A man from Ballyhaunis, County Mayo has been sentenced to eight years imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court for a sustained campaign of domestic violence against his former partner spanning seven years. Mark White, aged 54, pleaded guilty to six counts of assault causing harm, one count of threatening to kill and one count of sexual assault at their family home between 2010 and 2017. The court heard White subjected his partner to beatings, including an attack when she was 24 weeks pregnant, broke bones in her face and drove a vehicle towards her at speed. He also held a knife to her throat and sexually assaulted her. Some incidents occurred in front of their two children. White left the jurisdiction before gardai could interview him in 2019 and was subsequently arrested at Dublin Airport in November 2024 following a European Arrest Warrant. Mr Justice Paul McDermott imposed a headline sentence of eleven years, reduced to nine years and six months, with the final eighteen months suspended.
A 63‑year‑old man was sentenced to two years' imprisonment for three counts of indecent assault on his niece, who was aged five to six at the time, between February 1988 and December 1990 in her grandmother's home where the accused also lived. The judge, Justice Karen O'Connor, praised the victim for her impact statement, which she said would help other survivors find their voices. The man pleaded not guilty but was convicted by a jury. He has no prior convictions, a long work history and has not been in contact with Gardaí in 35 years, factors the judge cited as mitigating. He will be placed on the sex offenders' register. The sentence was reduced from a headline three years to two years, back‑dated to the date he entered custody. No expression of remorse was noted, and the Probation Service will not be involved. The case was heard at the Central Criminal Court.
A mother who sexually assaulted her daughter and allowed her brother to rape the child when she was six years old has been jailed for 15 years. The woman, in her 50s, was convicted of two charges of sexual assault and one of rape. Her brother, the child's uncle, was also jailed for 15 years for raping the child. The rape occurred after the mother brought her brother into a bedroom where the child was lying on the bed and let him rape her while she watched. The victim, who is now an adult, described the abuse as "incredibly difficult" and said she felt like an outcast in school. The judge described the abuse as "remarkable in its depravity and cruelty" and noted the girl grew up in a household of "severe neglect and physical chastisement." The mother and uncle denied the charges and have expressed no remorse.
A familial abuse trial is ongoing before Ms Justice Caroline Biggs, involving seven men accused of sexually abusing a deaf woman over a 17-year period from 1996 to 2013. The defendants, comprising four brothers and three uncles, have all pleaded not guilty to a combined total of 103 charges. During cross-examination, the complainant, who is giving evidence via video link with interpreters, denied confusing the accused with another man and insisted she is telling the truth. Accused A, a 55-year-old uncle, faces one count of rape alleged to have occurred between December 2009 and April 2011. Accused B, aged 48, is accused of eight counts of rape, oral rape, and anal rape between December 2008 and December 2010. Accused C, 34, faces 45 counts of rape and anal rape against the primary complainant between 2001 and 2013, plus additional charges against two other sisters, including sexual assault, rape, and anal rape. Accused D, 33, pleaded not guilty to 19 charges of rape and three counts of anal rape between 2002 and 2013. Accused E, 32, denied nine counts of anal rape and seven counts of rape between 2003 and 2011. Accused F, also 32, denied five counts of anal rape and rape between 2007 and 2010. Accused G, 45, denied a single count of rape between 1996 and 1997. The trial continues.
A retired judge is seeking to have a personal injury claim against him struck out, following allegations of sexual assault at a book launch in Kerry. Judge James O'Connor, who retired in 2018, denies all allegations. The woman claims she was sexually assaulted by him at the Gleneagle Hotel in Killarney in 2017. The High Court heard that the Director of Public Prosecutions decided against a criminal prosecution. The judge's solicitor argues the claim is statute-barred and malicious, citing the delay in bringing the case and the lack of notice. The woman's counsel countered that the limitation period for personal injury claims is six years and that the case was brought within that timeframe. The court has reserved judgment on whether to strike out the proceedings.
The trial of seven men accused of familial sexual abuse is ongoing before the Central Criminal Court, with the judge warning jurors to treat one another with respect amid reported discord. The defendants, aged 32 to 55, have pleaded not guilty to a combined total of 103 charges, primarily concerning a deaf relative abused between 1996 and 2013. Accused A, a 55-year-old uncle, faces one count of rape; Accused B, 48, faces eight counts including oral and anal rape; and Accused G, 45, faces one count of rape. Four brothers are also charged: Accused C, 34, faces 45 counts of rape and anal rape, plus additional charges against two other sisters, including sexual assault of Complainant 2 and rape of Complainant 3; Accused D, 33, pleaded not guilty to 19 counts of rape and three of anal rape; Accused E, 32, denied nine counts of anal rape and seven of rape; and Accused F, 32, denied five counts of rape and anal rape. The complainant is currently being cross-examined via video-link with interpreters. The matter is at the trial stage and has not been finalised.
