The Special Criminal Court ruled that the murder trial of three Dublin men—Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22), and Sharif Kelly (43)—cannot proceed as scheduled in July 2014. The defendants had pleaded not guilty to the killing of Peter Butterly (35) on 6 March 2013 at the Huntsman Inn car park. The court noted that the Director of Public Prosecution intends to call former co‑accused David Cullen (30) to give evidence, an unprecedented move. Cullen had been jailed for 3½ years for unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol and a nolle prosequi was entered on the murder count. The State's counsel said disclosure material was still pending and further letters from defence were received. The judge set a disclosure hearing for 17 July and suggested the trial might start in October, pending completion of disclosure and other procedural matters. The defendants remain not guilty on all charges.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 3 July 2014, the court ruled that David Cullen, aged 30, is competent to give evidence for the prosecution in the murder trial of Peter Butterly. Cullen, who was charged with the murder of Butterly, had pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol and was sentenced to three‑and‑a‑half years. He was no longer jointly indicted after his guilty plea, so the court found he could testify against the other accused. The other defendants – Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22) and Sharif Kelly (43) – had pleaded not guilty to the murder and to possession of firearms. The trial was adjourned to Tuesday for further proceedings. The court's decision was described as "unprecedented" in the context of a former co‑accused giving evidence.
At the Special Criminal Court, David Cullen pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol at the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on March 6, 2013. The court noted that Cullen is to act as a State witness against his co-accused, Edward McGrath, Dean Evans, and Sharif Kelly, who are charged with the murder of Peter Butterly. The Director of Public Prosecutions accepted Cullen's plea, and a nolle prosequi was entered on the murder count. Justice Iseult O'Malley stated the offence merited a ten-year sentence but reduced it to seven years due to Cullen's guilty plea, remorse, and cooperation. She proposed suspending the final three-and-a-half years of the sentence, dating from his March 2013 arrest, resulting in an effective custody period of three-and-a-half years. The court acknowledged Cullen's role in attempting to remove evidence and his renunciation of criminal activity. The matter was finalised with this sentencing proposal.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, a Dublin man, David Cullen, 29, who had been charged with the murder of Peter Butterly, agreed to become a prosecution witness against his three co‑accused. Cullen, of Brackenwood Avenue, Balbriggan, had previously been charged alongside Edward McGrath, 32, Dean Evans, 22, and Sharif Kelly, 43, for the March 6, 2013 killing of Butterly, a 35‑year‑old father of two, at the Huntsman Inn car park in Gormanston, Co. Meath. Cullen made a voluntary statement to Gardaí and indicated he would plead guilty to a firearms offence under Section 27A of the Firearms Act, a plea acceptable to the Director of Public Prosecutions. The Director therefore requested that Cullen be called as a witness in the case against the other three accused. Cullen's arraignment and sentencing were postponed until the following day, and the prosecution has stated it will not call him to give evidence until after he has been sentenced. Edward McGrath pleaded not guilty. Dean Evans pleaded not guilty. Sharif Kelly pleaded not guilty.
In the Special Criminal Court, the prosecution's case against Wayne Dundon, Nathan Killeen and a third man for the 2009 murder of businessman Roy Collins at Coin Castle Amusements hinges on the claim that Killeen "made a run for it" after the shooting. The court heard that Collins was shot in the chest by a gunman, survived briefly, then died. Dundon is alleged to have directed the murder from prison, Killeen was the getaway driver, and James Dillon the gunman. Killeen's counsel argued that the prosecution relied mainly on "gang associates" whose testimony was untrustworthy, and that the only evidence against Killeen was that he fled the scene, as seen by Garda David Baynham who observed him running from a patrol car minutes after the incident. The trial's closing speeches will continue on Monday. Wayne Dundon pleaded not guilty. Nathan Killeen pleaded not guilty. Roy Collins pleaded not guilty.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Thomas McMahon, 31, of Ros Fearna, Murroe, and Noel Noonan, 34, of St. Patrick's Hostel, Clare Street, Limerick, pleaded guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation, the Irish Republican Army (IRA). The case had been adjourned earlier due to garda taping revelations, but the men were later arraigned and pleaded guilty. McMahon was remanded on continuing bail for sentencing. During the hearing, counsel for McMahon informed the court that he had broken his ankle on 19 June and would be unable to travel to court for six weeks. The State had no objection to postponing the sentence hearing. Judge Paul Butler set the new date for the sentence hearing as 31 October 2014 and remanded both men on the same terms. The hearing was postponed until that date.
