The Special Criminal Court ruled that the murder trial of three Dublin men—Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22), and Sharif Kelly (43)—cannot proceed as scheduled in July 2014. The defendants had pleaded not guilty to the killing of Peter Butterly (35) on 6 March 2013 at the Huntsman Inn car park. The court noted that the Director of Public Prosecution intends to call former co‑accused David Cullen (30) to give evidence, an unprecedented move. Cullen had been jailed for 3½ years for unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol and a nolle prosequi was entered on the murder count. The State's counsel said disclosure material was still pending and further letters from defence were received. The judge set a disclosure hearing for 17 July and suggested the trial might start in October, pending completion of disclosure and other procedural matters. The defendants remain not guilty on all charges.
At the Central Criminal Court, Darren Wynne (21) of Ballyroe, Athy, County Kildare was re-arraigned on charges relating to the death of Jamie Lindsay (20) at Coney Green, Coneyboro, Athy on April 6, 2013. Wynne pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. The Director of Public Prosecutions did not accept the plea. Evidence was heard from the deceased's former partner regarding a prior incident in March 2013, and from a witness who testified that Wynne attended his house after the shooting, stating he had fired a weapon and later mentioning he had shot his friend. Wynne also pleaded guilty to possession of a sawn-off shotgun and cartridges in suspicious circumstances. Two co-accused, Quentin Monaghan (21) of Tullamoy, Stradbally, County Laois and James Seery (21) of Canal Side, Athy, were re-arraigned and pleaded guilty to manslaughter and to the same firearms offence; those pleas were accepted by the DPP. The trial continues before Justice Garrett Sheehan.
At the Central Criminal Court, the trial of Darren Wynne, Quentin Monaghan, and James Seery for the alleged murder of Jamie Lindsay in Athy, Co. Kildare, continued before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan. Wynne, 21, of Ballyroe, Athy, initially pleaded not guilty to murder but changed his plea to guilty for manslaughter. However, the Director of Public Prosecutions did not accept this plea. Wynne also pleaded guilty to possession of a sawn-off shotgun and cartridges in suspicious circumstances. Co-accused Monaghan, 21, of Tullamoy, Stradbally, and Seery, 21, of Canal Side, Athy, were rearraigned and both pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, pleas which were accepted by the DPP. Both men also pleaded guilty to possession of a sawn-off shotgun and cartridges in suspicious circumstances. The State alleged the defendants were part of a joint enterprise and that Lindsay was shot in the right eye at point-blank range. Wynne allegedly told gardai he shot Lindsay in the shoulder to kneecap him after Lindsay threatened him over missing drugs and his grandmother. The trial was adjourned and continues on Monday.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 3 July 2014, the court ruled that David Cullen, aged 30, is competent to give evidence for the prosecution in the murder trial of Peter Butterly. Cullen, who was charged with the murder of Butterly, had pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol and was sentenced to three‑and‑a‑half years. He was no longer jointly indicted after his guilty plea, so the court found he could testify against the other accused. The other defendants – Edward McGrath (32), Dean Evans (22) and Sharif Kelly (43) – had pleaded not guilty to the murder and to possession of firearms. The trial was adjourned to Tuesday for further proceedings. The court's decision was described as "unprecedented" in the context of a former co‑accused giving evidence.
Edward Ryan Jnr, 31, son of the late Limerick gangster Eddie Ryan Snr, was released from Midlands Prison after a High Court judge ruled his continued detention was unlawful. Ryan had been serving a six‑year sentence for possession of a pistol and 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a conviction he entered in 2010. He had applied for a one‑third remission under Rule 59 of the 2007 Prison Rules, citing good behaviour and participation in structured activities such as the prison woodwork shop and charity shop work. The Minister for Justice had denied the remission, arguing Ryan had not engaged with other training or counselling and had been linked to a prison disturbance. Mr Justice Max Barrett found the Minister's refusal was based on deficient information and that the rule does not restrict remission to exceptional cases. Consequently, Ryan was ordered released with a third of his sentence remaining to serve.
At the Special Criminal Court, David Cullen pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol at the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, on March 6, 2013. The court noted that Cullen is to act as a State witness against his co-accused, Edward McGrath, Dean Evans, and Sharif Kelly, who are charged with the murder of Peter Butterly. The Director of Public Prosecutions accepted Cullen's plea, and a nolle prosequi was entered on the murder count. Justice Iseult O'Malley stated the offence merited a ten-year sentence but reduced it to seven years due to Cullen's guilty plea, remorse, and cooperation. She proposed suspending the final three-and-a-half years of the sentence, dating from his March 2013 arrest, resulting in an effective custody period of three-and-a-half years. The court acknowledged Cullen's role in attempting to remove evidence and his renunciation of criminal activity. The matter was finalised with this sentencing proposal.
Two men have changed their pleas at the Central Criminal Court in relation to the death of a man in County Kildare in April 2013. Quentin Monaghan, aged 21, and James Seery, aged 21, initially pleaded not guilty to murder but today pleaded guilty to manslaughter. Both men also pleaded guilty to possession of a sawn-off shotgun and cartridges in suspicious circumstances on 6 April 2013. The Director of Public Prosecutions accepted both pleas. The charges relate to the death of Jamie Lindsay, aged 20, who was shot at Coneyboro estate in Athy. The State's case alleged that Monaghan and Seery provided material assistance to a third accused. A third man, Darren Wynne, remains on trial for murder. The trial is currently in legal argument, with the jury to return on Friday.
