The murder trial of Graham Dwyer, charged with killing Dublin childcare worker Elaine O'Hara (37) on 22 August 2012, has been moved forward by three months at the defence's request. Dwyer, a 41‑year‑old architect from Foxrock, is in custody awaiting trial. His barrister, Ronan Kennedy BL, informed Justice Barry White that Dwyer had been refused bail by the High Court but could apply for an earlier trial if available. The trial, originally set for 13 April next year, is now scheduled for 19 January next year and is expected to last six weeks.
Two Dublin men, Kenneth Brunell and Barry McArdle, aged 27, are wanted in Holland for the murder of Keith Ennis, 29, whose dismembered body was found in an Amsterdam canal in 2009. They were arrested in Ireland on extradition warrants issued in 2011. A third man, Philip County, 31, had already been extradited to Holland in April 2011. Irish Judge John Edwards ordered their surrender to Holland but the men's lawyers argued that Dutch authorities abused process by drafting a prosecution instead of an investigation to secure extradition. Edwards acknowledged a potential problem in Irish law regarding judicial oversight of European Arrest Warrants and sent a question to the Supreme Court. He remanded Brunell to Cloverhill prison pending surrender, while McArdle, serving a domestic sentence, was remanded until 9 November 2017 with a postponed release order pending appeal. The case remains pending before the Supreme Court.
A 19‑year‑old youth was placed on a six‑month Probation Bond after he punched a 14‑year‑old boy on a train from Gormanston to Skerries and stole his Apple iPod. The youth approached the victim, tried to seize the iPod, then struck the boy several times in the face, leaving severe bruising. He disembarked at Balbriggan Train Station with the device, and Gardaí later found him on Balbriggan Beach still in possession of the stolen iPod. He pleaded guilty to the theft before Balbriggan District Court on 10 August of the previous year. The Director of Public Prosecutions had directed a summary disposal of the case. Defence solicitor Fiona D'Arcy noted the youth's difficult upbringing, including physical abuse from his mother, and that he has no drink or drug problem.
Two Limerick men, Thomas McMahon, 31, and Noel Noonan, 34, were scheduled to stand trial at the Special Criminal Court for IRA membership. The prosecution had supplied a large quantity of disclosure and additional evidence to the defence in the days before the hearing. Counsel for Noonan requested a delay, and the presiding judge, Mr Justice Paul Butler, adjourned the trial to Wednesday. Both men are charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army, an unlawful organisation, as of 7 February 2013.
Swords District Court heard three matters involving alleged drug possession and criminal damage. Derek Boylan, 32, of Swords, is alleged to have unlawfully possessed cocaine and cannabis for sale or supply at his home in May 2013. Defence solicitor Patrick Jackson sought to have the case struck out due to delays in the Book of Evidence, arguing the State exceeded the 42-day preparation limit. Judge Dermot Dempsey acknowledged the delay but remanded Boylan on continuing bail until April 7, marking the date as peremptory against the State, meaning the case could be struck out if the evidence is not ready. Athula De Silva, 44, of Ashbourne, Co Meath, is charged with trespass, threatening and abusive behaviour, and intoxication at a Swords address in December 2013, and with causing criminal damage to a car wing mirror in January 2014. His case was adjourned, and he was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on May 26. In a separate matter, charges against Karen O'Connor, 22, of Raheny, for unlawful possession of cannabis for sale or supply in May 2013 were struck out at the direction of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Brian Culbert, a Limerick detective, has filed a High Court action to stop his possible dismissal after admitting he breached Garda rules on handling informants. He claims the internal disciplinary process is procedurally flawed and seeks orders to halt it. Counsel Breffni Gordon BL argued that Culbert, while investigating a serious crime, acted as an informant handler and ignored orders to stop, leading to a charge of breaching Garda Discipline. An internal board recommended dismissal in September 2013, but an appeal board was convened. Culbert's lawyers contend that the appeal board's discussion with the original board violated fair procedure, prompting a letter to the Commissioner. The Commissioner denied any wrongdoing. Mr Justice Michael Peart granted ex‑parte permission, staying the disciplinary process pending the High Court outcome, with a return date set for May.
A truck driver, Gavin John Maloney, 34, was extradited by the Irish High Court to the UK to face questioning over alleged unpaid VAT on cigarettes worth about £1.06 million that were seized from his truck. Maloney, who lives in Creewood, Slane, was detained by UK police, released on bail, and then absconded. His lawyers argued for bail during transfer, citing delays in executing the arrest warrant and his family responsibilities. The court noted the seriousness of the alleged offence and that Maloney was aware of his legal obligation to return. Maloney stated he intended to contest the charges and that he could not afford to travel to London for questioning. The judge acknowledged the personal hardship the extradition would cause but upheld the extradition order. The seizure involved 32 pallets of 6.4 million cigarettes.
