In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Lithuanian man Julian Matiunin, aged 34, was sentenced to three and a half years' imprisonment for assault causing harm after punching Jan Wielgus, aged 46, in the jaw on 21 June 2015 at St Stephen's Green West. Witnesses described Wielgus falling "like a tree" and hearing the crack of his head on pavement. Wielgus suffered severe head injuries, was admitted to intensive care, spent over three weeks in an induced coma, and later returned to hospital with stomach problems from intubation. He continues to suffer headaches and vomiting. Matiunin pleaded guilty and had two prior public order convictions. Judge Karen O'Connor suspended the last 12 months of the custodial term, noting the violent attack on a person walking away and describing Wielgus as a "peace maker" who tried to calm the situation.
Kyle Foley, 25, of Claddagh Green, Ballyfermot, Dublin, was sentenced to two and a half years in prison for hijacking a pizza delivery man's car on 9 May 2015. He pleaded guilty to unlawful seizure of a vehicle, three counts of criminal damage, driving without insurance and driving without a licence. The incident involved Foley and two other men approaching the delivery vehicle, opening the doors, stealing a wallet, and then Foley striking the delivery man with a bottle before driving off. The car was abandoned in Monksfield Heights, and the delivery man was later found to have left the jurisdiction. DNA evidence linked Foley to a beer bottle left in the car, and his keys were recovered in a garden. He had prior convictions for theft, drugs, public order and trespass, and was serving a four‑month sentence for obstruction.
Daniel Sweeney, 28, of Croftwood Gardens, Cherry Orchard, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to threatening to kill a Garda, intoxication in a public place and producing a meat cleaver after fleeing from Gardaí on 5 June 2016. Judge Karen O'Connor sentenced him to two‑and‑a‑half years for producing the meat cleaver and 18 months for threatening to kill the Garda, but suspended the entirety of both sentences, which were to run concurrently. The incident began when Garda Peter Smith received a call about a disturbance; Sweeney attempted to flee on a bike, fell, and was seized by Gardaí. He swung the cleaver at Smith, missed, and then shouted threats at Garda Cronin while being transported back to the station. Sweeney, who has two children and a history of alcohol abuse, has 26 previous convictions, including criminal damage, public order offences and 17 road traffic offences.
Ethan Emmett, aged 24, pleaded guilty in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing harm for an incident that occurred on 31 March 2011 in Finglas. The assault took place at a chipper where Emmett, then 18, had been denied a phone charger and returned with beer bottles. He threw the bottles at the owner, threatened to kill him, and used a small knife before fleeing the premises. The owner suffered injuries and the restaurant incurred an estimated €2,000 in damage. Emmett was arrested three days later and released on bail. While on bail he fled to Australia, where he served a five‑year, eleven‑month sentence for a separate stabbing offence in 2012. He returned to Ireland in March after completing his Australian sentence and was arrested at the airport. He has 30 prior convictions, mainly for assault, criminal damage and public order offences. Judge Karen O'Connor adjourned the sentencing to 28 July.
A 21-year-old man from Sligo has been sentenced to two years imprisonment, with the final year suspended, following his conviction for assault at the Central Criminal Court. The man was acquitted of rape but found guilty of assault causing harm related to an incident at a house party in Sligo on 26 June 2014. He pleaded not guilty to both charges. The court heard evidence that the victim was bitten during the assault. In sentencing, Mr Justice Paul Butler noted the victim's impact statement describing significant psychological harm. The judge acknowledged the man's explanation that he was heavily intoxicated and observed he has abstained from alcohol since the incident, though he carries seven previous convictions including violent disorder and public order offences. The suspended portion of the sentence is conditional on specified undertakings.
Mark Bissett, 31, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to making a threat to damage Michael Maher's house. The incident occurred on May 27, 2016, at Central Bank Plaza, Dame Street, where Bissett allegedly threatened to burn down Maher's home. Bissett, who previously served a six-year sentence for manslaughter, was reportedly angry that Maher's charity, "You're not alone," was assisting a relative with whom he had fallen out. Judge Karen O'Connor imposed a two-year sentence, which she suspended on strict conditions. The judge described the behavior as disgraceful and warned Bissett that he faced two years in prison if he reoffended. She ordered him to stay away from the charity, Mr. Maher, and his home. Bissett has 60 previous convictions, including assault and public order offences. Defense counsel submitted that Bissett had significantly turned his life around and addressed risk factors related to substance misuse. The court noted Bissett remains at high risk of re-offending and ordered him to be brought back before the judge if further trouble arises.
