The State has argued that the fully suspended sentences given to Jim Connors, a serial driving offender who caused a serious crash and later committed further offences, were too lenient. Connors, who had 36 previous convictions, including road traffic offences, was serving a six-year driving ban when he crashed into a taxi, leaving a passenger with serious injuries. He received a four-and-a-half-year suspended sentence for dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm and four-year suspended sentences for three counts of leaving the scene to escape liability. The sentences were concurrent and suspended for five years. The State also challenged a three-year suspended sentence for reckless endangerment, which occurred a month after the taxi crash. Connors had additional charges, including drug driving and driving without insurance. The State's counsel argued that the sentences were unduly lenient given the severity of the offences and Connors' disregard for court orders. Connors' defence highlighted his cooperation, mental health issues, and rehabilitation efforts. The Court of Appeal reserved its decision until December 1.
Aaron Waddington, 36, of Louglinstown Park, Loughlinstown, Co Dublin, was sentenced to three years in prison at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to the burglary of a 94-year-old man's home on March 14 last. Judge Martin Nolan reduced a headline sentence of five years to three years, taking into account Waddington's guilty plea and mitigating factors, including his immediate departure when confronted by the victim. The sentence was backdated to March of this year, when Waddington first went into custody. The court heard that Waddington entered the property by smashing a window with a brick, cutting his leg and leaving a blood trail that linked him to the crime. He stole two watches before being stopped nearby. The victim, who struck the intruder with a shoehorn, described Waddington as "docile." A victim impact statement noted the elderly man's ongoing distress and anxiety. Waddington has a history of offending, including drugs, road traffic offences, criminal damage, and theft. His defence counsel highlighted his drug addiction and remorse, noting he is a father of three.
On 22 January 2025, Ahmed Ramic, 26, of Brookview Court, Tallaght, crashed a DriveYou car‑sharing vehicle into a ditch on Killakee Road, Rathfarnham, after Garda Mark Cullen, in an unmarked patrol car, attempted to stop it. Cullen had been patrolling because several DriveYou cars had been reported stolen. He followed the vehicle for about a minute at speed before it left the road and crashed. Ramic had initially pleaded not guilty to dangerous driving under section 53, but the court accepted a plea to the lesser section 52 careless driving charge. Defence counsel argued Ramic was unaware of the unmarked Garda car and that the vehicle belonged to his former girlfriend's father. The court found the driving reached the threshold for careless but not dangerous driving, spared Ramic a second disqualification, and remanded him to a restorative‑justice driving‑awareness programme with the case adjourned to 13 February. The judge noted Ramic's remorse and disappointment.
An unlicenced, uninsured driver, John McDonagh, aged 20, was jailed for 32 months for dangerous driving after striking a 60‑plus‑year‑old victim on Ballymun Road on 6 July 2023. The victim, a supervisory worker on the Dublin light rail project, was wearing protective gear and was crossing the road toward the grass meridian when McDonagh collided with him. The victim sustained serious head injuries and fractures, spent almost a year in hospital, and is now a wheelchair user requiring constant assistance. McDonagh pleaded guilty, failed to remain at the scene, and later admitted to smoking cannabis, which tested positive. He had no licence or insurance, and the court noted no evidence of excessive speed. The judge imposed a 32‑month sentence and a five‑year driving disqualification. The victim's impact statement highlighted the life‑changing injuries and the emotional toll on his family.
A jury deadlocked in a High Court case brought by former Garda John Bowe, aged 41, who alleged he was wrongfully struck by a 6'8″ Garda with a baton after a high‑speed pursuit outside Bunclody, Co. Wexford, on 5 December 2014. Bowe, who had been convicted of dangerous driving following the chase, claimed the baton strike by Superintendent Rory Sheriff caused injuries and a diagnosis of functional neurological disorder. Sheriff maintained the strike was proportionate and justified, citing a 25‑minute chase at speeds over 140 kph and an alleged attempt by Bowe to attack him with a metallic object that turned out to be keys with bottle openers. The case also named the Garda Commissioner, the Attorney General and Ireland.
On 3 January 2025, 37‑year‑old Scott Capper drove at high speed through Sutton, Howth and Baldoyle, forcing garda patrol cars to take evasive action. He eventually stopped on St Margaret's Avenue, Raheny, where he fled the vehicle and threw bags of white powder. Gardai pursued him to Kilbarrack Road, where they found him covered in cocaine. The cocaine, valued at €5,700, was intended for his own use. Capper pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and possession of drugs for sale or supply. He has 29 prior convictions, including public order and traffic offences. The court noted he was unfit for interview after arrest but later cooperated once sober. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced him to 27 months' imprisonment, effective from 4 January, and banned him from driving for four years.