In a non‑jury trial at the Special Criminal Court, Limerick man Wayne Dundon, aged 36, and Nathan Killeen, aged 24, pleaded not guilty to the murder of 35‑year‑old businessman Roy Collins, who was shot at Coin Castle Amusements on 9 April 2009. Prosecution counsel Sean Guerin presented a joint‑enterprise case, arguing that Dundon was the "moving spirit" who directed the operation, Killeen acted as the instrument and means, and James Dillon fired the fatal shot. Guerin cited Dundon's 2005 conviction for threatening to kill a stepson, his subsequent 10‑year sentence, and a motive of vengeance for what he believed the Collins family had done to him. He also referenced Dundon's emotional phone call to his wife after the birth of their child, which he claimed demonstrated intent. Dundon's defence counsel Remy Farrell challenged the credibility of witnesses Gareth Collins and Anthony McCarthy, urging strict scrutiny of their testimony. The trial continues under Judge Iseult O'Malley.
Dean Byrne, 23, of Drumcairn Park, Tallaght, was charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army and unlawful possession of a 9x18mm Makarov pistol and ammunition. He was arrested by the Special Detective Unit and Garda Crime and Security on 5 June 2014. The Special Criminal Court granted him bail on a €1,000 personal bond, with an independent surety of €20,000. He must sign daily at Tallaght Garda Station, observe a curfew from midnight to 7 a.m., surrender his passport, and avoid contact with convicted persons. Byrne is due to appear again on 29 July.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, two Limerick men, Wayne Dundon, 36, and Nathan Killeen, 24, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of businessman Roy Collins, 35, who was killed at Coin Castle Amusements on 9 April 2009. The court heard that Collins was at work when a gunman fired a single shot, killing him. Prosecutors say Dundon directed the murder from prison, Killeen was the getaway driver, and James Dillon was the gunman. The trial, which began 1 May, is a 'voir dire' to determine admissibility of evidence, presided over by Justice Iseult O'Malley.
In the Roy Collins murder trial, the main prosecution witness, Gareth Collins, admitted he had mistakenly implicated Wayne Dundon in the 2002 murder of bouncer Brian Fitzgerald, a crime Dundon could not have committed because he was in prison that night. Collins explained that he had hidden under a bed when Dundon called for him, but he had actually run upstairs and hidden under a bed when he saw a car arrive that night, and his mother answered the door. Collins had previously testified that Dundon offered him €20,000 to take part in the 2009 murder of Roy Collins, which Dundon directed from prison, with Nathan Killeen as getaway driver and James Dillon as gunman. The trial continues before three judges presided over by Ms Justice Iseult O'Malley. Roy Collins pleaded not guilty.
In the Special Criminal Court, two Limerick men, Wayne Dundon (36) and Nathan Killeen (24), pleaded not guilty to the murder of businessman Roy Collins, 35, on 9 April 2009. Collins was shot once in the chest by gunman James Dillon while at Coin Castle Amusements. Dundon allegedly directed the murder from Wheatfield Prison, Killeen was the getaway driver, and Dillon fired the shot. A prison officer testified that Dundon and his cousin, Anthony 'Noddy' McCarthy, were non‑working members of a paint party at Wheatfield Prison, spending more than four hours daily in a cell chatting with each other while other inmates worked or were locked in their cells. The court heard that this arrangement was unusual and that Dundon had previously been sentenced to 10 years for threatening to kill Ryan Lee. The trial is before three judges presided by Ms Justice Iseult O'Malley.
Two men, Michael Finlay, 35, and Dean Byrne, 22, appeared before the non‑jury Special Criminal Court in Dublin on 6 June 2014. They were charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and with unlawful possession of a 9x18mm Makarov PM semi‑automatic pistol, a magazine and 10 rounds of 9x18mm ammunition. The arrests were made by the Special Detective Unit and the Garda Crime and Security branch during an operation in Tallaght on 5 June. Finlay was arrested outside Tallaght Garda Station before 4:00 pm and later appeared in court wearing a black t‑shirt and trousers; he gave no comment when cautioned. Byrne was cautioned after being found wearing a navy hoody and trousers; he also made no reply. No bail was applied for, but legal aid and a second counsel were approved for both. The judge remanded them in custody to return on 16 June.
In the Special Criminal Court, Wayne Dundon (36) and Nathan Killeen (24) pleaded not guilty to the murder of 35‑year‑old Roy Collins, who was shot in the chest at Coin Castle Amusements on 9 April 2009. The prosecution alleges Dundon directed the killing from prison, Killeen was the getaway driver, and James Dillon fired the shot. The main witness, 31‑year‑old Gareth Collins, claims Dundon offered him €20,000 to participate, but Collins repeatedly refused. Detective Garda John Farmer, cross‑examined by Dundon's barrister, said he had taken Collins' statement in 2011 but did not know the content of the conversation. Farmer also admitted he was unaware that Dundon was in custody on 29 November 2002, the date of the earlier Brian Fitzgerald murder, and that Collins had not yet given a statement on that case. The trial continues on 16 June before three judges.