Gary Kearney, 25, a serial offender with 160 prior convictions, was found guilty of robbery, false imprisonment and theft after he and an accomplice posed as undercover Gardaí, quoting sections of law, and handcuffed a man on Millennium Bridge in Dublin. The victim feared being pushed into the Liffey while handcuffed. Kearney's history includes assault, animal cruelty, robbery, theft, burglary, criminal damage and public order offences. He pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Judge Melanie Greally, after hearing evidence, noted Kearney's "appalling record of offending" and his need to address addiction issues. She suspended a four‑year sentence on strict conditions, including attendance at AA meetings, and ordered two years of probation supervision. The accomplice fled and was not charged. The victim accepted Kearney's apology and expressed no desire to see him in custody.
Craig Mooney, 19, pleaded guilty to arson at Hillview Estate, Ballinteer, on 13 November 2016. He set fire to a Fiat Punto left at the rear of a mechanic's house while he was intoxicated with alcohol and cocaine. The car was in a garden where a child lived; Mooney claimed he did not know a child was present and would not have acted otherwise. CCTV showed him climbing a wall and igniting the back seat. He had 11 prior convictions for drug possession, traffic and public order offences. Judge Karen O'Connor sentenced him to three‑and‑a‑half years' imprisonment, suspending the final year on strict conditions, citing his early guilty plea, remorse and young age. The sentence reflects the serious risk to property and human life created by the arson.
The trial of seven men, including Solidarity TD Paul Murphy, South Dublin Councillors Kieran Mahon and Michael Murphy, and four others, continues before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. All defendants deny charges of falsely imprisoning former Tánaiste Joan Burton and her aide Karen O'Connell by restricting their liberty during a protest in Jobstown, Tallaght, on November 15, 2014. Garda Marion Power testified that she felt she was going to be "crushed" by the crowd while shielding Ms. Burton, reporting that protesters banged on vehicles, pushed against them, and shouted abuse. Superintendent Daniel Flavin stated he transferred the women to a jeep for safety due to the hostile environment. He noted that Mr. Murphy addressed the crowd via loudhailer, asking if they would keep the women there all night, and later suggested removing the Public Order Unit would allow the jeep to move. Sergeant Brian Boland of the Public Order Unit explained that removing protesters was difficult due to their numbers and that their deployment is a last resort. The trial is ongoing before Judge Melanie Greally and a jury.
At the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, the trial continues for Paul Murphy TD, South Dublin Councillors Michael Murphy and Kieran Mahon, along with four other men, who have pleaded not guilty to the alleged false imprisonment of former Tánaiste Joan Burton and her advisor Karen O'Connell at Fortunestown Road, Jobstown, Tallaght on November 15, 2014. The charges allege that the defendants falsely imprisoned the two women by restricting their personal liberty without their consent. During the trial, Sergeant Brian Boland testified that the Public Order Unit faced significant resistance from protesters, describing the situation as the most hostile and intimidating he had encountered since 2002. He stated that a suggestion by Paul Murphy to the gardaí led to the breaking of an impasse during the protest, allowing the garda Jeep to be freed. However, the situation did not fully resolve as protesters continued to block the road. The trial is ongoing before Judge Melanie Greally and a jury.
Daniel Weldon, a 31‑year‑old heroin addict, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to two attempted robberies in Swords on 1 July 2016 and to a successful robbery of €230 in a second pharmacy on the same day. He also admitted to a 2015 robbery of a Spar shop where he threatened staff with a blood‑filled syringe and stole €80. In each incident he was intoxicated and left a "trail of money" as he fled. Weldon has 52 prior convictions, including robbery, theft, public order and drug offences. He has been drug‑free for a year and has written apology letters to the victims. Judge Karen O'Connor adjourned his sentencing to 5 July and ordered a probation report for that date.
The trial of Paul Murphy and six co-accused, including Dublin Councillors Michael Murphy and Kieran Mahon, continued at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The defendants have pleaded not guilty to falsely imprisoning Ms Burton and her advisor Karen O'Connell by restricting their personal liberty without consent at Fortunestown Road, Jobstown, Tallaght, on November 15, 2014. On the 12th day of the trial, Garda Inspector Derek Maguire denied making an agreement with Solidarity TD Paul Murphy to end the protest. While acknowledging that the Public Order Unit was withdrawn and a slow march resumed, Maguire stated this was a Garda tactical decision, not a negotiated agreement. He also denied recollection of specific conversations with Murphy, despite previous sworn statements suggesting otherwise. Video footage played in court showed protesters expressing animosity toward Murphy, with one shouting at him to "mind his own business." Defence counsel Sean Guerin SC argued that Murphy's actions, including calling for a vote on whether to keep Ms Burton, indicated an attempt to manage the crowd. Maguire testified that Ms Burton was removed from the church due to being assaulted with water balloons. The matter remains at the trial stage with no finalisation or sentence recorded.
