Richard Molloy resentenced for counterfeit currency equipment

This report is a localnews.ie summary based on public court reporting and records; sources are listed below.

The Court of Appeal resentenced Richard Molloy on 28 July 2016, setting a headline term of eight years, deducting 30 months for mitigation and suspending a further 18 months. Mr. Justice Edwards delivered the judgment.

The appeal succeeded because the original judge had not explained the sentencing decision in enough detail for the appeal court to establish whether mitigation had received sufficient weight. The original sentence was quashed.

The suspension required Molloy to enter a €100 bond. Its conditions required him to keep the peace and be of good behaviour during the two years after his release from prison. The court suspended this portion to recognise his rehabilitation and encourage further progress.

At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, he faced charges of delivering counterfeit currency and possessing or controlling materials or implements intended for currency counterfeiting. On 7 July 2015, he pleaded guilty to the equipment charge, agreeing that the circumstances of the delivery count could be considered at sentencing. The DPP accepted the plea, so the trial did not go ahead. On 6 November 2015, the court imposed six years’ imprisonment for the equipment offence, taking the other count into account.

Gardaí found printing machines and associated materials at a commercial unit leased to Molloy in Dunboyne, Co Meath.

In seeking a lower sentence, Molloy argued that insufficient weight had been given to his guilty plea, lack of relevant convictions, apparent remorse and personal circumstances. He cited alcohol problems, his partner’s illness, financial and emotional difficulties, and his need to maintain a relationship with his daughter.