In February 2014, two Dublin men, Robert Day (43) and Hubert Duffy (46), were charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army, an unlawful organisation, before the Special Criminal Court. On 2 February 2014, Day was additionally charged with unlawful custody of 400 counterfeit €50 notes found at Monck Place, Phibsborough, and with handling a stolen BMW motorcycle at Phoenix Park Racecourse Apartments, Navan Road, Dublin 7, between 11 November 2013 and 2 February 2014. Duffy was charged with handling the same stolen BMW motorcycle at the same address on 12 November 2013. Both men were arrested by the Special Detective Unit and other Garda units as part of operations against dissident republican groups. In court, Day pleaded not guilty to both charges, while Duffy made no reply after caution. The men were remanded in custody to appear again on 18 June before the non‑jury court. The case was heard by Justice Iseult O'Malley. The charges remain pending.
In a Special Criminal Court murder trial, Limerick businessman Roy Collins, aged 35, died from a single gunshot wound to his chest, liver, aorta and inferior vena cava on 9 April 2009 at Coin Castle Amusements. The court heard medical evidence that Collins was at work around noon when a gunman fired a single shot, after which paramedic Damien Gaumont found him on all fours, breathing poorly, and transported him to University Hospital, Limerick. Dr Cathal O'Donnell confirmed Collins was conscious upon arrival but could not be revived, pronouncing him dead at 12:55. State Pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy's post‑mortem report identified the bullet's entry and exit points and the organs damaged. The accused, Nathan Killeen (24) and Wayne Dundon (36), pleaded not guilty; Killeen was alleged to have been the getaway driver, Dundon the mastermind, and James Dillon the gunman. The trial continues before three judges.
In a case heard by the Special Criminal Court, a 55‑year‑old man named Samuel Devlin, originally from County Tyrone and residing at the Golf Suite of Finnstown House Hotel in Lucan, was charged with unlawful possession of the explosive PETN and membership of the Irish Republican Army. Following his arrest by the Special Detective Unit, the State Solicitor applied for a six‑week remand to allow the prosecution to prepare evidence. The presiding judge remanded Devlin in custody for six weeks and ordered that his next court appearance be conducted via video link.
In the Special Criminal Court, the trial of Nathan Killeen (24) and Wayne Dundon (36) over the murder of Roy Collins (35) continues. The court heard evidence and a video about the detention of Killeen at Roxboro Road Garda station. The case alleges Dundon directed the killing from prison, Killeen was the getaway driver, and James Dillon fired the fatal shot. Collins was shot in the chest at Coin Castle Amusements on 9 April 2009 and died. The hearing is a voir dire to decide admissibility of evidence, presided over by Justice Iseult O'Malley. Roy Collins pleaded not guilty.
In the Special Criminal Court, Melissa Crawford, the fiancée of the murdered Limerick businessman Roy Collins, gave evidence about the day of his shooting. She recalled driving to the Coin Castle Amusement Arcade on 9 April 2009 when she received a call that Collins had been shot. She went straight to the hospital, arriving around 12:30 p.m., but could not see him as doctors were working. Crawford said she felt "numb" and had her head between her legs, believing Collins was still alive until the doctor informed her of his death sometime between 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. She did not see Collins at the hospital that day. The court also heard from April Collins about her son's illness and her own call from a mobile phone while at the hospital. The trial continues with a voir dire on the admissibility of evidence regarding the arrest and detention of Nathan Killeen and Wayne Dundon. Nathan Killeen pleaded not guilty. Wayne Dundon pleaded not guilty.
Three men—Gareth Mulley (44), William Burns (38) and David Gallagher (37)—appeared before the Special Criminal Court on 28 May 2014. They were charged with explosives offences and membership of the unlawful organisation Oglaigh na hEireann (the IRA). Burns, of Ardoyne, Belfast, was accused of unlawfully possessing PETN and RDX, a 50‑litre beer keg, 50 kg of ammonium nitrate homemade explosive, an improvised detonation cord, a steel booster tube and a time‑and‑power unit found at Kilcurry Church on 25 May. Mulley, of Dundalk, and Gallagher, of Drogheda, were charged with IRA membership on the same date. The Special Detective Unit arrested the men on Sunday evening and presented evidence to the court. No bail applications were made, but legal aid was granted to Mulley. Judge Iseult O'Malley remanded the men in custody, ordering a video‑link appearance on 4 June, with liberty to apply for bail if a production order is sought.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Nathan Killeen, aged 24, and Wayne Dundon, aged 36, pleaded not guilty to the murder of 35‑year‑old Roy Collins, a Limerick businessman, at Coin Castle Amusements on 9 April 2009. Detective Garda David Baynham testified that shortly after noon on the day of the murder he received a call about a shooting at the Steering Wheel Pub, where he found Collins seriously injured. Baynham described how he later observed two youths, one of whom was identified as Killeen, running from a garda patrol car near Hyde Avenue. Killeen allegedly fled across the road, used a junction box to jump a wall, and disappeared from view. The court noted that the trial is entering a new phase involving garda witnesses and evidence from warrants, and that Killeen's counsel will challenge the admissibility of evidence obtained from searches and his detention. The voir‑dire will be held on Tuesday before Justice Iseult O'Malley.