Patrick Lee, 41, a Kildare resident, faces extradition to the United States for 51 alleged offences, including 29 counts of wire fraud, 6 of unlawful monetary transaction and 16 of aggravated identity theft. The High Court heard that Lee allegedly participated in a scheme that defrauded U.S. banks and mortgage lenders by purchasing properties in Boston between 2006 and 2007, converting them into apartments, and using forged appraisals to secure loans. Lee claims the allegations are false and denies any wrongdoing. He argues that some offences occurred while he was in Ireland and that Irish law should prevent extradition. The court considered evidence that 8 of the 51 alleged offences took place outside the U.S., and that 30 offences post‑dated the Criminal Justice Act 2006, potentially qualifying them as Irish offences. Lee also raised concerns about potential mistreatment and health care in U.S. prisons.
Patrick Lee, 41, of Newtown, Co Kildare, faces extradition to the United States on 51 charges, including 29 counts of wire fraud, six counts of unlawful monetary transaction and 16 counts of aggravated identity theft. He is accused of participating in a scheme that defrauded U.S. banks and mortgage lenders by securing loans for properties that were never repaid. The alleged scheme involved real‑estate lawyers, "straw buyers" and forged appraisals, with Lee allegedly receiving about €1 million for his role. U.S. authorities seek a maximum sentence of 42 years. Lee denies the allegations. Cathleen Noctor BL presented documents and affidavits to the High Court, while Lee's barrister, Kieran Kelly BL, will submit written arguments. The case is set for a hearing before Mr Justice John Edwards on Thursday, with Lee's legal team raising concerns about potential cruel treatment and the reliability of U.S. assurances regarding extradition.
The High Court will decide on applications by the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) and Ryanair to stop a planned four‑hour strike by Siptu members at Dublin, Cork and Shannon airports on 14 March. The strike, scheduled from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m., is linked to a dispute over pension cuts in the Aer Lingus and DAA superannuation scheme. The DAA and Ryanair argue the action is illegal and would cause major disruption, seeking injunctions to prevent it. Siptu, represented by Richard Kean SC, maintains the stoppage is a legitimate trade dispute over pension rights and rejects claims that the ballot was flawed. The judge, Mr Justice Paul Gilligan, has reserved his decision and will rule on Wednesday afternoon. The case reflects ongoing tensions over the €780 million deficit in the Irish Airlines Superannuation Scheme.
Two men, John O'Connor and Christopher McCarthy, charged with unauthorised turf cutting from Moanveanlagh Bog in Co Kerry, have filed High Court applications to halt their trial. They argue the charges are unconstitutional and lack proportionality, claiming the offence was created by the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht in 2011 without proper authority. The men, both from Kilbaha Moyvane, face prosecution for extracting peat that allegedly damaged the Special Area of Conservation. Their case is against the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Circuit Court Judge, the Minister, and the Attorney General. The High Court granted leave to bring the action and placed a stay on the prosecution, with the matter to be returned for a hearing in late April. Luke "Ming" Flanagan, an Independent TD and spokesperson for the Irish Turf Cutters and Contractors Association, supported the men's action. The offence could carry up to three years' imprisonment or a fine of up to €500,000.
Graham Dwyer, 41, of Foxrock, was charged with the murder of 37‑year‑old childcare worker Elaine O'Hara on 22 August 2012. He has been in custody since October and applied for bail at the High Court, but the State objected. His lawyer, Remy Farrell SC, argued that a 20‑month pre‑trial detention was unreasonable, while Seán Guerin SC for the State said the delay was not exceptional and that a trial would occur within 19 months of his arrest. Mr Justice Paul Carney refused bail.
A 32‑year‑old Dublin man, Thomas Ryan of McKee Park, pleaded guilty to attempting to murder Patrick Charles O'Neill on 26 August 2013 at Glasnevin Avenue, Ballymun. He was arraigned before the Central Criminal Court, where Mr Justice Paul Carney ordered a victim impact report and remanded him in custody for sentencing on 6 May.
Ali Charaf Damache, a forty‑eight‑year‑old Algerian‑born Irish citizen, was denied a second application for judicial review by the High Court. The court, presided over by Mr Justice John Edwards, found no new grounds to justify the review and held that Damache had not met the threshold for leave. Damache is wanted in the United States on international terrorism charges, including conspiracy to provide material support for terrorists and attempted identity theft. He had previously applied for review of the Director of Public Prosecutions' decision not to prosecute him in Ireland, and the court reiterated that the DPP has the right of first refusal. The judge noted that extradition remains possible even if the DPP decides not to prosecute domestically. Damache was remanded in custody pending further proceedings on 4 March.
