Regency Hotel accused may make bail if surety can be attached

A 59-year-old man accused of supplying logistical support in connection with the murder of David Byrne at the Regency Hotel in 2016 may be granted bail by the Special Criminal Court if he can secure an independent surety. Paul Murphy, from Cabra in Dublin, appeared before the three-judge court on charges of providing access to motor vehicles to a criminal organisation alleged to have carried out the killing on 15 February 2016. Gardaí objected to bail citing the seriousness of the offence, strength of evidence, and witness intimidation concerns. The defence submitted that Murphy had remained in Swords since his 2016 arrest, save for one weekend away, and that he had family ties and limited financial means. The presiding judge indicated bail would be granted in principle if an independent acquaintance could act as surety, as the €1,000 offered was insufficient. Murphy and two co-accused will return to court on Monday to pursue their bail applications.