Paul Mason, 26, of Ballygarra Park, Garristown, was charged with membership of the Irish National Liberation Army (INLA) on 7 May 2014. He appeared before the Special Criminal Court, a non‑jury court, where the judge considered bail despite objections from Gardaí. The Gardaí argued that a €5,000 independent surety was too low and that a higher amount of €20,000 would be required. The judge agreed that €5,000 was insufficient and set an independent surety of €8,500. Mason was ordered to live at his mother's address, sign daily at a Garda station, observe a curfew from 9 pm to 9 am, keep a mobile phone on his person at all times, and not interfere with witnesses. He must stay out of County Louth unless he gives 24‑hour notice to the Gardaí and must not associate with anyone convicted or charged with an offence. Legal aid was granted for his defence.
Des Christie, 49, of Finglas, was arrested twice for IRA membership while on bail. He was first charged on 29 March 2013 after a search of a commercial premises in Clondalkin, and was due to stand trial on 13 January 2015. Christie was granted bail in April 2013, but was arrested again in July 2013 following a search of a house in Tallaght. He was charged again for membership of the Irish Republican Army, and the court set a trial date for 9 June 2015. On 28 May 2015, the Special Criminal Court granted him temporary bail. He must leave at 9 am, return on 4 June, observe a curfew from midnight to 7 am, provide a mobile number, surrender his passport, and may not associate with co‑accused or anyone convicted or charged with a scheduled offence. The judge, Ms Justice Iseult O'Malley, approved the application.
The trial of Wayne Dundon (36) and Nathan Killeen (24), who have pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of 35-year-old Roy Collins at Coin Castle Amusements, Roxboro Road Shopping Centre, on April 9, 2009, continues before the Special Criminal Court. Anthony "Noddy" McCarthy (32), a man serving a life sentence for the murder of Kieran Keane in Limerick in January 2003, was cross-examined after giving evidence. In his direct evidence, McCarthy stated that while in Wheatfield prison with Dundon on the morning of the incident, Dundon told him he had "ordered James Dillon to go kill Roy Collins." During cross-examination by Mr Remy Farrell SC, McCarthy acknowledged that other witnesses suggested the target was Steve Collins, Roy Collins' father, but maintained he heard "Roy Collins" and denied making up the statement. When asked by Mr Michael O'Higgins SC if he had received any benefit for his testimony, McCarthy replied that it had brought him "a world of misery" and that his circumstances in prison had worsened. His brother, Christopher McCarthy (31), also gave evidence at the trial last week. The matter is ongoing under the presiding judge, Ms Justice Iseult O'Malley.
During the trial of Wayne Dundon and Nathan Killeen for the murder of Roy Collins, witness Elaine Walsh admitted she lied to Gardaí to protect her partner, Gareth Collins. Walsh, aged 36, explained that she had been in a relationship with Collins, who was a key prosecution witness. She claimed she had told Gardaí she had collected Collins on the night before the shooting, but later admitted she had not told the truth. Walsh said she lied about staying in Corbally to shield Collins, who she said was terrified. She also acknowledged that Collins had used her car the night before the murder, contradicting her earlier statement. The court heard cross‑examination of Collins' sister, April Collins, who had pleaded guilty to interfering with a witness and received a three‑year suspended sentence. The trial continues. Wayne Dundon pleaded not guilty. Nathan Killeen pleaded not guilty.
Lisa Collins, partner of Christopher McCarthy, gave evidence in the Special Criminal Court trial of Nathan Killeen (24) and Wayne Dundon (36) for the murder of Roy Collins. She described a morning on 9 April 2009 when Killeen and James Dillon called to her home on Crecora Avenue, asking for her brother Gareth Collins. Killeen spoke to Gareth about driving a car, and after a brief conversation, Killeen and Dillon left. Later, Killeen returned, changed clothes, and told Lisa to "listen out for sirens" as they expected police sirens. He also said he was going to the Steering Wheel pub to shoot Steve Collins. Lisa heard sirens, saw Killeen and Dillon running, and later reported the incident to the gardai on 10 October 2012. The trial continues before Justice Iseult O'Malley. Nathan Killeen pleaded not guilty. Wayne Dundon pleaded not guilty. Roy Collins pleaded not guilty.