A 25‑year‑old man, Ryan Craig, was sentenced to six years in prison, with the last twelve months suspended for two years, for dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm. He also received a four‑year sentence for endangerment, both running concurrently and back‑dated to October 2024. Craig drove a van onto a footpath in Clondalkin, dragging a 25‑year‑old nephew of convicted drug dealer John Gilligan, Dillon Gilligan, for up to 30 feet before leaving him on the roadside with a fractured skull and pelvis. Craig fled the scene without assisting the victim, an act described by the judge as a deliberate purposeful act of dangerous driving motivated by rage and hatred. The court disqualified Craig from driving for fifteen years. The sentencing hearing noted Craig's prior convictions for drug possession and public order offences, but the judge considered the current incident far more serious. The unnamed 25-year-old pleaded guilty.
In a High Court hearing on 13 November 2025, former Garda John Bowe (41) alleged that he was wrongfully and violently struck by Superintendent Rory Sheriff, a 6'8″ former rugby player, during a high‑speed chase that took place outside Bunclody, County Wexford, on 5 December 2014. Bowe, who had been driving at speeds over 140 kph for 25 minutes, was pursued through a field and, according to Bowe, turned back at Sheriff with a metallic object that turned out to be keys with bottle openers. Sheriff claimed he used his baton in proportionate force after Bowe lunged at him. Bowe was later convicted of dangerous driving offences arising from the chase. He now seeks compensation for alleged injuries, claiming a functional neurological disorder, and has denied that the baton strike was justified. The case is pending jury deliberation.
In a case heard at Dún Laoghaire District Court, a dangerous driving charge against ambulance driver Josh Hayes (24) was dismissed after the judge reviewed dash‑cam footage. The footage, captured by a different driver, showed a learner motorist who had unintentionally edged into Hayes's lane moments before the collision. The learner's car, coming from a slip road, merged into the lane and then moved further left into the inner lane directly in front of the ambulance. The ambulance struck the back of the learner's car, causing it to overturn. Both the driver and passenger sustained whiplash and bruising. Hayes had been driving with lights and sirens on while transporting a psychiatric patient. The judge, Anne Watkin, found that the learner's movement was the decisive factor and that the ambulance driver's actions were justified under the circumstances, leading to the dismissal of the charge. Josh Hayes pleaded not guilty.
Michael Daly, 27, of Knockmore Grove, Tallaght, was jailed for three years and nine months after a high‑speed chase on the N81. He drove a stolen Ford Transit van without a licence or insurance, swerved onto the wrong side of the road at up to 140 km/h, and attempted to hit Garda patrol cars. The chase caused €10,000 of damage to a patrol car and forced a Garda to run into a garden to avoid being struck. Daly pleaded guilty to endangerment, unlawful use of a vehicle, driving without insurance and two counts of criminal damage. He had been disqualified from driving since 2022 and had previous convictions for drugs and public order offences. The judge, after considering his guilty pleas and mitigating factors, imposed the sentence and a four‑year driving disqualification.
Darragh Carroll, 27, was jailed for stealing a Renault Fluence and reckless endangerment after a drunken garda pursuit in Balbriggan. Carroll, who had no driving licence and was disqualified from driving, ran red lights, overtook a stopped vehicle, drove through stop signs, onto a footpath and in the wrong direction on busy residential streets. He swerved past a pedestrian and crashed into a wooden pillar, then fled the scene, jumping over a house wall before being arrested. Carroll pleaded guilty to the theft, endangerment, two criminal damage charges and driving without a licence. The judge set a headline sentence of seven and a half years, reduced to three years, with concurrent two‑year terms for theft and criminal damage. The final 18 months were suspended on probation, and Carroll was disqualified from driving for five years. He is engaged in rehabilitation in custody. Darragh Carroll was convicted.
A van driver, Colin Radburn, 37, was jailed for four and a half years after a routine Garda checkpoint on St Luke's Road, Dublin 8, revealed €350,000 worth of cocaine and £15,520 in cash hidden in the van's air filter cabinet. Radburn, who had been driving the van at the time, panicked and attempted to abandon it when Gardaí stopped him. He pleaded guilty to one count of possessing drugs for sale or supply under Section 15A of the Misuse of Drugs Act. The court noted his prior convictions for road traffic offences and that he had been out of work since an injury in 2022, which contributed to a drug habit. Judge Martin Nolan accepted that Radburn's role was that of transporter and holder, and set the sentence at four and a half years, backdated to his arrest.
