Shane Kelly, 36, of no fixed abode in Edgeworthstown, Co Longford, was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court for offences committed in the early hours of February 25, 2025. Kelly pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted rape, one count of oral rape, one count of anal rape, and one count of burglary at the home of Anne Gallagher, a 70-year-old neighbour. Ms Justice Melanie Greally described the attack as pre-meditated, noting Kelly was aware of Gallagher's vulnerability, including her chronic health issues and reliance on mobility aids. The judge stated the harm caused was "life-altering" and that Kelly's culpability was of a "particularly extreme level." Although the Director of Public Prosecution assessed the case in the 10 to 15-year category, Ms Justice Greally set a headline sentence of 18 years. Taking mitigating factors into account, she reduced this to 14 years and six months. The final 18 months of the sentence were suspended on conditions. A Probation Service report indicated Kelly is at medium risk of reoffending and requires intervention for sexual preoccupation, impulsivity, and drug abuse. Gallagher, who waived her anonymity, stated she chose to forgive Kelly to heal, while the court noted the sentence must be punitive given the egregious violation of her home and the use of violence, including manual strangulation.
A doctor, Waleed Mustafa, described the home invasion by Dean Hayes, 37, as a "miracle" he wasn't killed. Hayes, with 129 previous convictions, broke into Mustafa's home and stabbed him multiple times. Mustafa, who is originally from Sudan and works as a doctor in University Hospital Limerick, was attacked in his bedroom while watching YouTube. Hayes was armed with a knife and told Mustafa, "you ripped someone," before attacking him. Mustafa managed to escape through the back door but was stabbed in the head and abdomen. The victim described feeling "sheer terror" and said he was "extremely lucky" to be alive. Hayes was arrested the following day and had a history of burglary, theft, and drug-related offences. The court heard that Hayes had previously burgled the victim's neighbour's house. Mustafa has since experienced anxiety, hypertension, and sleep disturbances due to the attack.
Lee O'Brien, a man with 228 previous convictions, was jailed for a robbery at a Dublin petrol station. O'Brien, armed with a knife, demanded money from a staff member, resulting in €350 being stolen. The victim left her job due to the traumatic experience. O'Brien had recently been released from custody and was not on bail at the time of the offence. Judge Orla Crowe noted the deliberate and organized nature of the crime, and imposed a three-year and three-month sentence, with the final six months suspended. O'Brien attempted to detox while in custody and expressed remorse. The court heard that the case was delayed due to the pandemic, and O'Brien had previously been sentenced for similar offences. The judge acknowledged his long-standing drug issues and difficult background, but emphasized the severity of the crime. Lee O'Brien pleaded guilty.
David Cranny damaged a video doorbell outside a south Dublin home, claiming it made him feel 'uncomfortable'. Cranny, who has 29 previous convictions, pleaded guilty to the criminal damage. The residents were left €350 out of pocket and had to move out of fear. Judge Anne Watkin expressed confusion over why the doorbell would have caused Cranny discomfort, noting it only showed people at the doorstep. Cranny later paid €200 in compensation. The judge emphasized the impact of the incident on the residents, who felt unsafe in their own home. Cranny is no longer using drugs and is on an employment scheme. The court ordered him to pay the remaining balance, provide a probation report, and attend restorative justice services before sentencing. The case was adjourned to May 25.
Christopher Reynolds, a cocaine dealer, was jailed for four and a half years after hitting a garda during an escape attempt on a stolen motorbike. Reynolds was also jailed for possessing nearly €300,000 worth of cocaine. The incident occurred in May 2025 when Reynolds drove through a narrow gap in a garage forecourt and collided with a garda, causing the officer to suffer a dislocated foot and torn ligaments. Reynolds later apologized and claimed the collision was unintentional. He had nine previous convictions and was on bail for a drugs offence at the time. Judge Orla Crowe noted the seriousness of the endangerment offence and the substantial amount of cocaine involved. Reynolds was sentenced to three years for the drugs offence and two years for the endangerment, with the final six months suspended. The court heard that Reynolds had been under pressure from a drug debt and had since shown signs of rehabilitation. Christopher Reynolds pleaded guilty.
A former girlfriend of Luke Donnelly, who admitted killing but denied murdering his mother, testified at the Central Criminal Court that he claimed to be Jesus and told her he had cured her cancer. Stacey Campbell said Donnelly's drug use and deteriorating mental health were major concerns. She described how he arrived at her home in Drogheda, claiming to be Jesus, and how she contacted gardaí for help. Donnelly, who has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, was said to have had a close relationship with his mother, Catherine Henry. Ms Campbell recounted that Henry was in good health on the day before her death and that Donnelly was acting strangely, claiming to be Jesus. She said she last saw Henry alive at around 8:20 am on May 22, 2023, and learned of her death the following day. The trial continues with further evidence being presented.