The Special Criminal Court heard cross-examination of Gareth Collins, a convicted criminal serving a seven-and-a-half-year sentence for demanding money with menaces, at the ongoing trial of Wayne Dundon and Nathan Killeen. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of 35-year-old Roy Collins at Coin Castle Amusements, Roxboro Road Shopping Centre, on April 9, 2009. Collins, who admitted to previously giving gardai an incorrect account of his whereabouts due to fear, denied asking for time off his sentence or extorting money from witnesses. He stated he was unaware that Anthony McCarthy, Christopher McCarthy, or April Collins intended to make statements. During questioning by Mr Remy Farrell SC, Collins acknowledged flirting via text messages on the day of the alleged killing but denied coordinating false alibis with his then-girlfriend. He also denied shaking anyone down, though he admitted being owed money by Christopher McCarthy, who described him as a "crooked snaky cunt." The court noted Collins had previously admitted to being arrested for rape involving two 15-year-old girls. The cross-examination of Mr Collins is scheduled to continue tomorrow before Ms Justice Iseult O'Malley.
A 55‑year‑old man, Samuel Devlin, appeared before the Special Criminal Court on 13 May 2014 charged with unlawful possession of an explosive substance, Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate (PETN), at Finnstown House Hotel, Lucan, Co. Dublin, on 11 May 2014. He was also charged with membership of the unlawful organisation Oglaigh na hEireann (the Irish Republican Army). Devlin was arrested on 11 May by the Special Detective Unit and was brought to court wearing a grey zip‑up top and jeans. He declined to give his address or date of birth when asked, but the State Solicitor, Mr. Michael O'Donovan, noted that his passport had revealed his date of birth. Devlin pleaded not guilty to both charges. The court, presided over by Justice Iseult O'Malley with Judges Margaret Heneghan and Ann Ryan, remanded him in custody for three weeks to appear again on 3 June. No bail was granted and legal aid was approved.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Wayne Dundon, Nathan Killeen, and Gareth Collins, who have all pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of 35-year-old Roy Collins at Coin Castle Amusements in April 2009, continued before a non-jury court presided over by Ms Justice Iseult O'Malley. Gareth Collins, also known as Gareth Keogh, testified that he was offered €20,000 to drive Nathan Killeen to the Steering Wheel pub to shoot Roy Collins's father, Steve Collins. Collins stated he repeatedly refused the request, which he said was coordinated by Dundon via mobile phone from a prison cell. He described an incident where Killeen and James Dillon visited his sister's house, with Killeen allegedly retrieving petrol and a rag before leaving. Collins admitted to prior convictions, including a seven-and-a-half-year sentence for demanding money with menaces. Steve Collins, the victim's father, testified that he found his son shot in the arcade. Garda Steven Kelleher and Garda Deirdre Foley provided accounts of the scene and the victim's subsequent death at the hospital. The trial was adjourned and continues tomorrow.
The Special Criminal Court sentenced Anthony Carroll (31) and Brian Walsh (44) to six years' imprisonment for the unlawful possession of firearms. Both men pleaded not guilty to possessing a Walther PI 9mm semi-automatic pistol, a Smith & Wesson .22mm Magnum revolver, and 12 rounds of ammunition found in a van on Deanrock Avenue, Togher, on February 23, 2013. The court found sufficient evidence of joint enterprise and unlawful purpose. Justice Paul Butler imposed a seven-year sentence, reduced by one year for the manner of the trial, resulting in a net six-year term. Sentences were backdated to April 25, 2013, for Carroll and February 25, 2013, for Walsh. The State entered a Nolle Prosequi regarding a charge of IRA membership. Carroll's prior four-month suspended sentence for pepper spray possession was noted, with its lifting currently under appeal. The judge stated that neither defendant provided credible indications of future conduct to warrant further suspension.
Paul Mason, 26, of Ballygarra Park, Garristown, Co Dublin, appeared before the Special Criminal Court on a special out‑of‑hours sitting on 7 May 2014. He was charged with membership of an unlawful organisation, namely the Irish National Liberation Army (INLA). Detective Garda Peter Cooney of Ardee Garda Station arrested Mason at 9:33 pm on Father Connolly Way, Drogheda, Co Louth, explaining the reason for the arrest in ordinary language; Mason made no reply. Cooney believed Mason had committed the offence of which he is charged. At the court, Mason, wearing a black zip‑up jacket and grey tracksuit bottoms, again said nothing when cautioned. The State Solicitor, Mr Liam Mulholland, applied for remand in custody. Counsel for Mason, Mr Marc Thompson Grolimund BL, sought remand until Monday. Judge Iseult O'Malley, with Judges Margaret Heneghan and Ann Ryan, remanded Mason in custody to appear again on 12 May.
Two brothers from Claremorris in County Mayo have been remanded to stand trial at the Special Criminal Court in December 2015 on charges relating to membership of an unlawful organisation and explosives offences. Colin Mannion, aged 33, and Brian Mannion, aged 31, both of Burriscarra, Clogher, face allegations of IRA membership on 9 June 2012. They are also charged with unlawful possession of explosive substances including RDX and PETN, along with detonators and electrical components found at their home on the same date. At a hearing this week, legal representatives for both men sought a trial date, which the presiding judge, Ms Justice Iseult O'Malley, fixed for 2 December 2015. The court imposed strict procedural requirements, including notification of any alibi defence within 14 days and provision of witness notice 21 days before trial.