Charles Hutchinson, aged 34, was convicted of unlawfully killing Lawrence 'Michael' McGeown, aged 60, after striking him with a single punch to the side of the head on 28 February 2014. The death occurred three days later. Hutchinson was found guilty by a jury at Dundalk Circuit Criminal Court and originally sentenced to seven years' imprisonment, with the final year suspended. On appeal, the Court of Appeal held that the inclusion of Hutchinson's 2010 section 3 assault conviction had improperly increased the headline sentence. The appeal judge re‑sentenced him to five years' imprisonment, again with the final year suspended. Hutchinson's prior convictions included assault, public order offences, criminal damage, dangerous driving, unauthorised taking and interference, and he had a history of alcohol addiction and poor employment. The appeal judge noted that the single punch was not of particular force and that the deceased had health issues, but that there was no provocation or justification for the assault. Charles Hutchinson pleaded not guilty.
A 22‑year‑old Roma man pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault against a 16‑year‑old girl in Cork. The victim was told to drink alcohol or he would kill her, then he attempted to have sex with her and left her unconscious and undressed on a footpath. He was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment, with the final year suspended, by Judge Gerard O'Brien on 7 July 2016. On appeal the Court of Appeal reduced the jail term by one year, citing the judge's failure to mention the victim's €10,000 compensation payment, a token of the man's remorse. The Court of Appeal left the seven‑year sentence in place but suspended the final two years, and ordered 12 months of post‑release supervision. The man had 29 prior convictions, including theft, burglary and public order offences. The case was heard by Mr Justice George Birmingham, Mr Justice Alan Mahon and Mr Justice John Hedigan.
Gerard Walsh, 38, pleaded guilty to burglary at a valet service he had previously worked for in Liffey Valley, Dublin, on 20 March 2015. He admitted stealing six sets of car keys and three vehicles—a Volkswagen Touran, a Volkswagen Passat and an Audi A6 Avant—to pay a drug debt. Two of the cars were recovered; the third was found a year later, resulting in an estimated loss of €3,500 to the owner. The court also noted that Walsh had previously been convicted of public order and theft offences, dealt with 15 years earlier. Judge Melanie Greally, acknowledging Walsh's difficult personal circumstances and his efforts to rehabilitate, imposed a suspended three‑year sentence and required him to pay €3,500 in compensation to his former employer. The sentence was suspended, with no immediate custodial term imposed. The case was heard in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
Angelique Arundel, 31, of Shannon Lawn, Mayfield, Co Cork, and John O'Donnell were convicted of aggravated burglary at a home in Churchtown, Mallow, on 28 and 29 August 2015. Arundel pleaded guilty and was sentenced to five years' imprisonment by Judge Seán Ó Donnabháin at Cork Circuit Criminal Court on 2 February 2016. She appealed the sentence, but the Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal today, holding that a five‑year term was appropriate for an aggravated burglary involving an armed intrusion into a family bedroom. The Court noted that the victim, a man in his 70s, his partner and a two‑year‑old son, awoke to glass breaking; a man with a sledgehammer and Arundel with an iron bar entered the bedroom. The co‑accused demanded €3,000 the next day and threatened the victim with violence and a gun. Arundel had 63 prior convictions, mainly for public order and road traffic offences.
John Connors, 36, of Dundrum, pleaded guilty to theft of €2,250 from an 82‑year‑old woman with early dementia in Carpenterstown on 19 February 2016. He had previously been convicted of assault and public order. Connors claimed to have performed roofing, patio and hedge work, but evidence showed only about ten minutes of roof work and no other repairs. He had cashed the cheque in his own account and was arrested in May. Connors repaid the victim in full. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced him to three years' imprisonment, suspended in full on strict conditions, citing his remorse, repayment and lack of serious prior convictions. The court noted his role as sole breadwinner for a family of six, with his wife unable to work due to health issues. The case was prosecuted by Anne‑Marie Lawlor BL and defended by Kitty Perle BL.
Donal O'Hara, 51, of Glin Park, Coolock, was sentenced to six years' imprisonment after pleading guilty to cultivating cannabis and possessing a sawn‑off shotgun. In February 2015 Gardaí discovered 72 cannabis plants in his master bedroom; O'Hara claimed they were for personal use. In June 2016 a search revealed a 12‑gauge single‑barrel shotgun and cartridges in a bag in a trailer at the rear of his house. O'Hara said he had the firearm for self‑defence after shots were fired at his home days earlier. Judge Patricia Ryan imposed a four‑year sentence for the drug offence, with one year suspended, and a seven‑year sentence for the firearms offence, with the final four years suspended, giving a total custodial term of six years. O'Hara had 29 prior convictions, including drugs, public order and road traffic offences. The court noted unusual circumstances, including threats to his family and a gun pointed at a son.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Gary Kearney, aged 25, admitted to robbing a man on Millennium Bridge in the early hours of 11 September 2016. Kearney, who has 160 prior convictions including assault, robbery, theft, burglary, criminal damage and public order offences, claimed to be an undercover Garda before handcuffing and robbing the victim. He and an accomplice used handcuffs and quoted sections of law to intimidate the man, who feared being pushed into the Liffey. They removed his phone, travel and bank cards, returned the cards after the victim demanded them back, but re‑handcuffed him when he asked for his phone. Kearney pleaded guilty to robbery, false imprisonment and theft. Judge Melanie Greally adjourned sentencing to May to allow Kearney to attend a 12‑week residential treatment programme at Cuan Mhuire. The accomplice fled and has not been charged.
