A Lithuanian man with a history of violent convictions has been sentenced to nine and a half years in prison for raping a woman and threatening to "cut her face off and eat her" shortly after they met. Tasas Ruzas (42) was found guilty of rape, anal rape, and making a threat to kill or cause serious harm following a trial in the Central Criminal Court. The incident occurred after a day of drug and alcohol use with the victim, who had initially met Ruzas in Dublin city centre. During the assault, Ruzas punched the victim, raped her without a condom, and then anally raped her. The victim managed to escape and call for help. Ruzas has numerous previous convictions in Ireland, Lithuania, and the UK, including theft, assault, and dangerous driving. The judge noted the extreme humiliation and degrading nature of the sexual offences and the violence inflicted on the victim, who suffered a fractured eye.
A 22-year-old man, Wojtek Kulik, has been sentenced to two years in prison for money laundering and one year for possession of cannabis for sale or supply. Kulik received over €18,000 into his Revolut account through hundreds of transactions between January 2024 and January 2025. He was also caught with €7,272 worth of cannabis in October 2023. Kulik admitted to being an addict and said he was given €100 to deliver the cannabis to someone else. The court heard that he had a history of substance misuse since the age of 16 and that he had made full admissions. A probation report indicated that Kulik is at high risk of reoffending but is motivated to engage with services. Judge Orla Crowe noted the aggravating factor of the money laundering over a considerable period of time but took into account his guilty pleas, youth, and willingness to engage with services. She suspended the final six months of the two-year sentence on strict conditions and directed him to undergo supervision by the Probation Service for one year post-release.
A 23-year-old man from Dublin was jailed for three-and-a-half years after gardai discovered nearly €280,000 worth of drugs in his van and home. Ben Murray was stopped by gardai in Dublin 8 after spinning his van's wheels at a junction. During a search, gardai found 1.16kg of cocaine in the van, and over 2.8kg of cocaine and 2,500 alprazolam tablets in his home. Murray admitted to possessing the drugs for sale and stated he was to be paid €200 for transporting them. He had five previous convictions for road traffic offences. The court noted the large quantity of drugs and Murray's role in moving and storing them. Judge Orla Crowe imposed a four-year sentence, with the final six months suspended on strict conditions, considering Murray's cooperation, his history of addiction, and his family's support. The judge emphasized the seriousness of the drug trade and the need for rehabilitation. Ben Murray pleaded guilty.
Patrick Stokes, a 24-year-old with over 120 previous convictions, was jailed for 21 months after pleading guilty to assaulting a Dublin Bus passenger who objected to social-distancing breaches during the pandemic. Stokes and his co-accused attacked the victim on a bus, resulting in the victim's tooth being dislodged. Stokes admitted to kicking the victim, while his co-accused punched him in the face. The court heard that Stokes had a history of drug use and mental health issues, and his legal team argued that he had changed his life and was now drug-free, married, and a father. Despite this, Judge Martin Nolan noted the "thuggish" nature of the attack and the harm caused to the victim. Stokes expressed remorse and apologized for his actions, but the court emphasized the seriousness of the incident and the need for justice for the victim.
A family member of a 62-year-old woman who was killed by her son described the family as "severely divided" by the incident. Luke Donnelly, 29, was found not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter after claiming he was provoked by his mother, Catherine Henry. The court heard that Donnelly had a history of drug use and mental health issues, and that his mother had a history of violence. Donnelly claimed he was in fear for his life when his mother threatened to kill him. His family members gave victim impact statements, with some expressing that they felt the mother was on trial rather than the son. The court heard that Donnelly had a complex relationship with his mother and that he had been groomed into a life of drugs and violence. The Director of Public Prosecutions argued for a sentence of between 10 and 15 years, while the defense argued for a sentence in the medium culpability range. Donnelly was remanded in custody until his sentencing hearing.
An Indian business student, Rishabh Mahajan, was jailed for four months after sexually assaulting a woman and brazenly masturbating in public multiple times in Dublin. Mahajan pleaded guilty to four counts of offensive conduct of a sexual nature and one count of sexual assault. The court heard that Mahajan targeted vulnerable women working alone at night and that his behavior was brazen and public. Judge Martina Baxter noted that Mahajan had no entitlement to remain in Ireland and was subject to a deportation order. She imposed a total of 16 months in prison, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions. Mahajan was also registered as a sex offender. The court heard that Mahajan had arrived in Ireland to study but had used cannabis and alcohol, which affected his behavior. His family is not in Ireland, and he is now homeless. The court emphasized the need for Mahajan to address his risk factors and develop insight into his offending.
Thomas Grace, a serial criminal with over 250 previous convictions, was jailed for two on-bail offences, including breaking into a couple's home and ransacking it while they slept. Judge Orla Crowe noted that Grace's criminal history dates back nearly 25 years and includes a wide range of offences, from burglary and robbery to drug-related crimes and assaults. She acknowledged Grace's struggle with heroin addiction, which began at 18, but emphasized that many people have been directly affected by his actions. Grace was sentenced to concurrent terms of 18 months and three years and nine months for theft and burglary, with the final nine months of the second term suspended on strict conditions. Grace pleaded guilty to stealing from a café and burglarizing a family home. His legal team highlighted his troubled past, including leaving school at 13 and falling into addiction and criminality after returning home. Despite showing remorse, Grace's long history of offending and ongoing drug addiction were significant factors in the court's decision.