Marius Mihai Popa, 41, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing the death of Darren Brodigan, 35, on Poppintree Park Lane, Ballymun, on 27 November 2022. Popa was driving at 62 km/h on a 50 km/h road that was dark due to overhanging trees. He called emergency services and flagged an ambulance, but Brodigan died from massive brain injuries. The court heard no CCTV footage; investigators confirmed the speed. Popa cooperated fully, tested negative for alcohol and drugs, and was not distracted. He expressed remorse, apologised to the Brodigan family, and noted he had no previous convictions. Judge Martin Nolan imposed an eight‑month suspended sentence, disqualified Popa from driving for one year, and extended sympathies to the Brodigan family. The case highlighted the darkness of the road and the subsequent upgrade of street lighting. The sentencing was conducted in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
The High Court trial of a civil action brought by John Bowe against Supt Rory Sheriff, the Garda Commissioner, the Attorney General, and Ireland continues before Mr Justice Micheál Ó Higgins. Sgt Mick Dee, an applicant in the proceedings, testified regarding an incident outside Bunclody, Co Wexford, on December 5, 2014, following a high-speed pursuit. Sgt Dee stated he believed Mr Bowe was carrying a knife and behaving in a threatening manner, prompting him to alert Supt Sheriff. Supt Sheriff subsequently struck Mr Bowe on the head with a baton. Under cross-examination, Sgt Dee accepted that Mr Bowe did not have a knife, attributing his initial belief to a gut reaction. Mr Bowe claims wrongful and violent assault, alleging he was diagnosed with functional neurological disorder, claims which are denied by the defendants. Witness Det Sgt Noel McSweeney testified that he observed the officers and Mr Bowe walking together without dragging, and noted a cut on Mr Bowe's head. Mr Bowe was previously convicted of dangerous driving arising from the chase but acquitted of a cannabis possession charge. The matter is at the trial stage and has not been finalised; the proceedings continue.
Olga Pegasoua, a 46-year-old woman from Lucan, was convicted at Tallaght District Court of refusing to provide a specimen under the Road Traffic Act. The case concerned an incident on 27 March 2021, where Garda Shauna Higgins observed Pegasoua driving a swerving silver Nissan with a dented bumper. After arresting her for suspected intoxication, Pegasoua arrived at Tallaght Garda Station. Although she initially opted to provide a urine sample, she poured it down the toilet and subsequently refused to provide a blood sample. Judge Karen Dowling rejected the defence argument that the prosecution could not rely on interpreter testimony, finding a case to answer based on the garda's observations and Pegasoua's conduct. Pegasoua, who did not appear in court, was found guilty. The judge stated she had no choice but to impose the mandatory four-year driving disqualification. Pegasoua was fined €500, with five months granted to pay, and a €200 recognisance was set. The judge agreed to defer the start of the driving ban by four weeks to allow Pegasoua to make necessary arrangements. The court noted Pegasoua is a single mother with no previous convictions, who works as a cleaner and suffers from anxiety and kidney issues.
Daniel O'Neill, 30, of Dublin 17, was already serving a 3‑year‑9‑month sentence for drug offences since October 2023. He pleaded guilty in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to money laundering and obtaining insurance by deception between 8 January 2021 and 4 January 2023. A Garda investigation, triggered by his drug‑dealing conviction, analysed several bank accounts and found €290,000 in cash lodgements in his name and a second person's name, plus further cash through a Revolut account. The money was used to buy cars, take holidays and shop online. O'Neill also secured three insurance policies for the cars using a false date of birth while he was disqualified from driving. The court imposed a seven‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence, back‑dated to his initial custody in October 2023.
Patrick Lynch, 45, from Naas, Co Kildare, appealed the severity of a five‑month jail sentence imposed for driving without a licence, insurance or tax and for failing to produce a licence, offences under the Road Traffic Act 1961. Lynch had previously received three driving disqualifications in 2018, lasting six, ten and twenty years, and had 194 prior convictions, about 100 of which were road‑traffic matters. The appeal was heard by Judge Deirdre Browne in the District Court Appeals Court. Lynch's defence counsel, Seosaimhín Ní Chathasaigh BL, argued that Lynch had an early guilty plea, had been born into poverty, had struggled with alcohol and drug misuse, and was now seeking community rehabilitation rather than custody. Judge Browne noted that the offence was "particularly egregious" and that no evidence linked the offence to Lynch's addiction issues; she adjourned the case to 13 November, pending further evidence from the defence. The appeal remains pending.
Kieran Fogarty, aged 21, was resentenced by the Court of Appeal to a total of 14 years in prison, with the final year suspended, after the original eight‑year sentence was deemed unduly lenient. The appeal concerned his role in the fatal hit‑and‑run that killed 21‑year‑old student Joe Drennan on Dublin Road, Limerick, on 13 October 2023. CCTV showed Fogarty driving at 100–122 km/h in a 50 km/h zone, colliding with Drennan's car, then wiping the steering wheel for 14 seconds before fleeing. The Court of Appeal also addressed his other offences: a drive‑by shooting and a drugs‑for‑sale charge. Sentences for the firearms offence and the drugs charge were reduced to eight and four years respectively, while the dangerous‑driving‑causing‑death sentence was set at eight years, to run concurrently with the firearms sentence. Fogarty was disqualified from driving for 20 years. Kieran Fogarty pleaded guilty.
Ryan Craig, a 25-year-old man from Clondalkin, appeared at the Central Criminal Court where he pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm and endangerment. The court heard that on October 20, 2024, Craig struck Dillon Gilligan with his van on Cloverhill Road, dragging him for up to 30 feet. The victim suffered critical injuries, including a fractured skull, arm, chest, pelvis, and ankle, as well as internal bleeding. Evidence indicated the attack was opportunistic rather than pre-planned, arising from a long-standing feud in the Ronanstown area. Craig was arrested at Dublin Port and recorded on CCTV stating he had "smashed" the victim. Although originally charged with attempted murder, Craig admitted to the lesser offences in July. The court noted Craig has four previous convictions and that the victim, who was previously convicted of carrying a firearm, has since left a rehabilitation facility. Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned the matter to November 14 for finalisation. Separately, the report references a prior sentencing where Judge Ronan Munro sentenced John Gilligan to six and a half years, with the final 18 months suspended, for offences committed in 2019.
