A man who was convicted of using threatening or abusive behaviour at the GPO in Dublin has withdrawn his appeal, telling a court that he had other convictions and that it "wouldn't make a difference". Gerry Carrick (52), who is currently serving a jail sentence for a separate matter, told the court that he wished to withdraw the appeal. Carrick, with an address in Knowth Court, Poppintree, Dublin 11, was convicted in the District Court of using threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour or words in a public place on January 21, 2026 at the GPO on O'Connell Street, contrary to section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994. He was sentenced to two months imprisonment. Today, Carrick told the District Court Appeals Court that he had other convictions and that it "wouldn't make a difference". Carrick's case was only listed for mention today, not for hearing. Judge Ronan Munro told him that by striking out the appeal, Carrick would begin serving his sentence while in custody.
Derek Boyd was found guilty of murder by a Central Criminal Court jury after fatally stabbing Mark Carroll in his north Dublin home. The prosecution argued that Boyd's actions were not in self-defense, and the jury rejected the defense's claim that Carroll had returned to the house to make peace. Boyd fled to Scotland shortly after the killing and later returned to Ireland to surrender. The court heard that Boyd had previously been convicted of manslaughter for the death of his sister and was on a suspended sentence at the time of the murder. Judge Melanie Greally will sentence Boyd to life imprisonment, with the trial set to continue on July 28. The case also involved Boyd's girlfriend, Chantelle Harcourt, who was accused of obstructing the prosecution. The jury was unable to reach a verdict on the assault charge against Boyd and Harcourt, but they unanimously found Boyd guilty of murder. Chantelle Harcourt pleaded not guilty. Derek Boyd pleaded not guilty.
Dozens of criminal cases were adjourned in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court due to a dispute between defense solicitors and the Government over a new legal aid payment model. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned nearly 50 cases, including first appearances, pleas, and sentences, to the next court term in October. The dispute centers on a new payment scheme that provides a single payment of €520 per client, as opposed to the previous system where solicitors received payments for each court appearance. The Department of Justice claims the new scheme will reduce abuse of the system and the number of adjournments. Solicitors are protesting the change, and some accused individuals were in custody while others were on bail. Trials that were ongoing continued without disruption. The unnamed accused pleaded guilty.
A Bulgarian national, Elizaveta Vasileva, stole €11,000 from a heavily pregnant woman just one week after arriving in Ireland. The victim had withdrawn the money to fund the birth of her child in Romania. Vasileva followed the woman out of the bank and stole the envelope containing the cash. Passersby intervened, leading to Vasileva's citizen's arrest. She claimed she found the envelope on the floor and intended to return it. Vasileva pleaded guilty to theft and was sentenced to nine months in prison. The court acknowledged her guilty plea and the mitigating factors, including her psychological difficulties and the fact that she was a foreign national. The victim suffered a miscarriage and required hospitalization after the incident, which caused her significant stress.
Patrick Maughan, a 27-year-old with a history of violent crimes including rape and sexual assault, was sentenced to an additional two years in custody for stealing a mobile phone during a robbery in Terenure. The victim, a 64-year-old care assistant, was attacked by Maughan and his accomplice, who later fled the scene. The phone was later recovered from Maughan, who was found in a critical condition at the police station. The court considered the severity of the attack, the impact on the victim, and Maughan's extensive criminal record. The judge noted that the sentence would run consecutive to Maughan's existing 13-year sentence. The victim described the lasting physical and emotional effects of the assault, including ongoing pain and a diminished sense of security. Patrick Maughan pleaded guilty.
A 21-year-old man from Westport, Co Mayo, who is currently serving a 10-month sentence, has been spared additional jail time for stealing an electric scooter valued at €773. Edward Collins pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to stealing the Kukirin G2 Max e-scooter from Beechwood Court in Stillorgan on January 10 last year. Judge Anne Watkin noted that Collins has 14 previous convictions, including seven for theft and fraud, and six for road traffic offences. He also had 15 charges dismissed under the Probation of Offenders Act in January 2025. The judge acknowledged that the Probation Service had worked with Collins for about a year. Collins is currently serving consecutive sentences of seven months and three months, totaling 10 months. The three-month sentence relates to driving without insurance or a licence. His defence highlighted that Collins developed a cocaine addiction at 17 after associating with the wrong crowd. Judge Watkin placed him under the supervision of the Probation Service for 12 months, requiring him to report in person, notify of any address changes, and avoid illegal drugs.
