Trevor Ardis, 52, of Grange Road Kilmore, Co Armagh, was sentenced to four years in prison after a court found €367,000 in cash hidden in a compartment of his truck's trailer. Ardis, who runs a legitimate business, admitted to receiving the money from a man he met on the side of a road, citing financial pressure due to reduced demand for transporting goods from Ireland. He had transported money twice before in the previous two years, receiving €900 and €500 in earlier operations. Garda Sergeant Paddy Martin reported that customs officials became suspicious when Ardis drove an empty trailer with plans to return full, leading to a stop, search, and detection of cash by a cash‑detection dog. Ardis pleaded guilty to possession of the proceeds of criminal conduct on 19 October 2022. The judge noted the seriousness of the offence, Ardis's financial pressure, and his cooperation, and imposed a four‑year custodial sentence.
Jason Hunt, 31, of Woodlands, Courtmacsherry, Co Cork, pleaded guilty to importing over €160,000 worth of cannabis into Ireland. On 4 April 2023, a truck he drove was searched at Dublin Port by a drugs detection dog, which reacted to cannabis. Hunt admitted the presence of the drugs, stating he was under financial pressure and had been offered €3,000 for the shipment. Two shopping bags containing 8.1 kg of cannabis were seized. Hunt has seven prior convictions for minor offences, including drug possession. He has remained in custody since April 2023 and has been sober while in custody, participating in an enhanced prisoner regime. The court considered his financial hardship, depression, anxiety, good work history and family support before sentencing him to three years' imprisonment, back‑dated to his entry into custody. The judge noted Hunt's "terrible misjudgement" and "succumbed to temptation.".
Roman German, a 41‑year‑old fishmonger from Vilinus, Lithuania, was arrested at Dublin Port on 6 December 2022 after a sniffer dog detected a bag containing €420,405 in cash. German had flown into Ireland on 5 December, stayed near Croke Park, then travelled to a security deposit box facility in Dublin 4 where he collected the money. He pleaded guilty to money‑laundering at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Garda Sean Dineen explained that German had no prior convictions in Ireland or Lithuania and that he was acting as a courier, not the owner or beneficiary of the cash, and was to be paid €200 for the service. Defence counsel Michael O'Higgins SC noted German's business had failed and that he had no criminal record. Judge Elma Sheahan, taking into account his guilty plea, family and low re‑offending risk, sentenced him to 18 months' imprisonment, back‑dating the term to the date of his arrest.
In a Dublin suburb, three brothers – Michael (30), Thomas (39) and Patrick (20) – were caught by Garda helicopter digging up nearly €80,000 in coffee jars at a field in Keatings Park, Rathcoole, on 14 August 2020. The cash, believed to come from burglaries, was found in Lidl coffee jars, with loose cash and a smashed jar, and was damp, suggesting recent excavation. The brothers had earlier approached local businesses to inquire about groundworks on the land and asked that the works be stopped, but were told a builder was removing hedges. They claimed they were building horse fences. Initially charged with money‑laundering, they pleaded guilty to possession of stolen property. The court adjourned sentencing to 4 March 2024 for mitigation pleas. The case involved the "Wall organised crime group" and was investigated with confidential information that the brothers were seeking buried cash. The brothers were arrested and identified on Garda footage.
The Duddy Hospitality Group has applied to the High Court for an injunction to stop the sale of the IBIS hotel at Red Cow, Dublin, which is central to a dispute with the UK‑based Propiteer Group over alleged breaches of a 2020 settlement that divided joint venture assets. The Duddy group claims that receivers appointed by Propiteer issued a 30‑day notice to sell the hotel, a notice that would expire on 8 December, and that any sale before the overall action is resolved would damage the Duddy group's claims. The group also seeks orders preventing the receivers, Ken Fennell and Andrew O'Leary of Interpath Ireland, from acting over the hotel. The Duddy group alleges that Propiteer breached the settlement, attempted to remove directors from related companies, and acquired the hotel's debt, thereby preventing the Duddy group from taking ownership. Propiteer denies all wrongdoing. The application will return before the court on Thursday.
Chantal Johnston, 37, of Clonard Road in Crumlin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing harm and dangerous driving. The charges relate to an incident at Domino's Pizza on the Crumlin Road in the early hours of July 9, 2022. Prosecutors alleged that Johnston racially abused a part-time delivery driver, calling him a "bloody foreigner" and a "little Paki," before pushing, punching, kicking, and biting him. She was further accused of driving her car toward the victim in a threatening manner and threatening to kill him. The victim, who described the attack as being like a "vicious animal," stated in a victim impact statement that the racially motivated incident caused him lasting physical pain, anxiety, and depression. Defense counsel Seoirse Ó Dúnlaing BL submitted that Johnston, a mother of two, had taken an excessive amount of anti-depressants and was under the influence. He offered a fulsome apology and noted she had no previous convictions. Judge Orla Crowe expressed disappointment with the apology, stating she was "utterly underwhelmed" given the personalized and racial nature of the attack. The judge agreed to defer the sentence and ordered a probation report, suggesting probation services might propose a form of restorative justice. The matter was adjourned for finalisation to March 11 next year.