A man from Tullow has been jailed for 21 months after €5,000 worth of cannabis was found hidden behind a couch in his home. Michal Plecha (50) of Shroughaun Close, Tullow, pleaded guilty at Carlow Circuit Criminal Court to possessing cannabis valued at €5,100 and amphetamine valued at €525 on November 27, 2024. He also admitted to possessing a stolen chainsaw and bicycle. The court heard that a warrant was secured to search his home, where the drugs were found in a sportsbag behind the couch. A digital weighing scale, plastic bags, and €900 in cash were also discovered. Plecha claimed the cash was for buying a car, but gardaí suspect it is from drug trafficking. The stolen items were found in his home, and Plecha said he had bought the chainsaw second-hand and that a friend had left the bike behind. His defence accepted that his engagement with The Probation Service had been inconsistent.
A Carlow man who admitted to storing over €20,000 worth of cannabis in a shed to feed his own addiction has received a three-year suspended sentence. Colm Cody (41) of Augha, Bagenalstown, pleaded guilty at Carlow Circuit Criminal Court to possessing cannabis, MDMA, and cocaine at his home on November 28, 2023. He has no previous convictions. Detective Sergeant Stephen Delaney explained that a warrant was obtained to search Cody's home based on garda intelligence. Cody was not present, but his daughter was, and the gardaí waited for him to return. A small amount of cannabis and MDMA was found in Cody's bedroom, while the larger quantities were discovered in the shed. Cody accepted responsibility at the scene and later told gardaí that the cannabis in his bedroom was for his own use, to help manage stress and depression. He admitted to agreeing to store the cannabis to feed his addiction but denied selling the drugs. His defence argued that he was under threat, with someone warning him that his daughter was at home all day.
Ionel Rostas (20) has been jailed for two years and three months for assaulting his ex-girlfriend outside a nightclub. The incident occurred on April 21, 2025, at the Red Cow Inn, where Rostas was captured on CCTV headbutting and punching the 18-year-old woman. The victim required plastic stitches above her right eyebrow after the attack. Rostas, who has 30 previous convictions, was interviewed by gardai and made no comment during the interview. The victim did not wish to make a statement to the gardaí, and the prosecution relied on CCTV footage. Rostas was on a suspended sentence for a drug offence when he committed the assault. Judge Orla Crowe noted the deplorable violence and the vulnerability of the victim. She imposed a sentence of two years and nine months, suspending the final six months on the condition that Rostas keep the peace and be of good behaviour. She also ordered him to engage with the Probation Service for anger management programmes. Ionel Rostas pleaded guilty.
Raul Tabares Garcia, a Spanish national accused of conspiring to import drugs, has lost his appeal against a High Court ruling refusing him bail. At the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice Alexander Owens upheld the decision, stating the court saw no error in principle or law. Mr Garcia, of Cadiz, faces a charge of conspiring contrary to section 71 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 to import drugs in excess of €13,000 between February 27 and March 14, 2024. He was one of ten men arrested in March 2024 during operations near Skibbereen, west Cork, where vehicles and nautical equipment were seized. Prosecutors alleged the group was involved in a transnational drug trafficking operation linked to 840kgs of cocaine valued at approximately €60 million. The High Court judge had previously deemed Mr Garcia a serious flight risk due to his foreign nationality and potential resources. Although his counsel argued he had local connections and proposed sureties, the Court of Appeal rejected these arguments, noting his lack of connection to the country. Seven co-accused, including Mario Angel Del Rio Sanz, Anuar Rahui Chairi, Aleksandar Milic, Kiumaars Ghabiri, Pedro Pablo Ojeda Ortega, and Angel Serran Padilla, have already pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges and were sentenced to a combined 70 years in prison last December. The matter was adjourned following the refusal of the bail application.
Anthony Carroll, who impersonated a garda and stole €3,000 from two pensioners, could not attend his sentencing hearing due to an emergency. Carroll pleaded guilty to burglary and impersonating a garda in January 2024. The victims, both 71-year-olds, were awakened at 4:15 am by Carroll, who was wearing a monkey hat and a crowbar, claiming to be conducting a raid. He stole €3,000 from the victims, who had no connection to drugs. Carroll was arrested in February 2025 and admitted to the crime. He has 31 previous convictions, including robbery and criminal damage. His defense argued that he was under the influence of cocaine and had no prior criminal intent. Judge Martina Baxter noted Carroll's record of duplicity and required him to be drug-free and undergo a community service assessment. However, Carroll did not appear for his sentencing as he claimed there was an emergency, with his solicitor informing the court that someone had fallen down the stairs. The case was adjourned to the next court term in June.
