Brian McKee, 29, pleaded guilty to arson that set fire to his partner's family home on 27 July 2018, causing that house and two adjoining terraced houses to be demolished. The fire began on a couch in the living room and spread through the attic, where furniture had been stored, igniting the neighbouring houses. McKee, who had recently stopped drinking, admitted drinking a can of Coors Light and gin and possibly taking cocaine before the incident. He was found outside the house at 5 am, covered in blood, holding a knife, and later detained by Gardaí. The court heard victim impact statements from the owners of the damaged houses, detailing loss of belongings, financial hardship and emotional distress. McKee's defence highlighted his bipolar disorder, past rehabilitation and lack of prior convictions. Judge Pauline Codd imposed a seven‑year prison sentence, suspending six years on conditions including engagement with addiction services and full cooperation with his mental‑health care plan.
Declan Donaghey, 28, pleaded guilty to arson, violent disorder and criminal damage after setting a Garda patrol car on fire and damaging a migrant centre during a riot in Dublin. The court found the offences to be of a very serious nature, noting the destruction of a patrol car valued at €20,000 and damage to a migrant accommodation centre, as well as the broader context of the riot that saw 60 locations damaged or looted. Judge Orla Crowe sentenced Donaghey to seven-and-a-half years, with the final year suspended on the arson charge, and imposed four-and-a-half years for violent disorder and three years for criminal damage, all to run concurrently. The judge took into account Donaghey's personal circumstances, including anxiety, depression and alcohol addiction, but did not consider his five prior convictions. The sentence was imposed in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on 20 November 2024.
A 28‑year‑old man, Declan Donaghey, pleaded guilty to arson, violent disorder, criminal damage and rioting after setting a Garda car on fire and damaging a migrant centre during the Dublin riots. He said he was "caught up in it" because a close relative attended a school on Cavendish Row where earlier that day children and a care assistant were stabbed. Donaghey denied being a racist and claimed he felt bad for the child and teacher. He apologized to the government and everyone involved in a handwritten letter read to the court. Judge Orla Crowe remanded him in custody pending sentencing. The court heard that the riot was one of the gravest examples of public disorder in the State's history, with 60 locations damaged or looted, including an abandoned bus and Luas vehicles. Donaghey had five previous convictions, including two for public order offences, and was on medication for anxiety and depression.
Geunter Lohse, aged 63, has been sentenced to twelve years imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court for unlawfully killing his mother Ruth by arson. The offence occurred on April 12, 2022, at their shared residence in Coolvoy, Doochary, County Donegal. Lohse pleaded guilty to manslaughter after the State accepted his plea on a charge of murder. Ms Justice Melanie Greally imposed a headline sentence of eighteen years, reduced to thirteen years with the final twelve months suspended, taking into account mitigating factors including his early guilty plea and lack of previous convictions. The court heard that Ruth Lohse, aged 88, died from smoke inhalation after Lohse set three fires in the house using matches. The judge noted the victim, who had dedicated her life to caring for her son, was elderly, vulnerable, and had no opportunity to escape. Lohse claimed he intended only to destroy the property, not to harm his mother, but evidence indicated he made no credible effort to assist her.
The murder trial of Diarmuid Phelan, 56, continues before Justice Siobhan Lankford and a jury. Phelan, a barrister and farmer, has pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Keith Conlon, 36, at Hazelgrove Farm in Tallaght, Dublin 24, on February 24, 2022. The State alleges that Phelan shot Conlon in the back of the head with a Smith & Wesson revolver as Conlon turned away to leave, intending to kill or cause serious injury. Conversely, the defence asserts the shooting was an accidental result of a legitimate act of self-defence. State pathologist Dr Heidi Okkers testified that Conlon died from a single gunshot wound to the head, with no contributory factors. She agreed with defence counsel that the bullet's track alone cannot determine the victim's position relative to the shooter, as head movement could account for the wound's location. She also noted that an uncontrolled fall of 3.2 metres could explain Conlon's clavicle fracture. Defence counsel presented evidence of prior incidents at the farm, including arson and trespass, to contextualise the accused's concerns. The prosecution maintains that Phelan fired three shots, two into the air and one at Conlon. The trial is ongoing and has not been finalised.