Daniel O'Neill, 21, was heard at Balbriggan District Court for throwing eggs at the Balbriggan Post Office on 8 February, causing criminal damage, and for throwing a rock through a glass window at Whiteheart Inn on 22 February, smashing the window and breaking a glass candlestick holder. He has six previous convictions. Judge Patrick Clyne told him to 'change his short pants into long pants', noting his stable relationship and 13‑month‑old son, and that he must address his anger. The judge ordered a Probation & Welfare Report and remanded him on continuing bail to appear again on 1 May.
The Special Criminal Court adjourned the trial of Vincent Banks, 44, of Smithfield, Dublin, who pleaded not guilty to withholding information about the murder of prison officer David Black. The trial was set to begin this morning after a successful defence application to adjourn. Banks' counsel, Mr Micheál P. O'Higgins SC, explained that the defence was anxious to obtain PSNI investigation details and that a PSNI inspector had confirmed the disclosure request was under review. A detailed letter was sent to the inspector that morning. Mr O'Higgins requested the trial be postponed to allow the process to close out. The State's counsel, Mr Paul Greene SC, agreed, and Mr Justice Paul Butler adjourned the trial until tomorrow. Banks is also charged with membership of an unlawful organisation, the IRA, and remains remanded on that count. The murder of David Black, 52, occurred on 1 November 2012 when he was shot while driving to work near Lurgan. Dissident republicans claimed responsibility.
James Anthony Tighe, 64, of Pettiswood, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, is wanted by British authorities for alleged involvement in a £100 million money‑laundering conspiracy. He faces charges of conspiracy to cheat the public revenue, one charge of cheating the public revenue, and one charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering covering the period 1 January 1997 to 31 December 2005. Tighe was arrested in July 2012 under a European Arrest Warrant issued in September 2011. The High Court had previously ruled that he could be surrendered to the UK, but the Supreme Court overturned that decision in December 2010, citing an inadequate description of the alleged offence and conflicting charge classifications. Mr Justice John Edwards adjourned the extradition judgement for three weeks, remanding Tighe on continuing bail until 18 March, and will list the case again if the judgement is ready.
A 45‑year‑old man named Stephen Hendrick, from Balbutcher Drive, Ballymun, Dublin 11, was arrested in July 2014 at a yard in Cloghran by the Special Detective Unit and the Crime and Security Section during investigations into dissident republican activity. He was charged at an out‑of‑hours sitting of the Special Criminal Court on 3 July with membership of an unlawful organisation, the Irish Republican Army (IRA), and with possession of ammunition in suspicious circumstances at Furry Park, Turnapin Great, Old Airport Road, Cloghran. His solicitor, Michael Finucane, requested a trial date. Counsel for the State, Mr Garnet Orange BL, estimated the trial would last five days. Judge Paul Butler set the trial for 14 April 2015, instructing Hendrick, who is on bail, to notify the prosecution within 14 days if he intends to rely on an alibi and to give notice 21 days before the trial if he wishes to call witnesses.
A trial date has been set for south Dublin architect Graham Dwyer, aged 41, who is accused of murdering childcare worker Elaine O'Hara, aged 37, on 22 August 2012. O'Hara's remains were discovered in the Dublin mountains on 13 September 2013. Prosecutor Mr Sean Guerin SC told the Central Criminal Court that the trial would last six weeks. Defence counsel Mr Remy Farrell SC noted that further bail applications might be made, citing Dwyer's repeated bail refusals. Judge Paul Carney fixed the trial for 13 April 2015.
Patrick Lee, 41, of Newtown, County Kildare, is wanted by U.S. authorities for 51 offences including wire fraud, unlawful monetary transaction and aggravated identity theft. He allegedly participated in a scheme that defrauded U.S. banks and mortgage lenders by purchasing properties in Boston, converting them into apartments, and using "straw buyers" to secure mortgages that were never repaid. Lee is accused of forging appraisals and receiving about €1 million for his role. The U.S. seeks his extradition for a maximum sentence of 42 years. Lee denies all allegations and claims he would face cruel and inhumane treatment if surrendered, citing health concerns and alleged mistreatment at Shannon Airport. The High Court will consider the extradition request on 12 March, with counsel for both sides presenting evidence. The case remains pending before Mr Justice John Edwards.
Patrick Lee, 51, is wanted for extradition to the United States on 51 alleged offences, including 29 counts of wire fraud, 6 counts of unlawful monetary transaction and 16 counts of aggravated identity theft. He is accused of participating in a scheme that defrauded US banks and mortgage lenders by purchasing properties in Boston between 2006 and 2007, converting them into apartments, and using "straw buyers" to obtain mortgages that were never repaid. Lee allegedly forged appraisals, was not a licensed appraiser, and received about €1 million for his role. The scheme involved real‑estate lawyers and the use of forged documents to secure loans, resulting in foreclosures and significant losses for lenders. Lee denies all allegations, claims he was arrested in 2012, and argues that extradition would expose him to cruel treatment and violate his constitutional rights. The case is before Mr Justice John Edwards.