Anthony Cooney, a 38-year-old chronic drug addict, was jailed for nine and a half years for two violent car hijackings. During the first incident, Cooney held a knife to the throat of a 70-year-old woman and threatened to kill her. In the second, he used a fork to threaten a couple, stabbing the driver and demanding money. The stolen car was later involved in a collision with a commercial van, causing significant damage. Cooney was arrested at the scene and was too intoxicated to be interviewed. He later admitted to the hijacking and apologized. The judge noted the severity of the offenses and the trauma inflicted on the victims, emphasizing that Cooney's actions were deplorable and required a long prison sentence. Cooney was also disqualified from driving for eight years.
Derek Boyd, 31, of Finglas, Dublin 11, and Chantelle Harcourt, 34, of Darndale, Dublin 17, are currently on trial at the Central Criminal Court. Boyd has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mark Carroll, 34, at his home on June 9, 2024, and to assaulting Megan Rock. Harcourt has pleaded not guilty to impeding the apprehension or prosecution of the person who committed the murder. The jury, comprising seven men and five women, began deliberating on Monday afternoon and has spent five hours over two days in the jury room. On Monday evening, the foreman reported that the jury had not reached a verdict on any of the three counts. Ms Justice Melanie Greally adjourned the deliberations, instructing the jurors to return to court at 10.30am the following morning. In her charge, the judge warned the jury against using Boyd's previous conviction for the manslaughter of his sister to infer a propensity for violence, labeling such reasoning impermissible. She clarified that this prior conviction, for which Boyd was sentenced to five years with three suspended, may only be considered if relevant to the evidence, such as his state of mind or flight from the jurisdiction. The judge outlined the legal framework for self-defense under the Criminal Law (Defence and the Dwelling) Act 2011, emphasizing the requirement for proportionate force. The jury may return verdicts of guilty of murder, not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter, or not guilty for Boyd, and guilty or not guilty for Harcourt.
A prisoner who attempted to shoot Gerry the Monk's brother has been sentenced for possessing drugs in prison. Michael Carroll, serving a 22-year sentence for attempted murder, was jailed for two counts of possessing cannabis and heroin for supply in his cell. The drugs, concealed between his legs, had a combined value of €3,720. Carroll, who has 54 previous convictions, claimed the drugs did not belong to him and were held for others due to a drug debt. He has completed violence prevention courses and is involved in restorative justice. Judge Orla Crowe noted the egregious nature of the offence and the high number of previous convictions. She reduced the headline sentence of three years to two years, taking mitigating factors into account. Carroll's current release date is in 2038. Michael Carroll pleaded guilty.
Ibrahim Ahmed Gharib, a violent rapist who was released from a 10-year sentence in 2024, raped another woman just a year later. Gharib was found guilty of raping and sexually assaulting Christina Foley in a builders' shed in Dublin. The victim was arrested while trying to report the incident at a garda station and later suffered from anxiety and trauma. Gharib had previously been jailed for 10 years in 2018 for raping a student. The court heard that Gharib had a history of criminal behaviour and was released in January 2024. The victim, who waived her anonymity, expressed the impact of the crime on her life and thanked the gardaí and legal team for their support. Gharib's defence argued that he did not accept the verdict but acknowledged the victim's vindication. The court will sentence Gharib later this month.
Paolo Nascimento, who murdered Grainne Dillon in 2002, is challenging the State's refusal to transfer him to Portugal to care for his ill mother. Nascimento, currently on parole, seeks an order from the High Court to quash the Parole Board's refusal to transfer his sentence. Portugal imposes a fixed 25-year sentence for murder, as opposed to Ireland's life sentence with potential for parole. The Parole Board has refused the transfer three times since 2006 due to Portugal's lack of post-release monitoring. Nascimento's legal team argues that the refusal violates his rights as an EU citizen and prevents him from reuniting with his family. The High Court granted leave to challenge the refusal and adjourned the matter to November. Nascimento's mother, his closest living relative, is too sick to travel to Ireland, and he seeks a declaration that the Parole Board unlawfully fettered its discretion. Paolo Nascimento pleaded guilty.