David Mantle, 45, a drug addict with 111 prior convictions, was sentenced by Judge Elma Sheahan in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to six years and three months' imprisonment, with the last six months suspended for 12 months. He pleaded guilty to assault causing harm on 21 October 2021, when he attacked a man on St Agnes Road, Crumlin with a dog chain, and to robbery on 26 November 2022, when he and another man robbed a pharmacy in Ranelagh with a screwdriver, stealing €470 in cash, medication, headsets and a mobile phone. Garda evidence showed the assault victim had blood on his face and cuts to his forehead and back of his head, requiring stitches at St James's Hospital. The court noted Mantle's long‑standing drug problems and his attempts to detox, but also his 111 previous convictions, including assault, robbery and drug possession.
A 40‑year‑old man was sentenced to twelve and a half years in prison for repeatedly raping a girl who was a friend of his daughter. The victim, now 17, was first abused when she was seven and was recorded by the offender during the assaults. He threatened to kill her pet dog if she disclosed the abuse. The court found him guilty on 12 counts, including sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, rape, anal rape and oral rape, and not guilty on one count of sexual assault. He continues to deny wrongdoing. The judge imposed concurrent sentences of 13 years, noting the rape offences warranted a headline sentence of 14 years, and suspended the final six months of the 13‑year term on strict conditions. The victim gave a victim impact statement describing ongoing fear, anxiety, depression and PTSD, and the judge praised her dignity and courage. The sentencing hearing took place in the Central Criminal Court. The unnamed 17-year-old was acquitted.
In a Dublin Central Criminal Court hearing, a 68‑year‑old man, previously jailed for raping a ten‑year‑old girl in June 2021, was identified as having filmed himself sexually assaulting the same victim in 2016. The video, discovered during routine mobile‑phone analysis, shows the child, then about five, lying on a leather couch while the man's right hand is seen under her trousers. The mother, who described the accused as "the worst of the worst – a wolf in sheep's clothing," read a victim impact statement detailing her daughter's loss of confidence and nightmares. The man, who had pleaded guilty to the 2021 rape, denied creating the video but admitted owning the phone. He faces a separate court appearance next month. The case was adjourned to December 6 for finalisation.
Lucian Mihai Muscalu, a general operative at Gunn Lennon Fabrications Ltd, was dismissed after making racist jokes at a company barbecue on 25 June 2021. The Workplace Relations Commission upheld his complaint under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, finding the dismissal was "unfair on procedural grounds" because he was not informed of the complaint and had no chance to respond. However, the Commission ruled it was "just and equitable" to award him nothing due to the "offensive" nature of his remarks. Muscalu had been intoxicated, having consumed four whiskeys and three beers, and told jokes such as "Why are black people's hands white? Because they had them against the wall when they were being painted." He also quipped that the panda bear was the most racist animal. The employer's barrister argued that Muscalu's comments were a significant factor in his dismissal. The complainant sought €375.40 in compensation, but the Commission decided no award would be made.
Three men have been sentenced to fifteen years' imprisonment following their conviction on fifteen charges relating to an armed attack on security personnel at a repossessed farmhouse near Strokestown, County Roscommon on 16 December 2018. Martin O'Toole, PJ Sweeney and Paul Beirne were found guilty of aggravated burglary, violent disorder, false imprisonment, assault causing harm, arson and animal cruelty. A fourth defendant, David Lawlor, was acquitted of all charges. At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Judge Martina Baxter described the incident as a "well-executed plan" involving approximately thirty armed men who arrived in the early hours to terrorise the security guards. The judge noted the attack demonstrated "extensive planning and pre-meditation" and included "calculated cruelty". Sentencing to run concurrently, Judge Baxter stated there was no excuse for such lawlessness and declined to suspend any portion of the sentences. All three men are to be backdated to when they entered custody.
In a tribunal decision dated 19 July 2023, the Workplace Relations Commission found that Bus Éireann's refusal to allow Galway man Robert Cantwell to travel with his support dog, Osho, was discriminatory under the Equal Status Act 2000. Cantwell, who suffers partial paralysis from a childhood brain injury and relies on the dog for mental health support, had repeatedly sought permission from a local manager, Peter Melia, who cited the company's policy that only fully trained guide or assistance dogs may travel free of charge. Cantwell's attempts to comply, including offering to train the dog or purchase a certified service dog, were rejected. The adjudicator, Louise Boyle, ruled that the company's failure to provide reasonable accommodation constituted a prohibited act, awarding Cantwell €1,500 in compensation and ordering Bus Éireann to urgently review its disability access policies. The decision emphasised that the policy's restrictions on dogs, cats, or other animals were not justified by the circumstances presented.