In a court hearing on 28 October 2025, Keith O'Neill, aged 38, pleaded guilty to criminal damage after breaking into a car pound in Tallaght to recover his wife's vehicle, which had been seized for unpaid M50 tolls amounting to €5,000–€7,000. O'Neill and his wife had attempted to negotiate the return of the car and its contents on 2 and 3 December 2021, but the car remained in the secure yard. CCTV footage captured O'Neill cutting a lock worth €500 and taking the car that night. The vehicle was later found parked elsewhere. O'Neill, who has prior convictions for criminal damage and road traffic offences, was sentenced to an 18‑month prison term suspended on the condition of good behaviour, and was ordered to pay €750 to the business owner or a charity of his choice.
Alan Tighe, 38, was jailed for five and a half years after authorities seized €700,000 worth of cannabis and cocaine. The drugs were hidden in air compressors and a van. Tighe was arrested when Gardaí, alerted by customs, intercepted a delivery of air compressors and found the cannabis, then later discovered the cocaine in a van. He pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply at Centre Point Business Park on 17 October 2023 and at an underground car park in Tallaght on 18 October 2023. Tighe has prior convictions for road traffic offences. The judge noted his addiction and debt‑related duress, his early guilty plea and family background, and imposed concurrent sentences of five and a half years, deviating from the mandatory 10‑year term. The court heard that Tighe's role was not sophisticated and that he had no signs of wealth. The defence highlighted his addiction, debt, and cooperation.
A man who struck and fatally injured a young pedestrian at a crossing in Ballina, County Mayo, has received a fully suspended sentence at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court. James Moyles, aged thirty-three, died on February twentieth, two thousand twenty-four, after being hit by a car on Lord Edward Street whilst holding his four-year-old niece's hand. In his final moments, Mr Moyles pushed the child to safety from the oncoming vehicle. Keith O'Brien, aged fifty, of Lowvalley, Crossmolina, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death. He received a suspended sentence of two and a half years and was disqualified from driving for ten years. Judge Eoin Garavan described Mr Moyles' final act as one of great selflessness, whilst characterising O'Brien as a good man who made a terrible error in judgment. The Moyles family issued a statement calling for improved road safety across Ireland.
Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced Michael Tuite and Patrick Morgan for their roles in the burglary of six commercial units at Premier Business Park, Ballycoolin, and a subsequent high-speed chase. Both men entered signed guilty pleas to six counts of burglary and possession of an implement with intent. Tuite additionally pleaded guilty to endangerment, unauthorised taking of a vehicle, and unlawful escape from custody, while Morgan pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and allowing himself to be carried in a vehicle without consent. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced Tuite to six years' imprisonment and disqualified him from driving for six years. The judge noted Morgan was less culpable and imposed a five-year sentence. Both defendants were directed to receive credit for time spent in custody. The court heard that Tuite escaped custody by climbing a wall at Blanchardstown District Court, dropping 15ft, before being apprehended nearby. Morgan's detention was suspended due to his level of intoxication. The judge described Tuite's driving as "pretty disgraceful" and noted both men were aggressive during arrest. Mitigation included their guilty pleas, expressions of remorse, and efforts to address addiction issues.
Mihail Trofim, 27, was sentenced to six months' imprisonment after failing to attend his original sentencing hearing for careless driving causing serious bodily harm. The offence occurred on 8 June 2022 when his Mercedes struck a pedestrian on Old Navan Road, Blanchardstown, at 83–88 km/h in a 60 km/h zone. The victim, a 32‑year‑old musician, sustained catastrophic injuries, including brain damage, broken limbs and ribs, and now requires a wheelchair and constant care. Trofim pleaded guilty to the charge and to having no insurance, which he had purchased from a fraudulent broker. Judge Martin Nolan noted Trofim's lack of courage to appear, his failure to arrange a timely court appearance, and the aggravating impact on the victim's family. He was also disqualified from driving for five years. The court adjourned the case to allow for sentencing, which was carried out today.
A 37‑year‑old convicted killer, Richard Treacy, was sentenced by the Special Criminal Court to two years and eight months in prison after he spent €100,000 of crime proceeds on extensive renovations to his family home in Limerick. The judge, Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, noted that the offence, committed between 1 January 2014 and 12 January 2021, involved disguising the source of the money used for the work, contravening the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010. Treacy pleaded guilty, which the court considered a mitigating factor, and he cooperated during the investigation. The judge also ordered that money seized by Gardaí from the house be forfeited to the State, including £3,900 sterling and €4,000, while smaller sums identified as welfare payments were not forfeited. Treacy has ten prior convictions, including manslaughter, violent disorder and dangerous driving, and had no employment history.