A man convicted of sexually abusing three of his siblings has appealed his eight-year sentence as disproportionate. Gerry Harte, aged 72, of Tullynacrunat North, Castleblayney, County Monaghan, pleaded guilty to 15 counts of indecent assault against two younger sisters and a younger brother during the 1970s and 1980s. The Central Criminal Court imposed the sentence in October 2024. At the Court of Appeal, Harte's counsel argued the sentence breached proportionality principles, as the original charges fell under legislation carrying a maximum term of two years. The defence contended that imposing consecutive sentences both within and across victims effectively circumvented the statutory ceiling, resulting in a sentence four times the legal maximum. The Director of Public Prosecutions countered that the trial judge properly considered each victim's circumstances and the persistent nature of the offending. Justice Isobel Kennedy reserved judgment on the appeal.
Dilzar Hamad, a 40-year-old barber from Carrick on Shannon, Co Leitrim, was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court for the rape of a woman who was a guest in his home in early 2021. A jury convicted Hamad in March 2025 following a retrial after a hung jury in 2024. He pleaded not guilty and continues to deny the offence, claiming it was consensual. Mr Justice David Keane set a headline sentence of nine years but reduced it to eight years, citing mitigating factors including Hamad's good character, cooperation with gardai, and good prison behavior. The judge noted that Hamad's refusal to accept the verdict meant he demonstrated no remorse or rehabilitation. A probation report indicated a high risk of re-offending in the next 12 months due to factors such as hostility towards women and sexual preoccupation. The judge ordered two years of post-release supervision with strict conditions to protect the public. The victim stated in her impact statement that the offence changed her life forever and she no longer feels safe. The prosecution argued the case fell into the 'more serious' band, while the defense submitted it was standard. Hamad has no previous convictions.
William Kavanagh (67), a well-known musician, was given a total of 17 and a half years for repeatedly raping his former wife and her sister. Kavanagh was convicted of 59 offences, including anal rape, sexual assault, and vaginal rape, which took place between 1996 and 2006. His former wife and sister read victim impact statements, detailing the devastating impact of the abuse on their lives. Kavanagh does not accept the jury's verdict and maintains his innocence. The judge, Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo, said Kavanagh has a high degree of moral culpability and that the abuse had a profound ongoing impact on both victims. Kavanagh was sentenced to seven years for the offences against his former wife and 12 years and six months for the offences against his sister. The final 12 months of the sentence was suspended. Kavanagh's defence argued that he has no prior relevant convictions and has suffered from depression. William Kavanagh pleaded not guilty.
A 33-year-old man convicted of defiling a child at his home has been granted bail pending his appeal against conviction at the Court of Appeal in Dublin. The man, whose identity is protected to safeguard the complainant, was convicted by majority jury verdict at Castlebar Circuit Court in 2020 of defilement and sentenced to two years imprisonment with the final year suspended. He was acquitted of a separate sexual assault charge relating to the same complainant. His legal team objected to the trial judge's references during jury directions to the prosecution's characterisation of the defence as a "Bart Simpson defence", arguing this amounted to judicial advocacy and rendered the trial unfair. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy found the threshold for bail was met, particularly regarding comments she identified as potentially prejudicial. The man was released on his own bond of €150 with a €5,000 cash lodgement, subject to conditions including attendance at a local garda station three times weekly. The appeal hearing is scheduled for 7 May.
Two Slovak nationals have been convicted and sentenced at the Central Criminal Court following a sexual assault on two teenage girls on a disused railway line in County Mayo in March 2023. Rudolf Makula, aged 30, of Gleann Ard, Ballaghderreen, Roscommon, pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting one girl. Marian Peci, aged 29, of no fixed abode, was convicted following trial of sexually assaulting and falsely imprisoning a second girl. Mr Justice Paul McDermott imposed a sentence of three and a half years on Makula and three years on Peci, with two years post-release supervision for both. The court heard the men had separated the girls from their friends after plying them with alcohol. The judge noted the girls had been entitled to feel safe when socialising and commended friends who intervened to assist them. Both men remain in custody since August 2025.
Darren Hayes, 50, was sentenced at the procedural stage of sentence for a series of offences in the Baggot Street area. The defendant pleaded guilty to 10 counts of burglary and seven counts of criminal damage committed between September 6 and October 15, 2023. The court heard that Hayes, who was on bail at the time, carried out these acts at unoccupied office premises, forcing entry and causing damage or stealing property. On September 6, he allegedly stole €21,929 worth of laptops and iPhones from a Haddington Road office with another man, who has since fled the jurisdiction. On October 15, he allegedly ransacked a hair salon and damaged other businesses, including a gym and doctors' offices. Judge Orla Crowe noted Hayes's extensive criminal history, including 140 previous convictions, one for rape, and two for failing to inform gardaí of a change of address under the Sex Offender's Act. She described the theft of devices and the destruction of equipment as requiring separate marking. The judge imposed a sentence of three years and four months, with the final year suspended, on those specific offences and took the remaining counts into consideration. Defense counsel highlighted Hayes's chronic drug addiction and housing difficulties, noting his intention to enter residential treatment upon release. Hayes is currently serving a sentence for other burglaries.