The owner of a Dublin city head shop caught selling cannabis herb had a "mistaken belief" she wasn't breaking the law, a court has heard. Charlene Flynn (37) was present during the search and told gardai she was the owner of the shop, which was part of a franchise that also operated a premises in Cork city. She was arrested in September 2022 and interviewed. She told gardai that cannabinoid oil and CBD products, which she said were regulated under EU food law, were seized by gardai on the day of the search. Ms Flynn said that the products had a level of THC, the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis, of under 0.2 per cent and said that "to my knowledge the products are within the legal requirements". Flynn of Hollytree Square, Ballymun later pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of drugs for sale or supply at 'Funky Skunk' on June 2, 2022.
Roisin O'Grady, a 45-year-old woman from Monkstown, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to charges of assaulting a garda and public order offences. The court heard that on November 13, 2024, Ms O'Grady was found heavily intoxicated at Balally Luas stop. While being transported to Blackrock Garda Station, she allegedly slapped a garda. Prosecutors stated that while in custody, she used abusive language and, after being restrained, kicked a garda in the back of the head. Judge Anne Watkin noted the seriousness of the assault on police officers. Defence counsel Michael O'Blain BL highlighted that Ms O'Grady has a history of alcohol-related offending, with three previous convictions for public intoxication, though she has had no convictions in over ten years. He stated she entered treatment last year, cooperates with probation services, and has no issues with drugs, attributing her difficulties to alcohol misuse. The judge placed Ms O'Grady on a one-year probation bond. The matter was finalised with this disposal.
A chronic addict who committed a series of burglaries, robberies, and weapon-related offences over six weeks has been jailed for five years. Paul Beatty, 39, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including burglary, robbery, and producing a weapon. Judge Orla Crowe described the offences as a 'spree of offending' and noted the fear caused to victims. She imposed an eight-year sentence, reduced to six years with the final 12 months suspended. Beatty's defence highlighted his addiction and current drug-free status in custody, expressing a desire to break the cycle of addiction and offending. The court acknowledged his struggles but emphasized the need for protection from future offending. Beatty has a long history of convictions, including for possession of firearms and road traffic offences.
Michael Murray, a 60-year-old cattle farmer from Moneygall, County Offaly, is appealing his conviction for importing €730,000 worth of cannabis. In 2023, a jury at Tullamore Circuit Court found him guilty of importing a controlled drug in excess of €13,000 and having drugs for sale or supply, rejecting his not guilty plea. He was sentenced by Judge Keenan Johnson to ten years in prison, with the final two years suspended. The appeal before the Court of Appeal centers on whether the jury was misled by prosecution evidence suggesting Murray was the specific target of a garda operation. Defence counsel argued that the solicitor failed to recognize the prejudicial nature of this evidence, which was introduced during the trial. State counsel countered that the defence solicitor explicitly agreed to the introduction of this material. The court noted that no requisition was made to the trial judge to object to the evidence, implying an agreement. The presiding judge, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, reserved judgment, and the matter was adjourned.
Megan Gaffey, 28, of Dublin 1, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to two counts of robbery committed on May 22 and June 13, 2024, at a shop on the quays in Dublin City Centre. The court heard that Gaffey, who has 165 previous convictions, was on bail and serving a suspended sentence at the time of the offences. In the first incident, she allegedly took €100 after a struggle with the shop manager; in the second, she allegedly threatened a worker with scissors and took €420. Judge Orla Crowe noted the use of scissors and Gaffey's extensive criminal history as aggravating factors, while acknowledging her remorse and efforts to address addiction while in custody. The judge imposed a sentence of four years and six months, backdated to November last when Gaffey pleaded guilty. The final 12 months of the sentence were suspended, and Gaffey was placed under probation supervision for one year to assist with drugs treatment and accommodation. The matter was finalised with this sentencing order.
The Special Criminal Court has adjourned the sentencing of seven defendants to Monday, March 23, with Ms Justice Karen O'Connor remanding all in custody until that date. Gary Monks, Miljan Koprivica, Conor Costello, Ryan Watson, Hanz Pangahin, Christopher Ampo, and Feljon Lao have all pleaded guilty to conspiring to import controlled drugs with a value exceeding €13,000 between December 18, 2024, and January 15, 2025. The court heard that the group operated as structured cells, with three Filipino crew members transporting cocaine from the Amazon region to Co Clare, while the other four, including Monks, formed a UK-based landing cell tasked with collecting the drugs for transport to Co Kerry. Defence counsel for Monks, a former British soldier, argued he was not at the upper echelons of the organisation and suffered from PTSD stemming from service in Iraq and Afghanistan. Counsel stated Monks began abusing drugs and alcohol after returning to Scotland, leading to his involvement in the offence. A probation report noted Monks is at high risk of reoffending in the generic sense over the next 12 months. The matter was adjourned, and no final sentence was imposed at this stage.