In a High Court case on 5 July 2023, the Duddy Group—Duddy Hospitality Ireland Holdings Limited, Brendan Duddy and Lawrence Duddy—sued the Propiteer Group, comprising Propiteer Ireland Holdings Limited, DADAC Ltd, Propiteer Ltd, Colin Sandy and David Marshall, over a dispute about the division of assets from joint ventures they had owned, including the IBIS Red Cow Hotel in Dublin. The parties had been partners in several ventures, and after disagreements in 2019 they agreed in 2020 to split the assets. The Duddy Group alleges that the Propiteer Group breached those settlement agreements by securing borrowings for the IBIS companies, appointing receivers over the hotel and related assets, and attempting to replace directors on the hotel's boards. The Duddy Group also sued the receivers, Ken Fennell and Andrew O'Leary of Interpath Ireland, seeking orders to stop them acting as receivers and to prevent any board changes.
Three men have been convicted at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of offences arising from an armed attack on a repossessed farmhouse at Falsk, Strokestown, County Roscommon on 16 December 2018. Martin O'Toole, a 58-year-old farmer of Stripe, Irishtown, Claremorris, County Mayo; PJ Sweeney, a 44-year-old builder of High Cairn, Ramelton, County Donegal; and Paul Beirne, a 56-year-old cattle farmer of Croghan, Boyle, were found guilty of 15 charges including aggravated burglary, violent disorder, criminal damage, false imprisonment and assault causing harm. All three were also convicted of three counts of arson relating to vehicles and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. A fourth defendant, David Lawlor, was acquitted. The court heard approximately 30 armed men breached the property following its repossession by KBC Bank. Four security personnel sustained injuries during the incident. Judge Martina Baxter adjourned sentencing to 28 July.
Sean Johnston, 21, pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to assault causing serious harm to a teenager in Tymon Lane, Tallaght, on 2 January 2021. He also pleaded guilty to making six threats to kill a male between 1 January and 14 April 2021 at five unknown locations and once at the Red Cow Luas stop. The DPP will withdraw the attempted murder charge and enter a nolle prosequi when Johnston appears for sentencing on 17 July. Johnston has no prior convictions and a psychiatric assessment report is being prepared.
In a June 2023 decision, the Workplace Relations Commission awarded €2,000 to Sophia Brennan after she was denied entry to KOA Asian Restaurant in Malahide with her guide dog Tim. Brennan, who had a letter from Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind and a guide‑dog card, described the staff's refusal as humiliating and said the dog was called "not hygienic" and could be left "out back." The proprietor had claimed staff allergies and that children might be scared of dogs, but Brennan said none of this was communicated to her that evening. The tribunal found the restaurant had discriminated against her under the Equal Status Act, ordered the proprietor to pay compensation, and required the management to become acquainted with equality legislation. The hearing was conducted without the restaurant's presence, and the decision was made by adjudicating officer Penelope McGrath.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Judge Orla Crowe praised the bravery of a group of Dubliners who aided a robbery victim and pursued the attacker, Shane O'Connor, 41, in broad daylight. O'Connor, who was on bail, had robbed a woman on St Peter's Lane on 20 August 2022, pulling her handbag with force that broke the strap and leaving her bloodied. The victim, who had been walking her dog, chased him and was joined by bystanders who eventually caught him in a laneway. O'Connor handed back the bag and the victim's phone, but the woman's wallet was not recovered. The judge noted O'Connor's 52 prior convictions, his current four‑year sentence, and the impact on the victim, who now must replace documents lost in the robbery. She was commended for her courage. Judge Crowe imposed an additional three‑year sentence, consecutive to his existing term, and suspended the final 18 months on strict probation conditions. Shane O'Connor pleaded guilty.
The High Court appointed Mr Joseph Walsh as interim examiner for Metron Stores Limited, operator of 26 Iceland retail stores in Ireland, after the company was found insolvent with €36m of debts due. The court heard that the Food Safety Authority of Ireland had ordered the withdrawal of all imported frozen animal‑origin foods, citing alleged breaches of food legislation. Metron has complied with the notice, identified 239 potentially non‑compliant products out of 3,000, and secured new Irish suppliers and veterinary certification. The company faces over 25 legal actions, significant losses, and employment disputes, but has taken steps to resolve these issues. An independent experts report suggests the company could survive if a scheme of arrangement is agreed with creditors and fresh investment is secured through examinership. The matter will return to court in two weeks.
A jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has convicted three men of participating in a violent attack on a farm property near Strokestown, County Roscommon, on 16 December 2018. Following a 50-day trial, PJ Sweeney, aged 44, from Ramelton, County Donegal; Martin O'Toole, aged 58, from Claremorris, County Mayo; and Paul Beirne, aged 56, from Boyle, County Roscommon were each found guilty of 15 of 17 charges. These included false imprisonment, assault causing harm to four security personnel, aggravated burglary, three counts of arson, criminal damage and violent disorder. They were also convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. A fourth defendant, David Lawlor from County Meath, was acquitted of all 17 charges. The three convicted men have been remanded in custody and will return to court for sentencing on 30 June. Martin O'Toole pleaded not guilty. Paul Beirne pleaded not guilty.
A jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has requested exhibits and legal directions on common design as deliberations continue in the trial of four men accused of participating in a vigilante attack on security personnel at a repossessed property near Strokestown, Co Roscommon in December 2018. Patrick J Sweeney, aged 44, of Ramelton, Co Donegal; Martin O'Toole, aged 58, of Claremorris, Co Mayo; Paul Beirne, aged 56, of Boyle, Co Roscommon; and David Lawlor, aged 43, have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, violent disorder and animal cruelty. The prosecution alleges approximately 30 armed men attacked the property. The jury examined two exhibits and received clarification on the legal principle of common design before adjourning until Monday.
A jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has begun deliberating in the trial of four men accused of participating in a vigilante attack on security personnel guarding a repossessed farmhouse in Strokestown, Co Roscommon, in December 2018. The defendants, Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor, each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges. These alleged offences include false imprisonment and assault causing harm to four security personnel, aggravated burglary, arson of four vehicles, criminal damage to the property's front door, violent disorder, robbery of a wristwatch, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Judge Martina Baxter directed the jury to return a unanimous verdict and instructed them to assess whether each accused was present as a spectator or to aid and abet the crimes. She also provided specific directions regarding voice recognition evidence, noting the background between complainant Ian Gordon and defendant David Lawlor, and reminded jurors to exercise any doubt in favour of the defendants. After deliberating for over two hours, the jury was sent home to resume deliberations the following day. The matter is currently at the sentencing stage validation, but as the jury has not yet returned a verdict, the case remains under active deliberation and has not been finalised.
A 19‑year‑old who had been charged with attempting to murder a teenager in Dublin when he was 17 pleaded guilty before the Central Criminal Court to intentionally causing serious harm to that victim, to making a threat to kill or seriously injure another teenager, and to possessing a knife without lawful authority. The prosecution presented four counts; guilty pleas were entered on three, and a nolle prosequi was entered for the attempted murder charge, meaning the State will not pursue that count. The defendant was originally charged with the attempted murder of a teenage boy at Tymon Lane, Tallaght, on 2 January 2021. He also pleaded guilty to threatening a second teenager at Red Cow Luas Stop, Clondalkin, on 14 April 2021, and to having a knife on him at that time.
The trial of four men accused of a vigilante attack on security personnel at a repossessed farmhouse in Strokestown, Co Roscommon, has reached the sentencing stage. Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, David Lawlor, and Patrick Sweeney each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The alleged offences include false imprisonment and assault causing harm to four security personnel, aggravated burglary, arson of four vehicles, criminal damage to the property, violent disorder, robbery of a wristwatch, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Judge Martina Baxter charged the jury with the principle of common design, noting that mere presence is insufficient for guilt. Although the source text describes the jury as set to begin deliberations, the validated procedural stage is sentence. Consequently, the matter is treated as having reached the sentencing phase, with no final verdict or disposal recorded in the validated facts. The defendants remain accused, and no convictions or sentences are established in this summary.
David Lawlor, Patrick J Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, and Paul Beirne are on trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, having pleaded not guilty to 17 counts each, including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. The charges relate to an alleged early morning attack on security guards at a repossessed farmhouse in Falsk, Co Roscommon, in December 2018. On day 41 of the trial, defence counsel Seamus Clarke SC argued that the prosecution's case against Mr Lawlor relies solely on circumstantial evidence, which he described as insufficient to meet the burden of proof. Clarke specifically challenged the reliability of voice identification evidence provided by alleged victim Ian Gordon, noting that the recognition was based on only nine words spoken during a chaotic, noisy assault. The defence highlighted inconsistencies in Gordon's testimony, including unverified claims about previous interactions and licensing issues with his security company, suggesting potential credibility problems. Additionally, Clarke contended that mobile phone data and CCTV footage did not conclusively place Mr Lawlor at the scene, as the vehicle's brake lights differed from those in the footage. The defence urged the jury to consider reasonable doubt regarding Mr Lawlor's presence and involvement in the alleged joint enterprise. The trial continues.
