Strokestown farm attackers 'bent on violence and domination', State tell jury

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard closing arguments in the trial of four men charged in connection with a violent attack on security personnel at a repossessed farm near Strokestown, Co Roscommon, on 16 December 2018. Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne and David Lawlor have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson and violent disorder. The prosecution told the jury on day 38 of the trial that approximately 30 armed men attacked the property in a coordinated assault, with the common goal of removing security guards and preventing their return. Evidence presented included accounts from four security personnel describing the attack, injuries inflicted, and vehicles set alight. Prosecuting counsel outlined the State's case based on joint enterprise, arguing all defendants share liability for offences committed during the incident. The trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter and jury.