Sabrina Fox, a young woman who was repeatedly raped and abused by her uncles from the age of nine until she was 13, spoke out in court about the lasting trauma of the abuse. James Joseph Jordan and Patrick Fintan Jordan pleaded guilty to rape and indecent assault. Fox described how her uncles had intimidated her and told her to forget the abuse, leaving her feeling ashamed and isolated. Justice David Keane imposed a nine-and-a-half-year sentence on both men, noting the severity of the abuse and the vulnerability of the victim. The judge acknowledged the men's guilty pleas and their medical issues but emphasized the need for justice. The victims' impact statement highlighted the long-term effects of the abuse on Fox's life and mental health.
An Indian business student, Rishabh Mahajan, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to four counts of offensive conduct of a sexual nature and one count of sexual assault. The incidents occurred in October and November 2024, where Mahajan sexually assaulted a woman and masturbated in public. Garda Patrick Hynes told the court that the incidents were captured on CCTV and were "quite brazen" and took place in "quite an exposed part" of the city. The complainant outlined the effects of the offending in a victim impact statement. Garda Stephanie Traynor stated that Mahajan was identified and arrested in early November. Mahajan told gardai that he couldn't remember carrying out the offence. His defence counsel, Patrick Flynn BL, said Mahajan had arrived in Ireland a month earlier to study at the Smurfit business school and was now in homeless accommodation. He offered an apology on his client's behalf to all victims. Judge Baxter adjourned sentencing to May 19 and remanded Mahajan on continuing bail, ordering him to provide the Probation Service with his contact details.
A High Court judge has praised a woman who was sexually abused by her uncle for her victim impact statement, which she said would help other survivors 'find their voices'. Justice Karen O'Connor told the woman that she should be proud of what she had done to help other victims. The woman's uncle, now aged 63, had pleaded not guilty to a number of charges but was convicted by a jury following a trial last year on three charges of indecent assault. The offences occurred between February 1988 and December 1988 in the child's grandmother's home, where the uncle was living. The court heard that the then 25-year-old man would regularly get into bed with the then five-year-old child naked and rub his body against her. Ms Justice O'Connor remanded the man in custody and adjourned sentencing to later this month. She spoke directly to the complainant and thanked her for her 'very eloquent and detailed report'.
A 20-year-old man has pleaded guilty to eight counts of sexual assault and one count of anal rape of a child between January and August 2021. The accused, who was aged between 15 and 16 at the time of the offences, sexually abused his 11-year-old cousin over a period of months. The abuse ended when the victim's younger brother informed their mother of the incidents. The victim, now 20, described the impact of the abuse in a victim impact statement, stating it had a 'life-altering affect' on him, leading to a diagnosis of PTSD, social anxiety, and depression. He outlined the ongoing effects on his mental health, education, and social life. The accused admitted guilt and the injured party did not have to give evidence. The case is at the sentence stage, and Ms Justice Melanie Greally adjourned the sentencing hearing until March 2, 2026, when a probation report will be available and a plea in mitigation will be heard from the defence legal team.
A young man who raped a 15-year-old girl in a field near a housing estate in north Dublin has been jailed for three years. The man, now 19, was found guilty of rape, attempted oral rape, sexual assault, and assault causing harm in March 2022. He was 16 at the time of the incident. The attack began with consensual kissing but escalated when he refused to stop touching the girl despite her repeated requests. He became aggressive, choking her and telling her, "You're mine," before proceeding to rape her. The victim reported the attack to her mother, who subsequently threw her out of the house. The girl ended up homeless and in hostels, suffering severe mental health issues. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath described the victim impact statement as harrowing, noting the catastrophic effect on the girl. He stated that if the defendant had been an adult, the sentence would have been eight years. However, considering his age, he imposed a three-year sentence, suspending the final year to encourage rehabilitation.
A man convicted of raping a woman as she slept beside her boyfriend and newborn baby in County Donegal has failed in his appeal against conviction at the Court of Appeal. Shaun O'Donnell, aged 35, was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment in August 2024 following his conviction on one count of rape and one count of sexual assault. The offence occurred on 26 March 2021 at a home in Donegal. O'Donnell's appeal argued that the trial should have been stayed because two items of the victim's clothing were unavailable for DNA testing. Ms Justice Nuala Butler rejected the appeal, finding that O'Donnell had introduced a new argument not raised at trial. She noted that DNA testing on available items had proved negative and that substantial evidence remained for the jury to consider, independent of forensic analysis. The judge stated the law does not impose an obligation on crime victims to preserve evidence. O'Donnell has not accepted the verdicts nor expressed remorse.
The 40‑year‑old defendant, whose name is withheld to protect complainants, was convicted in December 2023 on nine counts of sexual assault under the Criminal Law (Rape) Amendment Act 1990. The offences, alleged to have occurred between March 1996 and July 2002, involved three women who were aged six, seven and 17 at the time. The defendant, aged 11 to 17 during the alleged acts, was jailed for four years by Mr Justice David Keane in April 2024. He appealed on two grounds: that the trial judge should have severed the charges relating to the third complainant from those involving the first two, and that a doli incapax defence should have been granted. The Court of Appeal dismissed both grounds, ruling that the judge's decisions were not erroneous and that sufficient evidence existed to rebut the doli incapax presumption. The appeal was dismissed by Mr Justice John Edwards. The case remains at the conviction stage.