A repeat offender, Liam Houston (40), of Kiltalown Road, Tallaght, has had an additional five months added to his prison sentence for cocaine offences. Houston pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine for sale or supply and simple possession before Judge Peter White at Tallaght District Court. The court heard that Houston was found in possession of cocaine valued at €550 in November 2019. He has a history of 55 previous convictions, including one drug conviction. Judge White imposed a five-month prison sentence for the Section 15 offence, which will run consecutively to a four-year prison term for assault offences he has been serving since May 2024. The simple possession offence was dealt with under the Probation Act. Houston is currently serving his sentence in Mountjoy Prison.
Stephen Carberry, 48, pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court to charges of assisting an offender and facilitating the murder of Keane Mulready-Woods. He admitted to transporting and disposing of the teenager's body parts between January 13 and 15, 2020, while on bail for drug offences. The court heard victim impact statements from Keane's parents, who described the "cruelty and inhumanity" of the disposal. Carberry, who has 77 previous convictions, was alleged to have collected two sports bags from Rathmullan Park, Drogheda, and dumped one in Moatview, Dublin. His co-accused, Gerard Cruise, 51, also pleaded guilty to facilitating the murder under Section 72 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006. In February 2023, co-accused Paul Crosby was sentenced to ten years for the same offence, while Cruise received seven-and-a-half years with the final six months suspended for two years. Ms Justice O'Connor adjourned Carberry's case to Monday, March 9, for sentencing, noting the panel could not imagine the depth of the family's pain.
Darragh Quigley (26) was sentenced at the sentence hearing for the attempted murder of Gretta McCullough (64) on November 16, 2023, at Chatham Row, Dublin 2. Quigley pleaded guilty to the charge, having admitted to the offence. The court found him not guilty by reason of insanity, as expert psychiatric evidence concluded he did not meet the legal criteria for that verdict despite suffering from schizophrenia and drug-induced psychosis. Mr Justice Paul Burns described the attack as totally unprovoked and random, noting Quigley had travelled to the city centre with a plan to hunt someone. The judge set a headline sentence of 14 years and six months. In mitigation, the court considered Quigley's guilty plea, his expression of remorse, and his lack of previous convictions. Quigley was sentenced to 13 years in prison, with the final year suspended for a period of five years. The sentence was backdated to November 17, 2023. The judge recommended a psychiatric assessment two months prior to release to determine if secure medical treatment is required. The matter was concluded with this sentencing order.
A member of the Hutch family, Sammy Hutch (50), was jailed for six and a half years for a robbery at a Dublin Dealz store where he was armed with a hammer. He was convicted following a trial last October, despite claiming he was not the person on CCTV. DNA evidence linked him to the crime. The court heard that the victim suffered psychological trauma and that Hutch has 102 previous convictions. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the victim's distress and reduced the headline sentence of seven and a half years to six and a half years. Hutch denied involvement, claiming he sold the helmet and may have had a broken ankle. The victim described the incident as the most traumatic experience of her life, leading to ongoing psychological issues. Hutch's defense highlighted his PTSD from witnessing a cousin's shooting and his drug addiction history.
Daniel Kearney (37) was jailed for two years for his role in a burglary where seven e-bikes worth over €20,000 were stolen from a Dublin store. He pleaded guilty to taking two of the bikes valued at €7,300. The burglary caused significant damage to the shop, and only one of the stolen bikes was later recovered. The business owner described the impact on his professional and personal life. Kearney has 13 previous convictions and is homeless with a history of drug addiction. He is now drug-free and has a job offer upon release. Judge Orla Crowe set a headline sentence of four years but reduced it to two years and eight months, suspending the final eight months on conditions.
Robert O'Donnell, 37, of Corduff Gardens, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to two counts of possessing drugs under S15A of the Misuse of Drugs Act. The court heard that gardaí intercepted O'Donnell on the M7 in Laois on July 11, finding two kilos of cocaine in his vehicle. A subsequent search of his mother's home revealed additional cocaine, ketamine, cannabis, and heroin, with a combined street value of €2.1 million. O'Donnell, who has no previous convictions, alleged he was transporting the substances to settle a drug debt. Judge Orla Crowe accepted that he acted at the behest of others but noted he was sufficiently trusted to hold the drugs. Although the offence carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, the judge departed from this requirement due to mitigating factors, including his early guilty plea and lack of prior record. She set a headline sentence of 12 years, reduced it to eight years, and suspended the final four years on conditions, including that O'Donnell be of good behaviour for that period. Consequently, he faces four years of effective custody.
Darren Hayes, 50, was sentenced at the procedural stage of sentence for a series of offences in the Baggot Street area. The defendant pleaded guilty to 10 counts of burglary and seven counts of criminal damage committed between September 6 and October 15, 2023. The court heard that Hayes, who was on bail at the time, carried out these acts at unoccupied office premises, forcing entry and causing damage or stealing property. On September 6, he allegedly stole €21,929 worth of laptops and iPhones from a Haddington Road office with another man, who has since fled the jurisdiction. On October 15, he allegedly ransacked a hair salon and damaged other businesses, including a gym and doctors' offices. Judge Orla Crowe noted Hayes's extensive criminal history, including 140 previous convictions, one for rape, and two for failing to inform gardaí of a change of address under the Sex Offender's Act. She described the theft of devices and the destruction of equipment as requiring separate marking. The judge imposed a sentence of three years and four months, with the final year suspended, on those specific offences and took the remaining counts into consideration. Defense counsel highlighted Hayes's chronic drug addiction and housing difficulties, noting his intention to enter residential treatment upon release. Hayes is currently serving a sentence for other burglaries.