Jordan Grimes, 27, had a three‑month jail term for dangerous driving and driving without insurance overturned on appeal, replaced by a suspended six‑month sentence. He remains under a four‑year driving disqualification and a six‑year, three‑month prison term for driving without insurance, which now runs concurrently with the suspended sentence. Grimes was caught joy‑riding an e‑scrambler bike on the Royal Canal Greenway on 5 January 2024, driving at speed toward Garda Gerard Hanahoe and a colleague. The Garda reported that Grimes narrowly avoided hitting them and that he claimed to be travelling only 70 km/h. He was already serving a 20‑year driving ban at the time of the incident. The court required Grimes to enter probation supervision and comply with drug counselling, while his driving disqualification remains in force. Jordan Grimes was convicted.
A man from Castlerea in County Roscommon has received a fully suspended sentence at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court following what the judge described as a remarkable turnaround in his life. Ernest Ashman, aged 39, pleaded guilty to possession of almost one kilogramme of cannabis, valued at approximately €20,000, for sale or supply at Rathcluain, Kiltimagh, County Mayo on 3 October 2023. He was arrested following a traffic stop after gardaí observed his vehicle being driven erratically through a housing estate. Ashman was handed a two-year suspended sentence and disqualified from driving for six years. Judge Eoin Garavan imposed a headline sentence of three years but reduced it to two years in light of mitigating factors, including Ashman's rehabilitation efforts. The court heard that Ashman has since trained in addiction counselling to Level 7 qualification standard, now works in a community centre, and remains drug-free. He has been instructed to comply with probation supervision for one year and continue mental health counselling.
A 22‑year‑old man, Martin McAleer, was sentenced to five years and four months in prison, with 18 months suspended, after pleading guilty to dangerous driving, endangerment, criminal damage and possession of false instruments in two separate incidents in 2023. The first incident on 4 January involved McAleer driving a car that struck a civilian vehicle, a Garda car and a parked car, causing €80,000‑90,000 in damage and soft‑tissue injuries to a passenger. The second incident on 31 May saw McAleer driving an Audi A5 in a high‑speed pursuit that resulted in a motorbike collision, injuries to a motorcyclist, damage to six Garda vehicles and two civilian cars, and a broken toe and hand to a Garda. He was on bail at the time of the offences and is already serving a four‑year sentence.
In a case heard at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Connor James McCabe, 29, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm and to driving a defective vehicle after a collision on Balbutcher Lane, Ballymun, on 20 February 2023. McCabe admitted that the front tyres of his car were bald and that he had traces of cannabis in his system, but he denied that intoxication contributed to the loss of control. The victim suffered fractures to the arm and leg, a broken nose and a brain bleed, with speech and memory affected. McCabe, who had no prior convictions and was fully insured, was found to have lost control of the vehicle, which was travelling under the speed limit. Judge Martin Nolan, after considering the evidence, imposed an 18‑month suspended sentence and a four‑year driving ban, citing McCabe's early guilty plea, remorse and lack of previous convictions as mitigating factors. The case was adjourned overnight for sentencing.
James Colton, a 43‑year‑old repeat offender, was jailed for 15 months after a dangerous driving incident in Dublin. In September 2022, a passerby found him unconscious in his car in Crumlin and, after rousing him, Colton drove at high speed, "like a maniac", around Crumlin and Sundrive. He drove over 100 km/h, on the wrong side of the road, and mounted the kerb, narrowly missing a cyclist before crashing into a parked van and causing €11,150 in damage. Colton, who had been disqualified from driving and had 76 prior convictions, pleaded guilty to three counts of dangerous driving, one of driving without a licence, one of criminal damage and one of failing to report the incident. The court noted his long‑standing drug addiction and that he was under the influence of intoxicants on the day. Judge Martin Nolan, taking mitigating factors into account, sentenced him to 15 months' imprisonment and a five‑year driving disqualification.
In Tallaght District Court, Gary Brogan, 27, pleaded guilty to drink‑driving, careless driving, driving without insurance and without a licence after his Yamaha quad bike collided with a Nissan Qashqai carrying three young children on 18 August 2023. The collision occurred as the car was turning right; none of the passengers were injured, but Brogan sustained a broken collarbone and kneecap. A urine test at Tallaght University Hospital showed 207 mg of alcohol per 100 ml, exceeding the legal limit. Brogan could not produce a licence or insurance documents. He admitted no memory of the crash, apologized, and had no prior road‑traffic convictions, only minor public‑order and trespassing offences. Judge Patricia McNamara fined him €500 payable over five months and disqualified him from driving for a mandatory minimum of three years, citing the seriousness of the offence and the need for a wake‑up call.