In a 2008 murder trial, 18‑year‑old Marioara Rostas was reported missing after a phone call to her brother in Romania, where she pleaded for her father to come get her. Her body was later found in a shallow grave on the Wicklow border, with four bullet wounds to the head. The accused, 35‑year‑old Alan Wilson, pleaded not guilty. Evidence included a description of a man in a silver Ford Mondeo who allegedly took Marioara to a McDonald's, and a lock on a bedroom in Wilson's house. Ballistics expert Detective Garda Shane Curran examined bullets from the house and from Marioara's body, noting they were of the same calibre but could not confirm they came from the same firearm. The trial proceeded to legal argument before Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and a jury of ten men and two women.
Three men were arraigned at the Central Criminal Court, where all pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Jamie Lindsay (20) at Coney Green, Coneyboro, Athy, Co. Kildare, on April 6, 2013. Darren Wynne (21), Quentin Monaghan (21), and James Seery (21) face charges including possession of a sawn-off shotgun and ammunition with intent to endanger life. While Wynne pleaded guilty to possessing a sawn-off shotgun and cartridges in suspicious circumstances, he and the other two defendants maintained not guilty pleas regarding the murder and other firearm offenses. The State alleges Seery and Monaghan were part of a joint enterprise. Prosecution evidence includes garda interview memos in which Monaghan stated Wynne pointed a gun at his head and forced him to drive, claiming he did not know Lindsay was to be shot. Wynne allegedly told gardai he intended only to injure Lindsay, who he described as his best friend, over a dispute involving missing drugs and threats. Deputy State Pathologist Dr Michael Curtis testified that the cause of death was a shotgun wound to the head, with the right eye destroyed and extensive skull fractures, indicating the weapon was discharged from a couple of feet away. The matter is currently in legal argument, with evidence continuing on Wednesday.
The trial of Darren Wynne, Quentin Monaghan, and James Seery continues before the Central Criminal Court, with Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan presiding. All three defendants, aged 21, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Jamie Lindsay (20) at Coney Green, Coneyboro, Athy, Co. Kildare, on April 6, 2013. Mr Wynne also pleaded not guilty to possessing a sawn-off shotgun and ammunition with intent to endanger life, though he pleaded guilty to possessing a sawn-off shotgun and cartridges in suspicious circumstances. Mr Monaghan and Mr Seery pleaded not guilty to possessing a sawn-off shotgun and cartridges with intent to endanger life, as well as possessing such items in suspicious circumstances. Prosecution evidence includes garda interview memos where Mr Wynne alleged Mr Lindsay threatened to rape his grandmother and burn his house. Mr Wynne stated he intended only to injure Mr Lindsay over a dispute regarding missing cannabis. The court heard that Mr Lindsay was shot in the right eye at point-blank range. The State alleges Mr Seery and Mr Monaghan were part of a joint enterprise. The matter is ongoing before a jury of eight men and four women.
Three men faced murder charges at the Central Criminal Court following the death of a twenty-year-old in County Kildare in April 2013. Darren Wynne, Quentin Monaghan, and James Seery all pleaded not guilty to murdering Jamie Lindsay at Coneyboro, Athy. Wynne additionally pleaded not guilty to possession of a sawn-off shotgun with intent to endanger life, though he admitted possession of the weapon in suspicious circumstances. Monaghan and Seery pleaded not guilty to related firearms charges. During proceedings, the prosecution presented garda interview notes in which Wynne told officers the deceased had threatened him over missing money and made threats toward his grandmother's home. Wynne stated he obtained a sawn-off shotgun from a graveyard and claimed he only intended to shoot Lindsay in the kneecap. He told gardai he fired a single shot believing it struck the shoulder, and that he did not mean to kill him. The State contends Monaghan and Seery were part of a joint enterprise in the incident. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan, continues before a jury.
The trial of James Seery, Quentin Monaghan, and Darren Wynne, all 21, continues before the Central Criminal Court under Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan. The three men are accused of murdering Jamie Lindsay at Coney Green, Coneyboro, Athy, Co. Kildare, on April 6, 2013. All three pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Mr. Wynne also pleaded not guilty to possessing a sawn-off shotgun with intent to endanger life but pleaded guilty to possessing a sawn-off shotgun and cartridges in suspicious circumstances. Mr. Seery and Mr. Monaghan pleaded not guilty to both possession charges. Deputy State Pathologist Dr. Michael Curtis testified that Mr. Lindsay died from a shotgun wound to the head, specifically a discharge to the right eye at point-blank range. He noted extensive skull fractures and blunt force injuries, while confirming the deceased had a blood alcohol level of 128mg per cent and cannabis in his system. The prosecution alleges Mr. Wynne fired the weapon after luring the victim into the open, with Mr. Seery and Mr. Monaghan participating in a joint enterprise. The trial is ongoing before a jury of eight men and four women.
Dean Byrne, 23, of Drumcairn Park, Tallaght, was charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army and unlawful possession of a 9x18mm Makarov pistol and ammunition. He was arrested by the Special Detective Unit and Garda Crime and Security on 5 June 2014. The Special Criminal Court granted him bail on a €1,000 personal bond, with an independent surety of €20,000. He must sign daily at Tallaght Garda Station, observe a curfew from midnight to 7 a.m., surrender his passport, and avoid contact with convicted persons. Byrne is due to appear again on 29 July.