A jury heard that law professor Diarmuid Phelan, 56, denied murdering Keith Conlon, 36, on his farm in Tallaght. Phelan said he was terrified when three men appeared on his land and that he fired his revolver in self‑defence, claiming the shots were aimed at the men, not at Conlon. He described the men as threatening him and said he had tried to retreat but was forced to shoot. Phelan also alleged that his farm had been subject to burglary, drug use, armed men and arson, and that Gardaí had not responded promptly to earlier incidents. He said he had given the revolver to Gardaí and that he was under immense stress. The trial is ongoing before Justice Siobhan Lankford and a jury. Diarmuid Phelan pleaded not guilty.
At the Central Criminal Court, Geunter Lohse pleaded guilty to the unlawful killing of his mother Ruth Lohse by arson at their shared home in Coolvoy, Doochary, County Donegal on 12 April 2022. The 63-year-old was originally charged with murder, but the State accepted a plea to manslaughter. The court heard that Mrs Lohse, aged 88, died from inhaling fumes after three fires were lit in the house. Lohse had lived with his mother throughout his life and was distressed about family plans to return him to Germany while she remained in Donegal. Defence counsel indicated that Lohse has expressed genuine remorse and intends to return to Germany upon completion of his sentence, undertaking not to return to Ireland. He has no previous convictions. Justice Melanie Greally adjourned the matter to 11 November for sentencing, remanding the accused in custody pending that hearing.
Soufiane Mountassir, 39, was sentenced to three years' imprisonment in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for false imprisonment and assault causing harm after he forced his former partner into the boot of her own car and beat her for one hour and 40 minutes. The victim, who was his partner at the time, was subjected to repeated blows, was forced to drive to dark locations, and suffered injuries including blood on the steering wheel and gearstick. Mountassir, who was drinking, taking Dalmane, cocaine and smoking cannabis, claimed to be Moroccan and gave vague answers to Gardaí. He was also wanted in Germany for arson, for which a separate sentence of three years and one month had been imposed. The State argued the sentence was too lenient, citing the severity of the assault, the abduction, and the aggravating factors, while Mountassir's counsel maintained the judge had imposed an appropriate sentence. The Court of Appeal will reserve judgment. Soufiane Mountassir pleaded guilty.
Philip Griffin, 37, pleaded guilty to manslaughter for the deaths of Anthony, 30, and his five‑year‑old daughter Nadine O'Brien in a house fire at Killeen Heights, Tralee, on 12 May 2012. The case was heard in the Central Criminal Court via video‑link from prison. Griffin denied murder but admitted manslaughter on both charges. The Director of Public Prosecutions accepted the pleas; a third charge for arson was dropped. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for 16 December, with a probation report and victim impact statements requested by the judge.
Gerard Jordan, 54, was sentenced to 12 months in jail for setting a fire outside the front door of an acquaintance's third‑floor apartment in Rosemount Court, Dundrum, on 2 July 2022. The blaze caused €14,000 of damage to the common area. Jordan pleaded guilty to arson and was a resident of a second apartment block at the same address. The court noted that no physical harm was caused and that Jordan had previously been assaulted by the victim. He had 12 prior convictions, mainly for public order, criminal damage and theft. The judge, Elma Sheahan, considered Jordan's guilty plea, cooperation with Gardaí, personal circumstances and mental health difficulties, and imposed a three‑year sentence with the final two years suspended on strict conditions. No injuries were reported, and the fire was extinguished by the Dublin Fire Brigade. The victim declined to give a victim impact statement. The case was heard in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Brian McKee, 29, pleaded guilty to criminal damage by arson after setting fire to his partner's parents' home at Heather View Lawn, Tallaght, on 27 July 2018. The blaze, reportedly ignited on a couch, spread through the attic and into two neighbouring houses, destroying three privately owned homes. McKee, who had been drinking a can of Coors Light and gin and possibly cocaine, was found by neighbours early in the morning with a long‑bladed knife and blood on his clothes. Garda Josh Doran recounted that McKee was unconscious in the stairwell when the fire erupted, and that the police had to detain him after he attempted to re‑enter the burning house. The owners, who were abroad, suffered significant loss of property and financial hardship, with one victim impact statement noting €2,600 in lost wages and €11,000 in repair costs.