Sarah Ryan, a victim of rape and coercive control by her former partner Nathan Grant McNulty, spoke out after he was jailed for eight years. Ms Ryan waived her right to anonymity, emphasizing the importance of speaking out against abuse. She described the experience as 'pure evil' and expressed a desire to 'turn my pain into purpose'. McNulty pleaded guilty to charges of rape and coercive control. The court heard that Ms Ryan suffered years of physical and emotional abuse, including beatings and threats. She described feeling trapped in a nightmare and suffering from severe depression and anxiety. The judge noted the aggravating factor of the relationship being intimate and domestic. McNulty received a nine-year sentence with the final year suspended under strict conditions. Ms Ryan's family, friends, and support organizations were thanked for their support. The case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help. Nathan Grant McNulty was convicted.
A 68-year-old man who was convicted of sexually abusing four family members, including his granddaughter and nephew, will continue to serve a life sentence after the Court of Appeal rejected his appeal. The man was found guilty of 24 charges, including two charges of anally raping his granddaughter and 22 charges against his nephew. He had denied all the charges and launched an appeal, arguing that the jury was prejudiced by evidence given by his daughter. The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal, with Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy stating that the evidence given by the man's daughter was essential to understanding the case. The judge noted that the evidence was admissible both as background evidence and to support the accounts from the man's granddaughter and nephew. The appeal also included arguments about the jury's verdict on one of the counts, but the court found no prejudice. The man's sentencing hearing was told he did not accept the verdicts of the jury and continues to maintain his innocence.
A young man from Donegal has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison, with the final eighteen months suspended for one year, following his conviction for oral rape. Jason McLaughlin of Cashel, Gleneely pleaded guilty to the offence, which occurred in January 2022 when he was sixteen years old. The victim was fourteen at the time. Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring, sitting at the Central Criminal Court, heard that the defendant approached the girl after they met behind a filling station. He has been ordered to pay €10,000 compensation to the injured party in January 2026 and will remain under Probation Service supervision for one year following his release. During sentencing, the judge expressed concern that early access to pornography featured as a recurring pattern in cases involving young male offenders.
The Central Criminal Court sentenced three adults for offences against a 13-year-old girl during court-ordered access visits. A 34-year-old man, the aunt's partner, pleaded guilty to oral rape and sexual assault between July and September 2023. Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring sentenced him to ten years for oral rape and three years for sexual assault, to run concurrently. She suspended the final 12 months and placed him under probation supervision for 12 months. The girl's father, aged 41, pleaded guilty to child neglect (September 2022–September 2023) and intimidation of a witness. He was sentenced to six years for intimidation and four years for neglect, to run concurrently. The final 12 months were suspended, with 12 months of probation supervision. The girl's aunt, aged 40, pleaded guilty to child neglect. She received a three-year sentence, with the final two years suspended for 12 months, and was placed under probation supervision for 12 months. The court noted the defendants exposed the child to alcohol and drugs. The father allegedly intimidated the child into dropping her complaint. All sentences were pronounced at the sentencing stage.
A 23-year-old man has been jailed for four years for the defilement of a 16-year-old girl whom he plied with alcohol. The Central Criminal Court heard that the defendant pleaded guilty to one count of defilement of a child under the age of 17 on February 16, 2025, in Co Westmeath. The injured party was extremely intoxicated and fell unconscious after consuming alcohol with the defendant and his friend. She was found in a highly intoxicated state near her home, with cuts to her hands, and an ambulance was called. The girl was also examined at a Sexual Assault Treatment Unit. Gardai obtained CCTV footage, and the defendant was identified and arrested. A victim impact statement was read to the court, which spoke of the fear and anxiety she had experienced. The defendant arrived in Ireland in June 2024 seeking asylum and was living in an IPAS Centre at the time of the offence. A probation report stated that the defendant has taken full responsibility for his actions and is deeply ashamed.
A man from Castlefinn, County Donegal has been sentenced to six and a half years imprisonment by the Central Criminal Court following his conviction for rape. Kevin McGovern, aged 28, was found guilty by jury of one count of rape committed on 21 August 2021. Two further charges, comprising sexual assault and burglary, resulted in a nolle prosequi after the jury could not reach agreement on these matters. Ms Justice Melanie Greally imposed a seven-year sentence with the final six months suspended. She identified grave aggravating factors, including breach of trust, the violation occurring in the victim's own home and bed whilst she slept, and the profound impact on the injured party. The judge noted McGovern's lack of previous convictions. He was directed to accept Probation Services supervision for twelve months following release. His sentence was backdated to 18 November when he entered custody. An earlier trial at Carrick-on-Shannon had been discharged following a procedural issue.