Three men have pleaded not guilty to the murder of a twenty-year-old man in County Kildare in April 2013. James Seery, Quentin Monaghan, and Darren Wynne appeared before the Central Criminal Court charged with the killing of Jamie Lindsay at Coney Green, Coneyboro, Athy. Wynne also faces a charge of possession of a sawn-off shotgun and ammunition with intent to endanger life, though he has pleaded guilty to possession of a shotgun in suspicious circumstances on the same date. Seery and Monaghan have pleaded not guilty to further counts of weapons possession. During the trial, a witness testified that she observed one of the accused discharge a firearm at close range. She described the events leading to the shooting and stated that the accused subsequently disposed of the weapon and clothing. The trial continues before a jury at the Central Criminal Court with Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan presiding.
The trial of three men accused of murdering a 20-year-old in County Kildare opened at the Central Criminal Court this week. James Seery and Quentin Monaghan, both aged 21, pleaded not guilty to murder, whilst Darren Wynne, also 21, pleaded not guilty to the same charge. Wynne additionally pleaded not guilty to possession of a sawn-off shotgun with intent to endanger life, though he admitted possession of the firearm in suspicious circumstances. Seery and Monaghan denied further counts of possessing a sawn-off shotgun with intent to endanger life. The prosecution alleges that Jamie Lindsay was fatally shot at Coney Green, Athy on 6 April 2013. Opening the State's case, counsel contended that Wynne discharged the weapon, whilst Seery and Monaghan provided material assistance through driving and luring the victim to the scene. Witnesses testified that Lindsay had been shouting on the phone shortly before the fatal shooting occurred. The trial continues before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan.
Three men appeared before the Central Criminal Court charged with the murder of a 20-year-old man in County Kildare in April 2013. James Seery, aged 21, of Athy, Quentin Monaghan, aged 21, of Stradbally in County Laois, and Darren Wynne, aged 21, also of Athy, all pleaded not guilty to murdering Jamie Lindsay at Coney Green, Coneyboro. Mr Wynne additionally faced a charge of possession of a sawn-off shotgun and ammunition with intent to endanger life, to which he pleaded not guilty. However, he entered a guilty plea to possession of a sawn-off shotgun and cartridges in suspicious circumstances on the same date. The trial was adjourned after Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan noted that a juror had become unwell. The jury was directed to reconvene on Monday, with proceedings expected to continue for three to four weeks.
In a 2014 Central Criminal Court hearing, Maurice Power, aged 31, was found guilty of murdering his childhood friend Shane Rossiter, 30, in October 2012. Power denied the murder but admitted to a long‑standing feud, including a stabbing seven years earlier. He claimed fear for his family and himself. The trial, lasting four weeks, included Power's full confession after his arrest on 11 December 2012. Pathologist Marie Cassidy described shotgun entry wounds to Rossiter's chest and abdomen, with no exit wounds, causing fatal internal injuries. The jury, composed of seven women and five men, deliberated over two days and returned a guilty verdict by 11 to 1. Justice Deirdre Murphy sentenced Power to life imprisonment. The impact statement by Rossiter's sister, Jenna, highlighted the sudden loss of a brother and the profound grief felt by the family.
Two men, Michael Finlay, 35, and Dean Byrne, 22, appeared before the non‑jury Special Criminal Court in Dublin on 6 June 2014. They were charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and with unlawful possession of a 9x18mm Makarov PM semi‑automatic pistol, a magazine and 10 rounds of 9x18mm ammunition. The arrests were made by the Special Detective Unit and the Garda Crime and Security branch during an operation in Tallaght on 5 June. Finlay was arrested outside Tallaght Garda Station before 4:00 pm and later appeared in court wearing a black t‑shirt and trousers; he gave no comment when cautioned. Byrne was cautioned after being found wearing a navy hoody and trousers; he also made no reply. No bail was applied for, but legal aid and a second counsel were approved for both. The judge remanded them in custody to return on 16 June.
The Central Criminal Court jury began deliberations on the murder of Shane Rossiter, a 29‑year‑old Tipperary resident, by Maurice Power, 31, of Dranganbeg. Power pleaded not guilty. Justice Deirdre Murphy explained that the case hinges on Power's 2012 confession to gardai, noting that jurors must assess its reliability and any independent confirmation. She highlighted circumstantial evidence linking Power to the black Audi used in the crime, including CCTV showing him refuelling the vehicle. The defence argued the confession was unreliable due to repeated off‑camera interactions and inconsistencies in Power's account, such as differing distances to the shots fired. Pathologist Marie Cassidy had identified two shotgun wounds at varying ranges. The jury, after over two and a half hours, requested to view the confession interview and CCTV footage before concluding. The trial remains at the deliberation stage.