Two British men, Philip Clarke and Adrian Leszczynski, were jailed for six years after being caught with almost €1 million worth of cocaine at Dublin Port. Both pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine for sale or supply in August 2025. Customs officers discovered 13.9 kg of cocaine hidden in the boot of a Ford Focus driven by Leszczynski, who claimed he was delivering a car from Spain to Ireland. A tracking device was found in the car, indicating others were monitoring its movements. Clarke, a passenger, claimed he was on holiday with his friend. Both men had no previous convictions and were arrested upon arrival. Their defense argued that they were used by others in the drugs trade and had no knowledge of the drugs. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the seriousness of the offense and the amount of drugs, but considered their guilty pleas and lack of prior convictions. She imposed a seven-year sentence, suspending the final 12 months on the condition that they leave the jurisdiction within four days of release and not return for ten years.
Sean O'Rourke, an Offaly man, admitted to possessing 17 kg of cocaine worth €1.19 million to repay a €10,000 debt from his cocaine use. He pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of the drugs for sale or supply in November 2024. O'Rourke claimed he was the only person who knew about the drugs and feared for his family's safety if he revealed who gave him the drugs. He had minor previous convictions for road traffic offences. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the serious nature of the offense but considered his early guilty plea and cooperation. She imposed an 11-year headline sentence, reducing it to eight and a half years after taking mitigation into account. The sentence was suspended for 18 months, with conditions that O'Rourke remain under the supervision of the Probation Service and engage in victim awareness and drug counseling. O'Rourke's defense highlighted his addiction, family support, and work history. He apologized for his actions and expressed a desire to turn his life around.
Gavin Cooke was jailed for eight years for participating in a burglary while on bail, during which a homeowner was threatened with a metal bar and her daughters were in fear of being raped. Cooke pleaded guilty to burglary after the indictment was amended. The court heard that the burglar threatened the woman with a metal bar, demanding cash, and the other two men went upstairs where the woman's daughters were. The woman gave the man €50, but he continued to demand cash. The Audi used in the crime was found on fire nearby, with Cooke's name and prisoner number stitched into the garment. Cooke has 69 previous convictions, including robbery and drugs offences. The judge noted the long-term psychological harm to the woman and her daughters and imposed an eight-year sentence, to be served consecutively to his current sentence.
A 29-year-old man, Tomasz Rozpeda, was sentenced for manslaughter after his friend, Maciej Nowak, died from blunt force trauma during an incident on St Stephen's Day in 2023. Rozpeda had initially been charged with murder but later pleaded guilty to manslaughter. The court heard that Nowak had consumed excessive amounts of amphetamines and alcohol, but the cause of death was determined to be the result of the trauma, not the drugs. Rozpeda claimed that Nowak had become violent and self-harming, but the pathologist's report indicated that the injuries were not self-inflicted. Rozpeda had no prior convictions in Ireland, though he had three in Poland. The court heard victim impact statements from Nowak's sister and fiancée, who described the emotional devastation caused by his death. The judge noted that Rozpeda accepted responsibility and that the case fell in the medium range of culpability, with a headline sentence of between four and ten years. Rozpeda was remanded in custody until his sentencing in July.
Jason Whelan and Vivian Hanley, a couple with drug habits, were sentenced to four years in prison for possessing over €230,000 worth of drugs at their home in 2022. The court heard that the couple had accumulated debts and were under threat, leading them to store the drugs. Both pleaded guilty and cooperated with the investigation. The judge acknowledged their vulnerability and the duress they were under but emphasized the significant role they played in the drugs trade. The court considered their personal circumstances and the efforts they had made toward rehabilitation, resulting in a suspended sentence for the final two years. Hanley was allowed to defer her sentence to make arrangements for a relative in poor health, while Whelan was required to start his sentence immediately. The garda agreed that the couple were preyed upon by others in the drug world and that they were not the primary organizers of the drug trade.
Stephen Barrett, a 23-year-old with 44 previous convictions, has been jailed for three and a half years for beating a 13-year-old boy with a metal pole in a 'vicious and disturbing' attack at Connolly Station. Barrett attacked the boy after allegedly being insulted by some youths, though the victim was not involved. The assault left the boy with a deep scalp laceration and caused significant psychological trauma. The court heard that Barrett's actions were unprovoked and targeted an innocent victim. Judge Martina Baxter imposed a five-year sentence, with the final 18 months suspended, and ordered probation and rehabilitation programs. Barrett expressed remorse and acknowledged his actions were unacceptable. His defense highlighted his troubled background and drug addiction, but the court emphasized the severity of the attack and its impact on the victim and his family. Stephen Barrett pleaded guilty.
A shoplifter who stole Louis Vuitton earrings worth €480 from Brown Thomas and later took clothes from Lifestyle Sports had her three-month jail term replaced with a suspended sentence on appeal. Sasha Staunton, 28, has 29 previous convictions, including theft and possession of stolen property. She was convicted in the District Court of two counts of theft on Grafton Street. On appeal, Judge Ronan Munro noted that Staunton had completed a four-week residential treatment and was off drugs. He suspended her sentence for two years, on the condition that she engages with the probation service and follows their instructions. Staunton's defense solicitor said she had checked herself into a facility in Louth and has been committed to her recovery. The court acknowledged her efforts to address her drug use and gave her an opportunity to avoid jail.
