Accused wanted to ensure repossessed farm guards would not return through violence and 'humiliation', State tells jury

Four men have pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to charges arising from an incident at a repossessed farm property near Strokestown, County Roscommon, on 16 December 2018. The prosecution alleges that Patrick J Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne and David Lawlor were part of a group of approximately 30 armed men who entered the property and attacked security personnel present. Each defendant faces 17 charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson and violent disorder. On the 39th day of trial, the prosecution outlined evidence against each accused, including video footage, mobile phone analysis and cell site data. The State contends that all four participated in a common enterprise to ensure security personnel would not return to the property through acts of violence and humiliation. Closing speeches for the defence are scheduled to commence.