John Biggins, a 35-year-old man from Claremorris, County Mayo, was ordered by the Central Criminal Court to return to the Central Mental Hospital following his acquittal. Biggins had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of his father, Thomas Biggins, who was shot twice with a shotgun at their home in May 2012. The jury returned a unanimous verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity after a two-day trial. Consultant forensic psychiatrist Dr Sally Lenihan testified that Biggins, who has chronic schizophrenia, has made good progress in rehabilitation but requires ongoing specialist care. She recommended his return to the hospital, a recommendation accepted by Mr Justice Paul Carney. Defence expert Dr Paul O'Connell had previously stated that Biggins suffered from psychotic symptoms and paranoid delusions, fulfilling criteria under the Mental Insanity Act. The court noted that Biggins was diagnosed with severe schizophrenia and mild intellectual disability. The judge issued the order based on the psychiatric recommendations, ensuring the defendant continues to receive the necessary specialist treatment for his condition.
John Biggins, 35, of Ballynalty, Cross, Claremorris, was found not guilty by reason of insanity of murdering his father, Thomas Biggins, 70, at their home on May 6, 2012. The Central Criminal Court jury returned a unanimous verdict after 27 minutes of deliberation. Biggins had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. The court heard that Biggins was diagnosed with severe schizophrenia and mild intellectual disability. Defence psychiatrists testified that he met the criteria under the Mental Insanity Act, citing psychotic symptoms and paranoid delusions. Prosecution counsel Bernard Condon SC requested an order to commit Biggins to the Central Mental Hospital, with a return date set for the following Wednesday to appear before the court. Mr Justice Paul Carney thanked the jury and exempted them from further service for life. Evidence indicated Biggins shot his father twice with a legally held shotgun. After the incident, Biggins rang 999, told Garda Mark Kilbride he was turning himself in, and drove to Ballinrobe Garda Station, where he was cooperative. Detective Sergeant James Carroll described the post-event behavior as "quite bizarre," noting Biggins stated, "I just shot the aul lad…I'll be going to jail now." The matter was adjourned for the proposed disposal hearing.
In a Tipperary murder trial, the jury heard closing speeches on the case of Maurice Power, 31, accused of shooting Shane Rossiter, 29, on 17 October 2012. Prosecutor Anthony Sammon SC urged the jury that the evidence was compelling, citing circumstantial facts such as Power's car seen "burning in a bog," the disposal of his mobile phone, and his own statements to Gardaí about shooting Rossiter twice. He highlighted a detailed confession recorded in Interview Seven, describing Power as relaxed and uncoerced. Defence counsel Dominic McGinn SC challenged the reliability of the confession, arguing that Power's relaxed demeanor did not prove truthfulness and that inconsistencies existed between his account and forensic evidence. He questioned the Gardaí interview process and the lack of a recovered firearm, suggesting the confession alone was insufficient to prove guilt. The jury, composed of seven women and five men, will return next Tuesday for deliberation under Justice Deirdre Murphy. Maurice Power pleaded not guilty.
John Biggins, 35, of Ballynalty, Cross, Claremorris, is on trial at the Central Criminal Court, presided over by Mr Justice Paul Carney, accused of murdering his father, Thomas Biggins, 70, at that address on May 6, 2012. The accused entered a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity. Prosecution counsel Bernard Condon SC stated the defence of insanity is being raised, with the burden on the accused to prove insanity. The court heard the accused was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and on disability allowance. Evidence indicated the victim was shot twice with his own legally held shotgun in his yard; Prof Marie Cassidy identified a shotgun wound to the left chest as the cause of death. Det Sgt James Carroll testified that the accused handed himself in at Ballinrobe Garda Station after calling 999, stating, "I just shot the aul lad…I'll be going to jail now." He was co-operative during detention. The accused told gardai he had contemplated suicide and had searched websites on how to kill himself. A hangman's noose and two ropes were found in a barn loft. The accused has no previous convictions. The trial continues.
In a Balbriggan District Court hearing on 23 May 2014, Michail Timofejev, aged 23 and a resident of Thornlea in Rush, pleaded guilty to several offences. He was found in unauthorised possession of a CO2‑powered airgun, a 12‑gauge shotgun cartridge, and €10 of cannabis at his home on 4 October 2012. The court noted that he had no licence for the airgun or the cartridge, both classified as firearms under the Firearms Act. Timofejev, who has two prior convictions for drug sale and possession, had assisted the Gardaí during the search and was described as co‑operative. Judge Dermot Dempsey sentenced him to a six‑month suspended prison term, remanded him on a two‑year peace bond for the gun cartridge, fined him €400 for the airgun and €200 for the cannabis. The judge recorded no evidence of any sinister intent regarding the airgun or ammunition, which Timofejev claimed were for target practice.
In the trial of Maurice Power, 31, of Dranganbeg, Kilmoyler, Cahir, the accused pleaded not guilty to the murder of 29‑year‑old Shane Rossiter on 17 October 2013. Power admitted to the Gardaí that he had "let a shot" at Rossiter at 6.45 am that morning. He claimed the shooting was a "kill or be killed" situation, citing a seven‑year history of conflict and a belief that he was being set up. Power said he fired a sawn‑off shotgun twice – once from the passenger seat of his car and again from inside Rossiter's house – killing him in the chest and on the right side. He also stated that he had burned his car and disposed of the weapon. The case is proceeding before a jury presided by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy.