Richard Kershaw, 37, of Ballyfermot, Dublin 12, was sentenced to four years and nine months in prison after pleading guilty to four counts of arson. Judge Martin Nolan at the Central Criminal Court noted that the damage to vehicles and losses to injured parties amounted to approximately €50,000. The judge stated that the motive was unclear and that Kershaw had no personal animus towards the victims. Although Kershaw has a long record of convictions, including 45 previous District Court convictions, he had not previously served time in custody. The judge set a headline sentence of eight years, reduced to six years due to mitigating factors such as his guilty plea, cooperation with gardaí, work history, and the fact that he lives with his mother, who is in poor health. The final 15 months of the sentence were suspended on conditions, including supervision by the Probation Service upon release. The court heard that Kershaw was highly intoxicated and allegedly using cocaine at the time of the incidents, which occurred over 20 minutes on January 12, 2025. Defence counsel submitted that the offending was linked to addiction and mental health issues, and that Kershaw has since attended residential treatment. Three other counts of criminal damage were taken into consideration. The matter was finalised with the imposition of the custodial sentence and suspended portion.
A former missionary nun, Sister Julie Doran, has told a court that she no longer feels safe in her own home after an on-bail criminal with 346 previous convictions broke into her retirement community. Keith Delaney (41) pleaded guilty to multiple counts of theft, criminal damage, and burglary in Dublin between December 2024 and September 2025. Delaney, who has 346 previous convictions, including 142 theft and 50 criminal damage charges, was identified through CCTV footage and admitted to stealing items, including guitars and a phone, which he sold to fund his drug addiction. The court heard of multiple incidents, including breaking into a hotel room, stealing a laptop and tablet from a hotel, and entering a nursing home where he was seen in residents' bedrooms. Delaney was apprehended after several incidents, including one at a house where retired nuns reside. Sister Doran expressed her distress, stating that she no longer feels safe and has ongoing anxiety. Delaney is currently serving a nine-month sentence and is seeking rehabilitation. The court will consider a probation report before sentencing.
A chef has been jailed for three years after playing a key role in the delivery of cannabis valued at nearly €250,000, concealed in food boxes. Andres Pozo (25) of Rehoboth Place, Dublin 8, pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis and cannabis resin for sale or supply, as well as handling the proceeds of crime. Judge Martina Baxter noted the premeditated nature of the crime, the use of an innocent address and a false name, and the significant harm caused by drug trafficking. She acknowledged Pozo's early guilty plea, cooperation with the investigation, and positive behavior in custody, but emphasized the seriousness of the offense. The court imposed a headline sentence of seven and a half years, reduced to four and a half years with the final 18 months suspended on strict conditions, including a requirement to leave the country upon release. The operation involved a joint effort between gardaí and Revenue, with a controlled delivery leading to Pozo's arrest. The cannabis was hidden in a food pallet and later analyzed to be worth over €246,000.
Paul Morris was sentenced to four years in prison for sexually exploiting a vulnerable teenager between 2009 and 2010. The victim, now 31, testified that he reported the abuse to social services when he was 17 but received no action. He described Morris as 'pure evil' and spoke of the lasting impact on his life, including strained relationships with his daughters. Morris had previously been jailed for eight years in 2022 for similar offenses. The court heard that Morris manipulated the victim, isolating him from his family and providing him with drugs and money. Judge Orla Crowe emphasized the violation of the child's innocence and the predatory nature of Morris's actions, with the sentence to be served consecutively to his existing prison term. Paul Morris pleaded guilty and was convicted.
Two men who were high on laughing gas and randomly attacked a woman have been told by a judge that some crimes cannot be walked away from. The attack occurred on Seamus Ennis Road, Finglas, where the woman was pushed to the ground and assaulted. The victim suffered injuries and had her phone stolen. CCTV footage captured the attackers, identified as Craig Mains (28) and Shane Daly (27). Both pleaded guilty to assault and related charges. Judge Ronan Munro described the attack as savage and an outrage. Mains received a three-year sentence with the final 18 months suspended, while Daly received a three-month suspended sentence. Both were placed under probation supervision. The victim was commended for her resilience. The defendants expressed remorse and offered financial compensation. Mains has a history of drug use and is in treatment, while Daly is drug-free and has no recent convictions.
A thief who broke into a car and was found with a stolen bike had his nine-month jail sentence fully suspended on appeal. Stephen Carlisle (41) is currently serving another sentence and plans to enter residential drug rehabilitation upon release. Judge Ronan Munro noted that Carlisle is a menace when under the influence of drugs but a decent person otherwise. Carlisle was convicted in the District Court for possessing a stolen bicycle and faced additional charges. He appealed the severity of his sentence. Sergeant Stephen Walsh provided details of Carlisle's previous incidents, including attempts to steal a bike and rummage through a car. Carlisle had 49 previous convictions. His defence counsel, Lydia Daly BL, stated that Carlisle is now off methadone and aims to enter residential treatment. Judge Munro suspended the sentence for two years, requiring Carlisle to comply with the High Park Residential Rehabilitation Programme.