A man has been convicted of unlawfully killing his 88-year-old mother by arson at their shared home in Coolvoy, Doochary, County Donegal on 12 April 2022. Geunter Lohse, aged 63, pleaded guilty to manslaughter at the Central Criminal Court after a charge of murder was withdrawn. The court heard that three fires were deliberately lit inside the house using matches. Firefighters discovered the victim seated in an armchair; she died from inhaling fumes. Lohse admitted starting the fire and told gardaí he had intended to take his own life. He claimed he attempted to move his mother and extinguish the flames but was unsuccessful. Defence counsel indicated Lohse's family suspected he suffered from schizophrenia, though he had never received expert diagnosis or psychiatric treatment. Justice Melanie Greally adjourned sentencing to 29 July to allow consideration of psychiatric and psychological reports. The judge noted that Lohse will require community support upon release, given the absence of family support structures.
In a Limerick Central Criminal Court trial, a 58‑year‑old man was convicted of 14 offences, including rape, false imprisonment, 11 counts of sexual assault and a threat to kill. He had previously pleaded guilty to four assault‑causing‑harm charges. The victim, his 39‑year‑old niece, was held in his home for a week in late January and early February 2022. During that time she was unable to walk or move for several days, suffered bruising and a broken tooth, and was repeatedly sexually assaulted while she urinated using paper cups. The man also set fire to the bed and curtains, switched off the electricity, and threatened her with a glass‑covered floor. Judge Siobhan Lankford imposed a 13‑year sentence with the final 18 months suspended, back‑dated to 14 February 2022, and directed the defendant to never approach the victim again.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, a 39‑year‑old woman testified that her uncle, aged 58, raped and imprisoned her for a week after violently assaulting her, leaving her unable to walk. She described being locked in a room, forced to use paper cups for toileting while the uncle repeatedly sexually assaulted her, including inserting fingers during urination about six or seven times a day from 2 February. He also set fire to the bed and curtains, switched off electricity, and threatened to kill or cause serious harm. The court heard the uncle had pleaded guilty to four assault counts and was found guilty of 14 counts, including rape, false imprisonment, 11 sexual assault counts and one threat count. The case was adjourned to 26 April for sentencing. The woman, who sustained bruises and a tooth injury, said she would never forgive him and that her life had been destroyed by his actions.
A 62-year-old man from Donegal has pleaded guilty to the unlawful killing of his mother by arson at the Central Criminal Court. Geunter Lohse admitted to the unlawful killing of Ruth Lohse, who died in a house fire at Coolvoy, Doochary on April 12, 2022. The murder charge against him will be withdrawn, with the arson charge to be taken into account. Lohse was remanded in custody pending sentencing on May 16, when a psychiatric report will be presented to the court. The victim's family is expected to make a statement at the sentencing hearing.
Stephen Leech, 42, pleaded guilty to stealing €4,000 from his employer and setting fire to a company van on 29 September 2022. He claimed the cash had been burnt, citing a gambling addiction. The court found his betrayal of trust and the significant loss as aggravating factors. Leech received a three‑year suspended sentence, with strict conditions. He was ordered to pay €7,500 to his employer over 18 months, or to a local charity if the employer declined. The judge noted Leech's good prior conduct and lack of previous offences, suggesting he was unlikely to reoffend. The court also highlighted the damage to the van, valued at over €16,000, and Leech's remorse and efforts to address his gambling problem. The sentence reflects the seriousness of the theft and arson while considering his personal circumstances.
A 52‑year‑old man, Jason Ward, was sentenced to five years in prison, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions, after he set fire to an upstairs office in a Drumcondra building. He claimed he was under the mistaken belief that his former partner was having an affair there. The fire caused over €110,000 in damage, including smoke damage to a downstairs apartment, and forced tenants to relocate for three months. Ward pleaded guilty to arson and endangerment on 1 June 2022 and had 14 prior convictions. He was found to have purchased petrol, used a balaclava, and employed an accelerant. The court noted his guilty plea, remorse, and efforts to address addiction as mitigating factors. The incident was described as deliberate, cold‑planned, and executed without regard for people or property.
Keith Riggs, 40, of Finglas, pleaded guilty to arson, threats to kill and threats to cause damage. He set a Garda's private car on fire on 13 August 2020 while the owner was on patrol outside Bridewell Garda Station. Riggs poured accelerant from a Dunnes Stores bag under the car, igniting it and leaving the vehicle to burn. CCTV captured the act; forensic DNA linked Riggs to the bag and gloves. He also threatened to kill the owner of his apartment and to burn down Bridewell Garda Station. Riggs had previously been convicted of arson at a Dublin homeless hostel in March 2022, which left a 22‑year‑old woman with catastrophic injuries. He is already serving a nine‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence for that offence. Judge Elva Duffy sentenced him to four and a half years imprisonment, to run concurrently with his existing term.