Ian Sheridan, 32, of Bray, was given a suspended three‑year sentence after a judge found that a custodial sentence was not necessary. He pleaded guilty to assault causing harm on 21 February 2015 after beating his girlfriend, Patricia Rodriguez, for over an hour and biting her face twice. The assault took place in their home after an argument; Sheridan had been drinking and had a history of drug and alcohol problems. He had previously been convicted of theft, public order and road traffic offences. Sheridan offered Rodriguez €1,600 as a token of remorse, which she declined, and the money was directed to a women's refuge. The judge required Sheridan to keep the peace and participate in a restorative justice programme as conditions of the suspended sentence. The case was heard in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
Amanda Daly, 36, was sentenced to three years in jail, with the final six months suspended, for robbing a taxi driver of €700 on 15 April 2015. She was caught after dropping her purse, which contained a social welfare receipt, near the robbery site. Daly, who has no fixed abode and 42 prior convictions mainly for public order offences, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. She and accomplice Jason Hynes (43) had planned the robbery; Hynes had previously received a four‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence. The judge noted Daly's severe drug addiction and tragic life, and that she had an active role, attempting to tie the driver's hands to the steering wheel. She had been released on bail for drug treatment but failed to complete the programme and was returned to custody. The robbery involved a syringe and an attempt to extort money from the driver, who was frightened by the assault.
James Kennedy, 34, of Upper Gardiner Street, Dublin, was sentenced to four and a half years' imprisonment for arson on Westland Row on 12 September 2015. He pleaded guilty at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Kennedy's 40 prior convictions include criminal damage, theft, public order and violent behaviour in a Garda station. The incident involved setting a motorbike on fire, which caused a passing woman and her child to flee for safety. The judge, Melanie Greally, described the act as "senseless but highly dangerous" and noted that Kennedy had alcohol problems and did not recall the event. The final two years of the sentence were suspended on strict conditions, including treatment and liaison with the Probation Service for 18 months after release. The court accepted a probation report indicating that the Probation Service could assist Kennedy in the future. The motorbike, valued at €3,000, was completely destroyed by the blaze.
A 23‑year‑old man from Clondalkin, Michael Bayley, was sentenced to three and a half years' imprisonment, with the final 18 months suspended, for two burglaries in Sallynoggin and dangerous driving on 12 May 2016. He pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Bayley had 22 prior convictions, including aggravated burglary, public order and road traffic offences. The judge also disqualified him from driving for four years. The burglaries involved the theft of a Samsung Galaxy tablet and an iPad from a sick child's home, as well as cash found in a birthday card. Bayley claimed he was recruited by people he owed "15 grand" to repay a debt, and that he had drug addictions. He was arrested after a high‑speed chase in which his stolen car crashed in Blackrock, having driven at 160 kph in a 50 kph zone and failed to stop at red lights.
Dylan Brophy, 19, was given a suspended three‑year sentence after pleading guilty to robbing two students on Reuben Street on 12 March 2015. The robbery involved a steel mop handle that struck one victim, Bronte Kavanagh, and a metal object that struck the other, Ryan Donnelly. Kavanagh was dragged to the ground, had her bag ripped from her hands, and suffered a mild concussion; Donnelly was punched in the face, bruised and had swelling on his cheek, arms, legs and ribs. Brophy had 21 prior convictions for traffic, public order and drug offences and had spent six months in custody for the robbery last year. He denied threats, claimed he was defending a friend, and was described as extremely remorseful. The judge noted his upbringing in a broken home and drug‑related activity at the time of the offence. The sentence was suspended, with no custodial time imposed.
James Kennedy, 34, from Upper Gardiner Street, Dublin, pleaded guilty to arson on Westland Row on 12 September 2015. He set a motorbike on fire, causing a passing woman and child to flee for safety. CCTV shows Kennedy moving the bike, tampering with the petrol tank, placing lottery slips under it, and then setting them alight in a nearby café. The bike, worth €3,000, was completely destroyed. Kennedy had 40 prior convictions, including criminal damage, theft, public order and violent behaviour. He admits alcohol problems, stating he was "full of alcohol" after drinking a bottle of vodka that day, and does not recall the incident. Judge Melanie Greally adjourned the case to allow assessment for residential drug treatment and ordered a probation report. Kennedy will be sentenced next February.