A man who led gardai on a high-speed chase across Dublin and County Meath has been jailed for five years. Dziugas Odinas (25) was driving dangerously, including on the wrong side of the road and through traffic. The chase involved 12 patrol cars and an air support helicopter. Odinas was later found with drugs and a knife. He pleaded guilty to possession for sale or supply of drugs and dangerous driving. His previous convictions include road traffic offences. Judge Sarah Berkeley acknowledged his drug addiction and noted his efforts to turn his life around. She imposed concurrent sentences of five years, suspending the final 12 months on condition he engages with the Probation Service. He was also disqualified from driving for five years.
A 'high level' drugs offender has been jailed for seven and a half years after being caught with cannabis and cocaine twice within six months. Cillian Nolan (29) was found with €119,000 worth of cannabis and €7,774 worth of cocaine during a search of an apartment. He also had €4,125 in cash and drug paraphernalia. Nolan pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of drugs and possession of criminal proceeds. His previous convictions include drug dealing and harassment. Judge Orla Crowe noted that Nolan was working at a higher level and imposed a nine-year sentence, suspending the final 18 months on condition he engages with the Probation Service. He was also backdated to October 2, 2025, when he went into custody.
A roads offender, Charlene Lawlor, tested positive for cannabis when she knocked down a three-year-old girl on a pedestrian crossing in Dublin 12, leaving the child with a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain. Lawlor initially blamed the child's mother for not keeping her daughter back on the scooter, but later expressed regret for her victim-blaming comments and acknowledged her culpability. The incident occurred on June 21, 2022, when Lawlor, driving at a speed exceeding the 30 km/h limit in effect due to nearby schools, collided with the child. The girl required emergency treatment and ongoing medical care, including regular MRIs and injections. Lawlor, who has eight previous road traffic convictions, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious bodily harm and drug driving. Judge Martina Baxter ordered a urine analysis report and noted that Lawlor should pay for it herself. The court also heard that Lawlor had a difficult childhood and currently has stable housing. The case was adjourned for finalisation on October 20.
A random garda stop in Dublin city centre led to the discovery of €375,400 in cannabis and cocaine. The driver, Patryk Czajczynski (32), was not on the garda radar but raised suspicion due to nervous behavior. During the search of his vehicle, gardai found €6,500 of cannabis. A follow-up search of his address in Ratoath, Co Meath, uncovered small amounts of cannabis, cocaine, and amphetamines, along with a key to a storage locker in Finglas. The locker contained 13.9kg of cannabis and 1kg of cocaine. Further searches, including one at a property in Dublin 11, led to the seizure of an additional €4,000 in cannabis. Czajczynski was re-arrested but no evidence was obtained during the interview. He has previous convictions for road traffic offences and obstruction. His defense argued that he was not the owner of the drugs but was transporting them for payment. The court heard that Czajczynski had a serious spinal injury from an accident in 2018 and used cannabis for self-medication.
A garda detective testified that 3D-printed guns are becoming more prevalent in Ireland. Craig McKeever (21) pleaded guilty to possessing a 3D-printed .22 calibre pistol and three rounds of ammunition. The gun, made of polymer, is small, easy to conceal, and not detected by metal detectors. During a patrol in Inchicore, gardai found McKeever with a bulletproof vest and a 3D-printed gun. The gun was found to be functional and lethal. McKeever claimed he was carrying the gun for protection after receiving threats against his life. He has 14 previous convictions, including theft, drugs, and road traffic offences. His defense argued that he was in a dangerous situation due to threats from a third party. The court heard that McKeever's family had received notices of threats, and his home was firebombed. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the seriousness of the offense and sentenced McKeever to four years and six months, with the final six months suspended on strict conditions.
A man who sexually abused a teenager over 20 years ago was sentenced to 38 months in prison, with the final four months suspended. The victim, who was 16 at the time, spoke out during the sentencing, saying that the abuse had stolen his childhood and left him with lasting trauma. He described the abuse as a secret he carried for years, leading to isolation, drug use, and a damaged relationship with his mother. The court heard that the abuse occurred over a year and involved mutual touching and oral rape. The accused, who had a previous conviction for sexual assault, was convicted on ten counts of gross indecency. The judge noted the prolonged nature of the offense and imposed consecutive sentences. The victim expressed gratitude to those who supported him and said he now feels seen and heard for the first time. The unnamed 62-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A former accountant has been sentenced to three years and nine months at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for laundering nearly €290,000 through his bank account. Cyril Keegan (54), with an address in County Cork, pleaded guilty to three counts of money laundering between 2017 and 2018. The court heard he acted as a conduit for convicted launderer Simon Gold, facilitating transfers including over €180,000 from a Canadian medical cannabis company. Funds were rapidly dispersed after arriving in Keegan's account. His partner, Ruth Kennedy (55), received a suspended two-year sentence after pleading guilty to failing to disclose information to gardaí. Judge Martin Nolan noted the substantial distress caused to defrauded parties. Gold, formerly of Athlone, County Westmeath, was previously jailed for seven-and-a-half years for laundering €1.6 million.