The Special Criminal Court adjourned the murder trial of Nathan Killeen (23) and Wayne Dundon (35) after the sudden death of Killeen's mother. Killeen, of Hyde Road, Prospect, and Dundon, of Lenihan Avenue, Prospect, are charged with killing businessman Roy Collins, 35, at Coin Castle Amusements on 9 April 2009. The trial began on 6 May 2014 but was paused when Killeen's mother died on Friday morning. Judge Iseult O'Malley, hearing the case, expressed condolences and granted an adjournment until next week, allowing Killeen to attend his mother's funeral with a supervised escort from the prison service. The prosecution had alleged that Dundon directed the murder from prison, Killeen was the getaway driver, and James Dillon fired the fatal shot. The case was set to resume on Monday. Nathan Killeen pleaded not guilty. Wayne Dundon pleaded not guilty.
Two Limerick men, Wayne Dundon (35) and Nathan Killeen (23), were arraigned at the Special Criminal Court on 1 May 2014 for the murder of businessman Roy Collins (35) at Coin Castle Amusements on 9 April 2009. They pleaded not guilty. Prosecutor Michael O'Higgins SC presented evidence that Dundon directed the killing from prison, Killeen was the getaway driver, and James Dillon was the gunman. Witnesses included siblings of Collins and cousins of Dundon, who testified about Killeen's attempts to recruit them and the planning of the murder. O'Higgins highlighted circumstantial evidence linking the accused to the crime. The trial, presided over by three female judges, was adjourned until Tuesday for further testimony from Gareth Collins Keogh. The case remains at the arraignment stage.
Thomas McMahon, 31, of Limerick, pleaded guilty to membership of the Irish Republican Army on 7 February 2013 alongside Noel Noonan, 34. Both were remanded on continuing bail for sentencing on 27 June. McMahon, a father of two and former chef, had previously been allowed to travel to Lithuania to attend a family wedding, with the court varying bail conditions in June and October of the previous year and again in January of the current year. On the day of the hearing, his counsel requested a final trip to Lithuania to visit his in‑laws, asking that McMahon's passport be returned and that the sign‑on conditions be removed from 2 May to 16 May. Prosecutor Tara Burns objected, citing Garda concerns that McMahon was a flight risk and that a substantial custodial sentence might be imposed.
The Special Criminal Court in Limerick adjourned the murder trial of Wayne Dundon (35) and Nathan Killeen (23) until Thursday to finish a lengthy disclosure process. The defendants are charged with killing businessman Roy Collins, 35, at Coin Castle Amusements on 9 April 2009. Prosecutor Michael O'Higgins SC requested 48 more hours to complete disclosure of recordings made between Gardaí and civilian witnesses, describing the task as long and complicated. Seán Guerin SC noted a prior disclosure order concerning the prison service and identified additional material that might be relevant, asking for a similar order. Dundon's barrister Remy Farrell SC and Killeen's counsel Giollaíosa Ó Lideadha SC argued the requested materials were relevant and requested an adjournment. Justice Iseult O'Malley granted the adjournment, acknowledging the effort invested by both sides, and proposed opening the case on Thursday, with the possibility of further adjournment if needed.
Two Cork men, Anthony Carroll (30) of Curaheen Close, Bishopstown, and Brian Walsh (43) of Connolly Road, Ballyphehane, were found guilty by the Special Criminal Court of the unlawful possession of a Walther pistol, a Smith & Wesson revolver, and 12 rounds of ammunition at Deanrock Avenue, Togher, on February 23, 2013. Both pleaded not guilty to the charges, which also included the possession of a Walther PI 9mm calibre semi-automatic pistol, a magazine suitable for use with the Walther pistol, a Smith & Wesson .22mm Magnum calibre revolver with the serial number AEM 2000, six rounds of 9mm calibre ammunition suitable for use with the Walther PI 9mm calibre semi-automatic pistol, and six rounds of .22 long rifle rounds of ammunition suitable for use in a Smith & Wesson .22 magnum calibre revolver at the same address on the same date. The court heard that the firearms were found inside a pencil case in a van the men were stopped in. Mr Justice Paul Butler stated that the court was satisfied that both men were jointly involved in an enterprise that included the firearms and ammunition. He remanded Brian Walsh in custody for sentencing before the court on May 9 and remanded Anthony Carroll to Cork District Court, as he is currently serving a four-month suspended sentence imposed by that court.