Aaron Crowley, a 21-year-old man from Tallaght, Dublin, appeared before Judge Anne Watkin at Dún Laoghaire District Court regarding an incident on March 17, 2024. Crowley admitted to charges of careless driving and the unlawful possession of cocaine under section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. The court heard that Crowley was driving a Honda Civic on Simmonscourt Road when he failed to stop and swerved past a garda directing traffic. Although originally charged with dangerous driving, the charge was reduced to careless driving. Crowley pleaded guilty to both remaining offences. Gardaí noted that a drug-driving test yielded no positive results. The court was informed that Crowley has 33 previous convictions, including 25 road-traffic offences and drug-related charges such as possession of heroin for sale or supply. He is currently serving a two-year driving ban. Defence counsel Michael O'BL argued that Crowley had fallen in with the wrong crowd but had abstained from drugs for 18 months. Judge Watkin remarked that Crowley sounded like he was "the wrong crowd himself" and expressed surprise he had not been jailed given his record, which included supplying drugs he did not use. The judge ordered a probation report and adjourned sentencing until January.
Heherson Marquez, 53, of Vernon Avenue, Clontarf, was found guilty of careless driving after a collision at Larkfield Park, Kimmage, on 19 January 2023. While parked on the road waiting to pick up his 14‑year‑old child, he attempted a U‑turn and struck a motorcyclist who was thrown from his vehicle. The victim is believed to have suffered a broken leg, though this could not be confirmed in court. Judge Patricia McNamara fined Marquez €450, imposed a three‑month driving ban effective immediately, and gave him five months to pay the fine.
Raymond McCabe, 48, of White Pines Grove, Rathfarnham, pleaded guilty at Tallaght District Court to driving without insurance on the Tallaght bypass (N81) on 1 October 2024. He was stopped by Gardaí in a Volkswagen Golf, could not produce a licence or insurance, and the car was seized under the Road Traffic Act. McCabe failed to provide the documents at Tallaght Garda Station within ten days. The court noted he has 14 prior convictions, including 12 traffic offences and four for driving without insurance, the most recent in March 2024. Defence solicitor Jeremiah Breen explained McCabe's unemployment, grown‑up children, and cocaine addiction, stating he has "no excuse" but is now in treatment. Judge John Brennan, recognising McCabe's issues, imposed a four‑month prison sentence suspended for two years, a three‑year driving disqualification effective in 14 days, a €200 fine, and a €400 bond.
Jason O'Brien, 39, of Mac Uilliam Green, Tallaght, was sentenced at Tallaght District Court after pleading guilty to 15 charges. The offences included stealing €72 worth of cologne from Lloyds Pharmacy in May 2023 and multiple road traffic violations, such as driving without insurance, a licence, or valid tax and NCT certificates, arising from incidents in 2019 and 2021. Despite having 123 previous convictions, O'Brien avoided prison. His defence solicitor, Padraig O'Donovan, argued that incarceration had not been effective and requested a community-based disposal, noting O'Brien had a job lined up. Judge John O'Leary imposed 120 hours of community service in lieu of a five-month prison term. The judge described this as a final chance, stating he believed O'Brien had changed his ways. In a notable exchange, the judge advised O'Brien to thank his solicitor for the outcome, to which O'Brien replied he would buy his lawyer a bottle of wine. The matter was finalised with this sentence.
Gerard Wilson, 46, serving a two‑year sentence in Mountjoy Prison for burglary, knife possession and criminal damage, was further sentenced by Tallaght District Court after a relapse. On 25 March 2024, Gardaí found him intoxicated in another person's car in the car park of The Square Shopping Centre, Tallaght, where he admitted to being under the influence, threatening and abusive behaviour. Five days later, on 30 March 2024, he stole items from Dealz in Nutgrove Shopping Centre, Dublin 14; the goods were recovered only after his apprehension. Wilson, who holds a diploma in addictions studies from UCD, pleaded guilty to public order, road traffic and theft offences. Judge John O'Leary imposed a three‑month sentence for the traffic offence and a two‑month sentence for the public order matter, to run concurrently and take effect immediately. He also imposed a separate two‑month sentence for the theft at Dealz, to run consecutively to Wilson's current prison term.
Christopher Farrell, 69, of Tallaght, was fined €750 for dangerous driving after a police chase. He pleaded not guilty to two counts of dangerous driving. The court dismissed the charge relating to an incident on Fortunestown Way but convicted him of a second count involving a pursuit outside his home. Garda David Sheehan reported that Farrell drove behind an unmarked patrol car, flashed his headlights, shouted abuse, and accelerated away, causing dust to rise from the median. He later turned into the Suncroft estate, sounded his horn, and drove into his driveway. Garda Sheehan described Farrell as "extremely aggressive," throwing his keys and handing his phone to a woman. The court noted Farrell's claim of panic was not credible once the patrol car's blue lights were activated. He was fined €750 with a five‑month payment period. The case was heard at Tallaght District Court by Judge Patricia McNamara.
A man with over 70 previous road traffic convictions has been sentenced to five years' imprisonment for dangerous driving causing the death of a pregnant woman at Galway Circuit Criminal Court. Frank Barrett, aged 44, of Ballybane, Galway, was driving a car in which Irene Lynch was a passenger when it crashed into a wall and became submerged in water near Menlo in the early hours of March 2024. Ms Lynch, who was 17 weeks pregnant, died in hospital a week later from a hypoxic brain injury, as did her unborn daughter. Barrett was disqualified from driving at the time of the incident and had consumed significant quantities of alcohol and cocaine. He pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death, drink driving and driving without insurance. Judge Brian O'Callaghan imposed a headline sentence of eight years, reduced to six years with the final 12 months suspended for three years, citing Barrett's early guilty plea and remorse as mitigating factors. Barrett was disqualified from driving for ten years and fined €1,500.