Dylan Brophy, 19, was arrested two hours after a robbery on Reuben Street on 12 March 2015, where he used a metal brush handle to strike two students, Bronte Kavanagh and Ryan Donnelly, and stole a bag and a phone. He pleaded guilty to robbery at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Brophy claimed he was defending a friend who had called him after being attacked. He has 21 prior convictions for traffic, public order and drug offences. Garda Brendan Lynn said the victims were warned to run, then dragged to the ground, hit, and robbed of a bag containing an iPhone and €40. The victims suffered concussions and bruises. Brophy denied threats and said he knew police were searching for him, so he turned himself in. A psychological report recommended probation assessment before sentencing, which is adjourned to 16 January.
Gerard Walsh, 38, pleaded guilty to burglary at the Liffey Valley valet service where he had worked. He admitted that a drug dealer had urged him to break into the premises to recover car keys and vehicles to pay a drug debt. Walsh and an accomplice forced entry, breaking three locks to reach the office where six sets of keys and three cars – a Volkswagen Touran, a Volkswagen Passat and an Audi A6 Avant – were taken. Two cars were recovered; the third was found a year later, costing the owner an estimated €3,500. The court heard that Walsh had previous convictions for public order and theft, dealt with 15 years earlier. Judge Melanie Greally accepted that Walsh was under personal hardship, allowing an adjournment to April 28 for him to raise compensation.
Bernard McDonagh, 30, a "talented musician" from Dublin, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm after punching a Croatian man on Dame Lane on 17 June 2015. The victim was knocked unconscious, suffered a broken jaw and dental damage, and required costly dental surgery. McDonagh fled the scene but later turned himself in at Pearse Street Garda station, admitting full responsibility. He has 19 prior convictions, mainly for public order offences. Judge Melanie Greally, after reviewing a psychologist's report, adjourned the case to 27 March 2017 to allow a probation report and to give McDonagh time to arrange compensation for the victim. The court noted McDonagh's apology and his role as a caring father, but emphasized the seriousness of the assault. The case will be sentenced early next year.
Eamon Shield, 45, of Lucan, was found guilty by a jury of 25 counts of theft and deception after a two‑week trial in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. He ran a pyramid scheme from June 2011 to February 2012, promising investors a 100 per cent profit within 60 days by buying repossessed cars and flipping them. Shield advertised in national newspapers and received between €3,000 and €70,000 from 12 investors. He returned €32,000 to the investor who paid €70,000, but all 12 investors were left out of pocket. Shield had a prior deception conviction in 2005 and 23 road traffic and two public order convictions. Judge Patricia Ryan sentenced him to four years' imprisonment, ordering €20,000 in his account to be divided among the victims.
Sam Power, 31, of Cushlawn Park, Tallaght, was sentenced to three years in prison for possessing a sawn‑off shotgun, with the final 18 months suspended. He pleaded guilty to the offence, which occurred on 30 April 2015 at his parents‑in‑law's home. The gun, belonging to his missing brother‑in‑law William Maughan, was found wrapped on a radiator in the parents‑in‑law bedroom. Power had shown the weapon to a group of men in a "joking" manner, according to Detective Sergeant Gregory Sheehan, who had been in the area for a separate matter. Power has 82 prior convictions, including knives, assault and public order offences, and was on bail for possession of stolen property at the time of the offence. The court considered his personal circumstances, including the death of his mother when he was 15, his wife's heart condition, and the threat to his family, before imposing the sentence.
The murder trial of Andrzej Wawrzyniak (38) is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court. Wawrzyniak, who has no fixed address, has pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Jacek Kozakiewicz (44) at a derelict pub on Dublin's North Wall Quay on February 26, 2014. He also pleaded guilty to a second count of assault causing harm to Filip Talaj (31) at the same location and date. The prosecution presented evidence that Kozakiewicz, who was found dead with more than 20 stab wounds, had a history of drink-related and public order offences, including a suspended sentence for carrying knives and a prison term for possessing a crowbar. Detective Sergeant John Brady testified that Kozakiewicz lived a chaotic lifestyle in a squat occupied by five Polish men, where he was described as the "boss" and a "gentleman." Gardaí were aware of the squat but faced ownership disputes that prevented official eviction. The prosecution concluded its case today, and the closing speech to the jury of nine men and three women is scheduled for tomorrow morning. The matter remains at the trial stage, with no final verdict or sentence yet delivered.