Oliver Moore, 55, was sentenced to a four‑year suspended term for attempting to set fire to a house on 18 November 2022. He had a long‑standing grievance with the former resident, unaware that the house was now occupied by three students. Gardai found him early in the morning trying to push burning newspaper through the letterbox, claiming he intended to "burn him out." The students heard banging, saw him shouting, and fled to the garden before calling the police. Moore pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The judge noted his attempts were ineffectual but serious, and, citing mitigating factors, imposed the suspended sentence with conditions, warning him it was his first and last chance. He had no prior convictions and had not returned to the property since the incident.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, William Cassidy, 59, was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment for arson at Apache Pizza and three and a half years for assault causing harm, the last two years suspended. Cassidy had thrown two petrol bombs into the pizzeria on 9 July, set his jacket on fire, and then attempted to stab a female pedestrian on Drumcondra Road. He told Gardaí he sought "suicide by cop" and that the petrol bombs were intended for self‑harm. The court noted he had previously complained about noise from the shop, had a history of suicidal ideation and had stopped seeing his psychiatrist. Cassidy pleaded guilty to arson, possession of petrol bombs, assault, and possession of a knife. The judge described him as a dangerous man suffering mental health difficulties and said he was unlikely to reoffend with proper treatment.
During the Dublin District Coroner's Court inquest into the 1981 Stardust nightclub fire, expert witness Dr Will Hutchinson testified that no accelerant was found and there was no evidence the fire in the west alcove was caused by arson. He explained that the Gardaí investigation had focused on the alcove, where the fire was first seen, and that samples taken over three days revealed no arson‑related substances. Hutchinson noted that witnesses who reported seeing a fire outside the club were observing a separate blaze, likely in the roof space, and that the timing of calls to emergency services supported this. He also discussed the possibility of expanded polystyrene insulation (Polyzote) on heating ducts as a potential fuel source, but confirmed no evidence of deliberate ignition in the alcove. The inquest will resume next Monday.
Soufiane Mountassir, 39, was sentenced to three years' imprisonment for false imprisonment and assault causing harm after he attacked a woman who had let him into her home. The court heard that on the night of 13 November 2022 he forced the woman into the boot of her car, repeatedly punched and smashed her face against the vehicle's interior, and drove the car onto the footpath, damaging the wheel. Witnesses described him as "full of anger" and "entering into a blind rage", and the victim said she was left with blood all over her face and body. Mountassir pleaded guilty, was described as remorseful and ashamed, and the judge noted his lack of prior convictions in Ireland. He is currently under 23‑hour protection in Wheatfield Prison and is wanted in Germany for arson. The sentence was back‑dated to the date he entered custody on 13 November 2022.
In a December 2018 Christmas arson spree, 34‑year‑old Graham Shannon set fire to three cars and an auto‑body garage in Wexford, destroying the owner's livelihood. He pleaded guilty to four counts of criminal damage. The State appealed the original cumulative sentence of three and a half years, arguing it was unduly lenient and that the four arsons should carry consecutive sentences. The Court of Appeal, led by Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, quashed the original sentence and imposed a new nine‑year term: four years for each of the first three vehicle arsons (concurrent) and six years for the garage arson (consecutive), with the final year suspended. The decision was based on the financial loss to the garage owner, the "revenge" element, and Shannon's extensive criminal history, including 82 prior convictions and multiple serious offences. The suspended year was back‑dated to April 7, 2022.
In a sentencing hearing, a 23‑year‑old man, Camden Konopka, pleaded guilty to attempting to murder his mother, Fiona Konopka, and to criminal damage. He set fire to their home on 19 September 2019, then locked his mother in and discarded her keys. The fire caused €60,289.47 in damage, mainly to a couch in the living room. Konopka had a history of mental illness, including schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder, and had been under psychiatric care. He claimed he had consumed opium, antidepressants and wine the day before the fire, feeling suicidal. He also admitted to using his mother's keys to lock the door and throwing them away. The court remanded him in custody and scheduled a probation report for 1 March next year. The mother was not present at the hearing and has since been rehoused.