A 22-year-old man, Reece Byrne, has been sentenced to six years in prison for possession of heroin, cocaine, and diazepam, with the final six months suspended. Byrne pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply and money laundering at his home in Ballymun. During a search, Gardaí found large amounts of cocaine, heroin, and diazepam, with a total market value of €48,000. Byrne initially claimed the drugs were not his and that he had a drug debt, but the court did not accept this. Judge Martina Baxter noted Byrne's cooperation and lack of previous convictions but emphasized his role in the drugs trade. Byrne's co-accused, Laura Smith, received a two-and-a-half-year suspended sentence for allowing her home to be used for drug preparation. The court acknowledged Smith's cooperation and her status as a mother of three, deeming it unlikely she would reoffend.
A Canadian drugs mule, Mohamad Alaha (20), was jailed for three years after being caught 'literally red-handed' with €400,000 worth of vacuum-packed cannabis at Dublin Airport. He was arrested after customs officers noticed suspicious behaviour during a flight from Canada. Alaha admitted to importing 20 kilograms of cannabis into Ireland on April 26, 2025, and had no previous convictions. His defence, Marc Thompson SC, explained that Alaha was fleeing Syria with his family when he was 11 and moved to Canada. He suffered from mental health issues and developed a drug addiction, which led him to seek treatment in Egypt. However, he accumulated debt and relapsed. To settle his debts, Alaha sold personal items and eventually agreed to transport drugs. His defence argued that his choices were limited. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged his guilty plea and noted that drug trafficking is a societal scourge. She accepted that Alaha was cooperating and had been doing well in custody, but sentenced him to three years in prison, backdated to the day of his arrest.
Keith Smithers and Peter White, both with extensive criminal records, were sentenced for their roles in a fight outside a Dublin shopping centre three years ago. Smithers, who had previously been convicted of murder and robbery, received a nine-year sentence, while White, with over 270 convictions, was given four and a half years. Both were later sentenced to two years for affray. The incident involved a fight between Smithers, White, and a third man, with the use of a steel pole. CCTV footage showed the altercation, and both men expressed remorse. Smithers has 98 previous convictions, and White has 274. Both have drug addiction issues and are making efforts to address them. Judge Orla Crowe noted the CCTV evidence and the men's efforts to deal with their addictions before imposing the two-year sentences. Keith Smithers pleaded guilty. Peter White pleaded guilty and was acquitted.
Keith Commins (28) was convicted of theft and public order offences after being caught with a stolen mobile phone that contained messages about a work presentation, despite claiming it belonged to his unemployed girlfriend. The incident occurred on August 28, 2024, when Garda David Lyons found Commins cycling erratically and unable to unlock the phone. Messages on the device contradicted his explanation. Commins also faced charges for threatening behaviour and obstruction during a separate incident on January 7, 2025. Judge Conor Fottrell convicted him of theft, public order, and obstruction. Commins has a long criminal record, including drug and public order offences. His legal team highlighted his drug addiction and lack of family support. Judge Fottrell imposed a total of seven months' imprisonment, consecutive to a four-month sentence he is currently serving. A €500 recognisance was fixed, and legal aid was granted. Keith Commins pleaded not guilty.
A repeat offender, Thomas Joyce (45), has been jailed for six weeks after entering a car parked in a private driveway in south Dublin while on probation and swallowing crack cocaine during garda custody. Joyce was sentenced at Dún Laoghaire District Court after pleading not guilty to entering a Volkswagen Touran on Anglesea Road, Dublin 4, on November 18, 2024. The car's owner saw Joyce enter the driveway and rummage through the vehicle before claiming it was his. Joyce was later arrested in a Spar shop in Ballsbridge. While in custody, he swallowed crack cocaine wraps hidden in his dentures and was taken to hospital. Judge Anne Watkin noted Joyce's 77 previous convictions, including 47 for theft and fraud, and stated that despite previous leniency, he had breached probation by committing another offence. She imposed a six-week sentence, half the maximum available, and did not order compensation as no damage was done to the vehicle.
A Northern Irish man has been jailed for 13 years for using his legitimate haulage business to smuggle over €6 million worth of drugs into the country. Padraig Casey (45) was found guilty of five counts related to the seizure of cannabis and cocaine at Dublin Port in 2020. The court heard that Casey, who was the owner and director of a haulage company, used his business to bring the drugs into the country. Judge Elma Sheahan noted that the aggravating factors included the seriousness of the offence, the nature and amount of the drugs, and the fact that Casey used his legitimate business to facilitate the trafficking. In mitigation, the court considered testimonials from Casey's family, his lack of previous convictions for this type of offence, and his long history of employment. Judge Sheahan set a headline sentence of 15 years but reduced it to 13 years, taking mitigation into account. Casey was stopped at Dublin Port upon his return from Rotterdam, where 93kg of cannabis and 60.9kg of cocaine were found in his truck.