An offender who downloaded over 4,500 images and videos of child sexual abuse over an eight-day period before surrendering himself to gardaí has been jailed for 18 months. Aaron Catchpole, 32, admitted to contacting young girls on Instagram and requesting nude pictures. He pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography in September 2020 and has seven previous convictions, including drug possession. His former partner reportedly threatened him with losing contact with his child if he did not confess. Catchpole handed himself into gardaí and admitted to viewing the material. His phone was seized, revealing 4,483 images and 32 videos of child abuse, including infants as young as six months. The court noted that Catchpole had only owned the phone for eight days. A Probation Service report indicated a high risk of re-offending but noted his remorse. Judge Martin Nolan suspended the final year of his sentence on conditions, including probation supervision. Catchpole has a history of drug addiction but has been in custody since last October and is making progress.
A serial burglar who broke into a woman's apartment and took her belongings at knife point has been jailed for four years. Robert Hedderman, 41, forced a window into the apartment and threatened the victim with a knife, taking her work bag and other items. He was identified via CCTV and arrested, though no evidence was recovered during his interview. Hedderman has 65 previous convictions, including 17 for burglary and eight for possession of knives. His defence highlighted his heroin addiction and cooperation in custody, including methadone use. The court heard that the victim felt her sense of safety was 'utterly violated.' Judge Orla Crowe noted the impact of his addiction on his criminal history but emphasized the need for a custodial sentence. She imposed a four-year and six-month sentence, with the final six months suspended on conditions, and directed him to be under probation supervision for 12 months. Robert Hedderman pleaded guilty.
A Limerick teenager has pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court to helping a criminal gang possess a firearm with intent to endanger life last year. John O'Donovan (19), of Valley View, O'Malley Park, Southill, Limerick, will appear before the court again on July 13 for a sentencing hearing. The charge to which he entered the plea states that between April 26 and May 8, 2025, O'Donovan, with knowledge of the existence of a criminal organisation, participated in or contributed to activity intending to, or being reckless as to whether such participation or contribution could, facilitate the commission of a serious offence by that criminal organisation or any of its members, to wit, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. In a related matter, Shane Blackhall (21) of Mungret Court, Watergate Flats, Limerick, pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine, cannabis and diamorphine for sale or supply at Mungret Court on June 10, 2025.
At the Special Criminal Court in Dublin on May 11th, 2026, a 33-year-old man from West Dublin pleaded guilty to drug possession, money laundering and making threats to kill. Mark Salmon has admitted possessing cocaine valued at €35,280 near Carrick-on-Shannon in March 2024 and acquiring criminal proceeds totalling approximately €84,000 across 2022 and 2023. The court heard evidence that Salmon intimidated two families over alleged drug debts, threatening one mother that he would have her son raped by "junkies" and shot. He also threatened to drive over the young man and put a bullet in his head. A second victim suffered financial loss and psychological harm after her son fled to England fearing for his safety. The three-judge panel, led by Mr Justice Patrick McGrath, adjourned sentencing to June 15th. Defence counsel argued for leniency based on guilty pleas and expressions of remorse.
A criminal with over 270 previous convictions has been jailed for robbing €10 worth of name badges from a Dublin city centre hotel. Gary Simpson, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and was handed a sentence of three years and nine months, with the final nine months suspended on strict conditions. The court heard that Simpson entered the hotel in the early hours of June 26, 2025, and initially asked a staff member if there was a room available. After being told there were no available rooms, Simpson demanded money and threatened the staff member with a knife. He took €10 worth of blank name badges before fleeing the scene. Simpson has a troubled background, with a long-standing addiction to alcohol and drugs. His defence counsel highlighted his addiction issues and his desire to complete residential treatment. Judge Orla Crowe noted that the experience must have been frightening for the hotel staff member and imposed a sentence that would provide support on Simpson's release.
A delivery driver who caused the death of an 83-year-old man in a supermarket car park during a 'momentary lapse in concentration' has been given a fully suspended sentence. Colm Rooney, 54, pleaded guilty to driving without due care and attention, resulting in the death of Thomas Leeson. Dashcam footage showed Mr Leeson being hit by the van and suffering fatal injuries. Rooney was driving at 12km/h and had no alcohol or drugs in his system. The court heard that Mr Leeson was a devoted family man and had worked as a truck driver for over 40 years. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the impact on the family and the mitigating factors, including Rooney's guilty plea and good character. She sentenced him to nine months in prison, suspended for nine months, and disqualified him from driving for two years. Rooney expressed remorse and cooperated fully with the investigation.