In a Dublin court on 12 May 2014, Thomas Ryan, aged 32, was sentenced to ten years' imprisonment for the attempted murder of Patrick Charles O'Neill, a 51‑year‑old cyclist, on 26 August 2013. Ryan admitted shooting O'Neill in the stomach with a double‑barrel sawn‑off shotgun, an act that left O'Neill with a bowel section removed and in intensive care until 11 September. Ryan also shot himself in the leg while handling the weapon, an accidental self‑injury that was noted by the court. The judge, Mr Justice Paul Carney, suspended the final two years of the sentence, citing Ryan's early guilty plea and admissions. The sentence was back‑dated to 28 August 2013 to account for time already spent in custody. The court heard that Ryan had 13 prior convictions and that the incident was linked to a drug‑related debt.
The Special Criminal Court sentenced Anthony Carroll (31) and Brian Walsh (44) to six years' imprisonment for the unlawful possession of firearms. Both men pleaded not guilty to possessing a Walther PI 9mm semi-automatic pistol, a Smith & Wesson .22mm Magnum revolver, and 12 rounds of ammunition found in a van on Deanrock Avenue, Togher, on February 23, 2013. The court found sufficient evidence of joint enterprise and unlawful purpose. Justice Paul Butler imposed a seven-year sentence, reduced by one year for the manner of the trial, resulting in a net six-year term. Sentences were backdated to April 25, 2013, for Carroll and February 25, 2013, for Walsh. The State entered a Nolle Prosequi regarding a charge of IRA membership. Carroll's prior four-month suspended sentence for pepper spray possession was noted, with its lifting currently under appeal. The judge stated that neither defendant provided credible indications of future conduct to warrant further suspension.
In the Central Criminal Court, Maurice Power, aged 31, pleaded not guilty to the murder of 29‑year‑old Shane Rossiter, who died on 17 October 2012 after being shot at a house party in Church Lane, Golden, Co. Tipperary. State Pathologist Marie Cassidy testified that a post‑mortem at Waterford Regional Hospital revealed two shotgun entry wounds to Rossiter's chest and abdomen, with no exit wounds, causing catastrophic internal injuries and massive blood loss. The wounds damaged the right lung, heart, liver, spleen, bowel, aorta and inferior vena cava, leading to death by blood loss. Cassidy noted Rossiter had taken cocaine, heroin, amphetamine and benzodiazepam, but these substances were not the cause of death. The trial continued on Tuesday before a jury of seven women and five men, presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, 31‑year‑old Maurice Power of Dranganbeg, Kilmoyler, Cahir pleaded not guilty to the murder of 29‑year‑old Shane Rossiter, who died on 17 October 2012 after being shot twice at a house party in Church Lane, Golden, Co. Tipperary. Prosecutor Anthony Sammon SC presented evidence that Power fired the shots, citing a black Audi A4 registered to Power's partner that was later burned in a bog in Co. Waterford. Power was arrested on 11 December 2012 for murder with a firearm. During a lengthy detention he allegedly made a full confession to the Gardaí, stating a long‑standing feud with Rossiter that began seven years earlier and involved a stabbing. The trial is proceeding before a jury of seven women and five men, presided over by Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy. The case remains at the trial stage.
Two Cork men, Anthony Carroll (30) of Curaheen Close, Bishopstown, and Brian Walsh (43) of Connolly Road, Ballyphehane, were found guilty by the Special Criminal Court of the unlawful possession of a Walther pistol, a Smith & Wesson revolver, and 12 rounds of ammunition at Deanrock Avenue, Togher, on February 23, 2013. Both pleaded not guilty to the charges, which also included the possession of a Walther PI 9mm calibre semi-automatic pistol, a magazine suitable for use with the Walther pistol, a Smith & Wesson .22mm Magnum calibre revolver with the serial number AEM 2000, six rounds of 9mm calibre ammunition suitable for use with the Walther PI 9mm calibre semi-automatic pistol, and six rounds of .22 long rifle rounds of ammunition suitable for use in a Smith & Wesson .22 magnum calibre revolver at the same address on the same date. The court heard that the firearms were found inside a pencil case in a van the men were stopped in. Mr Justice Paul Butler stated that the court was satisfied that both men were jointly involved in an enterprise that included the firearms and ammunition. He remanded Brian Walsh in custody for sentencing before the court on May 9 and remanded Anthony Carroll to Cork District Court, as he is currently serving a four-month suspended sentence imposed by that court.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Anthony Carroll (30) and Brian Walsh (43) pleaded not guilty to unlawful possession of a Walther pistol, a Smith & Wesson revolver and 12 rounds of ammunition found in a van on Deanrock Avenue, Togher, on 23 February 2013. Gardaí discovered the loaded firearms inside a pencil case in the van, with Carroll in the rear compartment and Walsh driving. Both wore forensic suits and the van contained rubber gloves, shoes, runners, plastic bags, a homemade wick and petrol cans. Firearms residue was detected on Carroll's face but not on Walsh's forensic kit. The prosecution argued that the accused were lawfully arrested and that failure to account for the firearms indicated joint involvement. The court was set to deliver judgment on Friday, with the accused maintaining their not‑guilty pleas for possession of the pistols, revolver and ammunition.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing in Cork, the prosecution case concluded for Anthony Carroll, 30, and Brian Walsh, 43, who were charged with unlawful possession of two loaded handguns and ammunition. The weapons—a Walther pistol and a Smith & Wesson revolver—were found in a van's pencil case, alongside forensic suits, rubber gloves, shoes, runners, plastic bags, a wick and petrol cans. Both men pleaded not guilty to possession of the firearms, a Walther magazine, and six rounds of 9mm and six rounds of .22 ammunition. Counsel for Carroll requested a brief adjournment for clarification, and the judge adjourned the trial to the following week. No further details of the case were provided in the article.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, forensic evidence showed firearms residue on Anthony Carroll, 30, of Bishopstown, but not on his co‑accused Brian Walsh, 43, of Ballyphehane. The case concerns the unlawful possession of a Walther pistol, a Smith & Wesson revolver, and 12 rounds of ammunition found in a pencil case in a van stopped on 23 February 2013. Carroll and Walsh pleaded not guilty to possession of the weapons and the ammunition. Forensic scientist Dr Brendan Healy examined residue kits, noting that the tubes contained adhesive tape used on the hands and face of the subject. He confirmed residue on Carroll's samples but none on Walsh's. The trial continues before Judge Paul Butler. The court heard that a firearm must be discharged to leave residue. The accused remain in custody pending further proceedings.