The Central Criminal Court jury trial of seven men accused of familial abuse has been adjourned until January 12 for the Christmas break. The accused, aged 32 to 55, have all pleaded not guilty to a combined total of 103 charges. The primary complainant, who is deaf, completed her evidence-in-chief via video-link with interpreters and an intermediary. She alleged that Accused F, her 32-year-old brother, raped and anally raped her between 2007 and 2010. Accused A, a 55-year-old uncle, is accused of one count of rape. Accused B, another uncle, faces eight counts of rape, oral rape, and anal rape. Accused C, 34, is accused of 45 counts of rape and anal rape against the primary complainant, plus further charges of sexual assault and rape against two other sisters, Complainant 2 and Complainant 3. Accused D, 33, pleaded not guilty to 19 counts of rape and three of anal rape. Accused E, 32, denied nine counts of anal rape and seven of rape. Accused G, 45, denied one count of rape. Ms Justice Caroline Biggs directed the jury to return on January 12, noting that preparatory work would occur during the break. All allegations remain contested, and no findings or sentences have been issued.
A 64-year-old man who sexually abused and raped two of his sisters, his niece, and his own two daughters has failed in his attempt to overturn his convictions. At the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy ruled that there was no prejudice to Richard O'Brien by the trial judge allowing the victims to give evidence via video link. The court also rejected O'Brien's argument that there was no evidence of a lack of consent from some of the complainants. O'Brien was convicted unanimously by a jury in 2023 following a trial in the Central Criminal Court. His five victims, including his sisters, niece, and daughters, waived their right to anonymity so he could be named. The abuse occurred at his family home in Ballyfermot and continued until the women ran away as teenagers. The women described physical abuse and emotional torture at his hands. O'Brien also abused his own daughters, leading to their removal into care. One daughter later told her foster mother about the abuse, prompting others to come forward.
A 62-year-old man who sexually abused three children over several years had his sentence increased from five years and three months to eight years in prison after the Court of Appeal ruled the original sentence was unduly lenient. The man, who cannot be named to protect the victims, admitted to five charges of indecent assault. The Court of Appeal noted that the abuse was not a one-time incident but occurred repeatedly over a long period. The assaults involved digital penetration and genital touching, and the perpetrator exploited his position as a trusted neighbor and employee. The victims were preteens, while the perpetrator was significantly older, and the court emphasized the cruel exploitation of the age difference. The judge noted that the abuse was pre-planned and occurred when the victims were away from adults. A psychological report indicated the perpetrator had an intellectual disability, but the court ruled that this did not mitigate his culpability. The unnamed 62-year-old pleaded guilty.
A man from County Donegal has been sentenced to three years imprisonment by the Central Criminal Court following his guilty plea to sexual assault charges. The defendant, now aged 41, pleaded guilty in October to four sample counts of sexual assault occurring within the family home between 2003 and 2005, when the victim was aged between 10 and 13 years and he was aged between 19 and 21. Justice Karen O'Connor noted the offending was premeditated and characterised by a significant breach of trust. The judge highlighted aggravating factors including the age disparity, the victim's isolation following disclosure, and the fractured family relationships that resulted. The victim delivered a statement to the court describing the lasting psychological impact and the loss of her childhood innocence. Justice O'Connor commended the victim's courage and voice. The defendant has no previous convictions. The sentence was backdated to his entry into custody.
A man subjected his wife to a prolonged campaign of coercive control, sexual assault, and rape during the Covid-19 lockdown, leading to a nine-and-a-half-year prison sentence. The victim described the ordeal as a "prolonged campaign of domination" that culminated in a rape in June 2021. The court heard that the man threatened to expose her private matters, slapped her in front of her children, and repeatedly sexually assaulted her despite her repeated refusals. The victim suffered from PTSD and described the lasting psychological impact of the abuse. The judge noted the man's disregard for his wife's consent and the severe breach of trust. He imposed consecutive sentences and suspended the final 18 months on strict conditions, including no contact with the victim. The man has 10 previous convictions for breaching barring orders and has since expressed remorse, though the judge was skeptical of his sincerity. The unnamed accused pleaded not guilty.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Karl Fish (53) was convicted on two counts of rape and two counts of indecent assault, all committed between November 1988 and November 1990 when he was 16 or 17 and the victim was 14 or 15. The victim, a woman who was raped as a teenager by her cousin, testified that Fish had twisted the truth and tried to conceal his actions. Justice Karen O'Connor sentenced Fish to ten years for the rape offences, reduced to five years because of his age at the time, and further to four years to account for the delay in prosecution. The sentence reflects the seriousness of the offences and the impact on the victim, who expressed gratitude for the court's decision and her support network. No further legal outcomes are mentioned in the article. Karl Fish pleaded not guilty.
Rui Mendes, 45, of Ardrahan, Co Galway, was sentenced at Galway Circuit Criminal Court for one count of sexual assault committed at an address in Galway on November 27, 2021. The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge. Judge Brian O'Callaghan handed down an 18-month custodial sentence but deferred the commencement of the term to January 20 to allow Mendes to spend the Christmas holidays with his family. The judge suspended the final six months of the sentence in recognition of the substantial rehabilitation work undertaken by the defendant. Mendes was placed under the supervision of Probation Services for 12 months post-release. Additionally, the court ordered that €2,000, provided by Mendes as a token of remorse, be paid to the victim within four weeks. The judge noted that the assault occurred while the victim was asleep and was for self-gratification, despite her clear prior rejection of his advances. The matter was finalised with this sentencing order.