The Special Criminal Court in Dublin heard that the PSNI will not disclose material relating to the murder of prison officer David Black because it could jeopardise the ongoing investigation. The court was told that defence lawyers for Vincent Banks, 44, are seeking disclosure of PSNI material for a trial of a Dublin man charged with withholding information about the murder. Banks is charged with membership of an unlawful organisation styled the Irish Republican Army and with withholding information in relation to the murder of David Black. His counsel argued that the case against him was an allegation that he bought the Toyota car used in the killing and that nine of the first ten witnesses in the book of evidence are PSNI officers. The defence sought disclosure from the gardai of the PSNI material, claiming a real and serious risk of an unfair trial if the case went ahead without it.
The High Court has ordered the surrender of two Dublin men, Kenneth Brunell (27) of Palmerstown and Barry McArdle (27) of Drimnagh, to Dutch authorities. They are wanted in connection with the 2009 death of Keith Ennis (29) of Walkinstown, whose dismembered body was found in an Amsterdam canal. Ennis was on the run from Gardaí at the time of his death, and his body parts were dumped in a suitcase in a canal on the northern outskirts of Amsterdam after he was stabbed. A third man, Philip County (31) of Lucan, had already been extradited to Holland in April 2011. Mr Justice John Edwards announced the decision to surrender the pair, noting that a detailed judgment would be issued on Friday, February 21. He also remarked that the judgment would be extensive and that he would simply hand it down, while the men remained in custody until that date.
At Balbriggan District Court, James Ward, 43, faced seven charges alleging he induced individuals to make lodgements totaling €2,270 into his AIB account for goods such as Electric Picnic tickets, a Samsung Galaxy phone, and an iPhone. Ward's solicitor informed Judge Dermot Dempsey that the defendant suffered a stroke and could not attend. The Director of Public Prosecutions directed trial on indictment, and the matter was adjourned until April 10th. Jackie Gallagher, 53, was charged with the theft of €50 from a house in Lusk. Sergeant Tony Tighe provided evidence of arrest and charge. Judge Dempsey granted a disclosure order and remanded Gallagher on continuing bail to appear on March 6th for a plea or hearing date. Wojtek Jedrej, 19, was charged with possessing a sharply pointed knife in Balbriggan. His solicitor requested an adjournment as further charges may be put to him. Judge Dempsey agreed to adjourn the case until April 3rd. Jerry Flynn, 25, was charged with theft of fuel, violent behaviour, and dangerous driving. His case was adjourned until May 12th to be heard at Swords District Court.
Three men – Eoin Maguire (29), Cornelius Price (32) and Edward Price (24) – appeared before Judge Dermot Dempsey at Balbriggan District Court charged with several offences alleged to have occurred in December 2013. They are charged with assault causing harm to Clifford Whitehouse and James Whitehouse on 20 December 2013 at Bremore Castle, with the production of a Stanley knife on the same day, and with reckless endangerment of a garda at Balbriggan Garda Station on 22 December 2013. Maguire made no reply after arrest, while Price replied that he had said what he had to say. Maguire was granted bail with conditions to sign on three times a week at Drogheda Garda Station, stay away from witnesses, avoid Balbriggan and reappear on 3 April. Price was refused bail and remanded to Cloverhill to appear on 13 February.
Lawyers for Wayne Dundon, aged 35, have requested the Special Criminal Court to adjourn his upcoming trial for the murder of local businessman Roy Collins, also aged 35, which occurred on 9 April 2009 at Coin Castle Amusements, Roxboro Road Shopping Centre, Limerick. Dundon and Nathan Killeen, aged 23, are charged with Collins' murder and are scheduled to stand trial on 29 April. Counsel Remy Farrell SC applied for the adjournment, arguing that the trial could not realistically conclude within the four‑to‑five‑week period set aside and citing issues with the disclosure of evidence. He also indicated that the defence intends to seek judicial review in the High Court regarding this and other evidence. Counsel for Killeen, Keith Spencer BL, wished to make a similar application.