During a sentencing hearing on 21 July 2025, the court considered the case of Richard Treacy, 36, who had previously been convicted of manslaughter, dangerous driving, violent disorder and other offences. Treacy pleaded guilty to a money‑laundering offence under the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010, admitting that between 1 January 2014 and 12 January 2021 he concealed the true source of funds used to pay for renovations at his family home in Limerick. The court heard that €100,000 had been spent on the property, which had been purchased by another party in 2014, and that the renovations were carried out over several years. Garda Ronan O'Reilly presented evidence that cash, including £3,900 and €4,000, was found in the house, and that Treacy had no employment record.
Mark Kavanagh, aged 48, was sentenced by Judge Orla Crowe to a global term of six years and nine months, with the final 18 months suspended on strict conditions. The sentence follows a high‑speed chase on 28 April 2024 in which Kavanagh attempted to ram a Garda patrol car, drove at speeds up to 120 km/h, and was later apprehended after the vehicle crashed. He pleaded guilty to endangerment, criminal damage, dangerous driving, driving without insurance, and failing to provide a blood or urine sample. Kavanagh also pleaded guilty to two counts of burglary and handling stolen property in 2024, including an intrusion into the home of an 85‑year‑old man on 10 June 2024, where a key was taken. He has 168 prior convictions, including burglary, trespass, firearms and drug offences, and is disqualified from driving until 2030.
An amateur MMA fighter, Karl Byrne (27), of Russell View, Russell Square, Tallaght, was found in possession of cannabis for sale or supply on July 29, 2022, during a traffic stop in Tallaght. Byrne admitted guilt to the charge and was invited by Judge Patricia McNamara to voluntarily engage with a restorative justice drugs awareness programme, described as an opportunity to reflect. The case was adjourned to October 10 for Byrne to complete the programme and submit a reflective piece. Byrne, who has 14 previous convictions, mostly for road traffic and public order offences, stated he had since stopped using cannabis and returned to training as an amateur MMA fighter. Thomas Kane (31), of Ard Mór Drive, Brookfield, Tallaght, was convicted of knowingly permitting the possession of drugs in a vehicle under Section 19 of the Misuse of Drugs Act. Kane had pleaded not guilty, claiming he was unaware of the drugs. Judge McNamara rejected his account and found him guilty. She imposed 120 hours of community service in lieu of an eight-month sentence, subject to a probation report confirming Kane's suitability. His case was adjourned to October 3 for finalisation.
Yossry Madian, a 47‑year‑old house painter from Dublin, was disqualified from driving for four years after a collision on the South Circular Road on 19 October 2021. Madian's van was smashed by two former employees of his decorating business, prompting him to flee the scene at speed. He then collided with a motorbike, injuring the rider who suffered severe wrist and groin pain and was taken to hospital. Madian was initially charged with dangerous driving causing serious harm but pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious harm, a plea accepted by the Director of Public Prosecutions. Judge Elva Duffy sentenced him to 12 months, suspended in full, and imposed the four‑year driving disqualification. The victim's impact statement noted a €17,000 loss, and Madian offered €3,000 to the injured party as a token of remorse.
Callum Howell, 21, of Sandyford, Dublin 18, was sentenced at Tallaght District Court after pleading guilty to trespassing, theft, public order offences, road traffic matters, and failing to appear in court. The court heard that gardaí found Howell on a residential driveway in Stepaside in April 2025 in possession of stolen goods. He admitted to the charges, which included offences under the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act, and the Road Traffic Act. The judge noted Howell's 26 previous convictions but accepted evidence of severe mental health issues, including anxiety, neurodivergence, and substance misuse. Judge Patricia McNamara convicted and sentenced him on the trespassing charge to eight months in prison. This sentence was suspended for 12 months on the condition that Howell does not reoffend, possesses no illicit or non-prescribed substances, attends all medical appointments, complies with prescribed medication, and engages fully with Cluain Mhuire once a place becomes available. The judge warned that failure to comply would result in the immediate activation of the eight-month sentence. All remaining matters were taken into consideration in the disposal.
Keith O'Brien, 49, of Lowvalley, Crossmolina, Co Mayo, pleaded guilty at Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court to a single count of dangerous driving causing the death of James Moyles, 33. The incident occurred on Lord Edward Street, Ballina, Co Mayo, on February 20, 2024. The plea was entered before Judge Eoin Garavan. The court noted that Mr O'Brien has no previous convictions and is a working father of two. The matter is currently at the sentencing stage, with the judge deferring the imposition of a penalty to allow for the preparation of a probation report. Consequently, the case was adjourned, and Mr O'Brien faces sentencing on October 23 of this year. No final sentence or disposal has been recorded at this procedural stage. The report attributes the allegation of dangerous driving to the prosecution, which the defendant admitted. The summary reflects the validated procedural stage of sentencing and the specific adjournment for a probation report, ensuring no accusation is presented as a final conviction beyond the guilty plea.