A 64-year-old man, Richard O'Brien, who sexually abused and raped his sisters, niece, and daughters, is appealing his conviction, arguing that allowing victims to give evidence via video link was unfair. O'Brien was convicted of 63 counts of rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault against five victims between 1975 and 2011. His appeal focuses on the fairness of allowing some victims to give evidence by video link, as the defence claims the jury was deprived of seeing the witnesses in person. O'Brien's counsel argued that the medical reports did not justify the use of video link for some victims and that the lack of consent for certain rape counts was not adequately established. The prosecution countered that the judge had discretion in allowing video evidence and that the jury had an adequate opportunity to assess the witnesses' demeanour. The court will reserve judgment on the appeal.
Seven men, aged 32 to 55, are on trial at the Central Criminal Court, accused of 98 counts of sexually abusing a deaf woman between 1996 and 2013. All defendants deny the charges. The complainant, giving evidence via video-link with interpreters and an intermediary, alleged that Accused E (32) anally raped her at two locations. Accused E faces 16 counts of sexual abuse, nine counts of anal rape, and seven counts of rape. Accused A (55) is accused of one count of rape; Accused B (48) faces eight counts including rape and oral rape; and Accused G (45) is charged with one count of rape. Three brothers are also accused: Accused C (34) faces 45 counts of abuse, 22 counts of rape, and 23 counts of anal rape; Accused D (33) pleaded not guilty to 19 charges of rape and three counts of anal rape; and Accused F (32) denied five counts comprising anal rape and rape. Additionally, Accused C is charged with sexual assault of Complainant 2, two counts of rape and one count of anal rape of the same victim, and one count of anal rape of Complainant 3. The trial continues before Ms Justice Caroline Biggs and a jury.
A trial is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court involving seven men, aged 32 to 55, accused of 98 counts of sexually abusing a deaf woman between 1996 and 2013. The complainant, who gave evidence via video-link with interpreters, alleges abuse by her three uncles and four brothers. All accused deny the charges. Accused A (55) faces one count of rape; Accused B (48) faces eight counts of rape, oral rape, and anal rape; and Accused G (45) faces one count of rape. Four brothers are also charged: Accused C (34) faces 45 counts of rape and anal rape, plus separate charges regarding two other sisters, including sexual assault and rape. Accused D (33) pleaded not guilty to 19 counts of rape and three of anal rape. Accused E (32) denied nine counts of anal rape and seven of rape. Accused F (32) denied five counts of anal rape and rape. The trial, set down for four months, continues before a 15-member jury after a pause due to the complainant's hospitalization.
Matthew Fadeyi, a father of three from Navan, Co Meath, appeared before the Court of Appeal to challenge his conviction for rape. He was convicted of one count of rape following a retrial in May 2024, after a jury failed to reach a verdict in his initial 2021 trial. The incident, alleged to have occurred in August 2018, involved sexual intercourse in the back of a car with a significantly younger acquaintance. Fadeyi was sentenced by Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo to six years and six months in prison, with the final year suspended. His counsel, Barra McGrory KC, argued the trial was prejudiced because gardaí failed to take statements from the victim's parents, who discovered emergency contraception pills. Counsel suggested this omission prevented testing the consistency of the complaint, claiming the victim might have altered her account under pressure. The State, represented by Ronan Kennedy SC, rejected this as "transcript trawling," noting the defence had not raised this issue during the original trial and had admitted evidence of recent complaint. The State emphasized that the victim disclosed the incident to others immediately. Ms Justice Tara Burns reserved judgment, meaning the matter was adjourned and not concluded.
The Court of Appeal has ruled that the combined sentences of 35 years imposed on a notorious rapist were justified, as the offences are at 'the highest level of gravity.' Michael Murray, who was found guilty in 2021 of making death threats against his lawyers and harassing his victim, had appealed the severity of his 16-year sentence. The court dismissed the appeal, stating that there were no mitigating factors and that the sentences were justified given Murray's re-victimisation of his rape victim, the attack on the lawyers involved, and his 'appalling criminal record.' Murray, who has 34 previous convictions, including those for common assault, carrying firearms, robbery, and aggravated burglary, was sentenced to nine years for the threat to one lawyer and seven years for the threat to another. The judge ordered that these sentences be served consecutively to each other, for an effective operative sentence of 16 years. The court emphasized that the sentences were necessary to ensure that the punishment was 'condign but proportionate' and that the totality principle was correctly applied. Michael Murray pleaded not guilty.