Craig Mooney, 28, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to two counts of possession of a controlled drug for sale or supply. Garda Kevin Kehoe recounted that on 25 January, a taxi driver reported an intoxicated, "obstreperous" passenger who could not be awakened. Gardaí removed Mooney from the taxi; he became abusive and was arrested. A search of the taxi revealed €725 worth of cocaine and 12 benzodiazepine tablets. A subsequent search of Mooney's residence on 2 February uncovered 2.3 g of cocaine (valued at €149) and 145 g of cannabis (valued at €2,914). Mooney has 32 prior convictions, including arson, road traffic offences and criminal damage. He has been in custody since February. Judge Martin Nolan, noting Mooney's intoxication and lack of wealth, imposed an 18‑month sentence back‑dated to February, taking mitigating factors into account.
During the Stardust inquest, Detective Superintendent John Courtney presented evidence that, after reviewing over 1,600 statements from the night of the February 14, 1981 fire that killed 48 people, he found no evidence that the blaze was started maliciously. He explained that all 841 attendees and staff were interviewed, and that the four youths seen on the roof had no connection to the fire. Courtney also described the investigative process, noting that statements from those in the curtained area were checked and eliminated as suspects, and that no credible allegations of deliberate arson emerged. He read his testimony and 1981 Garda statements into the record, while other witnesses, including fire officers and survivors, provided accounts of the emergency response and the chaotic evacuation. The inquest will continue tomorrow.
Anthony Goodman, a 78‑year‑old sex offender with no fixed abode, was jailed for 12 months after a Garda detective spotted him attempting to board a Luas tram at Smithfield. Goodman had a sex offender order issued in August 2017 that barred him from using public transport without prior Garda notice. The detective, Fergus Grant, approached Goodman, who admitted he had knowingly violated the order and had decided to "take a chance." Goodman had 213 prior convictions, including sexual assault, indecency, breaches of a sex offender order, burglary, arson and threats to kill, and was already serving a sentence for another offence. Judge Dara Hayes noted Goodman's age, frailty and cooperation, but imposed a 12‑month sentence, crediting him for time already served. The order had previously prevented him from riding a bus without informing Gardaí. The case was heard at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Anthony Goodman was found guilty.
Soufiane Mountassir, 39, was heard in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for a violent assault on his former partner that left her with severe injuries and lasting trauma. The court heard that Mountassir, who claimed to be Moroccan, had been drinking, taking Dalmane, cocaine and cannabis during the incident. He forced the woman into a car boot, repeatedly punched and smashed her face against the vehicle's interior, and drove the car onto the footpath, damaging the wheel. Witnesses described the attack as a "blind rage" and reported blood on the car's interior and the victim's clothing. Mountassir pleaded guilty to false imprisonment and assault causing harm. He is also wanted in Germany for an arson offence and is due before the European Arrest Warrant court on Monday. The case will be finalised on 21 December 2023.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Judge Martin Nolan told arsonist Jason Hughes that a "significant chance of fatalities" could have occurred if the apartment's occupants had been asleep. Hughes, 20, pleaded guilty to one count of arson at Pairc Na Greine, Tallaght, on 9 December 2022, an offence punishable by life imprisonment. The court heard that the fire caused €80‑90 000 of damage and left the occupants, including Hughes' father, with nothing. Judge Nolan noted no physical injuries but described the event as traumatic. He considered Hughes' guilty plea, remorse, mental health and addiction issues, and imposed a sentence of eight and a half years, back‑dated to his custody entry. The case involved severe property damage, no established motive, and Hughes' history of arson and mental health problems. The judge emphasised the seriousness of arson and the unpredictable spread of fire.
Derek Coady, a father of three from Tallaght, was sentenced to four years and six months in prison, with the final six months suspended for two years, for endangerment. He pleaded guilty to intentionally or recklessly engaging in conduct that created a substantial risk of death or serious harm to Alan Hall, 44, between 17 and 18 May 2020 on Bluebell Avenue, Dublin 12. Coady admitted assaulting Hall by punching him in the stomach, causing minor harm, and exposing him to serious harm. He denied involvement in setting fire to Hall's home and claimed he was unaware of the arson. Hall later died from smoke inhalation after a fire was attempted in his home. The judge noted Coady's 46 previous convictions, alcohol overindulgence, and the mitigating factor of his guilty plea and remorse. The case involved a co‑accused, Conor Curran, who has since died. The sentence reflects the seriousness of the endangerment, which led to Hall's death.
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.
