Courts / Dublin / Report
3D printed guns becoming more prevalent, court hears
Summary
A garda detective testified that 3D-printed guns are becoming more prevalent in Ireland. Craig McKeever (21) pleaded guilty to possessing a 3D-printed .22 calibre pistol and three rounds of ammunition. The gun, made of polymer, is small, easy to conceal, and not detected by metal detectors. During a patrol in Inchicore, gardai found McKeever with a bulletproof vest and a 3D-printed gun. The gun was found to be functional and lethal. McKeever claimed he was carrying the gun for protection after receiving threats against his life. He has 14 previous convictions, including theft, drugs, and road traffic offences. His defense argued that he was in a dangerous situation due to threats from a third party. The court heard that McKeever's family had received notices of threats, and his home was firebombed. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the seriousness of the offense and sentenced McKeever to four years and six months, with the final six months suspended on strict conditions.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 3D printed guns becoming more prevalent, court hears. Charges or matters: possession of a 3D-printed, .22 calibre pistol and three rounds of ammunition. "These are guns – which are printed on a 3D machine – are becoming more prevalent in the country," Det Gda White told Judge Elma Sheahan. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- June 24, 2025 Other
- July 2024 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2026-05-12 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: possession of a 3D-printed, .22 calibre pistol and three rounds of ammunition. "These are guns – which are printed on a 3D machine – are becoming more prevalent in the country," Det Gda White told Judge Elma Sheahan (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: McKeever was today handed a sentence of four years and six months, with the final six months suspended on strict conditions. The judge said the court's view was that the custodial threshold had been crossed and handed McKeever a sentence of four years and six months, with the final six months suspended on strict conditions.
Places mentioned
Topics
Drugs Road Traffic Stage Sentence Theft
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