2024-12-19
Solicitor and former developer gets suspended sentence for attempted deception
Stage: Sentence
Plea: Not guilty
Finding: Convicted
Outcome: Convicted; The former clerk, Frank O'Toole, was previously given a suspended sentence and fined €10,000 for corruption after being convicted of furnishing the letter, which read: "I wish to confirm that the financial contribution in respect of this development has been paid." The sentencing judge in that case noted that there was no evidence that Frank O'Toole had benefitted from the offence. Counsel noted that Frank O'Toole, who was convicted of a more serious offence, had received a suspended sentence. "My client has paid a huge price," he continued. "His lifetime's work is marred.