Two men, Gary Yeung, 31, and Patrick Kennedy, 65, were arrested on 14 September 2013 on James' Street, Dublin, as part of investigations into dissident republican activity. They were charged with unlawful possession of a .455 Colt "New Service" revolver and a .455 Webley Mark 6 revolver, both bearing serial number 324736. Yeung was also charged with possession of one round of .22‑250 calibre Sako ammunition and one round of .357 Mag calibre CBC ammunition at his Limerick address. Kennedy faced an additional charge of membership of an unlawful organisation, namely the Irish Republican Army (IRA). Their trial is scheduled for October 2015 at the Special Criminal Court. The judge set conditions for alibi evidence and required notice of any witnesses 21 days before the trial, and remanded them on continuing bail until the trial date.
Two men from Cork, Anthony Carroll, 30, and Brian Walsh, 43, are on trial in the Special Criminal Court for unlawful possession of firearms. They are accused of possessing a Walther PI 9mm semi‑automatic pistol, a compatible magazine, and a Smith & Wesson .22mm Magnum revolver with serial number AEM 2000, all found in a pencil case inside a van on Deanrock Avenue, Togher, on 23 February 2013. They also face charges for holding six 9mm rounds and six .22 long‑rifle rounds suitable for those weapons. The prosecution alleges that Gardaí observed the van, noted a hooded driver, and discovered the weapons after a search. Both men pleaded not guilty to the firearms offences. They are also charged with membership of an unlawful organisation, the IRA, but that charge is to be adjourned until the firearms case concludes. The trial is presided over by Judge Paul Butler.
In the Special Criminal Court, Anthony Carroll, 30, and Brian Walsh, 43, are set to stand trial on charges of membership in the Irish Republican Army and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. The charges stem from an arrest on 23 February 2013, when Carroll and Walsh were found with a Walther PI 9mm pistol, a suitable magazine, a Smith & Wesson .22mm Magnum revolver, and six rounds of 9mm and six rounds of .22 long rifle ammunition. The prosecution, represented by Mr Garnet Orange BL, indicated that the trial would commence on Wednesday. Carroll's counsel, Mr Hugh Hartnett SC, announced that the defence would seek clarification on whether the Garda station where Carroll was detained had recording facilities during his consultations with his solicitor. Mr Orange confirmed that no such recording facilities existed and agreed that the best evidence would be used. He also noted that the membership charge might be kept in abeyance, potentially shortening the trial.
The Court of Criminal Appeal has allowed an appeal by Kieran Ryan against his eight-year sentence for firearms possession, finding an error in principle in the original sentencing. In July 2010, Ryan, then of Craeval Park, Moyross, pleaded guilty at Limerick Circuit Criminal Court to possessing a Browning semi-automatic pistol and 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition at Carrigmartin, Ballyneety. Judge Carroll Moran imposed the eight-year term, while his brother, Eddie Ryan, received six years for the same offence. The appeal court determined that the trial judge's starting point was too high, noting no evidence that Ryan intended to use the weapon. Consequently, the appropriate starting point was nine to ten years. The court also found the four-year reduction for his guilty plea excessive, given he was caught red-handed and had a prior conviction for violent disorder. A justified reduction of two to two-and-a-half years indicated a final range of seven to eight years. Presiding Judge Frank Clarke stated that while the appeal was allowed, a significant reduction would not be justified due to the offence's seriousness. The matter was adjourned to allow both sides to present submissions on the proper sentence, including materials regarding Ryan's conduct in prison.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Vincent Banks, 44, of Dublin 7, continues before Mr Justice Paul Butler. Banks has pleaded not guilty to a charge of withholding information in relation to the murder of David Black. Prosecution counsel Paul Greene SC outlined the case that Black, a Maghaberry prison officer, was shot on November 1, 2012, by occupants of a Toyota Camry with Republic of Ireland registration 94 D 50997, which the prosecution alleges was purchased by Banks. Jonathan Greer, a witness from the Forensic Science Laboratory of Northern Ireland, testified that bullet casings recovered near the scene and from the burnt-out Toyota were fired from the same weapon. Greer confirmed that two casings from the road and three from the car were 7.62 x 39 mm calibre ammunition, consistent with an AKM assault rifle. Microscopic comparisons revealed gross matching marks indicating a single gun fired all the casings. A bullet recovered from Black's Audi was also consistent with this ammunition. The charge alleges that between October 10 and December 20, 2012, Banks failed to disclose information he knew might assist in securing the apprehension or conviction of another person for the murder. The trial is ongoing.
