Courts / Dublin / Report

Garda Commissioner seeks to have couple's claim for damages over alleged harassment dismissed

Summary

The Garda Commissioner has sought to have the claim for damages brought by Stephen Costello (43) and his wife, Karen, dismissed. The couple alleges they have been subjected to an ongoing campaign of Garda harassment and intimidation. In 2005, the couple was granted an injunction preventing Garda entry to their home except under a warrant or at the request of a household member. The Gardai deny the claims. Mr Costello believes the Gardai mistakenly think he is involved in the drugs trade, stating he has never been involved in any illegal activity. The Garda Commissioner has asked the court to strike out the Costellos' claims for alleged trespass, intimidation, and harassment. The couple has opposed the application. Mr Justice Michael White reserved his decision. Counsel for the Commissioner argued there was an inexcusable and inordinate delay by the Costellos in progressing their claim. The Costellos' counsel denied any delay, citing changes in legal representation and illness of the barrister. Mr Costello, who worked in the environmental section of South Dublin Co Council, stated the Gardai commenced harassment against him 18 years ago. He said he was first arrested in 1996 and questioned about stolen guns. The detective who questioned him was later discharged and has been convicted of criminal convictions. Another garda who arrested him was convicted and jailed for dangerous driving causing death, while another who arrested Mr Costello was jailed for tax evasion. The couple obtained a High Court injunction against the Gardai, but Mr Costello claims he has continued to face harassment, including being stopped, searched, and strip searched for drugs on multiple occasions. The claims of harassment are denied.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Garda Commissioner seeks to have couple's claim for damages over alleged harassment dismissed. Procedural stage: sentence. Findings: Convicted

When:

• 2014-05-14 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Drugs Road Traffic Stage Sentence Theft

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Read the original CNI report