trial is proceeding before a three-judge, non-jury court presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy.
The Special Criminal Court will rule on Tuesday regarding the disclosure of communications between the chief prosecution witness and his solicitor. This procedural issue arose on the 35th day of the trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly, who are accused of murdering dissident republican Peter Butterly. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the murder of the 35-year-old father of two. Evans and McGrath have additionally pleaded not guilty to firearm offences on the same occasion. The court heard that David Cullen, the State's witness, agreed to disclose documents relating to his communications with his solicitor since June 5, 2014. However, the State maintained this was not a general waiver of legal professional privilege, while defence lawyers sought disclosure of all such communications. Cullen, who is currently serving a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence, allegedly turned State's witness after being part of the murder plan. He implicated the three accused in Butterly's shooting in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6, 2013. During cross-examination, Cullen raised privilege claims and requested to speak to his solicitor, a request the court initially refused before acceding to it. The three-judge, non-jury court will consider its ruling on the disclosure matter over the weekend.
The Special Criminal Court heard that chief prosecution witness David Cullen has agreed to voluntarily disclose some communications with his solicitor, Mr Dominic Mc Ginn SC, to the defence. This disclosure covers documents from June 5, 2014, but does not constitute a general waiver of his claim to legal professional privilege. Prosecuting counsel Ms Una Ni Raifeartaigh SC noted that Cullen previously refused to answer cross-examination questions regarding these communications, asserting his privilege. The court is currently hearing legal submissions on the scope of this disclosure, as defence lawyers seek access to all such communications. Cullen, who is serving a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence, allegedly turned State's witness after being part of the murder plan. He implicated the three accused in the shooting of dissident republican Peter Butterly, a 35-year-old father of two, in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6, 2013. The defendants are Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33), and Sharif Kelly (44). All three have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Evans and McGrath have additionally pleaded not guilty to firearm offences on the same occasion. The trial, which is on its 34th day, is continuing.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly, who are accused of murdering Peter Butterly at the Huntsman Inn in March 2013, continued with procedural developments regarding State witness David Cullen. Evans, McGrath, and Kelly have pleaded not guilty to the murder, while Evans and McGrath also face firearm charges. Cullen, who previously pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol and was jailed for three-and-a-half years, entered the witness box to request a consultation with his solicitor before continuing his cross-examination. Although the court initially refused, presiding Justice Deirdre Murphy ultimately granted the request, noting it was appropriate for the witness to receive legal advice on arising issues. Cullen had previously testified that he was part of a plan to pick up a gun, which he later claimed was used in the killing. He described receiving ammunition from Evans and witnessing a gun thrown from a car near Gormanston College. The court heard that Butterly was shot in the car park after being lured there. The trial, which involves a non-jury panel, was adjourned to continue on Tuesday before Justices Murphy, Heneghan, and Judge Dunne.
Michael Barr, 34, originally from Tyrone and now living in Dublin, was denied bail by the Special Criminal Court after applying to attend a family member's special birthday. Barr faces charges of membership in the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and handling stolen electronic equipment worth €77,900, both alleged on 18 July. He had previously been charged with IRA membership on 3 July 2013, was granted bail a month later, and remained on bail until his arrest in Lucan on 18 July. Barr's counsel, Siobhán Ní Chúlacháin, argued for bail on the grounds of a family celebration and a neurological issue that had caused his left eye to collapse, citing a 'Go Slow' protest that prevented access to his medical records. The State, represented by Vincent Heneghan, countered that Barr had breached bail for the first offence.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly, who are accused of murdering Peter Butterly at the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston on March 6, 2013, continues before a three-judge bench. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge; Evans and McGrath also face firearm offences. Former co-accused David Cullen, who pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol and was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in July, testified as a State witness. Cullen admitted requesting to give evidence behind security glass to avoid public view, citing safety concerns, though he had not yet been accepted into the Witness Protection Programme. He alleged that Kelly and an unidentified man, MD, recruited him to retrieve a gun, which was later thrown from a car near Gormanston College. Cullen stated Evans and McGrath stayed at his apartment the night before the killing, with Evans providing ammunition and McGrath bringing a bag containing a gun and disguises. The court heard Butterly was lured to the car park, where shots were fired at his vehicle and then at him as he fled. The trial is ongoing and was not adjourned or finalised during this reporting period.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence from David Cullen, a former murder accused who turned State's witness, in the ongoing trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly. The three men have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6, 2013. Evans and McGrath also face firearm offences at the same location and date. Cullen, who pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol at the scene, was jailed for three-and-a-half years in July. His plea was accepted by the DPP, resulting in a nolle prosequi on the murder count. Cullen testified that he was instructed to pick up a gun outside Gormanston College on the day of the shooting, identifying Evans and McGrath as individuals present at his apartment beforehand. He claimed Evans provided ammunition and that McGrath retrieved a bag containing the firearm and disguises. Cullen stated he was arrested immediately after picking up the gun. Under cross-examination, he denied planning the murder, stating he did not commit it and sought to avoid a life sentence. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy, warned against disruption as Cullen's evidence caused significant security arrangements and queues. The trial continues before a three-judge panel.