Ali Charaf Damache, 48, an Algerian-born Irish citizen, faces extradition to the United States on international terrorism charges. He is accused of conspiring to provide material support for terrorists and attempting identity theft to facilitate an act of international terrorism. Damache settled a legal action with the State in July over alleged inhuman and degrading conditions at Cork Prison. His lawyers applied for legal aid for a judicial review of the Director of Public Prosecution's decision not to try him in Ireland, but the High Court refused. Damache has been in custody for four years, has no assets, and had been receiving social welfare. He owes maintenance arrears to his three children, the youngest born in 1993, and his wife died in 1999. The US alleges he conspired with American woman Colleen LaRose, known online as "Jihad Jane," and others to create a terror cell in Europe.
James Anthony Tighe, 64, of Pettiswood, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, faces a High Court challenge to his extradition to the United Kingdom. He is wanted by British authorities for alleged involvement in a £100 million money‑laundering conspiracy linked to large‑scale fraud against UK public revenue. The UK seeks his surrender to face charges of conspiracy to cheat the public revenue, one charge of cheating the public revenue, and one charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering covering 1 January 1997 to 31 December 2005. Tighe was arrested in July 2012 under a European Arrest Warrant issued in September 2011. A previous High Court ruling allowing his surrender was overturned by the Supreme Court in December 2010 due to inadequacies in the warrant's description of the alleged offence. The High Court adjourned the case for three weeks, with Mr Justice John Edwards noting he had two cases to consider before delivering a judgment.
The Commercial Court has heard pre-trial proceedings brought by National Asset Loan Management Limited, a NAMA subsidiary, against businessman David Cullen, his wife Mary, Seafield Hotel Ltd, Paramount Hotel Ltd, solicitor Fintan Wallis, and Stephen Cullen. The applicants allege that David C unlawfully transferred or charged over 40 properties to his wife in 2009 and 2010 to place assets beyond the reach of creditors, including Bank of Ireland loans later assumed by NAMA. It is further alleged that Cullen leased the Turk's Head Bar and Paramount Hotel to companies in breach of security covenants. Mr Fintan Wallis is accused of unlawfully procuring the registration of land transfers to Mrs Cullen, while Stephen Cullen is alleged to have acquired a leasehold interest in Seafield Hotel Ltd as its beneficial owner. All defendants deny these claims. NAMA previously secured a €29 million High Court judgment against David Cullen for unpaid loans. Defence counsel Martin Hayden SC opposed fast-tracking the case, citing alleged culpable delay by NAMA. However, Mr Justice Peter Kelly rejected this argument, noting that NAMA required time to assimilate evidence from Mary Cullen's cross-examination and that a suspicion of fraud had been articulated. The judge transferred the litigation to the Commercial Court due to the number of properties involved and Cullen's status as a €29 million judgment debtor. The matter remains at the charge or pre-trial stage.
The Commercial Court has set a trial date of Tuesday, May 13, 2014, for a dispute between music promoter John Reynolds and Festival Republic Dublin Limited (FRD) regarding the Electric Picnic Music Festival. Counsel for Reynolds, Edward Farrelly BL, stated his client wished to proceed before the summer festival season, while FRD's counsel, Rossa Fanning, requested a May or October date due to peak business periods. Mr Justice Peter Kelly noted the case's first anniversary was approaching and allowed two weeks for discovery inspection. Reynolds, the applicant, seeks a declaration that he is entitled to manage the festival, alleging under section 205 of the Companies Acts that FRD refused to allow him to operate the event as envisaged. He claims this alleged refusal causes hardship to POD Music Ltd and that FRD's management decisions for 2012 and 2013 benefited the FRD Group at the expense of POD Music Ltd. FRD opposes these claims, alleging Reynolds engaged in deliberately obstructive behavior and sought a buyout at grossly inflated prices. The company denies excluding Reynolds from management or integrating the Picnic into its stable of events. The matter is at the pre-trial stage, with the trial scheduled for May 2014.
In a case heard at Cloverhill District Court, the judge was informed that 34‑year‑old Saverio Bellante, accused of murdering pro‑life campaigner Tom O'Gorman, is currently in the Central Mental Hospital. Bellante, a customer‑service agent from Palermo, was arrested after admitting guilt in a prior hearing. The state solicitor described the case as complicated and ongoing, and Vincent Maloney requested a four‑week remand to allow the Director of Public Prosecutions to compile a file, as two weeks were deemed insufficient. The defence sought legal aid and counsel for Bellante, citing his serious mental condition and inability to give a statement. Affidavits from Bellante's brother and sister were to be presented. The case was adjourned to 27 February. Tom O'Gorman, aged 39, was found dead at his Castleknock home on 12 January, with a post‑mortem conducted by Professor Marie Cassidy. The investigation remains active.