James Casey, aged 25, was severely beaten in a Tallaght halting site clash on 20 September 2015. He did not report the assault to the gardai but later armed himself with a slash hook and was charged with possession of an article with intent to cause injury or intimidate others. In Dublin Circuit Criminal Court he pleaded guilty. Judge Melanie Greally suspended a two‑year prison sentence for four years, citing Casey's role as a peace maker who had since helped calm disputes and moved away from the site. Sarah‑Jane Callaghan BL defended Casey, noting his fear for his life and the attack on his home. The case also referenced Casey's three prior convictions for public order offences and possession of stolen goods. The court's decision was based on his demonstrated change in behaviour and efforts to maintain peace.
Damien Halpin, 29, fled to Australia in 2011 after being labelled a "rat" following a drugs conviction and a subsequent attack on his home. He was convicted in Australia in 2015 for arson, assault and being armed with intent, claiming it was a prank gone wrong. He served one year in New South Wales before being deported to Ireland. In January 2016 he was arrested by Gardaí at Dublin Airport. Halpin has 21 prior convictions in Ireland, mainly for road traffic and public order offences. He pleaded guilty to possession of €17,318 of cocaine in 2009 and to assault causing harm in 2010. The Dublin Circuit Criminal Court adjourned his sentencing to July 27, 2016, to allow an updated probation report. Bench warrants were issued in March 2012 when he failed to appear in court for both cases.
Kenneth Cummins, aged 28, was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Central Criminal Court for the murder of Thomas Horan, a 63‑year‑old man described as mentally challenged. Cummins initially pleaded not guilty but changed to guilty after four weeks of trial. The prosecution presented evidence that Horan was strangled and suffocated, with injuries consistent with a severe beating, and that Cummins and his sister Sabrina were involved in the assault. Cummins had 77 prior convictions, including 46 for public order offences, and a history of alcohol dependency and psychiatric treatment. The judge, Mr Justice Tony Hunt, imposed a life sentence backdated to 8 January 2014, noting Cummins' guilty plea and the violent nature of the killing. No further legal actions were mentioned in the article.
Craig McManus, 23, of Kiltalown View, Tallaght, was sentenced by the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to four years' imprisonment, with the last 18 months suspended. He pleaded guilty to possession of €101,537 worth of heroin in his home in May 2014 and to possession of €8,225 worth of heroin on 26 October 2014. The court noted his 80 prior convictions, including drug dealing, theft and public order offences, and that a probation report placed him at moderate risk of re‑offending. Judge Karen O'Connor cited his supportive family, rehabilitation and lack of association with criminal peers, and the fact that his mother had previously paid off his drug debts after threats. The judge imposed the custodial sentence, suspending the final 18 months on strict conditions.
Paul Rice, 25, of Tallaght, was jailed for two years after taking part in a violent assault on a bouncer at Copper Face Jacks nightclub on 23 September 2014. He pleaded guilty to violent disorder. The incident began when a group of six men, including Rice, were refused entry to the club. They returned with four other men and, after being denied entry again, Rice and another man dragged a bouncer across the street and punched him 17 times, delivering nine punches. The bouncer suffered a cut ear and facial bruising. Rice was identified on CCTV footage and arrested. He had 11 prior convictions, including public order offences. The judge, Terence O'Sullivan, noted the attack was pre‑meditated and extremely violent, and sentenced Rice to three years' imprisonment with the final year suspended. The sentence effectively amounts to a two‑year custodial term.
Dylan Thomas, 19, was remanded on bail after pleading guilty to assaulting Garda Stephen Harte and Garda Keith Delaney on 2 May 2015. The incident occurred at Swords Town Park during a public order event. Thomas attacked the officers, punching and kicking them, and was handcuffed and taken to Swords Garda Station. While in custody he continued to be aggressive, striking Garda Harte's knee, which caused cartilage and ligament damage, requiring a brace and physiotherapy. Thomas was described as heavily intoxicated and a former schoolboy boxer. His defence cited a psychologist's report highlighting alcohol, possible cannabis use, and a lack of structure. Judge Melanie Greally adjourned the case to 7 June, ordering a probation report and noting the report's call for intervention.
Trevor O'Sullivan, 40, of Curraheen Drive, Bishopstown, Cork, pleaded guilty to attempted aggravated burglary at the home of businessman Pat Glavin in Glanmire on 11 August 2013. He was sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment, with the final three years suspended, by Judge Seán Ó Donnabháin on 25 February 2014. O'Sullivan's appeal against the severity of the sentence was dismissed by Mr Justice George Birmingham in the Court of Appeal. Birmingham noted that the offence involved an intended invasion of a family home by armed men, that Gardaí had been forewarned and had observed a reconnaissance operation on 29 July 2013, and that a Remington shotgun was recovered with live ammunition. O'Sullivan had prior convictions for public order offences, criminal damage and a drug‑related offence. The judge upheld the sentence as severe but necessary. The appeal was dismissed.