The brother of Michael Tormey, a man fatally shot by his brother-in-law Christopher Devine in his own front garden, described his sibling as a 'decent, honest man' who paid the ultimate price for meeting people involved in the drugs trade. Devine was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Mr Tormey, who was shot five times in his front garden. The court heard that Devine had a history of drug-related activity with Mr Tormey and had previously been involved in moving drugs. The jury rejected Devine's claim of diminished responsibility due to cocaine intoxication, finding that he acted deliberately. Victim impact statements highlighted the devastation caused to the Tormey family, with Mr Tormey's brother describing the murder as 'coldly' executed. Devine had no psychiatric history and had never taken psychiatric medication. The trial revealed that Devine had a history of previous convictions, mostly under the road traffic act, and had been involved in drug-related activity with Mr Tormey. Christopher Devine pleaded not guilty.
The Central Criminal Court sentenced three adults for offences against a 13-year-old girl during court-ordered access visits. A 34-year-old man, the aunt's partner, pleaded guilty to oral rape and sexual assault between July and September 2023. Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring sentenced him to ten years for oral rape and three years for sexual assault, to run concurrently. She suspended the final 12 months and placed him under probation supervision for 12 months. The girl's father, aged 41, pleaded guilty to child neglect (September 2022–September 2023) and intimidation of a witness. He was sentenced to six years for intimidation and four years for neglect, to run concurrently. The final 12 months were suspended, with 12 months of probation supervision. The girl's aunt, aged 40, pleaded guilty to child neglect. She received a three-year sentence, with the final two years suspended for 12 months, and was placed under probation supervision for 12 months. The court noted the defendants exposed the child to alcohol and drugs. The father allegedly intimidated the child into dropping her complaint. All sentences were pronounced at the sentencing stage.
Drug dealers made a "very nasty threat" to a money mule mother-of-three who got into a cocaine debt, a Dublin court has heard. Garda Paddy Kelleher was giving evidence at the sentence hearing at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of Anna Stewart (36) for laundering money stolen from a Kildare resident. He agreed with Kieran Kelly BL, defending, that Stewart had become addicted to cocaine after the break-up of a relationship and racked up a drugs debt. Gda Kelleher testified that Stewart came under pressure from the drug dealers, who told her she could get something taken off the debt if she gave them access to her bank account. Counsel told the court that they made a further threat "of a very nasty nature". Judge Orla Crowe noted that gardai accepted that this was a real threat and was "particularly serious". Stewart of Kiltalown Avenue, Tallaght, Dublin 24 pleaded guilty to having possession of the proceeds of crime on a date in May 2021.
James McMahon, aged 31, of Riversdale Road, Clondalkin, has been sentenced to six years and nine months imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, with the final two years suspended. McMahon pleaded guilty to stealing six vehicles from homes in his local community between February and April 2020, along with possession of stolen property including a laptop, e-scooter, car keys and a handbag. He also admitted using a cloned credit card at a Dublin retailer in May 2019. The court heard McMahon employed a bamboo device fitted with magnets to facilitate vehicle thefts and that evidence of the crimes, including photographs and discussions about stolen cars, was recovered from his mobile phone. One stolen vehicle had previously belonged to the Lord Mayor of Dublin. All vehicles were subsequently recovered, though two sustained damage. McMahon has 114 previous convictions for drug dealing and road traffic offences. Judge Sinéad Ní Chulachain imposed strict conditions on the suspended portion of the sentence.
A mother and daughter were found in possession of €1.3 million in gold bullion and hundreds of thousands in cash during garda raids, leading to their convictions for the possession of proceeds of crime. Svethana Bahtijeva (39) and her mother Jelene Idele (59) pleaded guilty to multiple charges, with Bahtijeva receiving a five-year prison sentence and Idele receiving a four-year suspended sentence. During the raids, 18kg of gold bullion, €399,000 in cash, and drugs were discovered in their homes. Bahtijeva's husband, who is believed to have fled the country, was identified as the main figure in the criminal activities. The court heard that Bahtijeva was under her husband's control and facilitated his criminal activities, while Idele was unaware of the drugs in her home. The judge noted that the main culprit was not present in court and that Bahtijeva's actions were influenced by her husband's criminal behavior.
A man who poured petrol on a shop counter and threatened to burn it has been jailed for 33 months. Darragh Kane (26) told gardai he had been beaten the night before the robbery and needed money to pay off a drug debt. He threatened shop staff with a lighter and a knife, demanding cash before stealing €466 from the till. Kane pleaded guilty to robbery and has previous convictions for drug and traffic offences. The judge noted the severity of the crime, which occurred in broad daylight and terrified staff and customers, including a woman with a baby. Kane expressed remorse and acknowledged the impact of his actions, but the judge emphasized the need for justice for the victims. Kane's sentence was suspended for 12 months on strict conditions, including engaging with the Probation Service. His defense highlighted his difficult background and requested time for drug treatment.