A couple was sentenced for drug dealing and money laundering after being found with cannabis, MDMA, tobacco, and €157,380 in cash in their home. Lukasz Cichocki and Julia Mossakowska pleaded guilty to having the proceeds of crime and possessing drugs for sale or supply. Cichocki was jailed for four and a half years, while Mossakowska received a three-year suspended sentence. The court heard that the couple had a significant amount of drugs and cash, with the cigarettes seized being well beyond what anyone might reasonably consume. Cichocki claimed the cash was made from his life savings and a gift from his family in Poland, while Mossakowska expressed shame and remorse for her behavior. The judge noted the seriousness of the case and the harm caused by drugs. Cichocki was cooperative and accepted responsibility, while Mossakowska has no previous convictions and is pregnant with her second child. The court considered the mitigating factors and the impact of a foreign sentence on Mossakowska.
A woman who ingested €80,000 worth of cocaine was brought to a Dublin hospital after she told hotel staff she feared a pellet could burst in her stomach. Georgia Arante Rodrigues pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine for sale or supply. She arrived in Ireland on a tourist visa and was to give the pellets to someone she did not know. She was cooperative with the investigation and had a return ticket to Brazil. The court heard that Rodrigues was acting as a drugs mule and was due to receive €2,500 upon her return. She has no previous convictions and limited English. The judge noted the significant risk Rodrigues took to her health and the highly organized operation she was part of. He imposed a three-year sentence backdated to when she went into custody, considering the difficulties of serving a sentence in a foreign jurisdiction. Rodrigues expressed a desire to return to Brazil as soon as possible.
A prisoner who stole €200 from a south Dublin supermarket has been sentenced to 10 months in prison. David Cummins (37), who is currently serving a sentence at Cloverhill Prison, pleaded guilty to theft at SuperValu, Knocklyon Shopping Centre, on April 16, 2023. Gardaí said Cummins took the money from the till by putting his hand behind the counter. He was identified following inquiries after reports of a suspicious male in the area. The court heard that Cummins has over 80 previous convictions and that he had a difficult upbringing in Ballymun. His father died suddenly in 2004, and he suffered a serious road traffic accident that left him with a brain injury and ongoing side effects affecting his decision-making. He turned to drugs and is currently in prison. His defence asked the court to be as lenient as possible, noting his guilty plea. Judge John King imposed a 10-month sentence, backdated to May 8, to run concurrently with his current sentence.
Clayton McLoughlin, 19, of Ballymun, Dublin 11, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for assault causing harm. He pleaded guilty to acting as a lookout during an attack at the Applegreen Service Station in Santry on September 28, 2024. The court heard that McLoughlin, then 17, stood at the door holding a hockey stick while a co-accused, who remains at large, assaulted the victim with a hurley. The victim sustained a concussion, serious eye swelling, and permanent hearing loss. Judge Jonathan Dunphy noted that while McLoughlin did not inflict the injury, he was charged on the basis of joint enterprise and armed himself, limiting the victim's chance of escape. The judge described the incident as a planned, cowardly attack linked to a drug debt, which subsequently sparked a local feud. Aggravating factors included McLoughlin's failure to assist the convulsing victim and his subsequent flight from the jurisdiction, for which he was later remanded in custody. Mitigating factors included his early guilty plea, his age at the time of the offense, and his self-reported detoxification. Judge Dunphy imposed a sentence of four years and six months, with the final 18 months suspended on strict conditions for two years. The sentence was backdated to October 2025, when McLoughlin entered custody.
Dylan Mills has been jailed for four years for burglarizing the home of an 80-year-old man and stealing vehicles. Mills, 23, has 16 previous convictions, including criminal damage, assault, and drug misuse. The court heard that Mills broke into the home of an elderly man, stole a carving knife, and later stole a car that was involved in a crash. Mills was in foster care from age 12 to 18 and has struggled with drug addiction. His defense highlighted his early guilty plea and his efforts in custody to address his issues. Judge Martin Nolan noted the mitigating factors, including Mills' remorse and his progress in custody, but warned that if he reoffends, sentences would increase. The judge suspended the final year of the sentence for one year and placed Mills under probation supervision for one year post-release.
Convicted killer Derek Moore, who was banned from driving and was involved in a serious collision that injured a grandmother, has been granted permission to travel abroad for a family holiday while awaiting sentencing. Moore, who has 44 previous convictions, including dangerous driving and drug possession, was involved in a high-speed incident in Dublin where he struck a grandmother, causing her serious injuries. Despite the severity of the case, a judge allowed him to travel abroad for one week. Moore has pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and is awaiting sentencing, with the court considering his recent diagnosis of ADHD and his need for medication. The grandmother, who suffered facial injuries, a stroke, and a brain bleed, required extensive medical treatment and is now in constant pain. Moore's legal team argued that he would return to Ireland if allowed to travel, and the judge noted that he had previously complied with bail conditions.