Ryan Craig, 25, of Shancastle Drive, Clondalkin, appeared at the Central Criminal Court where he entered guilty pleas to the lesser offences of dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm and endangerment. These pleas replaced a previous attempted murder charge relating to an incident on October 20, 2024, at Cloverhill Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Craig admitted to driving a vehicle in a dangerous manner that caused serious bodily harm to Dillon Gilligan, and to intentionally engaging in conduct that created a substantial risk of death or serious injury to Mr Gilligan. The Director of Public Prosecutions confirmed that Craig could be arraigned on the remaining counts on a full facts basis, allowing the previously set trial date for the attempted murder charge to be vacated. Defense counsel Dominic McGinn SC requested an education report and a probation report, the latter specifically to examine restorative justice options. Mr Justice Paul McDermott directed that an education report, probation report, victim impact statement, and any other relevant reports be prepared. The matter was adjourned to October 28 for sentencing.
Philip Ormond, 43, was sentenced to four years and three months in prison for dangerous driving that caused the death of Kathleen Furlong, an elderly woman, on 8 September 2023. Ormond was driving 18 km/h over the speed limit when he ran a red light at the R136 junction in Tallaght, striking Furlong as she crossed the road. He fled the scene, later changing clothes and covering his car's registration plates with black plastic bags. The court heard evidence that he had a long opportunity to see the red light and that he deliberately chose to drive dangerously. He pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing death and leaving the scene. Judge Martin Nolan imposed the sentence, disqualified Ormond from driving for six years, and noted his remorse but highlighted the aggravating factors of speed, failure to obey the light and leaving the scene.
Patrick O'Connor, a 75‑year‑old Peace Commissioner from Ashford, Co Wicklow, forged the signatures of his two co‑directors when filing an A1 form for JP&P Property Limited in October 2022. He claimed he had no time to travel to obtain the signatures and that the co‑directors had consented to the forgery. The forged signatures were discovered by the Corporate Enforcement Authority during an investigation into a separate breach of the Companies Act. O'Connor pleaded guilty to one count of providing false information under the Companies Act. The court imposed a headline sentence of 18 months, reduced to 12 months, which was suspended in full. He was also disqualified from acting as a company director for five years. O'Connor has a small number of prior road‑traffic convictions and had previously worked for the Office of Public Works and ESB. The company never commenced trading.
Michael Cash, 33, of Ashlawn Park, Ballybrack, was found by Gardaí on a Luas track in Cherrywood carrying two golden hatchets and a large kitchen knife while riding an e‑scooter. He was wearing a balaclava and attempted to flee when officers arrived. Cash dropped one hatchet, which Gardaí recovered, and the other hatchet and knife were found concealed on his person. He pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of the hatchets. Cash has 116 prior convictions, including false imprisonment, assault, criminal damage and road traffic offences, and a history of alcohol and drug problems. The court noted his guilty pleas, cooperation with Gardaí, and his willingness to enter a custodial sentence. Judge Sinead Ni Chulachain imposed a three‑year sentence, with the final 12 months suspended for two years, and directed Cash to be placed under probation supervision for two years and to engage in a drug treatment programme.
Conal Sheridan, aged 32, pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to multiple counts of sexual assault, oral rape and defilement of a girl aged nine to sixteen between 2004 and 2011. The abuse began with inappropriate touching and escalated to digital penetration, oral rape, and grooming, including sending pornography. Sheridan's four prior convictions were for minor road traffic and drug offences. The victim, who remained anonymous, testified that the abuse destroyed her life, leading to overdose attempts, self‑harm, drug and alcohol problems, severe mental health issues and complex PTSD. Sheridan's plea of mitigation highlighted his early fatherhood and employment history. Judge Paul McDermott imposed a concurrent seven‑year prison term, suspended the final 18 months for two years on strict conditions, and ordered Sheridan to have no contact with the victim. The sentence reflects the prolonged, repeated nature of the offences and the significant harm caused.
Myles Smith, 22, had his dangerous driving conviction overturned at the District Court Appeals Court after Judge Jonathan Dunphy viewed a Snapchat video allegedly proving Smith was in the passenger seat during a Garda pursuit. Smith, of Clonsilla, Dublin 15, had previously pleaded not guilty to dangerous driving, driving without insurance, driving without a licence, and two counts of failure to produce documents. In the District Court, he was disqualified from driving for two years and fined €450 for dangerous driving, fined €400 for no insurance, and fined €300 for no licence. Defence counsel Aoife McNickle BL presented video evidence showing Smith in the passenger seat while Garda lights were visible. The State, represented by Clare Barry, argued the footage was edited and that Smith was the driver. Judge Dunphy stated that after numerous viewings, he had doubt over who was driving and found no satisfactory evidence Smith was the driver. He allowed the appeal, quashing the conviction. The report does not specify the finalisation status of the other charges or any adjournments for them.