Courts / Wicklow / Report
'Fairytale': the trials of Michael Lynn
Summary
The multi‑million euro theft trial of former solicitor Michael Lynn, aged 55, ended after two trials totalling 24 weeks. The first trial in spring 2022 failed to reach a verdict after 16 weeks of evidence. The second trial, held in October 2023, lasted eight weeks. Lynn was charged with 21 counts of theft for taking about €27 million from seven financial institutions between October 2006 and April 2007 while working as a solicitor and property developer. He pleaded not guilty. The prosecution alleged that Lynn obtained multiple mortgages on the same properties, forged documents, and used the loans for overseas property developments. Lynn denied the allegations, claiming banks had allowed him to use the money for such projects. The trial concluded with the jury still undecided, and no verdict was reached.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 'Fairytale': the trials of Michael Lynn. Charges or matters: 21 counts of theft in Dublin between October 23, 2006 and April 20, 2007, when he was working as a solicitor and property developer. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- October 23, 2006 Hearing Or Sentence
- April 20, 2007 Hearing Or Sentence
- May 2008 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2023-12-20 Publication
Why: Ms Doyle said she didn't ask questions because it was a "hectic office" and "there was a fear there" – a phrase she repeated verbatim at the second trial. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: 21 counts of theft in Dublin between October 23, 2006 and April 20, 2007, when he was working as a solicitor and property developer (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Outcome: In the first trial, Lynn gave lengthy evidence of his arrest in Recife, Brazil in 2013 and his detention in a prison that was essentially run by inmates, with violence commonplace.
Places mentioned
- Dublin
- Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
- High Court
- Brazilian prison
Topics
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