A man who is serving a sentence for drug dealing has had his jail term extended by 15 months for further offences of drug dealing and money laundering. Colin Radburn (37) was jailed for four and a half years in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court last November after he was pulled over at a garda checkpoint and found to have €350,000 worth of cocaine and £15,520 in cash in his van. He appeared before the court today on signed guilty pleas to one count of possessing cannabis, one count of possessing the drugs for sale or supply, and one count of money laundering. These charges relate to €19,218 of cannabis and €23,500 in cash which gardai found when they searched his van. Radburn made admissions in custody and told gardai he had a drug debt and was under pressure to transport the drugs and the cash. He now has 32 previous convictions, including the offences he carried out in February 2025.
A self-proclaimed 'drugs lord' named Craig O'Connell, who had 62 previous convictions, was jailed for nine years for raping a 16-year-old girl. O'Connell falsely claimed the girl owed him €12,000 and threatened her with violence if she did not comply. He convinced her to have sex with him, recording the act to provide proof. O'Connell continued to extort money from the girl, taking items such as her mother's wedding band and an engagement ring. He also threatened her former boyfriend, falsely accusing him of being a 'rat' and making him sell drugs to repay a debt. O'Connell pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including rape, theft, and coercion. The court noted the abuse of trust and the deliberate planning to terrify the victims. The judge imposed a sentence of 11 years for the rape and a consecutive six-year term for making a demand with menace. O'Connell was also ordered to attend sex offender treatment and be under post-release supervision.
Dylan Brady, 39, of Ballybrack, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to assaulting a garda, obstructing a garda, threatening and abusive behaviour, failing to comply with a garda direction, and violent disorderly behaviour. The court heard that Brady, who has 133 previous convictions, became abusive towards staff at St Vincent's University Hospital A&E on November 3, 2024. After refusing a direction to leave, he was arrested and taken to Donnybrook Garda Station. There, he allegedly continued to be abusive, slammed doors, and spat in the face of Garda Lee O'Donoghue while attempting to grab him. Defence solicitor Andrew Vallely stated that Brady suffers from schizophrenia and psychosis and was not medically compliant at the time, noting he is now in residential treatment at Coolmine Lodge. Judge Anne Watkin described the station behaviour as "pretty serious" but decided to deal with the matter under the Probation Act given the guilty plea and treatment progress. Brady was placed on a 12-month probation bond on his own bond of €500, with an independent surety of €500. Conditions include notifying gardaí if he leaves Coolmine Lodge, remaining off alcohol and illegal drugs, engaging with the Probation Service and treatment providers, taking prescribed medication, and completing residential treatment. Judge Watkin warned Brady he "will be jailed" if he commits any further offences.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44 and with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in connection with an extradition application by Northern Irish authorities. Gill is wanted by the PSNI in relation to the murder of Robbie Lawlor, a 36-year-old man shot dead in Belfast on April 4, 2020. He faces charges on a joint enterprise basis and is also accused of possessing a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life between April 2 and 5, 2020. The PSNI believe the killing was part of an ongoing drugs feud involving criminal elements across Dublin, Sligo and Drogheda. During proceedings before Mr Justice Sean Gillane, Gill's legal team sought to adjourn the bail application to renew a request for senior counsel. The counsel raised concerns regarding the lawfulness and admissibility of evidence, noting differing standards between European and UK courts. The judge remanded Gill in custody pending a renewed application for senior counsel on May 1. An extradition hearing is scheduled for June 3.
A Dutch national's application to stand as an independent surety for a man awaiting trial on drugs conspiracy charges has been rejected by the Special Criminal Court. The court heard that Sadaf Piroozram (52) offered to lodge €30,000 for Ali Ghasemi Mazidi (50), who is charged with conspiring to import controlled drugs valued in excess of €13 million between February and March 2024. Presiding Judge Kerida Naidoo found that Ms Piroozram, who resides in Rotterdam, could provide only limited evidence regarding Mr Mazidi's movements during the relevant period and had relied solely on newspaper reports to understand the allegations against him. The judge determined she was unable to adequately assess the risks involved in standing as surety. The court also rejected proposed monitoring measures involving a mobile phone application, finding no realistic basis for gardaí participation. Mr Mazidi, with an address in the Netherlands, and two other men, including one from Enniskillen, remain awaiting trial in connection with the operation. Seven co-accused have previously pleaded guilty and received combined sentences of 70 years.
A criminal attempted to rob three shops on the same Dublin street in under five minutes but left each one empty-handed. Michael O'Toole, 41, pleaded guilty to three counts of attempted robbery at two Paddy Power premises and a Spar on Talbot Street on October 17, 2023. He also pleaded guilty to possession of stolen property and theft. O'Toole used an uncapped syringe during the robberies and fled each time without success. He has 86 previous convictions, 12 from the Circuit Court. Gardai found stolen items from an Airbnb in Dublin, including iPads and a laptop, which were traced to O'Toole via CCTV footage. He was arrested but refused to answer questions. His defence argued that he had drug addiction issues and was making progress in custody. Judge Martina Baxter ordered a probation report and additional urine analysis, adjourning the case until December 17, 2026.