A 48-year-old man from Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, has been jailed for 11-and-a-half years for the rape of a 16-year-old girl. Richard Murphy was found guilty of rape and oral rape in October 2022 after a trial in Waterford. The victim was in a consensual relationship with Murphy's son when they were in the garden of a house. Murphy arrived and asked the girl for her parents' details, which she fabricated. He then orally and vaginally raped her before telling her not to tell anyone. The victim later informed her friends, who helped her report the crime. Murphy was on bail at the time for other sexual offences involving young girls. The judge described him as a danger to young girls and noted the aggravating factor of his being on bail. The victim's impact statement highlighted the lasting trauma she experienced. The judge imposed a consecutive sentence of 11 years and six months to Murphy's current sentence. The court also extended legal aid in the event of an appeal.
An Algerian national, Mohamed Hallam, has been jailed for six years for a violent predatory sexual attack on a young woman in Donegal. Hallam, who moved to Ireland in 2023, was convicted of sexual assault, assault causing harm, and non-fatal strangulation. The victim, who was heavily intoxicated, was attacked in a dark alleyway after meeting Hallam in a nightclub. She described being choked, pinned down, and sexually assaulted. The court heard that she had bruises and a possible bite mark on her stomach. Hallam initially denied the charges but later accepted the jury's verdict. The judge reduced the headline sentences due to mitigating factors, including Hallam's acceptance of guilt. The victim's impact statement detailed the lasting trauma she experienced. Hallam was ordered to undergo post-release supervision and engage in psychological counselling and a sex offender treatment programme.
A 59-year-old man from Co Galway was jailed for six years after being found guilty of raping and indecently assaulting his younger sister when she was a child. The victim, now in her late 40s, described the abuse as 'torture' and told her brother he 'ruined her life'. The jury convicted him on two counts, but could not agree on 21 other charges, which the DPP will not retry. The man denied all charges and has 24 previous convictions. The court heard that the abuse occurred in their family home, and the brother told the victim her mother would die if she told anyone. The victim's impact statement highlighted the lasting trauma and shame she experienced. The judge sentenced him to seven years for rape and five years for indecent assault, with both sentences to run concurrently. The defence argued the man should be treated as a minor at the time of the offence and that the jury's inability to agree on most charges should be considered.
A teenager with 30 previous convictions who was caught on CCTV stamping on an unidentified man's head and using a bicycle as a weapon during a group attack has been jailed. Adam Farrell pleaded guilty to assaulting an unknown person with intent to cause bodily harm. The court heard that the victim left the scene after the assault and gardai have been unable to identify him. Farrell's defense highlighted his difficult background, including a leg injury and the loss of an older brother. The judge noted the viciousness of the attack and sentenced Farrell to two and a half years' imprisonment, with the final 12 months suspended. The ruling underscores the seriousness of the assault and the need for accountability, despite the lack of a formal complaint from the victim.
A former teenager with 81 previous convictions who was on bail when he punched a homeless man in a 'cowardly, savage attack', causing serious injuries, has been jailed for six years. Shane Murray, then 19, assaulted Damien Merrigan on a Dublin street three years ago but fled the country after being identified. Mr Merrigan, who was homeless, died in July 2025. The court heard that major force was required to fracture the skull and facial bones. Murray pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm in 2023. Judge Jonathan Dunphy noted the unprovoked nature of the attack and that the victim was vulnerable. The judge inferred that an implement was used, and that Murray left the scene, highlighting a disregard for the victim and the criminal justice system. The judge accepted Murray's expression of remorse and suspended the final two years of the eight-year sentence on strict conditions. Murray has a difficult background, including addiction issues and a history of drug offences.
A Dublin teenager who was the driver of a car involved in a spate of burglaries in Carlow almost two years ago has been jailed for two years. The 18-year-old pleaded guilty to burglary and criminal damage at a housing estate in Killerig, Tullow, and other incidents. He has a number of previous convictions, including many related to stealing and driving stolen cars. The court heard that the teenager had a difficult upbringing, with his father dying when he was a toddler and his mother being abusive. Judge Mary Morrissey acknowledged his difficult background and noted that he had pleaded guilty, which saved the victims from having to give evidence. She set concurrent sentences totalling 36 months and suspended the final 12 months on strict conditions, including engaging with the Probation Service and mental health services. The judge wished him the best of luck and acknowledged his potential.
A serial offender who engaged in a spree of burglaries, ransacking office properties and stealing electronic goods, has been jailed for three and a half years. Mark Byrne, 41, had more than 150 previous convictions when he burgled a number of unoccupied premises in Dublin city centre. He was seen on CCTV footage entering buildings and returning with accomplices to steal more goods. Patrick Higgins and Nikita Ring were also before the court for sentencing in relation to burglaries they committed with Byrne. Byrne pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary, while Higgins and Ring pleaded guilty to their respective offences. The court heard that Byrne and his accomplices caused significant damage to the businesses involved. Judge Martin Nolan jailed Byrne for 51 months, with the final nine months suspended on conditions. Higgins was jailed for 21 months, and Ring received two years with the final six months suspended. The court heard that Byrne has a difficult past with addiction issues and has been in custody since July 2025.
A robber who drove his car at a man, breaking his leg, has been jailed for two years for this and for robbing a car in a separate incident. Evan Campbell, 27, was jailed for the 2023 offences, with Judge Jonathan Dunphy noting he has since made excellent progress in his rehabilitation. The court heard that Campbell drove his car at a man, pushing him against a fence and breaking his leg. The co-accused stole the man's wallet, bank cards, and €150 in cash. Campbell later committed another robbery, where he and two others argued over the value of a car and made off in the victim's car, which had to be written off. Campbell pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery and has 40 previous convictions. Aoife O'Leary BL, defending, said her client committed the offences at a time when his drug addiction was spiralling and his mental health was suffering. Judge Dunphy noted that Campbell has achieved a great deal towards rehabilitation and has not re-offended since 2023.
The trial of Derek Boyd, 31, and Chantelle Harcourt, 34, continues before the Central Criminal Court. Mr Boyd has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mark Carroll, 34, at his home in Finglas on June 9, 2024, and to assaulting Megan Rock. Ms Harcourt has pleaded not guilty to an offence of impeding the apprehension or prosecution of a person. In closing submissions, the prosecution alleged that Mr Boyd carried out a determined, murderous attack on Mr Carroll, who had returned to the house to resolve a previous row. The defence argued that Mr Boyd acted out of instinct to protect himself against a trespasser who was threatening him. The jury heard that Mr Boyd was serving the suspended portion of a sentence for the manslaughter of his sister at the time of the alleged offence. The defence counsel suggested that Mr Boyd's subsequent departure to the UK was motivated by the threat of returning to prison for that prior conviction. The trial is ongoing and has not been finalised; it is scheduled to continue on Monday before Ms Justice Melanie Greally and a jury.
A Somalian woman, Muna Sharif (47), has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for assisting a fellow national in entering Ireland illegally. Sharif, who works as a healthcare assistant in Birmingham, UK, pleaded guilty to providing a fraudulent Swedish passport and helping Asia Mohammad Ahmed enter the country. The court heard that Sharif and Ahmed had travelled from Düsseldorf, Germany, but disembarked separately at Dublin Airport. Ahmed presented a passport with a mismatched photo and claimed asylum, while Sharif was observed in the baggage hall and seen taking a suitcase with a name matching the passport. Records showed that Sharif had booked and paid for Ahmed's flight using a bank card found on her at her arrest. A WhatsApp thread between Sharif and the genuine owner of the passport was also discovered, in which Sharif offered 1,500 Swedish Krona for its use. Sharif claimed she was helping her sister, Ahmed, escape a forced marriage in Somalia, but there was no DNA evidence to support this.
A violent criminal, Colm Carroll, has been jailed for four years after pleading guilty to two counts of assault causing harm to his then partner. Despite his guilty plea, Carroll disputed the facts of the case and claimed he also received injuries during the incident. Judge Sheahan described the attack as 'horrific' and noted that the victim remains deeply traumatised. The court considered aggravating factors, including Carroll's previous convictions, his being on bail at the time, and the incident occurring within an intimate relationship. The judge acknowledged Carroll's genuine remorse and took into account his guilty plea, family support, and efforts to address his addiction. A five-year sentence was imposed, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions. The court directed Probation Services to engage with Carroll before his release to ensure he continues addressing his addiction. The incident involved Carroll kicking and punching his partner while demanding money, leading to severe injuries and long-term trauma for the victim.