A 'high risk' convicted rapist has been jailed for four years after a woman discovered him raping her with a carrot. The 63-year-old man, who has previous convictions for rape and sexual assault, pleaded guilty to raping the woman with an object in his home on dates between September and October 2023. The woman, who was a close friend of the man following the breakdown of her marriage, said her life has spiraled out of control since the incident. The court heard that the man was aware of her vulnerable position and took advantage of it. The woman's victim impact statement described the rape as having a 'tremendous' impact on her life, leading her to drink more to 'block out' the incident. The man, who has multiple health issues including mental health and addiction problems, wrote a letter of apology and is willing to engage with the Probation Service for his rehabilitation. Ms Justice Eileen Creedon imposed a six-year sentence, suspending the final two years on strict conditions.
A criminal who assaulted, raped and coercively controlled his partner during a six-week relationship in which she endured 'violence and extreme degradation' will remain in prison after a court today rejected his appeal against conviction. Dean Ward (38), also known as Dean Alexander Fowkes, was convicted following a trial in June 2022 of twelve offences, including four assaults, one false imprisonment, one making a threat to kill, two counts of production of articles, three counts of rape and one count of coercive control on dates between June 11 and July 17, 2019. Ward, who was jailed for 17 years, does not accept the verdict of the jury and continues to maintain his innocence. He was also jailed in 2016 for four years for falsely imprisoning and assaulting a young mother in November 2015. Survivor Ms Sinéad O'Neill, who was the victim in both cases, was also convicted in the trial. At Ward's sentence hearing, Ms O'Neill told the court she had led a quiet, happy life and had wanted someone to share it with. 'It only took him six weeks to destroy me,' she said. The matter was adjourned at the appeal stage.
A High Court judge has expressed concerns about children's unsupervised access to the internet while sentencing a 16-year-old boy for orally raping his six-year-old sister and distributing images of the abuse. The boy had unsupervised access to the internet from a young age and was exposed to pornography. The judge highlighted the damage caused by unchecked internet use and called for action from the tech world and lawmakers. The boy pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including oral rape and distribution of child pornography. The court heard that the victim was taken into care and is now doing well with her foster family. The judge imposed a four-and-a-half-year detention sentence, suspended on the condition that the boy engage with the Probation Service. The judge emphasized the importance of rehabilitation and the need for strict supervision to ensure public safety.
The Court of Appeal has reserved judgment on appeals against the sentences of three men convicted of the gang rape of a 17-year-old student in December 2016. The defendants, Gabriel Gomes Da Rocha, Eduardo Dias Ferreira Filho, and Marcus De Silva Umbelino, were unanimously convicted by a Central Criminal Court jury. In June 2022, Ms Justice Tara Burns sentenced Da Rocha to 20 years, Ferreira Filho to 18 years, and Umbelino to 15 years, suspending the final year of each term. The appeals argue these sentences are excessive. Counsel for Da Rocha and Ferreira Filho contended the trial judge erred in categorizing the offending in the highest band, suggesting a 10-to-15-year range was appropriate given their ages and lack of prior convictions. For Umbelino, who was a minor at the time, counsel argued the reduction for youth was insufficient, citing UK guidelines. The Director of Public Prosecutions maintained the trial judge correctly applied the law and considered mitigating factors. The matter was adjourned pending the court's decision.
A 39‑year‑old man was tried at Galway Circuit Criminal Court for a single count of sexual assault that allegedly occurred on 28 October 2019 at a friend's rented accommodation in Galway. The complainant, a young woman, testified that after a night of drinks she and her friend slept in the bedroom, during which the accused allegedly touched her genital area, digitally penetrated her vaginally and rectally, and then left. She reported the incident to her mother and the Gardaí, and was examined at a Sexual Assault Treatment Unit. The accused pleaded not guilty. During cross‑examination the defence questioned the complainant's memory of the events and suggested the alleged activity was consensual, which she denied. The trial, presided over by Judge Brian O'Callaghan, is ongoing before a jury.
Aidan Moore, a survivor of sexual abuse, expressed that today is a victory for all victims of sexual abuse crimes. He acknowledged the courage of the victims and their families, as well as the work of An Garda Siochana and the DPP in bringing justice. Moore highlighted the importance of victims coming forward and being heard, especially in light of the Blackrock Boys documentary that exposed the abuse at Willow Park and Blackrock College. He encouraged others to seek help from organizations such as One in Four and Restore Together. Moore emphasized that sexual abuse remains a live issue and that adults must be proactive in protecting children. He concluded by stating that his presence today is to make a difference in even one person's life, showing that victims are not alone and that justice can be achieved.
Peter Kelly, a former teacher at a Spiritan-run school, has been jailed for 10 years for the indecent assault of eight boys over 30 years ago. Kelly was convicted of 28 counts of indecent assault at Willow Park School, where he was accused of being one cog in a machine of systematic abuse. The victims, now in their early 50s, described the abuse as traumatic and ongoing, with some suffering from psychiatric issues, addiction, and intergenerational harm. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the bravery of the victims and the significant damage caused by Kelly. The abuse occurred in various locations, including classrooms and the school gym, and involved games such as 'The Muppet Show' where Kelly would tickle and molest the children. The victims spoke of the lasting impact of the abuse, including PTSD, insomnia, and panic attacks. Kelly's defense argued that he never owned a passport and that the school had its own disciplinary regime. The judge imposed a global consecutive sentence of 10 years, noting the lack of acceptance of the verdict by Kelly. Peter Kelly pleaded not guilty.