The Special Criminal Court heard that seven men conspired to import up to 600kg of cocaine, valued at up to €42 million, into Ireland. The defendants, Miljan Koprivica, Conor Costello, Gary Monks, Ryan Watson, Hanz Pangahin, Christopher Ampo, and Feljon Lao, all entered guilty pleas to conspiring to import drugs in excess of €13,000 under section 71 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006. Evidence presented by a Detective Inspector alleged the group operated in structured cells under the control of unidentified individuals. Three Filipino defendants were accused of loading the drugs onto the MV Royal in the Amazon, while four others with UK addresses formed a landing cell intended to collect the cocaine via a rigid inflatable boat. The landing crew was arrested at Meenogahane pier in County Kerry on January 12, 2025, after allegedly completing the transfer. The three men on the ship were subsequently arrested between January 15 and 17, 2025. The court heard that the defendants were instructed by figures using pseudonyms such as "Emaar Boss" and "Albert," and that EncroChat devices were used for coordination. The sentence hearing was adjourned to continue before Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, sitting with Judges Sarah Berkeley and Fiona Lydon.
A woman who set fire to a bus during the 2023 Dublin riots, causing nearly €500,000 in damage, was sentenced to six years in prison. Leanne Kelly (34) told the judge to 'fuck off' and refused to provide a urine sample. She pleaded guilty to criminal damage after throwing a piece of cardboard, which she had set alight using a nearby burning garda car, onto the bus. The bus was empty but completely destroyed. Kelly, who was homeless and addicted to drugs at the time, was identified through 17,000 hours of CCTV footage. She had 66 previous convictions and was on bail for other offences. The court heard that the riots began after a stabbing incident earlier that day. Dublin Bus employees described the events as violent and threatening, with the company suffering a loss of about €1.9 million. Kelly's defence argued she had no political motivation and was under the influence of drugs. Judge Baxter noted Kelly's actions were 'gratuitous' and 'breathtaking' and that she fed into the 'mob mentality' of the riots.
Patrick Skipton (42) was jailed for seven years after being found guilty of demanding money with menace and harassment. He initially demanded €50,000 from a victim who had held money for him during the pandemic, which he spent on drugs. The victim, with help from family, paid the amount. Later, Skipton harassed the victim again, demanding €40,000. The victim, who had since become clean and was working, was pressured to sell his car. Skipton's associate collected €6,230 from the sale, and the victim was ordered to take out a loan. However, the victim alerted gardaí, leading to Skipton's arrest. Skipton has a history of drug use and multiple convictions. He expressed remorse and is now clean. The judge noted the victim impact statement, which described the "reign of terror" inflicted by Skipton, and sentenced him to nine years, with two years suspended.
The Court of Appeal has ruled that a Riverstown man's drugs sentence was unduly lenient, yet he will serve no additional time in custody. James Murphy, aged 66, was convicted in 2021 of participating in a joint enterprise to supply cocaine valued at €281,148, which was seized by gardaí at a McDonald's car park in Drogheda in November 2015. He was originally sentenced to seven years with the final year suspended. The Director of Public Prosecutions appealed on grounds of undue leniency. Mr Justice Brian O'Moore found the sentencing judge's treatment of Murphy on equal terms with his co-accused was "seriously flawed" and increased the sentence to ten years, the mandatory minimum. However, noting Murphy had already completed his original sentence and was released into the community, the judge suspended the final four years of the revised sentence for twelve months, contingent on no further offences. James Murphy pleaded not guilty.
Kaide Fowler, a drug dealer who endured a 'sad life' marked by poverty and neglect, has been jailed for four and a half years for drug dealing and money laundering. Fowler, who has a history of drug use and criminality, admitted to selling heroin, cannabis, and cocaine and possessing large sums of cash believed to be from the proceeds of crime. His wife, Catriona Hyland, received a suspended sentence for her role in the drug-related activities. Fowler's defence highlighted his difficult upbringing, including drug use by his parents and significant neglect. Despite his previous convictions, the court acknowledged his efforts to rehabilitate, including being drug-free in prison and attending school. Judge Martin Nolan noted Fowler's long-standing drug-related convictions but emphasized the need for custodial sentences due to the seriousness of his crimes. Kaide Fowler pleaded guilty. Catriona Hyland pleaded guilty.
Derek Moore (AKA Hutch), a convicted killer with a long history of dangerous driving and drug use, was driving at 158km/h and under the influence of cannabis when he struck a Ukrainian grandmother, Valentyna Linck, in Dublin. Moore pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious harm and driving under the influence. The collision left Linck with severe injuries, including facial and head trauma, a stroke, and a brain bleed. She spent a month in a coma and requires ongoing rehabilitation. Moore's driving was described as 'completely outrageous' by the judge, who ordered a probation report and adjourned the case for further proceedings. Moore, who has 44 previous convictions, including manslaughter and assault, was disqualified from driving for five years at the time of the incident. The court heard that Moore was high on cannabis and had a history of drug use, which contributed to his reckless behavior. The victim's medical costs and loss of income were estimated at over €250,000.