In the Special Criminal Court on 18 November 2014, a security operation created long queues as the court prepared to hear evidence from former co‑accused David Cullen, now a State witness. Judge Deirdre Murphy noted the high emotions in the courtroom and urged calm. The case concerns the 2013 murder of Peter Butterly, 35, shot in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston. Three men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—have pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences at the same location. Cullen, 30, had been part of the alleged murder plan but turned State witness earlier that year. He identified the accused, described being told to retrieve a gun from outside Gormanston College around 2 p.m. on the day of the shooting, and recounted the sequence of shots fired at Butterly's vehicle.
Two Dublin men, Stephen Hendrick, 47, of Ballymun, and Pierce Moran, 59, of East Wall, were charged at the Special Criminal Court on 17 November 2014 with membership of the Irish Republican Army, an unlawful organisation. Hendrick faced additional charges of unlawful possession of firearms, ammunition and an explosive substance. The firearms alleged to be in his possession included a Kalashnikov assault rifle, a Glock magazine, a Glock slide and firing pin, and 125 rounds of ammunition for the rifle plus five shotgun cartridges. He was also charged with possession of flexible PETN‑filled tubing. Moran was charged with unlawful possession of four semi‑automatic pistols, a sawn‑off shotgun and assorted ammunition. Both men were arrested at their homes on 15 November, declined to stand when the registrar read the charges, and were remanded in custody until 26 November, when they will appear by video link.
Brian Meehan, aged 47 and serving a life sentence in Portlaoise prison for the 1996 murder of journalist Veronica Guerin, has applied to quash his 1999 conviction on the grounds of a miscarriage of justice. The appeal is based on new evidence that emerged during the 2001 Special Criminal Court trial of John Gilligan, who was acquitted of Guerin's murder but convicted of cannabis importation. Meehan's case, brought under Section 2 of the Criminal Procedures Act, argues that the new facts disclosed in Gilligan's trial demonstrate that his conviction was wrongful. The Director of Public Prosecutions had previously sought to dismiss the application, but the Court of Criminal Appeal refused that motion earlier this year. Submissions for Meehan's appeal are nearly complete, and the Court of Appeal has listed the case for mention again on December 15, with a hearing date to be fixed thereafter. The appeal remains pending, and no further outcome has been announced.
Security arrangements are being prepared for a former murder suspect who has become a prosecution witness in the Special Criminal Court trial of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly. The accused, Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44), have pleaded not guilty to the killing of Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn on 6 March 2013. They also face firearm charges. David Cullen (30), who was allegedly part of the murder plan, has turned State's witness. Counsel for the DPP, Alex Owens SC, announced that Cullen will be called first on Tuesday, with security measures to be arranged by Gardaí and the Irish Prison Service. The court has directed that evidence from the National Surveillance Unit remain confidential, and that members of the public be excluded from the courtroom during their testimony.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on the murder of Peter Butterly, the last National Surveillance Unit officer to give secret evidence left the courtroom through the custody area. The court ordered that no evidence or identities of the NSU officers be made public and that the public be excluded from the courtroom during their testimony to protect the officers' physical characteristics and the unit's methodology. The prosecution, led by Úna Ní Raifeartaigh SC, noted that the NSU witnesses had been fully presented and no further public exclusion was required. The trial, presided over by Justice Deirdre Murphy, Justice Margaret Heneghan and Judge Cormac Dunne, also entered a voir dire to decide on the legality of the accused men's arrest, detention and vehicle searches. The case involves four men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33), Sharif Kelly (44) and David Cullen (30)—who pleaded not guilty to the murder and related firearm offences.
