Courts / Donegal / Report

Garda Keith Harrison brings action aimed at lifting three-year suspension from duty

Date
2024-03-11

Stage
Charge Or Pretrial

Primary locality
Donegal

County
Donegal

Summary

Donegal Garda Keith Harrison has filed a High Court challenge to lift a three‑year suspension from duty. He claims the suspension, imposed in March 2021, is based on allegations that he entered a consensual relationship with a woman who had previously reported herself as a crime victim. Harrison denies any wrongdoing, stating the relationship was consensual, that they have a child, and that the woman has not sought criminal prosecution. He alleges that the Garda disciplinary process is unfair, procedurally flawed, and that evidence has not been properly disclosed to him. Harrison also claims the suspension is an abuse of process and seeks orders to quash the suspension, the appointment of the investigating officer, and the continuation of the inquiry. The High Court has granted him permission to proceed with the challenge, with the case set to return next month. The matter involves ongoing internal Garda disciplinary proceedings and a prior investigation by the Disclosures Tribunal.