A chef was sentenced to three years in prison after being caught with over half a million euros worth of cannabis. Lin Yan, 40, pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply in March 2025. Gardai received information from customs that a drugs detection dog had detected cannabis in a pallet. The pallet was delivered to an address in Palmerstown, but no one was there to receive it. Yan answered a call and signed for the delivery. Gardai kept him under surveillance and found cannabis in the pallet. Yan was arrested and the drugs were analyzed, revealing a total value of €571,000. Yan has no previous convictions and was employed as a chef in Ireland. His defense argued that he was on the lowest rung of the drug ladder and had been taken advantage of. The judge considered these factors and sentenced him to three years in prison.
A man was jailed for two years after being caught with nearly €400,000 worth of cannabis at Dublin Airport. Aidas Bauraitis, 25, pleaded guilty to importing cannabis for sale or supply in April 2025. Customs officers noticed Bauraitis acting suspiciously and found 19.9kg of cannabis in his bag. Bauraitis admitted collecting the bag in Bangkok and said he was in financial difficulty, supporting his family. His defense highlighted his cooperation, remorse, and lack of previous convictions. The judge noted the value of the drugs as an aggravating factor but considered Bauraitis's financial pressure and his position on the lowest rung of the drug ladder. He was given a six-year sentence with four years suspended. Bauraitis intends to return to Lithuania after his release.
A chronic drug addict with 245 previous convictions was jailed for four years after attempting to rob a shop with a knife. Carl Byrne, 37, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and possession of drugs for sale or supply. He entered a shop with another man, took items, and threatened staff with a knife. Gardai found drugs in his possession during a separate incident. Byrne's defense highlighted his long-term addiction and early guilty plea. The judge noted his extensive criminal history and chronic drug problem but considered his remorse and early plea. She sentenced him to three years and nine months for the attempted robbery and two concurrent sentences for drug possession, with the final nine months suspended for one year.
Josh Tierney, a 22-year-old soccer coach from Balbriggan, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply at an address in north Balbriggan on May 31, 2024. The prosecution alleged that gardai seized several bags of suspected cannabis, valued at €17,673, during a search warrant execution. Tierney admitted to possessing the drugs to pay a debt owed to a relative. Judge Jonathan Dumphy noted that while the case reached the custodial sentence threshold, exceptional circumstances allowed for a departure from the mandatory ten-year minimum. The judge considered aggravating factors, including the seriousness of the charge, Tierney's previous convictions, and a moderate risk of reoffending, alongside mitigating factors such as his early guilty plea and admissions. Testimonials described Tierney as a valuable member of Balbriggan Football Club. The court sentenced Tierney to two years and nine months in prison, suspending the final eighteen months for two years. Consequently, he will serve fifteen months in custody. Additionally, Tierney was placed under the supervision of probation services for two years post-release.
A man who set his ex-girlfriend's car on fire has been sentenced to sixteen months in prison. Kevin Kinsella (35) of Annesley Close, Ballybough, Dublin 3, pleaded guilty to one count of arson committed in the Summerhill area of Dublin on July 2, 2024. He has 21 previous convictions. Garda Shane Costello testified that Kinsella was standing beside the car with flames coming from it and had a lump hammer in his hand. The court heard that Kinsella had a strong smell of petrol on him and had singed and burned the hair on his arms and some of his clothing. The damage caused to the car was €4,500. The injured party's insurance paid €3,000 in compensation, and Kinsella was repaying the rest of the money. His defence highlighted his guilty plea, remorse, and contributions to society. Judge Martin Nolan noted that Kinsella has a strong work history and has contributed to his local area and community. He said that there was good mitigation in the case and sentenced him to sixteen months in prison.
At the Special Criminal Court in Dublin, seven men were sentenced for their roles in a conspiracy to import controlled drugs between February 27th and March 14th, 2024, contrary to the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. All defendants pleaded guilty to the charges. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, determined that the group had engaged in a serious conspiracy involving extensive planning and reconnaissance in west Cork. The judge noted the defendants had underestimated local communities and law enforcement. The headline sentence of 18 years was reduced by one-third to reflect the guilty pleas. Kiumaars Ghabiri, an Iranian national resident in the Netherlands, along with Spanish nationals Mario Angel Del Rio Sanz and Anuar Rahui Chairi, who remained on land, each received 11 years imprisonment. Spanish national Angel Serran Padilla, who took to sea, was also sentenced to 11 years. His countryman Pedro Pablo Ojeda Ortega received 10 years. Juan Antonio Gallardo Barroso and Serbian national Aleksander Milic, the youngest of the group, were each sentenced to eight years. The combined sentences total 70 years.