Serial sex offender Philip Murphy has been jailed for 15 years for the repeated rape and sexual abuse of his younger brother and two young girls over 30 years ago. The judge, Mr Justice Paul Burns, noted that Murphy represents an ongoing danger to society and ordered that he remain under post-release supervision for 10 years. Murphy was convicted of 15 counts of rape and sexual assault, and his half brother, Michael Murphy, was jailed for four years for raping one of the girls. The victims, who were all young children at the time, described the abuse as traumatic and ongoing. Murphy threatened the older girl that he would abuse her younger sister and kill her father if she did not comply with his demands. The judge emphasized that Murphy's actions were gravely wrong and that the victims were not at fault. Michael Murphy was also sentenced for raping a girl when he was around 16 or 17. The victims spoke of the lasting impact of the abuse, including mental health issues and addiction.
The Court of Appeal has quashed the original sentence of David Hamilton and resentenced him to eight and a half years for the rape, oral rape, and sexual assault of two female relatives in Meath between 2004 and 2008. Hamilton, who pleaded guilty to the charges, had previously been sentenced to seven and a half years by Mr Justice Tony Hunt at the Central Criminal Court. The Director of Public Prosecutions successfully appealed on the grounds that the original term was unduly lenient. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy noted the prolonged nature of the abuse and the defendant's awareness of its wrongfulness. The new sentence includes a suspended final year, with the suspension remaining in place for life. Jonathan Hamilton, David's brother, was separately sentenced to three years for one count of rape and sexual assault of the older victim in 2005, with the final six months suspended for life. The younger victim stated she was happy with the additional year added to David Hamilton's term, expressing hope to begin healing without fear.
A 16-year-old boy who had unrestricted access to a smartphone from an early age has been sentenced to 15 months in Oberstown Detention Centre for raping a 13-year-old girl he had been dating. The boy was convicted of three charges of oral rape and one of rape. The incidents occurred in County Galway, where both children lived with their families. The boy denied the allegations but admitted to watching porn from a young age, which influenced his sexual knowledge. The judge noted the boy's difficult childhood and the impact of technology on young people's development. The boy was sentenced to three years in detention, with 21 months suspended, and placed under probation supervision. He was also ordered to have no contact with the victim and to be registered as a sex offender for three years. The unnamed 13-year-old pleaded not guilty.
The Special Criminal Court heard the opening of a trial for four men accused of assaulting Barry Moore in February 2025. The State alleges that Jason Hennessy Jr, Brandon Hennessy, Kenneth Fitzsimons, and Dean Fitzsimons assaulted Mr Moore in a shed in Blanchardstown, allegedly branding him with a heated 'RAT' stamp and using a breaker bar and axe. All four accused pleaded not guilty to charges including false imprisonment, causing serious harm, and participating in criminal organisation activity. Jason Hennessy Jr is further charged with threatening property damage and producing a branding stamp; Brandon Hennessy is charged with producing a steel breaker bar; Dean Fitzsimons is charged with threatening to kill or cause serious harm and producing a branding stamp and breaker bar; and Kenneth Fitzsimons is charged with producing a breaker bar and axe. Devon Hennessy, who is not part of this trial, previously pleaded guilty to falsely imprisoning and assaulting Mr Moore to enhance criminal gang activities. Mr Moore, who was brought to court by prison officers, refused to testify, stating he would not give evidence. The prosecution applied to admit his statements to gardai into evidence, with arguments scheduled for Saturday. The matter was adjourned.
A high‑risk sex abuser was jailed for six years after pleading guilty to raping his next‑door neighbour in April 1991. The victim, who had just returned home after surgery, was lured in by the defendant's claim of lost keys. He forced her onto a sofa, dragged her upstairs, and raped her while she was weak and in pain. She later described the assault as humiliating and traumatic, noting that the man used his own key to re‑enter his home. The defendant had prior convictions for sexual abuse of his step‑daughter, for which he served a four‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence with 16 months suspended. In the current case, the judge set a headline sentence of nine years, reduced to seven years with the final 12 months suspended, and imposed probation supervision and a no‑contact order. The sentence was back‑dated to the defendant's December 2024 arrest.
A 48-year-old man from Dublin has been sentenced to one year in prison at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material. Alan Keating, formerly of County Galway, was arrested following a 2017 investigation initiated by Swiss authorities and Interpol. Gardaí executed a search warrant at his home while he was abroad, seizing a laptop containing 330 images and 719 videos depicting child sexual abuse. Among the most serious material were extreme images showing children bound and confined. A further 23,604 uncategorised files were also discovered. During the search, gardaí located a document outlining inappropriate conduct with children. The court heard Keating had shared files on an online platform on ten occasions. Judge Martin Nolan acknowledged mitigating factors including Keating's early guilty plea, cooperation, clean record, and engagement with therapy following seizure of the device. However, the judge noted the distribution element and the disturbing nature of documentation found. Keating will be placed on the Sex Offender Register.