On 13 November 2014, the Special Criminal Court heard secret evidence from members of the National Surveillance Unit (NSU) regarding the murder of Peter Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, County Meath, on 6 March 2013. The court directed that no NSU evidence or identities be made public and that the public not be present during NSU testimony. Two NSU members gave evidence and left through the custody area to avoid identification. The trial, day 27, involves three men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33), and Sharif Kelly (44)—who pleaded not guilty to Butterly's murder and to firearm offences at the same location and time. A fourth man, Dave Cullen (30), is a State witness. Prosecuting counsel, Úna Ní Raifeartaigh SC, described how Butterly was lured to the car park, shot at his vehicle, and later found collapsed by a lone Garda, dying shortly thereafter. The trial continues.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, the court considered the seizure of a mobile phone from David Cullen, a former murder suspect who has become a prosecution witness. Cullen, aged 30 and formerly of Balbriggan, had been part of the alleged murder plan for Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old dissident republican shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013. He now testifies against three men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—who plead not guilty to the murder and related firearm offences. The court rejected the defence's request to disclose recordings of Cullen's phone calls, citing that no State agency had been identified and that relevant telephone conversations had already been disclosed. The hearing also addressed whether evidence of the accused men's arrest, detention and vehicle searches could be admitted, with a ruling expected next week. The case will resume on Tuesday before the same panel of judges.
Paul Mason, 26, of Ballygarra Park, Garristown, was brought before the Special Criminal Court on 6 November 2014. He had previously been charged with membership of the Irish National Liberation Army (INLA) on 7 May 2014. At the hearing, a new charge was added: assault causing harm to a man on 16 February 2014 at The Saltings, Annagassan, Co Louth, under section 3 of the Non‑Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997. When presented with the charge sheet, Mason denied the assault. The court noted that the bail conditions attached to the original INLA charge also applied to the new assault charge. A book of evidence had been served, and the court extended legal aid to the case. Mason had been granted bail on the INLA charge in May, despite Garda objections over the amount of the independent surety. The case was scheduled for mention again on 11 December 2014.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 6 November 2014, Dean Byrne, 23, of Drumcairn Park, Tallaght, was remanded in custody after being charged with membership of an unlawful organisation styled the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and with unlawful possession of a 9x18mm Makarov PM pistol, its magazine and 10 rounds of 9x18mm ammunition. The charges stemmed from an operation on 5 June 2014 in which Byrne and another man were arrested by the Special Detective Unit and the Garda Crime and Security branch. Byrne had previously been granted bail on a €1,000 personal bond, a €20,000 independent surety and was required to sign daily at Tallaght Garda Station, observe a curfew from midnight to 7 am, surrender his passport and avoid contact with convicted persons.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 5 November 2014, Michael Barr, aged 34 and resident of Premier Square, Finglas, was charged with handling stolen electronic equipment valued at €77,900. The property, belonging to Pauline Turner of DSG Retail Ireland Ltd, was found at Finnstown House Hotel, Newcastle Road, Lucan, Co. Dublin on 18 July 2014. Barr had previously been charged on 18 July with membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA), an unlawful organisation. The court, presided over by Justice Deirdre Murphy, received a new non‑scheduled offence charge from State Solicitor Ms Irene Daly. Barr appeared in court wearing blue jeans, a Dublin GAA jersey and a navy hoody, and was remanded in custody to appear again on 19 November for mention. The case was brought before the Special Criminal Court because the Director of Public Prosecutions had certified that ordinary courts were inadequate to secure effective administration of justice and preserve public peace and order.
On 31 October 2014, the Special Criminal Court heard further evidence in the trial of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly. Officers from the National Surveillance Unit had been giving evidence, but members of the public were excluded to protect the officers' identities and the unit's methodology. Garda D was escorted through the courtroom custody area because lawyers for the State said he could not walk "out into the public as normal." Public members were again allowed to enter the non‑jury court to hear continuing evidence from the Emergency Response Unit, though that evidence may not yet be admissible. The trial focuses on the legality of the arrests. The accused—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly (35), who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013.
In the Special Criminal Court, the legality of the arrest of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly was a key issue. The defendants—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—had pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences at the same scene. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), had turned State's witness. The court heard that Butterly, aged 35, was lured to the car park of the Huntsman Inn on 6 March 2013, where a Toyota Corolla entered and shots were fired at his vehicle and as he fled. Prosecutor Úna Ní Raifeartaigh SC reported Butterly was found collapsed and pronounced dead. The case, involving a tracking device on the Corolla, will continue tomorrow before the panel of judges. The public was allowed to re‑enter the courtroom after a surveillance garda was escorted through the custody area. The evidence of the Emergency Response Unit remains potentially inadmissible.
