Courts / Wicklow / Report

Prosecutors tell Michael Lynn he's maligned others to 'save his skin'

Date
2023-12-14

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Redcross

County
Wicklow

Summary

In a Dublin trial, former solicitor Michael Lynn, aged 55, denies allegations of stealing about €27 million from seven banks between October 2006 and April 2007. He rejects the prosecution's claim that bank employees conspired to ignore normal lending practice and disputes that he misled the banks. Lynn says he obtained multiple mortgages on the same properties with the banks' knowledge and that he had "off‑the‑book understandings" with former INBS CEO Michael Fingleton. He argues the banks were aware of the purpose of the loans and consented. Prosecuting counsel, Karl Finnegan, accuses Lynn of blaming others, naming names, and maligning their characters to protect himself. Lynn maintains he had no intention to deceive or steal and that he planned to repay the loans through overseas property development. The case proceeds before Judge Martin Nolan and a jury. The unnamed accused pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Prosecutors tell Michael Lynn he's maligned others to 'save his skin'. Charges or matters: 21 counts of theft in Dublin between October 23, 2006 and April 20, 2007. Procedural stage: trial

When: