A judge has sentenced Dean Hayes, a prolific offender with 129 previous convictions, to ten years in prison for a violent home invasion where he stabbed a doctor multiple times. Mr Justice David Keane noted the extreme violence used and the victim's survival as a matter of luck. Hayes, who spent 90% of his life in custody, burgled a neighboring bungalow in 2009, which the judge called an aggravating factor. The victim, Waleed Mustafa, described the attack as a miracle he survived and suffered severe psychological harm. Hayes was armed with a knife and attacked the doctor in his bedroom while he was watching YouTube. The judge imposed concurrent sentences of 12 years, with the final two years suspended, on the conditions that Hayes engage in a residential drug treatment and a victim empathy programme. Hayes had a chronic drug addiction and a history of recidivism, which the judge highlighted as significant factors in the sentencing. Dean Hayes pleaded guilty.
Niall Syms, a 70-year-old pensioner with a background in IT, was jailed for three years for possessing and distributing over 55,000 images and videos of child sexual abuse material. Syms pleaded guilty to possession and distribution charges, with the distribution arising from the use of BitTorrent technology. The court heard that the material included serious sexual abuse of children as young as four. Syms had no previous convictions but had attended over 400 hours of therapy. His defense highlighted his remorse and rehabilitation efforts, noting that he had lost his marriage and family due to his actions. Judge Orla Crowe noted the sheer number of images as an aggravating factor and the technical proficiency Syms had in distributing the material. The sentence was backdated to January 23, 2026, and the court acknowledged the delay in the case due to a backlog in analysis. Syms' defense argued that the distribution was unintentional due to residual software activity, but the judge emphasized the need for a custodial sentence despite Syms' efforts at rehabilitation.
Lorcan Murphy, a former garda, was sentenced today at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for two counts of assault causing harm under section 3 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997. Murphy had pleaded not guilty to the charges, but a jury returned a unanimous guilty verdict last July. The incidents occurred on June 1, 2021, involving a 17-year-old victim on Essex Street and subsequently at Pearse Street Garda Station. Judge Pauline Codd described the force used as "unjustifiable" and "excessive," noting the victim sustained a fractured skull and brain contusion. In mitigation, the judge acknowledged Murphy's willingness to engage in restorative justice, though the victim declined to participate. She also accepted his remorse, references to his character, and the fact that he has since completed a law degree. Judge Codd imposed a three-year custodial sentence, with the final two years suspended for two years on strict conditions. The court made no order regarding €10,000 offered by Murphy to the victim, citing concerns about the victim's addiction. The judge emphasized that while Murphy acted recklessly rather than intentionally, his conduct was highly reckless and left his career in tatters.
The Special Criminal Court has adjourned sentencing for five men until March 25. Jason Hennessy (29), Brandon Hennessy (22), Kenneth Fitzsimons (45), Dean Fitzsimons (25), and Devon Hennessy were originally charged with causing serious harm and false imprisonment, offences carrying potential life sentences. After victim Barry Moore (34) declined to testify due to fear, the State accepted guilty pleas to assault causing harm, a maximum ten-year offence. Devon Hennessy pleaded guilty to falsely imprisoning Moore and assisting a criminal organisation to inflict serious harm. Counsel for Devon argued he was the least culpable, having intervened to prevent further violence. The other four defendants expressed remorse and apologised to the victim. The court heard that Moore was waterboarded, beaten with a metal bar, and branded with the word 'RAT' seven times on his face and torso. He suffered a fractured elbow and multiple stab wounds. The judges, Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, Judge Sarah Berkeley, and Judge Fiona Lydon, adjourned the matter to March 25 for sentencing.
Ruadhan Tracey, a 44-year-old man who caused the death of a 14-year-old boy in a hit-and-run accident, will have his driving license restored early despite opposition from the victim's family and gardai. Tracey received a 20-month jail sentence in 2014 for careless driving causing death and failing to remain at the scene. The court heard that the disqualification from driving was the only penalty he faced, as his prison term ran concurrently with another sentence. Judge Orla Crowe noted the tragic circumstances of the case and the loss of the 14-year-old boy, but ruled that it was appropriate to restore Tracey's license in May 2027. Tracey, who has since rehabilitated and has not been in trouble since 2018, argued that the license would help him in his new job. The victim's family expressed their opposition, with the father describing the loss as a tsunami that destroyed their lives. The court acknowledged the family's pain but ruled in favor of restoring the license, emphasizing Tracey's efforts at rehabilitation and his current good conduct.
A dangerous driver who crossed four lanes of traffic before jumping from his moving car and fleeing from gardai on foot has had his four-month jail sentence reduced by a month on appeal. Patrick O'Keefe was convicted of dangerous driving, failing to produce insurance, and driving without a licence. He was given a custodial sentence of four months and a driving ban of 15 years. His appeal was based on his addiction issues, residential treatment, and a good relationship with his children. Judge Ronan Munro reduced the sentence to three months, noting that O'Keefe had made some strides but was still 'floating along'. The appeal court heard that O'Keefe had 80 previous convictions and that the garda who witnessed the incident described the dangerous driving as severe.
A former employee of DID Electrical, Magdi Ba, has been sentenced to two years in prison for stealing over €129,000 worth of electronic items from the company over a three-year period. Ba, who had access to the warehouse, sold the stolen goods to a second-hand shop, CEX. The court heard that suspicions were raised when a warehouse manager noticed missing items, and CCTV footage showed Ba in the vault at the time. A detailed investigation by gardai revealed that Ba had sold 371 items, with the total loss to DID Electrical amounting to €129,651. Ba had initially denied the theft but later admitted to taking the items. Judge Orla Crowe described the offense as a 'consistent breach of trust' and emphasized the need for a custodial sentence. Ba had forfeited €67,000 from two bank accounts and his car before being sentenced.
A 35-year-old man who violently attacked his mother in a 'meltdown' over a cigarette has been handed a fully suspended sentence. Keith Walsh pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to his mother, Maura Walsh, and was sentenced to three-and-a-half years, suspended for five years. Judge Martina Baxter noted the unprovoked and protracted assault, during which Walsh used his mother like a 'punch bag'. She directed Walsh to engage in anger management and addiction courses and to be under the supervision of the Probation Services for 18 months. The court heard that Walsh had a history of addiction and mental health issues and had attended a rehabilitation centre. The case was adjourned with the judge emphasizing the need for Walsh to address his issues and provide proof of his rehabilitation.
Donna Kane, a serial offender with 43 previous convictions, has been given a two-year probation bond after pleading guilty to stealing over €950 worth of goods from Superdrug. Kane had previously breached a probation order and committed further offenses shortly after. However, the court heard that she had not committed any offenses since March 2024 and had engaged with treatment and recovery services. Judge Anne Watkin noted Kane's progress and decided to give her 'one more opportunity' to stay on the right path. Kane's employer provided a character reference, highlighting her reliability and willingness. The judge warned that if Kane committed any further offenses during the probation period, the consequences would be serious. Kane accepted responsibility for her actions and had taken steps to address her issues, including participating in a drug recovery program.
A man who raped one woman, leaving her a 'fearful shell' of herself, and sexually assaulted another on the same night ten years ago has received a seven-year prison sentence. Luca Fox, 30, pleaded guilty to the sexual assault of one woman and was convicted of two counts of rape of another woman in Co Cork on October 21, 2015. The victim described the devastating impact the rapes had on her life, health, and relationships over the past decade. Fox, who was 20 at the time, was extremely drunk and assaulted both women in their beds. He has no previous convictions and issued an apology to both women through his counsel. Ms Justice Melanie Greally noted the aggravating factor of multiple offending and the location of the incidents, which should have been a place of safety. She imposed a seven-year sentence for the rape offences and a concurrent two-and-a-half-year sentence for the sexual assault.
Gardai discovered a 'cornucopia' of illicit drugs, cash and associated paraphernalia when they inquired into a stolen motorbike after the legitimate owner discovered it for sale online. Dylan Sheridan (23) Lissadel Avenue, Drimnagh, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to having cannabis, ketamine and tablets with a street value of €151,046 at his home on March 20, 2024. He also admitted handling the stolen motorbike, having items connected to a drug trafficking offence and having €33,350 in €50 and €100 notes, on the same date. He has two previous convictions for drug possession and drug dealing dealt with in the District Court. The court heard that the bike had been stolen the previous December and the owner had later found it online for sale. He made contact with the supposed seller of the bike and contacted gardaí. On March 19, 2024, arrangements were made to meet Sheridan opposite his home to buy the bike. During a subsequent search of his home, the bike was found in the front garden under a canvas cover.
A hit-and-run driver, Ruadhan Tracey, who was banned from driving for 20 years after causing the death of a 14-year-old boy in 2011, has applied to a court for the restoration of his license. Tracey, 44, received a 20-month jail sentence in 2014 for careless driving causing the death of Conor Hickey and failing to remain at the scene of an accident. The court heard that Tracey had borrowed his girlfriend's car and was driving with a friend to buy heroin when the incident occurred. The victim, Conor Hickey, was struck by the car and died the following day. Tracey admitted to taking his eyes off the road and driving off because he had no license or insurance. The victim's family and gardaí are opposed to the restoration of his license. Tracey, representing himself, asked the court to grant his application, stating he had not been in trouble since 2018 and had been offered a job. The case was adjourned to February 3, with the court asking for relevant case law to be presented. Ruadhan Tracey pleaded guilty.
A judge has said that an Italian drugs mule who was rumbled when he went back to Dublin airport to seek out his lost luggage containing €294,000 in cannabis was 'not a criminal mastermind'. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Alfonso Turano had completed a lost luggage form in his real name and replied 'Mamma mia!' when he was told what was in the suitcase. Turano (41) arrived in Ireland the day before the suitcase, which contained 14.7kg of cannabis. The defendant, with an address in Calabro, Italy pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply on March 1, 2025 at Dublin Airport. Today, Judge Ronan Munro handed Turano a four-year sentence, with the final 20 months suspended for 10 years on strict conditions. The judge said the court accepted that Turano was 'not a criminal mastermind', but was also satisfied that the defendant would have known the suitcase contained illicit substances.
Garda Keith Lambe, a roads policing officer with 20 years of emergency driving experience, had his careless driving conviction dismissed on appeal. The District Court Appeals Court heard that Lambe was convicted in the District Court of driving without due care and attention in Clonsilla, Dublin 15, on July 4, 2023, contrary to section 52 of the Road Traffic Act, 1961. He was convicted and fined €500. Lambe subsequently lodged an appeal against this conviction. At the appeal stage, Judge Ronan Munro found that Lambe was acting in the execution of his duty when he collided with a civilian driver at a junction while responding to an emergency call. The judge determined that Lambe was not driving in this manner "for the sake of it" and could not be branded as a criminal. Consequently, the conviction was dismissed. The court noted that while the other driver sustained injuries and suffered significant distress, she had done nothing wrong. The judge commended her for her positive steps and wished her a speedy recovery, while affirming that society expects gardai to respond to emergencies and that Lambe's actions did not constitute criminal behaviour.
Judge Sinéad Ní Chúlacháin commented that she might not have a job if it were not for the scourge of drugs and the low-level mules who help in the illegal trade. Michael Hayter, a UK national, was jailed for four years for importing nearly €750,000 worth of cannabis through Dublin Airport. Hayter pleaded guilty to having the drugs for sale and importation. He was approached in Cambodia and offered £2,000 to transport the drugs. The judge acknowledged that Hayter was acting as a courier or mule but emphasized that his actions enabled drug dealers to thrive. She set a headline sentence of eight years but reduced it to four years due to Hayter's early guilty pleas and lack of previous convictions. The judge noted that Hayter would be separated from his family during his time in prison. Hayter was recently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and lost his job. His counsel expressed remorse and stated that Hayter was engaging with addiction support services. The judge accepted that Hayter had no history of offending and lived a pro-social life otherwise.
A man who injured a garda by bending his finger backwards while resisting arrest five years ago has been directed to complete 240 hours of community service. Keith Daly pleaded guilty to assaulting a peace officer and possessing cannabis for sale or supply. During the incident, Daly injured a garda's finger while resisting arrest. A total of 9.6g of cannabis, valued at €192, was also found. Daly has 55 previous convictions, including for assaulting members of An Garda Siochana and drugs offences. Judge Orla Crowe noted that Daly had made considerable progress since the incident and had turned his life around. She directed Daly to complete 240 hours of community service in lieu of a two-year prison sentence. Garda Natasha McAleese testified that Daly was agitated during the incident and attempted to evade arrest. Sgt Kenny was injured during the struggle and later treated in hospital. Daly was identified through a print found on a bag of drugs. His counsel expressed remorse and apologized to Sgt Kenny for Daly's actions.
A court heard that Craig Mains (28) of Hazelcroft Park, Finglas, Dublin 11, and Shane Daly (27) of Woodhazel Close, Ballymun, Dublin 11, were high on laughing gas when they carried out a random unprovoked assault on a woman on Seamus Ennis Road, Finglas, north Dublin, on the evening of July 18, 2021. The woman was pushed to the ground and suffered injuries including a split lip, cuts to her knee, blood on her face and clothing, and a fractured elbow. One of the men took her mobile phone and damaged it. CCTV footage from a nearby funeral home captured the incident. Both men pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and criminal damage of an iPhone. Daly also pleaded guilty to assault. The robbery charges were dropped by the Director of Public Prosecutions. Daly has 23 previous convictions, including one for affray with a suspended prison sentence earlier this month. Mains has five previous convictions, all for road traffic offences. The victim submitted a victim impact report, which the judge said he would take into consideration. Both defendants expressed remorse and offered apologies. Daly handed over €2,000, and Mains brought €1,000 to court. The matter was adjourned to May 12, 2025, for finalisation, with both men remanded on continuing bail to that date.
Brian Grendon, a 48-year-old car dealer from Clondalkin, Dublin, appeared at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court regarding a charge of failing to remit income tax payable under the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. He pleaded guilty to the offence, which carries a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment or a fine. The prosecution outlined that €27,725 in cash was seized from his home during a search on January 19, 2022. While Grendon denied involvement in organised crime or money-laundering, asserting the funds were legitimate proceeds from car sales, the DPP accepted a defence proposal based on the money reflecting undeclared income. Defence counsel Keith Spencer BL argued for leniency, citing an accountant's report explaining that Grendon was advised to trade in cash due to banking issues with his UK-registered company during the pandemic. Spencer noted Grendon's willingness to perform community service and stated the cash is available for forfeiture to Revenue. Judge Orla Crowe stated the court required confirmation of the specific amount of income tax payable on the seized funds. Consequently, the matter was adjourned for finalisation until February 4. Grendon was remanded in custody on an unrelated matter during the proceedings.
A teenager, Steadfast Akhigne, who was under the influence of a more criminally involved man, has received a suspended sentence for her role in laundering over €100,000 through invoice redirect fraud. Akhigne, 24, pleaded guilty to two charges of money laundering after allowing her bank account to be used. The fraud involved fake emails from suppliers, leading to payments being made into her account. She admitted to providing her bank card and PIN to the man, who used her account to withdraw cash and purchase high-end phones. The court acknowledged her lack of prior convictions and her remorse, noting she was under the influence of the other man. Judge Orla Crowe imposed a 12-month suspended sentence, emphasizing that Akhigne was not the mastermind but played an active role in some aspects of the fraud.
Shane Kelly, 36, of no fixed abode in Edgeworthstown, Co Longford, was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court for offences committed in the early hours of February 25, 2025. Kelly pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted rape, one count of oral rape, one count of anal rape, and one count of burglary at the home of Anne Gallagher, a 70-year-old neighbour. Ms Justice Melanie Greally described the attack as pre-meditated, noting Kelly was aware of Gallagher's vulnerability, including her chronic health issues and reliance on mobility aids. The judge stated the harm caused was "life-altering" and that Kelly's culpability was of a "particularly extreme level." Although the Director of Public Prosecution assessed the case in the 10 to 15-year category, Ms Justice Greally set a headline sentence of 18 years. Taking mitigating factors into account, she reduced this to 14 years and six months. The final 18 months of the sentence were suspended on conditions. A Probation Service report indicated Kelly is at medium risk of reoffending and requires intervention for sexual preoccupation, impulsivity, and drug abuse. Gallagher, who waived her anonymity, stated she chose to forgive Kelly to heal, while the court noted the sentence must be punitive given the egregious violation of her home and the use of violence, including manual strangulation.
Cain Hutch, described as the 'ringleader' of a violent pub fracas, has been jailed for three years and nine months. Hutch, 27, pleaded guilty to violent disorder, producing a chair during a dispute, and arson. The incident in the Deputy Mayor pub in Finglas involved an unprovoked attack on three young men in front of children, with CCTV footage showing Hutch punching and throwing a chair. He also admitted to setting fire to a house in Finglas in 2021. The court heard of his 27 previous convictions and his intoxication at the time of the incidents. While the judge acknowledged his difficult background and apology, she emphasized the seriousness of the violence and the presence of children. A one-year sentence for the arson was suspended, and a three-and-a-half-year sentence for the violent disorder was imposed, with the final nine months suspended for one year.
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 delivery driver, David McCann, was given a 12-month suspended sentence for causing the death of Ann Watters through careless driving. The incident occurred when McCann failed to look where he was going while making a right turn, resulting in a fatal collision. CCTV footage showed McCann was not looking ahead when he turned, and the van cut across the center of the road, hitting Ms. Watters. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged the momentary lapse in attention and noted that there was no excessive speed or intoxication involved. McCann cooperated with the investigation, expressed remorse, and remained at the scene. The court recognized the devastation caused to Ms. Watters' family and the impact of the victim impact statements. McCann was disqualified from driving for four years. The victim's husband emphasized the need for changes in driver behavior to prevent further tragedies. David McCann pleaded guilty.
The Special Criminal Court has sentenced Paul Crosby to ten years in prison for facilitating the murder of Keane Mulready-Woods. The court described the killing as "disgraceful and inhuman," noting Crosby delivered the victim to Robbie Lawlor. Co-accused Gerard Cruise, who pleaded guilty to facilitating the murder, received a sentence of seven-and-a-half years, with the final six months suspended for two years. Ged McKenna was sentenced to four years for assisting an offender by attempting to clean the crime scene at his Rathmullan Park home. In a separate matter, Glen Bride, who pleaded guilty to assisting in the movement and disposal of the victim's body parts, was not sentenced today. The court heard he acted under Lawlor's instructions to drive a stolen Volvo V40 containing remains and set it on fire. Bride's sentencing is adjourned to March 9, alongside the sentencing of Stephen Carberry, who also pleaded guilty to impeding the apprehension of the offender. The court accepted Bride was not involved in the murder itself. The matter regarding Bride and Carberry was adjourned and is not yet concluded.
A doctor, Waleed Mustafa, described the home invasion by Dean Hayes, 37, as a "miracle" he wasn't killed. Hayes, with 129 previous convictions, broke into Mustafa's home and stabbed him multiple times. Mustafa, who is originally from Sudan and works as a doctor in University Hospital Limerick, was attacked in his bedroom while watching YouTube. Hayes was armed with a knife and told Mustafa, "you ripped someone," before attacking him. Mustafa managed to escape through the back door but was stabbed in the head and abdomen. The victim described feeling "sheer terror" and said he was "extremely lucky" to be alive. Hayes was arrested the following day and had a history of burglary, theft, and drug-related offences. The court heard that Hayes had previously burgled the victim's neighbour's house. Mustafa has since experienced anxiety, hypertension, and sleep disturbances due to the attack.
Constantin Iosca, 46, was jailed for two years and nine months after being convicted of dishonestly inducing the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) to investigate a fraudulent insurance claim. Iosca had submitted a claim form in 2016, alleging he was injured in a road traffic accident. However, CCTV footage showed him walking unaided and loading a wheelchair into his car, contradicting his claim. Iosca has 19 previous convictions, including theft, road traffic offences, and public order offences. The court heard that Iosca's claim was taken to the High Court, which was an aggravating factor. Judge Patricia Ryan noted that Iosca's medical issues and lack of recent criminal activity were mitigating factors. Iosca was sentenced to three years and six months, with the final nine months suspended on strict conditions for three years post-release.
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.
Lee O'Brien, a man with 228 previous convictions, was jailed for a robbery at a Dublin petrol station. O'Brien, armed with a knife, demanded money from a staff member, resulting in €350 being stolen. The victim left her job due to the traumatic experience. O'Brien had recently been released from custody and was not on bail at the time of the offence. Judge Orla Crowe noted the deliberate and organized nature of the crime, and imposed a three-year and three-month sentence, with the final six months suspended. O'Brien attempted to detox while in custody and expressed remorse. The court heard that the case was delayed due to the pandemic, and O'Brien had previously been sentenced for similar offences. The judge acknowledged his long-standing drug issues and difficult background, but emphasized the severity of the crime. Lee O'Brien pleaded guilty.
David Cranny damaged a video doorbell outside a south Dublin home, claiming it made him feel 'uncomfortable'. Cranny, who has 29 previous convictions, pleaded guilty to the criminal damage. The residents were left €350 out of pocket and had to move out of fear. Judge Anne Watkin expressed confusion over why the doorbell would have caused Cranny discomfort, noting it only showed people at the doorstep. Cranny later paid €200 in compensation. The judge emphasized the impact of the incident on the residents, who felt unsafe in their own home. Cranny is no longer using drugs and is on an employment scheme. The court ordered him to pay the remaining balance, provide a probation report, and attend restorative justice services before sentencing. The case was adjourned to May 25.
Constantin Iosca was convicted of fraudulently claiming compensation from the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) after a road traffic accident. Iosca falsely reported being injured while cycling and submitted a claim for compensation. Surveillance footage showed him getting in and out of a wheelchair and walking unaided, contradicting his claim of injury. Iosca had no work history and moved to Ireland from Romania in 1997. He has 19 previous convictions, including theft and road traffic offences. The court heard that Iosca's claim was withdrawn after the CCTV evidence was played. Iosca's defense argued that the engineer's report suggested the incident likely occurred as he described. However, the court noted that the jury found him guilty of deception. Iosca was remanded on continuing bail, with sentencing to take place later.
A 42-year-old man originally from Limerick City has pleaded guilty to participation in an organised criminal group and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life in connection with the fatal shooting of Noel Campion on April 26, 2007. Darragh Quinlivan, with an address in Manchester, did not plead guilty to murder. The Central Criminal Court heard that Campion, aged 35, was shot multiple times while travelling as a passenger on a motorcycle near Thomondgate in Limerick City. Quinlivan later fled to the United States, where he made incriminating statements to police and others whilst intoxicated, statements he subsequently characterised as "talk" and sarcasm. He was deported to Ireland in 2008. The case was reviewed as a cold case in 2022. Quinlivan has 24 previous convictions. Justice Paul McDermott remanded him in custody for sentencing on February 9. Victim impact statements were heard from Campion's daughter and widow.
Two men, Ciaran Whelan and Robert Costello, were jailed for a brutal attack on a couple celebrating their anniversary in Dublin City Centre. During the incident, Whelan bit off part of the man's ear and shouted, "Look at how much of his ear I've got." The couple, originally from Mongolia, were attacked while walking home after dinner. The man sustained a third of his ear being separated, requiring a skin graft, while the woman suffered a nasal fracture. Both men pleaded guilty to assault causing harm. Judge Ronan Munro described the attack as "lifelong maiming" and noted the couple had to return to Ireland for court proceedings. Whelan was sentenced to three years and four months, with the final 27 months suspended, while Costello received two years, with the final 16 months suspended. Both men had extensive criminal histories, and Whelan expressed remorse by offering €4,000 to the victims.
Christopher Reynolds, a cocaine dealer, was jailed for four and a half years after hitting a garda during an escape attempt on a stolen motorbike. Reynolds was also jailed for possessing nearly €300,000 worth of cocaine. The incident occurred in May 2025 when Reynolds drove through a narrow gap in a garage forecourt and collided with a garda, causing the officer to suffer a dislocated foot and torn ligaments. Reynolds later apologized and claimed the collision was unintentional. He had nine previous convictions and was on bail for a drugs offence at the time. Judge Orla Crowe noted the seriousness of the endangerment offence and the substantial amount of cocaine involved. Reynolds was sentenced to three years for the drugs offence and two years for the endangerment, with the final six months suspended. The court heard that Reynolds had been under pressure from a drug debt and had since shown signs of rehabilitation. Christopher Reynolds pleaded guilty.
Stephen Byrne (44) was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years for aggravated burglary and threatening to kill a Carmelite brother at a retreat centre in Dublin. The incident occurred in April 2024 when Byrne broke into the Avila Carmelite Centre and threatened the 77-year-old brother with bolt cutters. The court heard that Byrne was identified through fingerprints and was arrested while on bail. He admitted to stealing €350 during the incident. Byrne, who has a history of addiction and homelessness, expressed remorse and wrote an apology letter. Judge Orla Crowe noted the severity of the crime and the terror experienced by the victim but considered mitigating factors, including Byrne's plea and his past contributions. The judge suspended the final 12 months of the sentence for two years on strict conditions. Stephen Byrne pleaded guilty.
A serial robber told a Brinks worker "don't be a hero, I'll f**king kill you" when he grabbed a cash box at a Luas stop, a court has heard. Gary Quinn (32) was on bail when he approached the victim while he was changing out the coins and notes from a ticket machine at Fatima LUAS stop in south Dublin. At the sentencing hearing today in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Garda Mark O'Reilly told Aoife McNickle BL, prosecuting, that the robbery took place shortly after midday on August 7 last year. The victim had already changed the coin box and was pulling out the note box when Quinn came up to him and grabbed it. The victim later told gardai that he initially thought it was a joke and he went to grab the box back. At this point, the robber told him: "Don't be a hero, I'll fucking kill you". The victim wasn't sure if the man was armed or not but was in fear for his life. The unnamed man pleaded guilty.
A 23-year-old man who was on a suspended sentence for aggravated burglary and assault when he threatened to kill another motorist who overtook him has been sent for a probation report. Sean Maher pleaded guilty to making a threat to kill or cause serious harm. The incident occurred on Convent Road, Blackrock, when Maher revved his engine after being overtaken and threatened the other driver. The injured party did not attend court. The defence said Maher was suffering from depression and ADHD and was changing medication at the time. Judge Anne Watkin questioned whether the medication was being used as an excuse and noted Maher's previous convictions. She adjourned the case for a probation report to assess his medical situation and the likelihood of reoffending.
A woman who was on probation when she slapped a garda, causing him to bleed, has been given a two-month prison sentence. Samantha Maughan pleaded guilty to a public order offence and being intoxicated in a public place. The incident occurred on Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, when she shouted at members of the public and hit a garda, causing him to bleed. Judge Anne Watkin said the charge was at the higher end of a public order offence and noted Maughan's 28 previous convictions, including 12 public order offences. The defence said she was remorseful and receiving support from her partner. The judge said the incident amounted to an assault on a garda, though no assault charge was brought. Maughan was sentenced to two months in prison with a recognisance set at €500 in the event of an appeal.
Roy Hicks (73), an accountant who stole over €90,000 from St George's National School in Balbriggan, received a fully suspended sentence of two years and five months. Hicks admitted to 22 counts of theft between 2019 and 2021, using the stolen funds to keep his accountancy business in Wales afloat. He was arrested in 2023 and suffered a stroke shortly after. The court heard that Hicks had no previous convictions and expressed remorse for his actions. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged the breach of trust but considered his health issues and the likelihood of him not reoffending. The sentence was suspended on strict conditions, and Hicks was not required to compensate the school due to his inability to do so. Roy Hicks pleaded guilty.
A 35-year-old man who fled the UK while on temporary release from prison and used a false name to claim social protection payments in Ireland has been jailed for two years. Nasser Hussein had residency in the UK and came to Dublin, where he used a false name to secure a social protection card, allowing him to claim €5,913 in payments. The court accepted that he used the false name to cover up his UK status. Hussein has 21 previous convictions, including six for robbery. He was arrested in February 2025 and entered a guilty plea in March 2024. The prosecution said gardaí found documents in his rucksack confirming his true identity. The defence claimed he came to Ireland to find work to support his family in the UK and used the false name after being advised by someone he met. The judge said Hussein had no entitlement to be in Ireland and took money from people who could legitimately claim it.
A man jailed for a hit-and-run that killed a 21-year-old apprentice electrician had his sentence increased by two months after a mobile phone was found in his prison cell. Cameron Cooper, 24, was originally sentenced to five years and three months for the incident, with the final year suspended. He was later found in possession of a mobile phone in prison, leading to a prosecution application. Cooper pleaded guilty to the offence and was fined €300. The court heard that he was driving at twice the speed limit when he struck the victim, killed him instantly, and fled the scene. Cooper falsely reported his car had been stolen to avoid blame. His defence argued that he had been punished sufficiently and was doing well in custody. Judge Ronan Munro reactivated two months of the suspended sentence, emphasizing the need to ensure compliance with conditions. Cameron Cooper was convicted.
A chronic addict who committed a series of burglaries, robberies, and weapon-related offences over six weeks has been jailed for five years. Paul Beatty, 39, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including burglary, robbery, and producing a weapon. Judge Orla Crowe described the offences as a 'spree of offending' and noted the fear caused to victims. She imposed an eight-year sentence, reduced to six years with the final 12 months suspended. Beatty's defence highlighted his addiction and current drug-free status in custody, expressing a desire to break the cycle of addiction and offending. The court acknowledged his struggles but emphasized the need for protection from future offending. Beatty has a long history of convictions, including for possession of firearms and road traffic offences.
A man who told gardai he was under pressure to pay a debt when he robbed a watch, described as an 'irreplaceable family heirloom', has been jailed for three years. John Byrne pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbery on Lord Edward Street, Dublin 2 on September 4, 2023. The injured party had been socialising and was approached from behind by Byrne, who grabbed his wrist. There was a scuffle, during which the injured party was pushed onto the road. Byrne managed to take the victim's watch during the struggle and ran off down Lord Edward Street. The watch was worth about €300, but was a family heirloom and of sentimental value. Byrne was identified from CCTV and his home searched later the following month. After caution, he told gardai the watch was gone and he was under pressure as he owed money. The court was told that Byrne is known to gardai as someone with addiction issues and a history of homelessness.
Megan Gaffey, 28, of Dublin 1, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to two counts of robbery committed on May 22 and June 13, 2024, at a shop on the quays in Dublin City Centre. The court heard that Gaffey, who has 165 previous convictions, was on bail and serving a suspended sentence at the time of the offences. In the first incident, she allegedly took €100 after a struggle with the shop manager; in the second, she allegedly threatened a worker with scissors and took €420. Judge Orla Crowe noted the use of scissors and Gaffey's extensive criminal history as aggravating factors, while acknowledging her remorse and efforts to address addiction while in custody. The judge imposed a sentence of four years and six months, backdated to November last when Gaffey pleaded guilty. The final 12 months of the sentence were suspended, and Gaffey was placed under probation supervision for one year to assist with drugs treatment and accommodation. The matter was finalised with this sentencing order.
A 79-year-old man who sexually abused his daughter during her childhood, telling her they had a 'special love' her mother would be jealous of, has been jailed for seven years. Gordon McKenna pleaded guilty to indecently assaulting his daughter at various locations, including the family home in Tallaght, Dublin, on mountain biking trips and at the cinema, between 1977 and 1983. Ms Justice Melanie Greally acknowledged the unquantifiable harm caused to the victim by her father and noted the extreme abuse of trust by a parent who was also her primary carer. She imposed concurrent sentences of 16 months for the earlier offences and a consecutive term of five years and eight months for the later offences. The victim, who waived her right to anonymity, described the abuse as having a profound impact on her sense of self and her ability to form relationships. The judge took into account McKenna's guilty plea, his advanced age, and his medical conditions, but noted the severity of the abuse and its long-term psychological effects on the victim.
A repeat offender, Liam Houston (40), of Kiltalown Road, Tallaght, has had an additional five months added to his prison sentence for cocaine offences. Houston pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine for sale or supply and simple possession before Judge Peter White at Tallaght District Court. The court heard that Houston was found in possession of cocaine valued at €550 in November 2019. He has a history of 55 previous convictions, including one drug conviction. Judge White imposed a five-month prison sentence for the Section 15 offence, which will run consecutively to a four-year prison term for assault offences he has been serving since May 2024. The simple possession offence was dealt with under the Probation Act. Houston is currently serving his sentence in Mountjoy Prison.
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.
The husband of Ann Watters, who died after being hit by a delivery van, has called for changes in driver behavior, asking, "How many more people have to die before driver behavior changes?" David McCann, the delivery driver, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing the death of Ann Watters. CCTV footage showed that McCann was not looking where he was going when he made a right turn, leading to the collision. McCann, who had a history of road traffic offenses, expressed deep remorse for the incident. Ann's husband, Gary Watters, described the devastating impact of her death on their family and highlighted the need for improved road safety. The court adjourned the sentencing to next Monday, with McCann remanded on continuing bail.
Stephen Carberry, 48, pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court to charges of assisting an offender and facilitating the murder of Keane Mulready-Woods. He admitted to transporting and disposing of the teenager's body parts between January 13 and 15, 2020, while on bail for drug offences. The court heard victim impact statements from Keane's parents, who described the "cruelty and inhumanity" of the disposal. Carberry, who has 77 previous convictions, was alleged to have collected two sports bags from Rathmullan Park, Drogheda, and dumped one in Moatview, Dublin. His co-accused, Gerard Cruise, 51, also pleaded guilty to facilitating the murder under Section 72 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006. In February 2023, co-accused Paul Crosby was sentenced to ten years for the same offence, while Cruise received seven-and-a-half years with the final six months suspended for two years. Ms Justice O'Connor adjourned Carberry's case to Monday, March 9, for sentencing, noting the panel could not imagine the depth of the family's pain.
Cian Fitzpatrick (28), an unemployed money mule, was jailed for 21 months after allowing €188,000 of illicit money to pass through his accounts. Fitzpatrick, of Ashlawn Park, Ballybrack, Co Dublin, pleaded guilty to possession of the proceeds of criminal conduct. Gardai found that Fitzpatrick had no legitimate employment and did not pay tax or register for tax during the four-year period. He received disability allowance and had €74,000 in cash lodged into his AIB account and €123,479 through his Revolut account. Fitzpatrick admitted to controlling his co-accused's Revolut account and transferring funds. He claimed part of his income was from breeding bulldogs and working as a cleaner. The court heard that Fitzpatrick had 26 previous convictions and that he had mental health and substance abuse issues. Judge Martin Nolan noted the large amount of illicit money and handed him a 21-month sentence.