The trial of Dean Evans, Edward McGrath, and Sharif Kelly for the murder of Peter Butterly and associated firearm offences continued in the Special Criminal Court. All three defendants, who are alleged to have shot Butterly dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6, 2013, have pleaded not guilty. Evans and McGrath also face firearm charges for the same incident. The court heard evidence from National Surveillance Unit gardaí, who exited the courtroom via the custody area to protect their identities and operational methodology. Defence counsel Gaillíosa O'Lideadha SC argued that the storage of these witnesses in a shared room before testimony compromised the integrity of the process, a claim the prosecution rejected as a logistical necessity. The court has also heard that a fourth man, David Cullen, allegedly part of the murder plan, turned State's witness. Evidence indicated Butterly was lured to the scene, where shots were fired at his vehicle and as he attempted to flee. The prosecution noted this is the first case in the State's history involving a tracking device on a vehicle. The matter was adjourned and continues before a three-judge panel.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 29 October 2014, two surveillance gardaí—identified only as Garda C and Garda F—gave evidence in the murder trial of three men charged with the killing of dissident republican Peter Butterly. The court ordered that neither the identities nor the evidence of eleven gardaí from the National Surveillance Unit be published, citing concerns that disclosure could compromise future surveillance operations and the unit's methodology. The trial involves Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33), and Sharif Kelly (44), all of whom pleaded not guilty to Butterly's murder, a 35‑year‑old who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013. The court also heard that a Toyota Corolla entered the car park shortly before the shooting and that a tracking device was sought for the vehicle. The case was set to continue before Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy, Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan and Judge Cormac Dunne.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 28 October 2014, four surveillance gardaí gave evidence in the murder trial of Peter Butterly, a 35‑year‑old dissident republican shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013. The defendants – Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44) – pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences committed at the same address and date. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), had earlier turned State witness. The court excluded the public to protect the methodology of the National Surveillance Unit (NSU) officers, who were identified only as Garda A, Garda E, Garda H and Garda W. The judges ordered that the officers' names be withheld from publication and that none of their evidence be published. The trial continued the next day with the same panel of judges. The case remains in the non‑jury court.
In a trial before the Special Criminal Court, three men—Dean Evans (24), Edward McGrath (33) and Sharif Kelly (44)—were charged with the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly (35), who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co. Meath, on 6 March 2013. The defendants pleaded not guilty to the murder charge and to firearm offences at the same address. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), had earlier turned State witness against his co‑accused. 18‑year‑old Sean Brennan, a sixth‑year secondary school student, testified that he was waiting for a bus opposite the Inn when he heard a noise, saw a man with a gun, and heard two to three shots. He described the gun as in the man's right hand and the shots as sharp and quick.
Three judges of the Special Criminal Court admitted that a technical glitch of their own making has delayed the delivery of a ruling in the murder trial of Peter Butterly. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy, Ms Justice Margaret Heneghan and Judge Cormac Dunne, will hear from its first witness tomorrow. The case involves three men—Edward McGrath (33), Dean Evans (24) and Sharif Kelly (44)—who have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn on 6 March 2013. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), turned State witness. The court has ordered that members of the public be excluded while eleven National Surveillance Unit officers give evidence, and that none of the officers' evidence be published to protect their methodology.
The Special Criminal Court will hear the first witness in the trial of three Dublin men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013. The accused – Edward McGrath (33), Dean Evans (24) and Sharif Kelly (44) – have pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences at the same address. A fourth man, David Cullen (30), who was part of the murder plan, turned State witness earlier this year. The court has heard that Butterly was lured to the car park by an unknown man, a Toyota Corolla entered the premises, and shots were fired at Butterly's vehicle and when he tried to flee. Gardaí used a tracking device on the vehicle, a first in State history. The court also dealt with pre‑trial applications, the transformation of Cullen into a prosecution witness, and the protection of surveillance evidence.