Sean Farrell, a 28‑year‑old Dublin man, had his 2012 conviction for membership in the Irish Republican Army quashed by the Court of Criminal Appeal on 10 April 2014. The appeal was supported by TDs Clare Daly and Mick Wallace, who had visited Farrell in prison and expressed concerns about his conviction. The Court found that the Special Criminal Court had erred by not notifying Farrell's defence of evidence presented by Garda Chief Superintendent Diarmuid O'Sullivan, who claimed Farrell had been an active IRA member over a ten‑year period. The appellate judges held that the failure to give notice rendered the evidence prejudicial and the conviction unsafe. The Court dismissed the Director of Public Prosecutions' request for a retrial, noting it would be oppressive, and confirmed that Farrell had already served two years and three months of his sentence, with release expected in five months.
Nathan Kinsella, 35, was jailed by the Special Criminal Court for two years after pleading guilty to membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) on 13 September 2012. He was arrested in February 2014 after failing to appear for trial, and the court heard evidence of paramilitary activity at the funeral of dissident republican Alan Ryan, who was shot dead in September 2012. Garda investigations uncovered documents in Kinsella's apartment referencing financial transactions, firearms, and a Glock, and a fingerprint from another person was found on a document. Kinsella denied firing a weapon but admitted to being a friend of Ryan for six years and attending the funeral. The court noted his lack of prior convictions, his plea of guilty, and his undertaking not to associate with unlawful organisations upon release, and sentenced him to three years' imprisonment with the final year suspended, back‑dated to 1 February 2014, after accounting for 11 weeks already served.
Vincent Banks, 46, of Dublin 7, was acquitted by the Special Criminal Court of withholding information about the murder of Northern Ireland prison officer David Black, which occurred between 10 October and 20 December 2012. The court found that Banks' arrest on suspicion of IRA membership was unlawful because it lacked a warrant and the offence of membership is continuous. Banks was charged with membership of an unlawful organisation styled the Irish Republican Army (IRA) on 18 December 2012 and had been remanded on that count until after the withholding‑information trial. The court ruled that the unlawful arrest did not affect the withholding‑information charge, so the trial proceeded. Mr Michael Bowman BL informed the court that the membership case would continue, and a trial date was set for 17 November 2015, with Banks remanded on bail until then. Vincent Banks pleaded not guilty.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Anthony Carroll (30) and Brian Walsh (43) pleaded not guilty to unlawful possession of a Walther pistol, a Smith & Wesson revolver and 12 rounds of ammunition found in a van on Deanrock Avenue, Togher, on 23 February 2013. Gardaí discovered the loaded firearms inside a pencil case in the van, with Carroll in the rear compartment and Walsh driving. Both wore forensic suits and the van contained rubber gloves, shoes, runners, plastic bags, a homemade wick and petrol cans. Firearms residue was detected on Carroll's face but not on Walsh's forensic kit. The prosecution argued that the accused were lawfully arrested and that failure to account for the firearms indicated joint involvement. The court was set to deliver judgment on Friday, with the accused maintaining their not‑guilty pleas for possession of the pistols, revolver and ammunition.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing in Cork, the prosecution case concluded for Anthony Carroll, 30, and Brian Walsh, 43, who were charged with unlawful possession of two loaded handguns and ammunition. The weapons—a Walther pistol and a Smith & Wesson revolver—were found in a van's pencil case, alongside forensic suits, rubber gloves, shoes, runners, plastic bags, a wick and petrol cans. Both men pleaded not guilty to possession of the firearms, a Walther magazine, and six rounds of 9mm and six rounds of .22 ammunition. Counsel for Carroll requested a brief adjournment for clarification, and the judge adjourned the trial to the following week. No further details of the case were provided in the article.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, forensic evidence showed firearms residue on Anthony Carroll, 30, of Bishopstown, but not on his co‑accused Brian Walsh, 43, of Ballyphehane. The case concerns the unlawful possession of a Walther pistol, a Smith & Wesson revolver, and 12 rounds of ammunition found in a pencil case in a van stopped on 23 February 2013. Carroll and Walsh pleaded not guilty to possession of the weapons and the ammunition. Forensic scientist Dr Brendan Healy examined residue kits, noting that the tubes contained adhesive tape used on the hands and face of the subject. He confirmed residue on Carroll's samples but none on Walsh's. The trial continues before Judge Paul Butler. The court heard that a firearm must be discharged to leave residue. The accused remain in custody pending further proceedings.
Wayne Dundon and Nathan Killeen, both from Prospect in Limerick, are charged with the murder of businessman Roy Collins at Coin Castle Amusements on Roxboro Road in Limerick on 9 April 2009. The two men are due to stand trial at the Special Criminal Court on 29 April before Justice Iseult O'Malley. At a hearing before Justice Paul Butler on Thursday, the defence sought disclosure of communications between garda stations and prisons, including recorded conversations between prosecution witnesses held in custody and gardaí. The State's counsel indicated that prison recordings are archived in Longford but that establishing access procedures would require time. The court adjourned the matter to the following Wednesday to allow the trial court to address the outstanding disclosure issues before the trial commences.