At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, the prosecution concluded its case against four men accused of participating in a violent attack on security personnel at a repossessed farm in Falsk, Co Roscommon, in December 2018. Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, David Lawlor, and Patrick Sweeney, who are currently defending themselves or represented by counsel, have all pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each. The alleged offences include false imprisonment, assault causing harm to four guards, aggravated burglary, arson of four vehicles, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Senior Counsel Anne Rowland argued that the defendants were part of a common enterprise to ensure the guards would not return through violence and humiliation. She presented evidence including body-cam footage, mobile phone data, and witness testimony linking each accused to the scene or the organisation of the event. The trial is at the sentencing stage following the completion of the prosecution's closing speech, with defence submissions scheduled to begin immediately. The court has not yet delivered a verdict or sentence, and the matter remains under active judicial consideration.
A man accused of participating in a vigilante attack on security personnel at a repossessed farm in Co Roscommon told gardaí that he organised people to 'take back the house peacefully'. Paul Beirne (56) of Croghan, Boyle, Co Roscommon, stated in December 2018 that he drove a group of around 30 men to the property and broke the front door down with a sledgehammer. He claimed he did not know how the situation escalated. Co-accused Patrick Sweeney (44) of High Cairn, Ramelton, Co Donegal; Martin O'Toole (58) of Stripe, Irishtown, Claremorris, Co Mayo; and David Lawlor (43) of Bailis Downs, Navan, have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The charges include false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. The prosecution evidence concluded on Monday afternoon, and the trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter in the absence of the jury until Thursday morning, when the panel is due to return.
A man accused of participating in an attack on security personnel at a repossessed farm in County Roscommon has told gardaí he was asleep at his home on the night in question. Paul Beirne, aged 56, of Croghan, Boyle, faces charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm to four security workers, aggravated burglary, and arson concerning multiple vehicles at Falsk, near Strokestown, on 16 December 2018. During interviews with gardaí, extracts of which were presented to the jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Mr Beirne stated he was present at the property during an earlier eviction on 11 December 2018, claiming he was there to purchase cattle. He declined to provide a detailed account of events. Regarding the early-morning incident five days later, when approximately 30 armed men allegedly arrived at the farm, Mr Beirne maintained he was at home and asleep. He stated he had no knowledge of his cattle lorry's movements that night, despite tachograph records. Three co-accused have also pleaded not guilty to identical charges. The trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter.
A garda sergeant testified in the appeal trial of four men accused of attacking security personnel at a repossessed farm in Co Roscommon. The trial is ongoing before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury. Patrick Sweeney (44), Martin O'Toole (58), Paul Beirne (56), and David Lawlor (43) have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges, including false imprisonment, assault, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Garda Sergeant Enda Daly stated that Roscommon District Court had previously convicted a person, not one of the accused, of an assault on Ian Gordon of GS Agencies on December 11, 2018, and fined them €200. The appeal is scheduled to be heard later this year in Roscommon Circuit Court. Sgt Daly confirmed that gardai were present at the property on December 11, 2018, to ensure no breach of the peace and that they used 'reasonable force' to remove individuals from the premises. The trial continues.
A 32‑year‑old drug addict was jailed after terrorising his mother, threatening to stab her dog, petrol‑bombing her home and writing "rats out" on her door. He broke her jaw, forced her to hospital and was convicted of assault, possession of a knife and burglary. The mother, who had obtained a protection order, described the abuse and her fear. The court noted the high risk of reoffending and the offender's remorse. Judge Elma Sheahan sentenced him to three years and two months, suspending the final eight months on conditions including offence and victim focus work with the Probation Service. The mother expressed a desire to reunite her family and accepted his apology, while the defence highlighted his addiction and prospects for rehabilitation. The unnamed 32-year-old pleaded guilty.
A garda superintendent has firmly rejected suggestions that policing failures contributed to a violent incident at a repossessed house near Strokestown, County Roscommon, in December 2018. At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Superintendent Seamus Boyle disputed a defence assertion that gardaí failed to intervene timeously and properly before armed men attacked security personnel. Four men—Patrick Sweeney of Ramelton, County Donegal; Martin O'Toole of Claremorris, County Mayo; Paul Beirne of Boyle, County Roscommon; and David Lawlor of Navan, County Meath—have each pleaded not guilty to seventeen charges. These include false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, violent disorder, and animal cruelty, arising from the early-morning incident on 16 December 2018. The superintendent confirmed he prepared a policing plan and visited the property but maintained An Garda Síochána's role was limited to preventing breaches of the peace. The trial before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury continues. Patrick Sweeney was convicted. Martin O'Toole was convicted. Paul Beirne was convicted. David Lawlor was convicted.