Derek Coady, a father of three, pleaded guilty to endangerment at the Central Criminal Court, having originally been charged with the murder of Alan Hall. The State accepted the plea, and the DPP indicated it would drop the murder charge. Coady admitted punching Hall in the stomach, causing minor harm, but denied involvement in the subsequent head injuries, strangulation, or the attempted arson that led to Hall's death from smoke inhalation. His co-accused, Conor Curran, has since died. Coady, who has 46 previous convictions including a three-year suspended sentence for assault, was remanded in custody by Mr Justice Hunt until a sentencing hearing on October 2. The judge stated there would have to be "some element of custody." The maximum penalty for the endangerment offence is seven years. Coady's counsel highlighted his two years of sobriety and deep regret, while noting reports of difficulties with his drinking problem. The court heard that the prosecution could prove Coady's presence but not that he caused serious harm or started the fire.
A 29‑year‑old man awaiting trial on sexual assault charges threatened to kill his estranged wife's family members, including the alleged victim, and to throw acid at her sister in a series of WhatsApp voice notes. The court heard that the defendant also threatened to damage two properties and intimidate witnesses, including his wife's brother, whom he is accused of sexually abusing. He pleaded guilty to seven counts, all occurring on 19 January 2022, and has nine prior convictions including arson and robbery. The defendant is also before the Central Criminal Court on a separate sexual assault allegation involving his brother‑in‑law. Garda Patrick Browne presented the voice messages, which described violent threats and a desire to "go to the UK" after "ripping out one of their throats." The defendant was on bail at the time and has been in custody since the incident. Judge Martina Baxter ordered a Probation Services report and adjourned sentencing to 9 October.
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.
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.
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.
A Donegal builder accused of participating in an armed attack on security guards at a repossessed farmhouse in County Roscommon has had his prosecution described as fundamentally flawed and contaminated by fair-procedure breaches. Patrick J Sweeney, 44, is one of four men on trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for their roles in the December 2018 incident at Falsk, near Strokestown. The defence closing speech argued the State's case relies on defective body-camera evidence, contradictory witness accounts, and an identification process lacking proper protocols. Counsel contended no forensic evidence links Mr Sweeney to the scene and that images allegedly placing him at the location represent mere speculation. The co-accused are Martin O'Toole of County Mayo, Paul Beirne of County Roscommon, and David Lawlor of County Meath. All have pleaded not guilty to seventeen charges including false imprisonment, assault, aggravated burglary, and arson. 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.
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 17 charges each, including false imprisonment, assault causing harm to four security personnel, aggravated burglary, and arson of four vehicles. Prosecuting counsel Anne Rowland SC delivered her closing speech on day 38 of the trial, which began last February. She alleged that the group was "bent on violence and domination" during an attack on a repossessed farm in Co Roscommon in December 2018. The State's case relies on joint enterprise, arguing that all participants are liable for the criminal acts committed by the group. While the prosecution noted that the case is mainly based on circumstantial evidence, it pointed to direct video footage identifying Mr. Sweeney and Mr. O'Toole committing offences. The jury was reminded to decide the case on the facts rather than sympathy for the victims. The matter is currently at the appeal stage of proceedings and has not been finalised; the trial continues.
Lisa Lawlor, orphaned when her parents died in the 1981 Stardust fire, testified at the Dublin Coroner's Court inquest that the earlier arson allegation added insult to injury. She described growing up in the shadow of the disaster, recounting how she was left alone in the house after her teenage babysitter fled when the fire was reported. Lisa recalled her parents' last night, their decision to stay longer at the disco, and their failure to escape the blaze. She spoke of the trauma endured by her family, including drug addiction and the deaths of her grandparents shortly after the fire. Lisa expressed that the arson claim further harmed the victims' memory and that she hopes justice will finally be served for her parents. The inquest focused on the personal impact of the tragedy rather than legal outcomes.
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 garda detective has given evidence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court in the trial of four men charged in connection with an alleged attack on security personnel at a repossessed farm near Strokestown, Co Roscommon. The court heard that a two-second body-camera clip was not disclosed to the defence as the officer believed it was not relevant. Detective McDonnell acknowledged he had inadvertently recorded the footage while the camera was in garda custody and accepted that withholding it did not constitute best practice. The trial heard evidence regarding an incident on December 16, 2018, when approximately 30 armed men reportedly arrived at the property and attacked four security guards. Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor, all pleaded not guilty to 17 charges each, including assault causing harm, false imprisonment, aggravated burglary, arson, and violent disorder. The trial continues before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury.
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.
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.