In the Dublin Special Criminal Court, Vincent Banks, 44, pleaded not guilty to withholding information about the murder of Northern Ireland prison officer David Black. The prosecution read witness statements under Section 21 of the Criminal Justice Act. Ryan McGrath, a front‑passenger on the M1 near Lurgan on 1 November 2012, described hearing a bang, seeing smoke and glass break, and observing a silver Nissan with windows down and a black Audi that veered off the motorway into a ditch. Paula McGraid, his partner, reported hearing a bang after being overtaken, seeing a long thin object protruding from a passenger window, which she identified as a rifle barrel, and witnessing the Nissan swerving onto the hard shoulder and crashing. The prosecution alleged that David Black, 52, was shot by occupants of a Republic of Ireland‑registered Toyota Camry (94 D 50997) as he drove to work.
Sean Connolly, aged 34, was charged in December 2012 with the murder of veteran criminal Eamon Kelly at Furry Park Road, Killester, and also faced charges of IRA membership and firearm possession. The Special Criminal Court set his trial for 28 April 2015, expecting a duration of three to four weeks. Connolly's counsel, Paul Burns SC, requested a trial date, while Judge Paul Butler instructed Connolly to notify the prosecution within 14 days if he intended to rely on an alibi and to give 21‑day notice before calling witnesses. Connolly may soon apply for short bail on compassionate grounds.
A 71-year-old Dublin man has lost his appeal against a conviction for IRA membership imposed by the Special Criminal Court in February 2011. Barry Fitzpatrick, formerly of Donegal connections, received a three-year sentence which he has since completed, being released in June 2013. He was convicted of membership of an organisation styling itself on the Irish Republican Army on the basis of events occurring on 4 January 2009. Mr Justice John Murray, presiding at the Court of Criminal Appeal, ruled that the grounds of appeal were not well founded and dismissed the case. The trial had heard evidence that Fitzpatrick was arrested in Dublin 18 as he attempted to enter an apartment complex. Detectives had observed him driving between locations in company with others, and a separate vehicle was found to contain firearms and ammunition. A subsequent search of the apartment yielded additional revolvers.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Ursula Shannon, a 30‑year‑old Trinity College PhD student, and her co‑accused John McGreal (37) and Colin Brady (24) were found guilty of unlawful possession of two handguns and 32 rounds of ammunition, as well as a 9mm Taurus PT92 pistol, a Walther P5 pistol, a magazine for the Taurus, a ZGJY stun‑gun/flashlight, and 25 rounds of 9mm ammunition. The court noted that the firearms were recovered from a stolen van intercepted by armed gardai outside a firearms dealer in Co Offaly, and that the ammunition was wrapped in a baby's nappy. The defendants had not contested the evidence. The judge sentenced each to six years' imprisonment, with Brady's sentence back‑dated to 29 November 2012. Ursula Shannon pleaded not guilty. John McGreal pleaded not guilty. Colin Brady pleaded not guilty.
A 45‑year‑old man named Stephen Hendrick, from Balbutcher Drive, Ballymun, Dublin 11, was arrested in July 2014 at a yard in Cloghran by the Special Detective Unit and the Crime and Security Section during investigations into dissident republican activity. He was charged at an out‑of‑hours sitting of the Special Criminal Court on 3 July with membership of an unlawful organisation, the Irish Republican Army (IRA), and with possession of ammunition in suspicious circumstances at Furry Park, Turnapin Great, Old Airport Road, Cloghran. His solicitor, Michael Finucane, requested a trial date. Counsel for the State, Mr Garnet Orange BL, estimated the trial would last five days. Judge Paul Butler set the trial for 14 April 2015, instructing Hendrick, who is on bail, to notify the prosecution within 14 days if he intends to rely on an alibi and to give notice 21 days before the trial if he wishes to call witnesses.
Patrick McDonagh, 50, of Dundalk, was sentenced by the Special Criminal Court to five years' imprisonment for unlawful possession of a .32‑calibre Baikal semi‑automatic pistol. He pleaded guilty to the offence on 10 June 2013, when the weapon was found in the boot of a black Volkswagen in Castlebellingham. McDonagh was also charged with membership of an unlawful organisation, the IRA, but the DPP entered a nolle prosequi and the charge was not pursued. The judge noted McDonagh's good character, his early guilty plea and his previous conviction for possession of explosives, which had been increased to ten years on appeal and resulted in his release in 2005. The sentence was back‑dated to 1 February 2014 for time already spent in custody. The court considered mitigating factors such as his strong work ethic and family responsibilities, and the judge imposed a sentence of five years, the statutory minimum for the offence.