The Special Criminal Court heard the trial of three Dublin men—Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22), and Sharif Kelly (43)—charged with the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly (35) on 6 March 2013. Butterly was lured to the Huntsman Inn car park, where a Toyota Corolla entered and shots were fired at his vehicle and again when he tried to flee. The men pleaded not guilty to the murder and to firearm offences. The court also considered the use of a tracking device on the Corolla, the first time such a device has been mentioned in a State case. A senior Garda explained the device's deployment was protected to safeguard investigative methods from potential misuse by the IRA or other hostile groups. The court will rule on the disclosure of redacted surveillance material tomorrow. The hearing is set to continue with Judges Margaret Heneghan and Cormac Dunne presiding under Justice Deirdre Murphy.
Darren Weldon, aged 43, was arrested by the Special Detective Unit on Tuesday as part of an investigation into the February 22, 2010 bomb attack on Newry Courthouse. The attack involved a large car bomb that exploded outside the courthouse, damaging its gate while police were evacuating the area. Weldon, who lives at Drinadaly, Trim, Co Meath, was charged this morning before the non‑jury Special Criminal Court with membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA). He appeared in court wearing a grey cardigan and jeans and denied ever being a member of the IRA. The court, presided over by Justice Garrett Sheehan with Justice Deirdre Murphy and Judge Margaret Heneghan, remanded Weldon in custody to appear again on October 21. The case is pending further hearings, with potential applications for bail and legal aid expected.
The Special Criminal Court, a non‑jury court, is set to decide on several legal matters in the trial of three men—Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22) and Sharif Kelly (43)—who have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly (35). Butterly was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on 6 March 2013. The defendants also face firearm charges. The court will consider the State's request to allow surveillance officers to give evidence anonymously, citing a 1996 law that permits such testimony when public interest and safety warrant it. The prosecution seeks to erect a screen between surveillance officers and the public to protect the witnesses' identities. The case also involves forensic evidence, firearm residue, DNA, and testimony from David Cullen (30), who was previously jailed for unlawful possession of a pistol and whose role in the murder plan is contested. The court will rule on these matters tomorrow.
The Special Criminal Court is hearing a prosecution application to allow nine National Surveillance Unit gardaí to give evidence anonymously in the trial of Edward McGrath, Dean Evans, and Sharif Kelly. The three defendants, who have pleaded not guilty to the 2013 murder of Peter Butterly at the Huntsman Inn in Gormanston, Co Meath, face additional firearm charges. Prosecution counsel argued that the non-jury court's statutory powers permit witness protection to address safety concerns for the officers and their families, citing the court's mandate to control its own procedures. Defence counsel for Evans contended that the court lacks jurisdiction to grant anonymity, describing such a ruling as an extraordinary departure from common law and the right to know one's accuser. He noted that one witness, referred to as Garda A, had already been identified in statements in error. The presiding judge, Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy, highlighted the significant legal implications of setting aside the right to know the identity of an accuser. The court, consisting of Judges Margaret Heneghan and Cormac Dunne, is scheduled to deliver its ruling on the anonymity application tomorrow.
In October 2014, Declan Phelan, a 32‑year‑old from Tallaght, was denied bail by the Special Criminal Court after being charged twice with membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA). The first charge dated March 29, 2013, followed a search of a commercial premises in Clondalkin linked to a Garda investigation into dissident republicans. Phelan had previously been granted bail on conditions that he not associate with co‑accused or anyone convicted of a scheduled offence, keep the peace, and be of good behaviour. He was arrested again on July 3, 2013, at an alleged IRA meeting in Tallaght, where seven men were detained for membership of an unlawful organisation. His counsel, Feargal Kavanagh SC, noted he had no prior convictions and had been on remand for fifteen months, offered a job pending release. Judge Garrett Sheehan, joined by Judges Cormac Dunne and Margaret Heneghan, refused bail, citing the seriousness of breaching the first condition.
The Special Criminal Court is set to rule on a disclosure application in the trial of Edward McGrath, Dean Evans, and Sharif Kelly. The three men have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn at Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6th, 2013. McGrath and Evans also face firearm offences at the same address and date, while all three are charged with the unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol. The prosecution intends to rely on the testimony of David Cullen, who previously pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of the same firearm and was jailed for three-and-a-half years. Cullen's plea was accepted by the DPP, resulting in a nolle prosequi on the murder count. Defence counsel have sought extensive disclosures regarding Cullen's credibility, including medical records, his witness protection application, and confirmation of whether he was a garda informant. The DPP described these requests as an attempt to impugn Cullen's character, while defence lawyers argued the disclosure process was unsatisfactory. The court will also rule on a DPP application to screen nine National Surveillance Unit gardaí to protect their identities. The matter was adjourned for the court's decision on these procedural issues.