In a Dublin court on 29 January 2014, architect Graham Dwyer, originally from Cork and residing in Foxrock, was served with an eight‑volume book of evidence in connection with the murder of childcare worker Elaine O'Hara, aged 37, who was last seen on 22 August 2012 and whose remains were found on Killakee Mountain in September 2013. Dwyer, who had been charged on 18 October 2013, pleaded not guilty, was denied bail, and appeared again at Cloverhill District Court. Judge Victor Blake informed him that the book of evidence would be served and that any alibi must be communicated to the prosecution within 14 days. Dwyer was ordered to be sent forward for trial to the Central Criminal Court on the single charge listed in the book. The court noted that the evidence comprised one volume of statements and seven volumes of exhibits, with over 300 statements and 800 exhibits collected by Gardaí.
In a 2014 trial, Corey Mulhall, aged 43, faced charges of IRA membership after admitting to photographing the Harcourt Square Garda complex. Arrested in September 2012, Mulhall claimed he used the false name "Jason Egan" to book a hotel room and took photos at the request of an unnamed individual who offered him money. He also alleged that a man he believed to be a Garda informer had paid him €200 to secure the room and that the Garda had set him up. Mulhall's defence argued that the evidence pointed away from IRA membership, citing a 10‑page document that offered an alternative explanation for his presence. The prosecution highlighted Mulhall's formal admissions and the lack of disclosure of the document to the defence. The judge scheduled judgment for February 11, 2014. Corey Mulhall pleaded not guilty.
In a case heard at Balbriggan District Court, 19‑year‑old Alan Joyce was remanded on continuing bail pending a Probation & Welfare Report. Joyce, who lives in Finglas, was found on a train from Gormanston to Skerries and attempted to seize a 14‑year‑old boy's iPod. He punched the boy several times, causing severe bruising, and then left the train at Balbriggan Station with the stolen device. Gardaí later located him on Balbriggan Beach in possession of the iPod. Joyce had previously pleaded guilty to the theft of the iPod on 10 August of the previous year. The Director of Public Prosecutions had directed summary disposal of the case. Defence solicitor Ms Fiona Darcy explained that Joyce had been in HSE care since 2010 and had a difficult upbringing, noting that he had no drink or drug problem.
The trial of Andrew Gibney, aged 21, who is accused of murdering Gerard Burnett, aged 28, at Castlecurragh Vale, Mulhuddart on 21 August 2012, continues with legal argument. Gibney has pleaded not guilty, and the trial will resume in evidence this morning.
An 18‑year‑old Dublin youth is set to stand trial for alleged sexual assault of two teenage girls at a Dublin location in 2012. He is also charged with assault causing harm and using a cider can as a weapon during the alleged sexual assault. The youth denied the charges. The Director of Public Prosecutions has directed a trial on indictment, meaning the case will be heard in the Circuit Court, which has greater sentencing powers. He was remanded on bail and will appear again in March to be served with a book of evidence. His counsel, Kate O'Toole, told the judge that the defence intends to raise the issue of delay in bringing the case. The case will not be retained in the juvenile court because the accused had turned 18 at the time of the charges. Legal aid was granted and there was no objection to him remaining on bail.
In a Swords District Court hearing on 21 January 2014, Cillian Mahoney, aged 22, was charged with assaulting two men outside The Wright Venue nightclub on 25 November 2012. The court adjourned the case to 24 March, noting that Garda interviews had been completed and the case was ready for hearing. Judge Dermot Dempsey remanded Mahoney on continuing bail pending the March hearing. In a separate matter, Fortunato Nardoni, 28, was subject to a bench warrant for failing to appear in court over a no‑insurance driving charge dated 10 December 2012. Judge Dempsey issued the warrant after Nardoni did not attend. A third defendant, David Fortune, 32, was charged with possession of a knife on 26 December 2013. A bench warrant was issued after he failed to appear, and the court adjourned his case to 17 February, remanding him on his own bond. All proceedings were conducted under the jurisdiction of Swords District Court.
The Special Criminal Court has fixed a trial date of June 9, 2015, for seven men accused of membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army, otherwise Oglaigh na hEireann, otherwise the IRA. The accused are Peter Burns (39) of Glenshane Crescent, Tallaght; Kevin Braney (39) of Glenshane Crescent, Tallaght; Michael Barr (33) of Carlton Court, Poppintree, Ballymun; Brian Nick McBennett (54) of Ard Collum Avenue, Artane; John Brock (41) of Glenview Park, Tallaght; Declan Phelan (31) of Lanndale Lawns, Tallaght; and Desmond Christie (49) of Liam Mellows Road, Finglas. All were charged on July 3 last year. Mr Justice Paul Butler presided and noted it was "most unfortunate" that defendants face such long pre-trial custody, acknowledging the presumption of innocence. Defence counsel Mr Jim Mc Cullough BL argued that Des Christie, in custody since July 5, 2013, would spend 23 months in custody before trial, citing a prima facie breach of the European Convention on Human Rights. The judge stated the court's dates were full. The matter was adjourned to the fixed trial date.