A woman with 218 previous convictions, including 15 for breaching domestic violence orders, has been jailed for two months after breaching a barring order and refusing to leave her mother's home. The woman, who is in her 40s, pleaded guilty to breaching the order at her mother's south Dublin home on June 29. The case was heard in camera, with the defendant's mother having obtained the barring order in October 2025 after previous assaults. The woman remained at her mother's home for three days, during which her mother saw her drinking and became concerned about potential violence. The court heard that the woman had been working full-time and was sober for nine months before the breach. However, her mental health deteriorated after she stopped taking her prescribed medication and began drinking again. Judge Anne Watkin noted the woman's 16th breach of a domestic violence order and sentenced her to two months in prison, taking into account her guilty plea and the time already spent in custody.
Derek Boyd, 31, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mark Carroll, 34, at a Finglas home on June 9, 2024, and to threatening and assaulting Megan Rock. His partner, Chantelle Harcourt, 34, pleaded not guilty to impeding the prosecution of an arrestable offence. The Central Criminal Court trial heard that Boyd was serving a suspended sentence for the 2022 manslaughter of his sister, Sandra Boyd, and unlawful possession of a firearm. He received a four-year sentence for manslaughter, with the final two years suspended, and a concurrent five-year sentence for firearm offences, with the final three years suspended. The court noted he was under active supervision when Carroll died. The prosecution alleges Boyd stabbed Carroll with intent to kill or cause serious harm. Boyd claimed self-defence, stating Carroll lunged at him. Evidence detailed Carroll's history, including a guilty plea to assaulting Rock in Ashbourne, Co Meath, where she was found bruised and shaking, and a pending charge for assaulting a man in Dublin 7 in 2022. The trial continues before Ms Justice Melanie Greally.
Austin Byrne, a 49-year-old man with a long history of criminal convictions, was involved in a violent incident at Wheatfield Prison and two burglaries in Dublin 2. Byrne stole €20,000 worth of property from two unoccupied homes, including items of sentimental value. During the incident at the prison, he struck another man with a brush handle six times, though he claimed he attempted to de-escalate the situation. Byrne has 98 previous convictions, including multiple burglaries and assaults. He is currently serving a three-year and six-month sentence. The court heard that the burglaries were poorly executed and likely motivated by Byrne's drug addiction. Victim impact statements were submitted, but no property was recovered. Byrne's defense acknowledged his long criminal history and expressed a desire to address his addiction. The judge noted the seriousness of Byrne's actions and ordered urine analysis before adjourning the case. Austin Byrne pleaded guilty.
Jamie O'Brien, a 32-year-old serial burglar, was jailed for three years with the final six months suspended for burglarizing staff lockers at a Dublin restaurant. O'Brien was identified by CCTV and arrested after fleeing the scene. He has 46 previous convictions, including 12 for burglary, and was on bail at the time of the offense. The court heard that O'Brien had significant mental health issues and was abusing drugs at the time. His defense highlighted his guilty plea and unreserved apology. The judge considered the mitigating factors and imposed a three-year sentence. O'Brien has a history of burglary, including a ten-year sentence in 2017 for the burglary, assault, and false imprisonment of an elderly woman. The court also noted that no property was recovered from the restaurant, and no victim impact statements were made.
A frequent international traveller, Khaled Almoghayer, has been given a suspended sentence on the condition that he leaves the country. He was found with €120,000 in cash in his luggage at Dublin Airport and pleaded guilty to attempting to leave the European Union with €10,000 or more. Almoghayer claimed the money was his life savings and intended to buy property in Turkey and get his teeth done. However, he had no bank statements or records to prove the money was his. He had travelled 22 times in the last 12 months to various countries, including Egypt, Morocco, and Palestine. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the seriousness of the offence but considered mitigating factors such as his early plea and lack of previous convictions. She gave him a 12-month sentence, backdated to January, and suspended the balance on the condition that he leaves Ireland within seven days.