Three men—Gareth Mulley (45) of Ashling Park, Dundalk; David Gallagher (37) of Marley Court, Drogheda; and William Burns (38) of Kerrera Street, Ardoyne, Belfast—were served with a book of evidence in the Special Criminal Court on 8 October 2014. They were arrested in May by the Garda Special Detective Unit during investigations into dissident republican activity. All are charged with possession of explosive substances on 25 May 2014 at Kilcurry, Co. Louth, under the Explosive Substances Act and the Offences Against the State (Amendment) Act. Allegations include possession of PETN, RDX, an adapted 50‑litre beer keg, 50 kg of homemade ammonium nitrate, an improvised detonation cord, steel booster tube, and a time‑and‑power unit. Mulley and Gallagher are also charged with membership of an unlawful organisation, namely Oglaigh na hEireann (the IRA), under the Offences Against the State Act.
A 55‑year‑old man named Samuel Devlin, originally from Northern Ireland but residing in Dublin, was charged in May 2014 with unlawful possession of the explosive substance Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate (PETN) at Finnstown House Hotel, Lucan, Co. Dublin. He was also charged with membership of the unlawful organisation Oglaigh na hEireann, the Irish Republican Army (IRA). Devlin was arrested by the Special Detective Unit and charged before the Special Criminal Court. On 7 October 2014, the court was told that Devlin had been served with a book of evidence and was seeking a trial date. The presiding judge, Ms Deirdre Murphy, fixed the trial for 2 February 2016, expected to last four weeks. She instructed Devlin that if he intended to rely on an alibi he must notify the prosecution within 14 days and provide relevant names and addresses, and that he may not call witnesses without court leave and 21 days' notice.
In a Special Criminal Court case, the Director of Public Prosecutions has applied to erect a screen between the public and undercover Garda witnesses before they give evidence in the trial of three men charged with the murder of Peter Butterly. The application, made with the Garda Commissioner's knowledge, aims to protect the visual characteristics of nine National Surveillance Unit witnesses. The court will decide tomorrow. The case involves defendants Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22) and Sharif Kelly (43), all pleading not guilty to the murder and related firearm offences. The prosecution's case relies on forensic, firearm residue, DNA evidence and testimony from David Cullen, who was involved in the planning and later pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a Beretta pistol. Cullen was jailed for three‑and‑a‑half years, and a nolle prosequi was entered on the murder count.
At the Special Criminal Court on 30 July 2014, tributes were paid to Court Usher Mr Philip Gillick, who retired after more than 40 years of service. Presiding judge Mr Justice Paul Butler praised Gillick as an "enormous source of help" over the past decade and wished him well. Mr Vincent Heneghan BL, speaking for the Bar, wished Gillick a "long and fruitful retirement" and noted that he had "never revealed a secret." Court registrar Mr John Quirke echoed the Bar's wishes and quoted a famous politician, telling Gillick that "it is time for you to go home to your garden." At the hearing's close, Gillick thanked the judiciary, court services, gardai and senior counsel, saying, "It has been a pleasure working in the courts these 40 years." He began his career in 1973 as an usher to the late Chief Justice Tom F.
Three Dublin men – Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22) and Sharif Kelly (43) – are set to stand trial at the Special Criminal Court on 30 September for the murder of Peter Butterly (35) in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on 6 March 2013. The men were originally due to appear earlier but the case was adjourned because the prosecution and defence agreed it was not ready. The Director of Public Prosecution intends to call former co‑accused David Cullen (30), who was jailed for 3½ years for unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol at the same location, to give evidence against the three. David Cullen pleaded guilty.
In July 2014 the Special Criminal Court set a trial date of 4 November for Nathan Killeen, 24, who has already been convicted of a 2008 murder and sentenced to life. Killeen is charged with killing 20‑year‑old James Cronin sometime between 5 and 7 April 2008 at an unknown location in the State. The defence applied for an adjournment, arguing that Killeen had just finished a long trial and had changed solicitors, and that a fair trial could not be guaranteed. The court rejected the request. Chief Superintendent David Sheehan warned that the prosecution's case relies heavily on a single witness who has been under Garda protection for over two years, and that extending the trial could pose a real risk to that witness. The judge agreed that an adjournment could endanger the witness's safety and refused the application.