In the trial of Andrew Gibney, 21, accused of murdering Gerard Burnett, 28, the State Pathologist, Professor Marie Cassidy, testified that Burnett suffered 30 stab wounds, six of which were deep and fatal. The wounds were caused by a single sharp‑edged knife, with moderate force, and resulted in death by blood loss to the right lung, heart and liver. No alcohol was found in Burnett's blood or urine, but diazepam was detected. Professor Cassidy agreed with the defence that two or three knives may have been used and that the multiplicity of wounds suggested a struggle and possibly more than one assailant. Witnesses, including Anne‑Marie Corbett and her husband, described seeing three men at Burnett's house, one holding a knife, and reported shouting "Denise." Burnett's partner, Denise Farrell, confirmed that three men appeared at the door and that Burnett was dragged outside. The trial will continue with further evidence on Wednesday. Andrew Gibney pleaded not guilty.
In a 2014 Central Criminal Court hearing, a 65‑year‑old Wicklow farmer, Cecil Tomkins, was found unfit to stand trial for the 2010 murder of his 66‑year‑old brother, Walter Tomkins, at their Cronlea home. Tomkins, suffering from advanced Parkinson's disease, dementia, depression and a history of seizures, was an inpatient at Bloomfield Hospital. His barrister, John O'Kelly SC, presented a multidisciplinary report and a consultant psychiatrist, Dr John Tobin, testified that Tomkins' cognitive impairment prevented him from understanding the proceedings or directing his counsel. Dr Tobin described Tomkins as unable to communicate effectively, disoriented in place and time, and requiring total nursing care. The judge, Mr Justice Paul Carney, agreed with the defence, ruling Tomkins unfit under the Criminal Law Insanity Act and adjourned the case for a further order.
An Italian man, Saverio Bellante, aged 34, was charged with the murder of Tom O'Gorman, a pro‑life campaigner and writer, at O'Gorman's home in Castleknock. Bellante was arrested after O'Gorman was found stabbed to death on 11‑12 January. At his first court appearance, Bellante declined a lawyer and later stated he would represent himself. Judge Victor Blake remanded him in custody and adjourned the case for two weeks, until 31 January, after Bellante's lawyer presented a letter from Dr Paul O'Connell of the Central Mental Hospital. The court ordered that medical assessment be made and that investigative memos and video evidence be disclosed to the defence. Bellante's lawyer requested legal aid and complained that media coverage had breached the sub‑judice rule. The case remains pending.
In Balbriggan District Court, Barry O'Brien (47) of St Catherine's Green in Rush pleaded guilty to being in possession of a knife with a 12-inch blade at St Catherine's Park on August 1st. He was placed on a Probation Bond for one year with conditions set by Probation Services. Tomas Tarasevicius (29) of No Fixed Abode and Paulius Taracvius (33) of McAuley's Yard, Flemington in Balbriggan were remanded on bail to re-appear on February 13th when the Book of Evidence will be served. Tarasevicius faces four counts of handling stolen property, being in possession of stolen cars, and criminal damage. Taracvius is charged with possession of a stolen Audi car. Jade Gannon (30) of Mourne Park in Skerries was remanded until January 23rd after her defence solicitor explained that she could not attend court due to her children attending counselling following the murder of her father in front of her daughter. The case was adjourned pending a letter from the counsellor. A man charged with assault causing harm was remanded on continuing bail until March 13th to allow a judge to consider jurisdiction on receipt of a medical report. A Chinese takeaway owner was convicted of employing three foreign nationals without work permits and fined €1,500.
The trial of Paul Byrne, 47, a businessman from Fallon & Byrne, has been postponed because a medical report needed for the case is not yet available. Byrne was charged with assault causing harm to a man at the Leeson Lounge on March 5. He has not entered a plea and appeared again at Dublin District Court. Judge Michael Walsh noted that the Director of Public Prosecutions has requested a summary disposal, which could allow the case to be heard at the district court level rather than the Circuit Court. However, the trial venue has not been decided. A court garda sergeant confirmed the absence of the medical report. Byrne's lawyer expressed concern about the report's contents and whether it would influence the court's decision. The judge deferred a ruling on the trial venue to allow time for the report to be obtained. Byrne was remanded on continuing bail, and the case is set to resume next week.