Jamie Carroll, 33, of Arklow, Co Wicklow, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to five counts of robbery. Judge Sarah Berkeley imposed a six-year custodial sentence, suspending the final two years. The offences occurred on November 11, 2014, at Day 2 Day on Military Road and Boyle Sports in Monkstown; on November 22, 2014, at Bus Stop Shop in Enniscorthy; and on April 8, 2015, at Londis on Foxrock Avenue. On each occasion, Carroll allegedly armed with a knife to demand money. Defence counsel Colman Fitzgerald SC noted Carroll's history of heroin addiction and presented clean urine analysis reports, arguing he was now drug-free. The judge acknowledged the robberies were committed to feed his addiction and that no physical violence was used, though staff were threatened. She suspended the final two years of the sentence, citing Carroll's remorse and co-operation with the Garda investigation. Carroll had previously been released on bail twice, including a March 30, 2015 release for a residential drug treatment program which he failed to attend due to intoxication, before committing the final robbery. He has 121 previous convictions, primarily for driving and public order offences.
Gavin Walsh, 26, a father of one, was ordered to carry out 200 hours of community service instead of a two‑year prison term after pleading guilty to possession of a stolen Ford Focus in County Dublin. The car, stolen from a tow truck in Santry on 15 January 2014, had been advertised for sale on Done Deal and was recovered by undercover Gardaí. Walsh attempted to sell the vehicle to the Gardaí, who discovered the plates and discs had been cloned. He was also linked to a second stolen Audi A4, which had been bought with a fake bank draft and similarly advertised for sale; that vehicle was also returned to its owners. Walsh had six prior convictions for minor road traffic and public order offences. His defence argued that he had recently become a father, was employed, and intended to become a registered carer for his parents.
A 37‑year‑old Limerick man was sentenced to four and a half years' imprisonment for assaulting his former partner with a shovel until it broke. The victim suffered bruises and injuries to her eye, eyelid, cheeks, neck, head, ears, arms, legs and had hair torn from her scalp. The court found him guilty of assaulting her outside her house, dragging her into a waiting car and beating her with a shovel. He was acquitted of rape and false imprisonment, and the jury could not decide on two counts of rape. The judge noted the victim's vulnerability and the lack of remorse from the defendant, and reduced a potential six‑year sentence for false imprisonment to four and a half years. The case involved the defendant's prior 11 convictions, mainly for traffic and public order offences. The victim's drug addiction worsened after the attack, and she now lives outside Limerick. The defendant's defence acknowledged his bad behaviour on that occasion.
In 2010, Davinn Flynn, 42, set fire to the Nirvana head shop on Capel Street, Dublin, causing €1 million in damage and closing the street for three days. He pleaded guilty in 2015 and was sentenced to six years' imprisonment. On appeal, the Court of Appeal re‑sentenced him to seven years, suspending the final two years. The court noted that Flynn and another man started the fire with an accelerant, that CCTV showed Flynn entering the shop's rear, and that the blaze spread to a sex shop and another similar premises. Flynn had 65 prior convictions, including robbery, theft and public order offences. The appeal was based on the original judge's failure to address Flynn's potential for rehabilitation, which the appellate judges found an error in principle. The final sentence therefore remains seven years, with two years suspended.
In a sentencing hearing on 23 November 2015, Peter Jackson, aged 41, was given a mandatory life sentence for the murder of David Hamilton, aged 31, on 4 May 2012. Jackson, a former heroin addict, admitted remorse, saying "I'm sorry, I didn't set out to do this." The court heard that the killing occurred during a heroin injection session at a house on Kerryhall Road, where an argument over the drug escalated into a stabbing. Jackson had 73 prior convictions, mainly for traffic, public order, theft and burglary, and a previous three‑year sentence for heroin supply. He pleaded guilty to manslaughter but not to murder, a plea rejected by the prosecution. The sentence was back‑dated to the day of the murder, 4 May 2012. The hearing included a victim impact statement from Hamilton's uncle, Robert Denby, describing the family's profound grief. The judge, Justice Isobel Kennedy, confirmed the life sentence and the back‑dating. Peter Jackson was found guilty.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, John Maughan (31) and Terrence Maughan (25) were sentenced to two years' imprisonment for assaulting their first cousin, Edward McDonagh, at a Clondalkin Post Office on 27 February 2013. The brothers attacked McDonagh with knives, slashing his face and repeatedly beating and kicking him. McDonagh, who was returning to the post office with documents, was left with blood‑covered wounds that required stitches and staples. The Maughans had a history of convictions – John with six, including theft and drug offences, and Terrence with eight, including public order incidents and thefts. Garda Sheila Kenny reported that the brothers' wives had removed the knives before police arrived. The judge, Martin Nolan, noted the attack was not pre‑meditated but deemed it a very serious crime, leading to the custodial sentences. John Maughan pleaded guilty. Terrence Maughan pleaded guilty.