Ursula Shannon (30), a Trinity College graduate and prominent member of socialist republican group Eirigi, and her co-accused John McGreal (37) were found guilty of the possession of two handguns and 32 rounds of ammunition at Tullybeg, Rahan, Co Offaly on November 27th, 2012. They had not challenged any of the evidence in the case and had pleaded not guilty to the unlawful possession of one 9mm parabellum calibre Taurus PT92 semi-automatic pistol, one magazine suitable for use with the Taurus PT92 pistol, one 9mm parabellum calibre Walther P5 semi-automatic pistol and one ZGJY branded combined stun gun and flashlight. They had also pleaded not guilty to the possession of 25 rounds of 9mm ammunition and 7 rounds of 9mm ammunition. The court heard that the accused were wearing wigs and disguises when they were intercepted by armed gardai outside a residential premises which also doubled as a business for a licensed firearms seller. CCTV footage of the interception of the stolen van they were travelling in was played to the court. The prosecution invited the court to infer that the people in the van were there to rob the shop and steal the firearms on the premises. The court heard evidence that interviews were conducted with the accused where Sections 18, 19 and 19A of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 as amended by the Criminal Justice Act 2007 were invoked. The sections allow a judge or jury to draw inferences from an accused's failure or refusal to account for an object, substance or mark, or any mark on such object, or failure to account for their presence at a particular place. The judge or jury may treat this as corroborative of other evidence against the accused. There was evidence that John McGreal remained silent when questions were put to him where the sections were invoked in interview, while Shannon and Brady answered 'no comment' when questions were put to them. Presiding judge Mr Justice Paul Butler said the court was satisfied beyond doubt that each of the accused was in possession of the items referred to in the indictment. He said the court was also satisfied that the failure of the accused to respond to questions in interview where the sections were invoked entitled the court to draw inferences in each case corroborating the evidence of possession. By reason of this, Mr Justice Butler said the court found the three accused guilty of the offences with which they were charged. Co-accused Colin Brady (24), who was granted bail but did avail of it, was remanded in custody. Ursula Shannon and John McGreal were remanded on continuing bail following the judgement of the Special Criminal Court today and will be sentenced at a later date.
The prosecution case has concluded in the non-jury trial of Ursula Shannon, John McGreal, and Colin Brady, who are charged with the possession of two handguns and 32 rounds of ammunition at Tullybeg, Rahan, Co Offaly, on November 27, 2012. The three defendants, aged 30, 37, and 24 respectively, each pleaded not guilty to these charges, as well as to the unlawful possession of a 9mm Taurus PT92 pistol, a 9mm Walther P5 pistol, a ZGJY stun gun, and additional 9mm ammunition. A fourth co-accused, John Troy, pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of the same firearms and stun gun; he will be sentenced at a later date. Evidence presented indicated the accused were wearing wigs and disguises when intercepted by armed gardai outside a firearms dealer. The prosecution alleged the group intended to rob the shop, an accusation the accused did not challenge during cross-examination. Mr Justice Butler remanded McGreal and Shannon on continuing bail until February 12, when the case will be listed for judgement. Mr Justice Butler remanded Brady in custody with consent to bail until that date.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 30 January 2014, Ursula Shannon (30), a Trinity College graduate and member of the socialist republican group Eirigi, together with John McGreal (37) and Colin Brady (24), were charged with the unlawful possession of two handguns and 32 rounds of ammunition. Each pleaded not guilty to possession of a 9mm Taurus PT92 pistol, a suitable magazine, a 9mm Walther P5 pistol, a ZGJY stun gun‑flashlight, 25 rounds of 9mm ammunition and 7 rounds of 9mm ammunition. John Troy (33) pleaded guilty to possession of the same firearms and stun gun. The court heard that the four were intercepted in a white Opel van at Tullybeg, Rahan, Co Offaly on 27 November 2012, where they were found wearing wigs, disguises and multiple layers of clothing. The prosecution alleged the van was used for a planned robbery of a licensed firearm shop. The case remains ongoing.
Patrick McDonagh, 49, pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court in Dublin to unlawful possession of a .32 calibre semi‑automatic pistol (IZH 79‑8 model Baikal, serial TPB358706). He was arrested in June 2013 during an operation targeting dissident republican activity in the border area. McDonagh also faces a charge of membership in an unlawful organisation, the Irish Republican Army (IRA). The prosecution will not pursue the IRA charge, and the court will adjourn the sentencing for the handgun offence to 18 February.
In 2009 Raymond O'Shea was given a wholly suspended sentence of three‑and‑a‑half years for possessing a sawn‑off shotgun and 131 cartridges. He had 19 prior convictions, including drug possession and burglary, but had stopped using drugs, was employed and paying a mortgage. He pleaded not guilty. The Director of Public Prosecutions appealed, arguing the sentence was unduly lenient and that the judge had erred in allowing an exception to the mandatory five‑year minimum for unlawful firearm possession. The Court of Criminal Appeal, presided over by Mr Justice Adrian Hardiman, agreed with the DPP. Hardiman said the sentence should have been five years with four years suspended, describing the original suspended sentence as "extreme leniency". O'Shea will surrender to prison on 27 January to arrange his affairs.
During his trial at the Central Criminal Court, Daniel McDonnell, a 19‑year‑old charged with the murder of 16‑year‑old Melanie McCarthy McNamara, admitted to writing graffiti on his cell wall while detained at Tallaght Garda Station. The graffiti included phrases such as "2 in the head. The bitch is dead" and references to Melanie's boyfriend, Christopher Moran, using derogatory terms. Garda Francis Glennon, who was the jailer, photographed the graffiti and testified that it was signed by McDonnell. The prosecution presented the photographs to the jury. The trial also covered the forensic evidence of Melanie's death, with Dr Khalid Jabbar describing a fatal shotgun wound to her left temple and the presence of numerous pellets. The case proceeded to legal argument before Mr Justice Paul Carney, with the jury scheduled to return on Tuesday. The unnamed 19-year-old pleaded not guilty.