Ruairi O Ceallaigh, aged 42, pleaded guilty to stealing nearly €3m from his family‑run law firm, Sean O Ceallaigh & Company, in Dublin. He was arrested by the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation and charged with seven offences under the Theft and Fraud Act. The charges cover a four‑year period of misappropriation, including €1,551,366 between September 2008 and November 2008, and additional sums of €134,831, €151,078, €250,000, €509,646, €75,000 and €144,644 from client accounts. The Director of Public Prosecutions directed a trial on indictment, so the case will be heard at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. O Ceallaigh appeared at Dublin District Court, accepted the signed plea, and was remanded on continuing bail with his father acting as surety. He will face sentencing at the Circuit Court on 7 February. The court noted that a book of evidence was not required for the signed plea. The case remains at the indictment stage.
The State has been granted a two‑week adjournment to finish the book of evidence for the trial of architect Graham Dwyer, accused of murdering childcare worker Elaine O'Hara. Dwyer, originally from Cork and now residing in Foxrock, Dublin, was charged on 18 October 2011. O'Hara, aged 37, was last seen on 22 August 2012 near Shanganagh cemetery; her body was found on Killakee Mountain in September 2013. Dwyer pleaded not guilty, was denied bail, and appeared via video‑link before Judge Victor Blake at Cloverhill District Court. The prosecution cited a large file—eight volumes, over 300 statements, and more than 800 exhibits—to justify the adjournment. Dwyer's solicitor confirmed consent to the two‑week period, and the defendant remains in custody until 29 January, when he will appear again. The inquest into O'Hara's death remains adjourned pending criminal proceedings.
A teenage boy and a teenage girl, both in their mid‑teens, are to stand trial in the Central Criminal Court for rape of a teenage girl in Dublin in 2012. The alleged assault took place at the boy's home on the same date as a separate charge of sexual assault. Both defendants appeared at the Children's Court in Dublin, were released on bail, and were given strict conditions: they must not contact the victim or her family, must sign in at their local Garda station, carry mobile phones, be available for Garda inquiries, and obey nightly curfews at home. The judge, Judge John O'Connor, explained that the Children's Court cannot take jurisdiction over these serious charges under Section 75 of the Children Act, so the case will proceed in the Central Criminal Court. The defendants have not yet indicated how they will plead.
A 34‑year‑old Italian man, Saverio Bellante, was charged with murder after the fatal stabbing of Tom O'Gorman, a 39‑year‑old pro‑life campaigner and religious writer, at O'Gorman's home on Beech Park Avenue, Castleknock. The body was found by gardai at about 1.50 am on Sunday and O'Gorman was pronounced dead on scene; a post‑mortem was later performed by Professor Marie Cassidy. Bellante, who had been lodging with O'Gorman, was detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act and appeared before Judge David McHugh at Blanchardstown District Court. He was charged with murder between 11 pm and 12 am on 11–12 January. Bellante, wearing a black sweater, trousers and grey runners, told the court he wanted to represent himself.
Kenneth Cummins, 27, and Sabrina Cummins, 36, were charged with the murder of 63‑year‑old Thomas Horan, who was found dead in his Cambridge Court flat in Dublin. The body was discovered at 4 a.m. on Monday, and a post‑mortem by Dr Marie Cassidy confirmed death from internal injuries. The siblings were detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 and appeared before Dublin District Court, where they made no reply to the charges. The court, unable to grant bail in a murder case, remanded them in custody to appear again next Thursday. Both defendants were granted legal aid and orders for medical attention while remanded. The case remains at the district court stage, with any bail application to be brought to the High Court.
A 34-year-old businessman from Armagh has been charged in connection with an alleged diesel laundering operation worth approximately €9 million annually. The man, a company director with an address in Crossmaglen, was arrested by appointment in Dublin and charged under the Finance Act in relation to an alleged incident at Castleblayney, County Monaghan, in September 2011. Gardaí alleged he was found red-handed at a yard during surveillance, with large quantities of green diesel and laundering equipment present. The operation was said to be capable of processing 18 million litres of diesel per annum, resulting in substantial revenue loss. The Director of Public Prosecutions has directed trial on indictment, meaning the case will proceed to Circuit Court level. Dublin District Court set bail with strict conditions, including a €7,500 personal bond, a €15,000 independent surety, and passport surrender. He was remanded in custody pending a further hearing at Cloverhill District Court on 14 January.
A 49‑year‑old man, James Donohoe of Harold's Cross Road, Dublin, was remanded in custody after being charged with assault causing harm and attempted sexual assault against a woman in her twenties on Effra Road, Rathmines. He was brought before Judge Michael Walsh at Dublin District Court, where he initially declined a solicitor and a court‑appointed lawyer, but later accepted solicitor Lorraine Stephens. Garda Ciaran O'Mahony testified that Donohoe did not respond to the first charge and said, "I am not going to plead to that," when the second charge was presented. The court directed that Donohoe receive psychiatric treatment while in custody and that he be granted legal aid. A file will be sent to the DPP, and the next hearing is scheduled for 14 January at Cloverhill District Court. The case remains pending.