Nathan Kinsella, aged 33, was arrested in a Cabra gym on February 20 after failing to appear for his trial at the Special Criminal Court and a prior bench warrant issued by the Circuit Criminal Court. He pleaded guilty to membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) on September 13, 2012. His counsel, Mr. Diarmaid McGuinness SC, requested a delay in sentencing until the following week. Judge Paul Butler ordered Kinsella to be remanded in custody until next Thursday for sentencing.
Two men, Gary Yeung, 31, and Patrick Kennedy, 65, were arrested on 14 September 2013 on James' Street, Dublin, as part of investigations into dissident republican activity. They were charged with unlawful possession of a .455 Colt "New Service" revolver and a .455 Webley Mark 6 revolver, both bearing serial number 324736. Yeung was also charged with possession of one round of .22‑250 calibre Sako ammunition and one round of .357 Mag calibre CBC ammunition at his Limerick address. Kennedy faced an additional charge of membership of an unlawful organisation, namely the Irish Republican Army (IRA). Their trial is scheduled for October 2015 at the Special Criminal Court. The judge set conditions for alibi evidence and required notice of any witnesses 21 days before the trial, and remanded them on continuing bail until the trial date.
Two men from Cork, Anthony Carroll, 30, and Brian Walsh, 43, are on trial in the Special Criminal Court for unlawful possession of firearms. They are accused of possessing a Walther PI 9mm semi‑automatic pistol, a compatible magazine, and a Smith & Wesson .22mm Magnum revolver with serial number AEM 2000, all found in a pencil case inside a van on Deanrock Avenue, Togher, on 23 February 2013. They also face charges for holding six 9mm rounds and six .22 long‑rifle rounds suitable for those weapons. The prosecution alleges that Gardaí observed the van, noted a hooded driver, and discovered the weapons after a search. Both men pleaded not guilty to the firearms offences. They are also charged with membership of an unlawful organisation, the IRA, but that charge is to be adjourned until the firearms case concludes. The trial is presided over by Judge Paul Butler.
Vincent Banks, 46, of Dublin 7, was acquitted by the Special Criminal Court of withholding information about the murder of prison officer David Black, 52, who was shot dead on the M1 motorway near Lurgan on 1 November 2012. The prosecution alleged that Banks had bought a Toyota Camry, registered under a false name, and that the vehicle was used in the shooting. The judge, Justice Paul Butler, found that while the car was linked to the murder, there was no evidence that Banks knew it would be used in the killing. Consequently, the court concluded that the charge of withholding information could not be proven beyond a reasonable doubt and acquitted Banks. He remains on bail pending another charge of IRA membership. The case was presented as a dissident IRA murder. The court praised the police investigations on both sides of the border.
In the Special Criminal Court, Anthony Carroll, 30, and Brian Walsh, 43, are set to stand trial on charges of membership in the Irish Republican Army and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. The charges stem from an arrest on 23 February 2013, when Carroll and Walsh were found with a Walther PI 9mm pistol, a suitable magazine, a Smith & Wesson .22mm Magnum revolver, and six rounds of 9mm and six rounds of .22 long rifle ammunition. The prosecution, represented by Mr Garnet Orange BL, indicated that the trial would commence on Wednesday. Carroll's counsel, Mr Hugh Hartnett SC, announced that the defence would seek clarification on whether the Garda station where Carroll was detained had recording facilities during his consultations with his solicitor. Mr Orange confirmed that no such recording facilities existed and agreed that the best evidence would be used. He also noted that the membership charge might be kept in abeyance, potentially shortening the trial.
In a Special Criminal Court case in Limerick, Thomas McMahon, 31, and Noel Noonan, 34, pleaded guilty to membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) before their trial was adjourned. The adjournment, the first criminal case affected by the Garda taping revelations, was granted to allow the defence to consider using an expert to examine Clonmel and Cahir Garda stations, where the men were detained after arrest. The court had already heard expert evidence that there were no recording facilities at those stations. Ms Tara Burns SC, the prosecutor, reported progress in the case and indicated that the men were seeking a sentencing date in June. Judge Paul Butler set June 27 for sentencing, remanded both men on continuing bail, and noted that the bail sureties were present. The court also heard that telephone calls made by the defendants with their solicitors before interview were recorded at Garda Headquarters, not at the local stations.
The Special Criminal Court has decided that the trial of Thomas McMahon (31) and Noel Noonan (34) for IRA membership will proceed after hearing evidence that Clonmel and Cahir Garda stations had no recording facilities when the men were detained. The court adjourned the trial to allow the defence to consider employing an expert to physically examine the two stations. Superintendent Michael Flynn testified that recording equipment was only installed at divisional headquarters and not at the two stations, and that any recordings made were stored at Garda Headquarters. The judge noted the evidence was "very impressive" and granted the defence an extension of the legal aid certificate for any proposed expert. The trial was adjourned until Tuesday, with the court willing to postpone further if an expert inspection is arranged. The men remain charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army on 7 February 2013.