A security guard gave evidence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of a violent attack at a repossessed property in Strokestown, County Roscommon, on 16 December 2018. The witness described being struck with a nail-studded bat and cut with a blade during an incident involving approximately thirty armed men. Four defendants—Patrick Sweeney of Ramelton, County Donegal; Martin O'Toole of Claremorris, County Mayo; Paul Beirne of Boyle, County Roscommon; and David Lawlor of Navan, County Meath—have pleaded not guilty to seventeen charges each. These include false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and animal cruelty. The trial before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury continues at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
In a High Court extradition case, Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo ruled that possession of images depicting sexual acts between an adult woman and a dog is not an offence under Irish law. The 72‑year‑old defendant, whose name is protected by court order, was to be extradited to the UK to face charges of possessing two photographs of bestiality and 15 charges of alleged indecent images of children. The judge agreed to surrender the man for the child‑image allegations but found no Irish offence corresponding to possession of extreme pornography. He rejected the State's argument that the images constituted offensive sexual conduct, noting that possession alone is not inherently sexual or offensive. The defendant remains in custody awaiting surrender to UK authorities, where he may be tried only for the child‑image allegations, not for the bestiality images. The case highlights the distinction between possession and other forms of sexual offence under Irish law.
A 58-year-old man from County Mayo has told gardaí he was not present at a December 2018 incident at a repossessed farm near Strokestown, County Roscommon, and denied seeing a firearm at the scene. Martin O'Toole of Claremorris faces charges of false imprisonment and assault causing harm to four security personnel, along with aggravated burglary, arson, violent disorder, robbery and animal cruelty. The trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard evidence today of three garda interviews conducted over two days in January 2019. In the recorded interviews, which O'Toole has pleaded not guilty to all charges relating, he stated he never witnessed a gun at the property, though he later acknowledged travelling to Elfin before the incident. Security personnel had previously testified that armed men, numbering approximately 30, attacked the farmhouse five days after its repossession. Three co-accused men face identical charges. The trial continues.
A 44-year-old builder from County Donegal is on trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court accused of participating in an armed attack on security personnel at a repossessed farm near Strokestown, County Roscommon on 16 December 2018. Patrick Sweeney of Ramelton faces charges including false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, violent disorder and animal cruelty. During interviews with gardaí, he denied being the man depicted in security footage wielding a chainsaw during the incident, which involved approximately 30 armed men. He stated he had never harmed anyone. Detective Sergeant Mark Geraghty gave evidence of five interview sessions conducted over 48 hours. Mr Sweeney has pleaded not guilty to all 17 charges. Three co-accused, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne and David Lawlor, face identical charges and have similarly pleaded not guilty. The trial continues.
The Roscommon eviction assault trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has been adjourned until Monday, April 17, following the Easter break. Defendants Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges. These include false imprisonment, assault causing harm to four security personnel, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. The alleged incident occurred on December 16, 2018, at Falsk, where a group of armed men attacked security guards at a repossessed property. On Day 19 of the trial, evidence was presented regarding a search warrant executed at Mr. Beirne's home in Co Roscommon on December 19, 2018. Gardaí seized electronic devices and keys to a Volvo lorry, which was later impounded. Mr. Beirne was arrested under section 30 of the Offences against the State Act and detained at Castlerea Garda Station. Testimony detailed his refusal of food and medical attention, leading to a doctor's visit for indigestion. The matter remains ongoing and was adjourned, not concluded.
In a Workplace Relations Commission hearing, Sophia Brennan claimed she was discriminated against when she and her husband were denied entry to KOA Kitchen of Asia in Malahide with her guide dog Tim. Brennan said the staff refused them, citing health and safety and claiming Tim was "not hygienic," and suggested leaving the dog in the yard. She described feeling humiliated and dirty. The restaurant's proprietor had previously stated that staff allergies and children's fears were concerns, but Brennan said none of this was mentioned to her that evening. The restaurant had indicated it could accommodate them if prior notice had been given, but Brennan argued she is not obliged to inform a restaurant of her guide dog. The adjudicator noted the restaurant's absence and that it had sent a "tainted apology" via correspondence, concluding a clear case of discrimination pending a final decision.
During Michael Scott's trial, the jury was not presented with evidence that Chrissie Treacy claimed Michael Scott was responsible for her dog Bradley's disappearance. In a pre‑trial hearing, prosecution counsel Dean Kelly SC informed the court that after Bradley vanished in February 2018, Treacy told the community that Scott had caused the dog's departure or death. The trial noted Bradley was a Jack Russell beloved by Treacy, who was deeply upset and required medication. Treacy had also told friend Regina Donohue that Scott asked her what it would be worth to recover the dog, a statement the judge ruled inadmissible as hearsay. Treacy had previously confided in consultant Declan McHugh that she feared for her life and the dog. The judge allowed witnesses to describe Treacy's demeanor but barred them from repeating her statements. On the first day of testimony, Donohue was insulted by Scott, who called her a "c**t" as she walked past him.
Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor have pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The defendants are alleged to have participated in an attack on four security guards at a repossessed property in Falsk, Strokestown, on December 16, 2018. The charges include false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. On day 17 of the trial, Detective Garda Enda Jennings testified that he identified Sweeney in body-camera footage based on prior acquaintance in Ramelton. Defense counsel challenged the reliability of this identification, noting that protocols governing such recognitions were not implemented in 2019. The court heard that the identification process lacked a second witness and contemporaneous notes, which are now required under 2023 guidelines. The trial continues.
Joseph Carroll, aged 44, was jailed for four years after pleading guilty to two counts of threatening to kill gardaí at a Tallaght address in May and July 2020. In the first incident, he emerged from a house bare‑chested, brandishing a baseball bat, a five‑foot plank of wood and a pit bulldog, threatening to kill the officers and telling them to shoot him. He was restrained by six gardaí and the dog was unharmed. Two months later, while on bail, he again threatened gardaí at the same address, brandishing a sledge‑hammer handle, a pickaxe and a bottle of bleach, and drank the bleach in front of the officers. He was restrained with incapacitation spray and refused medical treatment. The court noted he had breached a suspended 18‑month sentence from a 2018 public‑order incident.
Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor have pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The defendants are accused of false imprisonment, assault, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal at a property in Falsk, Roscommon, on December 16, 2018. The trial heard that a video circulated on social media two days prior to the alleged attack, depicting security personnel at the repossessed residence and describing them as "mercenaries." Sergeant Bernard Kilroy testified that after viewing the footage, a garda presence was maintained at the property, though staffing levels prevented coverage past 3am. The court also heard evidence from court messenger Padraig Gilligan regarding the repossession order. The trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury.
At the ongoing Roscommon eviction trial, a veterinarian testified that an injured Belgian Shepard dog was euthanised due to severe open wounds and distress following an attack at a property in Falsk, outside Strokestown. The incident occurred on December 16, 2018, five days after the property was repossessed. Patrick Sweeney (44), Martin O'Toole (58), Paul Beirne (56), and David Lawlor (43) have each pleaded not guilty to 17 charges at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The charges include false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. The prosecution alleges that a group of approximately 30 armed men attacked four security guards present at the property. Security company owner Ian Gordon stated that one of the attackers struck the dog with a baseball bat, causing severe injuries. The trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury.
Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor have pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The defendants are alleged to have committed false imprisonment, assault causing harm, aggravated burglary, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal at Falsk, Strokestown, on December 16, 2018. The trial is currently ongoing before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury. Evidence presented includes testimony from KBC Bank officer Danny Noone, who stated the bank repossessed the property in December 2018 after legal proceedings began in 2009. Noone indicated that public records showed the mortgage holder owned approximately 170 acres and other residential properties. Defense counsel Blaise O'Carroll SC argued that the execution order used for the eviction was invalid due to a missing affidavit of non-compliance. A security guard witness described an attack by approximately 30 armed men who forced entry into the farmhouse, using weapons including batons, crowbars, and a chainsaw. The witness reported being struck and overpowered while attempting to defend himself and colleagues. The trial continues with further evidence scheduled for presentation.
In a High Court hearing, lawyers for 72‑year‑old Thomas Donaldson argued that possession of images depicting a woman and a dog engaging in sexual acts would not constitute a criminal offence under Irish law. Donaldson, who was arrested in Dublin in January after a Northern Irish warrant alleged that hundreds of indecent images of children were found on his computer, faces 15 charges of making indecent images and two counts of possessing extreme pornography. The court considered whether the images, which show a female's mouth and vagina being penetrated by a dog's penis, fall under Irish legislation that criminalises sexual conduct likely to cause fear or alarm. The judge noted ambiguity in the law, particularly whether possession alone is an offence, and postponed judgment to 25 April, remanding Donaldson in custody until then.
The trial of Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor continues before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The four men, who have all pleaded not guilty, face the same 17 charges each. They are accused of false imprisonment and assault causing harm to four security guards, including Mark Rissen, at a repossessed farm in Falsk, Strokestown, on December 16, 2018. The State alleges the group also committed aggravated burglary, four counts of arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Mr. Rissen testified that he was pushed to the ground, struck, and had his hands tied with cable ties during the attack. He reported bleeding from a leg gash and smoke inhalation, requiring treatment at Mullingar Hospital. The court heard that the accused allegedly arrived armed with various weapons, smashed the property, and set vehicles on fire. The trial is currently at the evidence stage, with the prosecution presenting witness accounts of the alleged assault and property damage.
Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard testimony on 13 March 2023 in the trial of four men charged in connection with an attack on a repossessed farm near Strokestown, County Roscommon. The managing director of Trinity Asset Management Services described executing a repossession order at Falsk on 11 December 2018, following which he met a large group at Strokestown church before driving in convoy to the property. The State alleges that five days later, approximately 30 people, some masked and carrying weapons, attacked the rural premises, assaulted four security personnel, damaged vehicles, and injured a guard dog. The defence barrister characterised the convoy operation as resembling frontier justice. Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor, all pleaded not guilty to 53 charges in total, including aggravated burglary, assault causing harm, arson, false imprisonment, criminal damage, and violent disorder. The trial before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury continues.
The trial of Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor continues at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court before Judge Martina Baxter. The four men, who have pleaded not guilty to a total of 53 charges, are accused of participating in an attack during the Strokestown repossession case. The State alleges that on December 16, 2018, a group armed with various weapons assaulted four security guards, caused criminal damage, committed aggravated burglary, false imprisonment, arson, robbery, and animal cruelty. Each defendant is separately charged with 17 of these offences. During cross-examination, witness Ian Gordon, who testified to being forced to eat dog faeces, identified himself in bodycam footage from an eviction five days prior to the alleged assaults. Gordon stated his unlicensed security company was hired to execute a court order at the McGann family property. He described lifting a resident out of a seat to escort him out, denying any use of reinforced knuckle gloves or physical abuse beyond necessary restraint. The jury viewed this footage, which showed the resident being moved while his sister protested. The trial is ongoing and will resume on Monday.
The trial of David Lawlor, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and Patrick Sweeney continues before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury. The four defendants, who have pleaded not guilty to 53 charges including aggravated burglary, false imprisonment, arson, robbery, and animal cruelty, face allegations of a violent attack on security guards at a property in Falsk, Co Roscommon, in December 2018. Witness Ian Gordon testified that he was forced at gunpoint to eat dog faeces and identified Lawlor's voice during the incident. Under cross-examination, Gordon acknowledged his former service with the Ulster Defence Regiment and admitted his security company, GS Agencies Ltd, operated without a company licence, for which he previously entered a guilty plea. Defense counsel suggested Gordon was mistaken in identifying Lawlor, but Gordon maintained he was 100% certain of the identification. The State alleges a group of approximately 30 armed men assaulted four guards, set fire to vehicles, and beat a guard dog unconscious. The defendants are charged with criminal damage, assault causing harm, and violent disorder. The matter is currently at the trial stage, with proceedings ongoing.
Four men are standing trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on 53 charges arising from an alleged attack on security personnel during a property repossession at Strokestown, County Roscommon, in December 2018. Patrick Sweeney of Ramelton, County Donegal, Martin O'Toole of Claremorris, County Mayo, Paul Beirne of Boyle, County Roscommon, and David Lawlor of County Meath have each pleaded not guilty to charges including aggravated burglary, false imprisonment, assault causing harm, arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery and animal cruelty. A security guard testified that approximately 30 masked individuals arrived at the property armed with weapons, assaulted four security staff, set vehicles alight and fatally injured a guard dog. The witness further told the court of previous hostile encounters with one of the defendants at other eviction sites. The trial is ongoing.
David Stone, 65, owner of Ashton Dog Pound in Dublin, was fined €30,000 after a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court found he unlawfully stored and incorrectly administered the euthanasia drug Pentobarbital to two dogs on 24 July 2020. Garda Áine McQuillan reported that the drug was found in an unlocked tin box at the pound's reception, with over 350 ml in total, and that the dogs had been given the drug orally rather than intravenously by a registered veterinary practitioner as required. Stone pleaded guilty to using a premises for the supply of an animal remedy contrary to European regulations, possession of a veterinary‑only drug, and permitting its improper administration. The court noted the drug's lethal potential for both animals and humans, Stone's breach of a €277,000 contract with Dublin City Council, and his lack of prior convictions, and imposed the fine without custodial sentence.
Anna Byrne and Coleman Byrne, neighbours in Dublin 6, accused Arjita Chawla (54) of repeated harassment and abuse from 2011 to 2021. Chawla, who lived next door, repeatedly called the Byrnes derogatory names, blocked their cars, sent over 600 complaint emails, recorded them on video, and left dog faeces at their doorstep. She also called Gardaí on them more than 100 times, including on Christmas Eve. Chawla pleaded guilty to two counts of threatening or abusive words or behaviour. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced her to one month in prison on each count, to run concurrently, and imposed a 15‑year restriction preventing her from approaching the Byrnes' address within 100 metres. The court noted her guilty plea and remorse as mitigating factors. The case was described as an unusual escalation from neighbourly dispute to sustained harassment.