Courts / Dublin / Report

Witness tells "pyramid scheme" trial that he agreed to invest €20k

Summary

During a trial at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, a witness named Mark Hilliard testified that he had met Eamon Shield, a 45‑year‑old accused of running a fraudulent motor business, after responding to a newspaper advert seeking investors. Shield allegedly promised to buy repossessed cars from banks at low prices and sell them at a profit. Hilliard agreed to invest €20,000, signing a contract that the money would be repaid in full after 60 days. He claimed to have made repeated attempts to meet Shield to view the motor stock, but no cars were ever shown, and the list provided did not include registration numbers. Hilliard said he had not received any repayment after two months and felt he had been duped. The trial, presided over by Judge Patricia Ryan, continues with a jury. Eamon Shield pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Witness tells "pyramid scheme" trial that he agreed to invest €20k. Charges or matters: 15 counts of theft and another 12 counts of making a gain by deception between June 2011 and February 2012. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• June 2011 Hearing Or Sentence
• February 2012 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2016-07-14 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial

Related court reports

• Man charged with having 56k child abuse images and videos remanded on bail
• Ex-Dáil hopeful's allegations against former employer 'complete fantasy', WRC told
• Mater must pay €10k to worker who said he was wrongly accused of abusing patient
• 'I think we know I won't be getting bail' - Daniel Kinahan charged with directing criminal organisation
• Letting agent who claimed alleged domestic violence victim abandoned tenancy by fleeing to refuge must pay €14.7k
• 77-year-old with 470 convictions told Luas staff to 'f**k off'

Read the original CNI report