Courts / Louth / Report
'Architect' behind violent robbery and extortion of businessman withdrew from plan, appeal told
Summary
William Twomey appealed his conviction at the Court of Appeal, arguing he effectively withdrew from a joint enterprise to rob and extort businessman Edward McAndrew in Co Louth in 2017. Twomey, 58, was found guilty at the Special Criminal Court of robbery, assault, and demanding money with menaces, though acquitted of false imprisonment. His counsel, Dominic McGinn SC, contended that Twomey communicated his withdrawal to co-accused Anthony Finglas, gardaí, and the PSNI, negating his mens rea at the time of the attack. The prosecution, represented by Anne Marie Lawlor SC, countered that Twomey was the "architect" of the plan and failed to demonstrate effective withdrawal, noting the fruits of the crime were made available to him. The court heard that Finglas, 51, pleaded guilty to demanding money with menaces and was sentenced to four years and nine months in December 2020. The appeal judges questioned whether vague warnings to police constituted valid withdrawal. Presiding Judge George Birmingham stated the Special Criminal Court properly determined the facts and law. The Court of Appeal reserved its judgment, meaning the matter was adjourned pending a decision.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 'Architect' behind violent robbery and extortion of businessman withdrew from plan, appeal told. Procedural stage: appeal. Findings: Found guilty
When:
- December 2017 Incident
- December 2, 2017 Hearing Or Sentence
- December 2020 Incident
- 2022-06-30 Publication
Case subjects
Places mentioned
- Havelock Place
- Special Criminal Court
- Court of Appeal
Topics
Stage Appeal Theft Violent Crime
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