A Brazilian woman who claimed she was threatened and felt forced to bring more than €65,000 worth of cocaine into Ireland has been jailed for two years. Cleoviany Pedrosa (26) carried 35 pellets of cocaine in her luggage but also swallowed over 60 pellets of the drug. She told gardaí that she had initially agreed to transport the drugs because she was under financial pressure but when she tried to change her mind, she was threatened and forced into delivering the drugs. She was promised €3,000 for her role, and her flights and hotel stay were paid for. Pedrosa pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to having cocaine for sale or supply on March 16, 2025. She is a mother of six with no previous convictions. The court heard that customos officers felt Pedrosa was acting suspiciously and stopped her after she got off a flight from São Paulo. Officers found 35 pellets of the drug in her suitcase.
A 59-year-old man from Silloge Park, Ballymun, Dublin 11, who claimed he found a bag containing over €19,000 worth of cannabis and three shotgun cartridges in a local park, has been given a fully suspended three-year sentence. Anthony White pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply and unlawful possession of the shotgun cartridges. He told gardai he found the items in an area where bikes are burned and hid them to avoid his brother discovering them. However, Garda Tommy Kinneally stated he did not believe White's explanation. Judge Martin Nolan noted that White was holding the drugs for some small reward and considered his low level of culpability, as well as his personal circumstances. The judge said White was a mature man who would have known his actions were wrong but concluded there was little use in sending him to prison. White has no previous convictions and has been working on a Community Employment scheme.
A father and son sold a motorhome that had been stolen from the UK and fitted with fake plates eight times to an unsuspecting buyer who used his inheritance to buy it. John Tracey and Jordan Keogh pleaded guilty to handling stolen property. The motorhome had been cloned so that it was unrecognisable as a stolen vehicle. The buyer later discovered the motorhome was stolen and was left out of pocket. Keogh used part of the money to pay off a drug debt. Both men were sentenced to suspended terms, with conditions that they pay the victim back. The court noted that both men had enough experience with vehicles to be suspicious of the motorhome and were seriously reckless in their actions.
A 23-year-old who was stopped by gardai with almost €7,000 in crime proceeds in a sock will no longer serve 15 months additional jail time for the offences, after a judge gave him a 'break' and varied his sentence on appeal. Ross Kavanagh was originally sentenced to 15 months in custody for money laundering and drug-related offences. He was found with €6,900 in cash and €1,696 worth of cannabis. His lawyer argued that Kavanagh was the 'breadwinner' of his family and was under pressure. The judge varied the sentence, suspending the six-month term for the sale and supply of drugs charge for 12 months from his release. He also ordered the forfeiture of the cash and the destruction of the drugs. Ross Kavanagh was convicted.
A man described as a 'suitable dupe' has been jailed for five years after transporting over €830,000 worth of heroin. Stuart O'Brien (46) of Rutland Grove, Crumlin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of heroin for sale or supply on March 15, 2023. Gardai were conducting a surveillance operation in north Dublin after receiving confidential information. O'Brien was seen meeting a co-accused at a service station on the Malahide Road, where he was handed a bag containing heroin. The bag was later transferred to a third man, who was stopped by gardai and found to be in possession of 12 slabs of heroin weighing 5.9kg with a value of €831,000. O'Brien was arrested, but no evidence was obtained during his interview. He has two previous convictions, and the other co-accused has since died. O'Brien's defence highlighted his medical history, including a brain hemorrhage over 20 years ago, and his lack of trappings of wealth or addiction issues. He also noted that O'Brien has a job offer and receives disability benefits when not working.
A robber who carried out a vicious raid on a shop was caught after gardai used CCTV to trace him back to his apartment. Keith Kinlan (50) pleaded guilty to robbery at Spar on Gardiner Street, Dublin 1. He was sentenced to four and a half years, with the final six months suspended. Gardai identified Kinlan through CCTV footage and found him in his apartment the following day. He has 125 previous convictions and was on bail for theft and fraud at the time. His defense argued it was a crime of desperation due to his drug addiction. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged his drug addiction and rehabilitation efforts, but sentenced him to four years and six months, with the final six months suspended on strict conditions.
A jury has unanimously convicted Christopher Devine of murder, rejecting his claim that he suffered from a substance-induced psychotic disorder due to heavy cocaine and alcohol use. Devine, who shot Michael Tormey five times in the victim's front garden, argued that his mental state diminished his capacity to control his actions. However, the court accepted the prosecution's argument that Devine acted deliberately. The trial revealed that Devine had no psychiatric history and had never taken psychiatric medication. The jury rejected the defense's claim that he was too intoxicated to form an intention to kill. The judge, Ms Justice Melanie Greally, adjourned the case until December 19, when Devine will face a mandatory life sentence. The Tormey family will be invited to make statements on that date. Devine had pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. The trial heard conflicting expert opinions on whether Devine met the criteria for diminished responsibility or cocaine intoxication. The jury deliberated for over four hours and found Devine guilty of murder.