In a Tallaght burglary, 18‑year‑old Lewis Smith and a 17‑year‑old boy stole a computer tablet, a mobile phone and a television from a profoundly deaf woman. Smith pleaded guilty to burglary at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on 2 September 2014. He had prior convictions for criminal damage and car theft. Judge Martin Nolan, after hearing evidence, remanded Smith on continuing bail with conditions: live with his grandmother, observe a curfew, and sign on three times a week at Tallaght Garda Station. Smith later broke his curfew and was charged with public order offences. Judge Nolan ordered Smith to carry out 200 hours of community service within a year in lieu of a two‑year prison sentence, noting he was considered suitable for community service by the Probation Service. The 17‑year‑old co‑accused pleaded guilty and is due for sentencing later. The case remains ongoing.
Dean Adams, 22, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing harm after delivering a running kick to Deomid Ryabkov's forehead on 19 February 2012. Ryabkov was attacked while attempting to recover stolen headphones. Adams, who claimed the thief was a friend, later expressed remorse. Judge Mary Ellen Ring imposed a suspended sentence of three and a half years, conditioned on Adams keeping the peace and engaging with Probation Service education and training programmes. Adams has 52 prior convictions, including assault, theft, public order and road traffic offences. He expressed a desire to apologise to the victim and continue drug treatment, noting his problems arise mainly when intoxicated. The court noted the assault was unprovoked and resulted in a severe skull fracture for Ryabkov.
Dean Brennan, aged 28, was jailed after sending 13 "grossly threatening" text messages to his ex‑girlfriend Louise Hanna and her new partner Richard Doyle. The texts, sent on 18 and 26 December 2014, included threats to shoot Hanna, blow her head off, burn her house and kill both her and Doyle. Brennan pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Judge Pauline Codd imposed a four‑year prison sentence, suspending the last two years on the condition that Brennan remains drug and alcohol free and continues counselling with Probation Services. She also ordered that he must not communicate with the victims or their families, nor approach within half a mile of their homes or workplaces for seven years. Brennan had been recently released from prison when the texts were sent. The court noted his prior convictions, including robbery and nine public order offences, and his participation in anger‑management and drug‑recovery programmes.
Bernard Flynn, 63, of Cannon Burke Flats, Cabra, Dublin, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for committing €25,000 of social welfare fraud. He pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to 11 sample charges of stealing from Social Protection at River Valley Post Office, River Valley Swords, between August 2011 and April 2014. The charges represented 123 visits to the post office for job seekers allowance and 13 visits for both job seekers and rent allowance under the name Brendan Flynn. Flynn used a different PPS number and date of birth to claim the benefits. He was caught using facial recognition software when Garda Sergeant Kevin Mention arrested him on 4 April 2014 after he collected both allowances. Flynn had ten previous convictions, including breach of the peace, larceny, careless driving, public order and illegal possession of Garda equipment.
Michael Noonan, a 34‑year‑old stonemason, was sentenced to three and a half years' imprisonment for two unprovoked serious assaults. The first, on 5 May 2014 at Club 92 in Leopardstown, involved Thomas Kelly who was knocked to the ground, left with multiple skull fractures and haemorrhaging, and spent five days in hospital. The second, on 7 September 2014 at The Magic Carpet Bar in Cabinteely, saw Noonan punch a glass into Gary Rigley's face and then beat Rigley's brother Shaun. CCTV footage showed Noonan and Rigley speaking before the attack. Noonan pleaded guilty to both assaults at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court and admitted the acts were not pre‑meditated. He had ten prior convictions, mainly for public order offences, and a suspended sentence in 2005 for an earlier assault. Judge Martin Nolan described the blows as extremely forceful and noted Noonan's history of loss of control, concluding the assaults were totally unforgivable.
John Collins, 23, has filed a High Court challenge against a lower court order that bars him from all licensed premises in Dublin for six months. The order stems from a public order case in Blanchardstown District Court where Collins pleaded guilty to intoxication and threatening, abusive behaviour on 8 March at Cardiffsbridge, Finglas West. Judge Alan Mitchell fined him €200 for the behaviour and €100 for intoxication, then imposed an exclusion order under Section 3 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 2003. Collins, who had no prior convictions, argued the order is vague, disproportionate, and infringes his constitutional rights. He seeks to quash the exclusion order and other related orders. Justice Seamus Noonan granted permission for the appeal and stayed the district court order pending the High Court decision. The case remains pending.