Michael Barr, 34, of Premier Square, Finglas, was charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) at a special sitting of the Special Criminal Court on 18 July. His counsel, Ms Siobhán Ní Chúlacháin BL, informed the court that no bail application had been made and consented to a remand in custody for the service of the book of evidence. State Solicitor Ms Irene Daly requested the matter be postponed until 10 October for that service. Judge Paul Butler remanded Barr in custody until that date.
A 34‑year‑old Dublin man, Michael Barr of Premier Square, Finglas, was charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) at a special sitting of the Special Criminal Court on 18 July 2014. Detective Sergeant Pádraig Boyce, of the Special Detective Unit, testified that he had arrested Barr on Saturday evening at Lucan Garda Station. When the charge was read to him, Barr denied being a member of the IRA or any other illegal organisation. He was identified for the three‑judge court. Under cross‑examination by Siobhán Ní Chúlacháin BL, Barr confirmed that he had been arrested earlier that Friday morning in the presence of several Gardaí and released shortly before the re‑arrest. Solicitor for the State, Deirdre Byrne, confirmed that the Director of Public Prosecutions had directed the charge. Mr Justice Paul Butler, with Judges John O'Hagan and William Hamill, agreed to hear the case.
The case against a 55‑year‑old man, Samuel Devlin, charged with possession of explosives at Finnstown House Hotel, has been adjourned until the next court term. Devlin, originally from Co Tyrone and now residing in Dublin, was arrested by the Special Detective Unit and charged before the non‑jury Special Criminal Court. He faces charges of unlawful possession of the explosive Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate (PETN) and membership in the unlawful organisation Oglaigh na hEireann (the IRA). The presiding judge, Ms Justice Iseult O'Malley, remanded him in custody until 7 October, when the court resumes from its summer recess.
Wayne Dundon (36) and Nathan Killeen (24) were sentenced to life imprisonment at the Special Criminal Court after being found guilty of murdering Roy Collins, a 35-year-old father of two. The court found that Dundon, of Lenihan Avenue, Prospect, ordered the murder from prison, while Killeen, of Hyde Road, Prospect, acted as the getaway driver for gunman James Dillon. Both defendants had previously pleaded not guilty to the charges. The victim was shot in the chest while operating Coin Castle Amusements at Roxboro Road Shopping Centre in Limerick on April 9, 2009. Following the sentencing, Roy Collins' father, Steve Collins, stated that his family might return to Ireland now that the perpetrators are jailed. He described the ten-year legal process as a nightmare that has finally ended, expressing gratitude to the gardai, the legal team, and the public for their support. Collins emphasized that his family had been forced into exile and protected by bulletproof vests due to threats from criminal gangs. He encouraged others in similar situations to trust the justice system rather than succumb to criminal pressure, noting that the diligence of the gardai and the credibility of witness testimony were crucial to securing this outcome. The matter was concluded with the imposition of life sentences on both accused.
Wayne Dundon and Nathan Killeen were sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Roy Collins. Both defendants pleaded not guilty to killing the 35-year-old father of two, who was engaged to be married. Following a 29-day trial at the Special Criminal Court, the three-judge panel found them guilty. Ms Justice Iseult O'Malley, presiding, imposed the mandatory life sentence, backdating it to February 2013 when they were charged. The court accepted evidence that Dundon ordered the killing from prison, while Killeen served as the getaway driver. Steve Collins, the victim's father and an applicant in the proceedings, delivered an emotional victim impact statement, stating he was the intended target due to a previous successful prosecution against Dundon. The court relied on testimony from Anthony McCarthy, who stated Dundon admitted to ordering the murder, and forensic evidence linking Killeen to the scene. The defence challenged the credibility of witnesses, but the judges found the evidence coherent. This conclusion ended the first trial heard by three female judges in the jurisdiction.
Brian Nick McBennett, 54, of Ard Collum Avenue, Artane, was charged on 3 July 2013 with membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) before the Special Criminal Court. He was one of seven men charged on the same date, including Peter Burns, Kevin Braney, Michael Barr, John Brock, Declan Phelan and Desmond Christie. The court considered objections from the Gardaí, who argued that McBennett was a senior IRA member who might continue his alleged activities if released and that a €5,000 surety was insufficient. McBennett's counsel sought temporary bail to allow him to attend his grandchild's christening. Judge Paul Butler granted temporary bail from 9 am on 1 August to 4 pm on 4 August, with an independent surety of €8,000 and a 24‑hour curfew on all days except 3 August. The decision was made despite Garda objections and the seriousness of the charge.