Rian Dunne, a man with 20 previous convictions, will be sentenced for mugging a tourist in Dublin and robbing three convenience stores. He pleaded guilty to robbery on Bachelor's Walk in 2023 and two robberies and an attempted robbery in 2025. Dunne was arrested after gardaí spotted him running with stolen items. He admitted to the offences being committed to feed a drug addiction. In May 2025, Dunne and another man robbed a service station, taking €81 worth of vapes and demanding cash. They later attempted to rob a second service station and successfully robbed a Mace shop, taking €250 in cash and €450 worth of vapes. Dunne was identified through CCTV footage and arrested at his home in June 2025. He made no admissions when interviewed by gardaí. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned sentencing to allow for the completion of a psychological report.
Derek Boyd, 31, of Scribblestown Place, Finglas, Dublin 11, has pleaded not guilty to murdering Mark Carroll (34) at his home on June 9, 2024. He also pleaded not guilty to making a threat to kill Megan Rock or cause her serious harm, and to assaulting Ms Rock, causing her harm. During his statement, Boyd claimed he acted in self-defence, stating that he believed his life was at risk when Mark Carroll entered his home and refused to leave. He said he grabbed a kitchen knife and warned Carroll not to come closer, but that Carroll lunged at him during a struggle. Boyd claimed he used the knife solely to protect himself. He also mentioned that he had a suspended sentence from a previous conviction for the death of his sister, Sandra Boyd, in a tragic accident in 2022, and that he feared reactivating it. The matter was adjourned for further proceedings. The trial continues tomorrow before Ms Justice Melanie Greally and a jury of seven men and five women.
A man with no previous convictions who was in a cannabis-induced psychosis when he stabbed his childhood friend in the back during a bizarre attack has had the balance of his jail sentence suspended. Neal Brennan, 29, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to Cian Brennan on January 2, 2025, on Station Road, Portmarnock. The victim, who was a childhood school friend of Brennan, was stabbed in the back as he was getting into the passenger side of Brennan's car. The victim was hospitalised for four days following the assault, as the wound required surgery due to its proximity to his spine and vital organs. Judge Ronan Munro noted the bizarre nature of the offending and the absence of any previous convictions, which indicated that Brennan's moral responsibility was reduced. He imposed a headline sentence of five years, which was reduced to three and a half years considering Brennan's guilty plea and lack of previous convictions.
Seamus O'Callaghan, a retired Franciscan brother and convicted sex offender, has been jailed for 11 years for raping a teenage boy while working as a teacher in Offaly almost 30 years ago. O'Callaghan, 82, was convicted of one count of anal rape following a Central Criminal Court trial in May. The victim, who was 13 years old at the time, stated that the incident took his childhood away and caused long-term psychological damage. O'Callaghan has 11 previous convictions for indecent assault, all involving teenage boys. Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo noted the significant, long-lasting impact of the abuse on the victim's life and imposed a headline sentence of 13 years, which was reduced to 11 years due to O'Callaghan's age and medical issues. The court heard that O'Callaghan had cooperated with the investigation but his statements were found to be false self-serving denials. The case highlights the long-term consequences of sexual abuse and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
A 39-year-old man has been sentenced to four years in prison for repeatedly raping his niece over a two-year period when he was a teenager and she was a child. He pleaded guilty to four charges, including rape and oral rape, between July 2000 and July 2002. The victim, who was between six and eight years old at the time, described the abuse as physically painful and emotionally traumatic. She began drinking at 12 and experienced anxiety and panic attacks as a teenager. She later attempted suicide and required hospitalization. The man expressed deep regret in a letter, acknowledging the severity of his actions and suggesting he had been abused as a child. The judge noted the breach of trust and the man's remorse but reduced the headline sentence of seven years to five, with the final year suspended. The victim encouraged others who have been abused to come forward.
A profoundly deaf woman who was sexually abused by several male relatives over an 11-year period has expressed relief after four of her family members were convicted of 13 counts of abuse. The trial, which lasted 131 days, was the longest in the country's history. The woman, who suffered from severe language deprivation and lived in a dysfunctional family, described feeling trapped and controlled by her relatives. She said she only felt safe in her grandfather's company and at school. In her victim impact statement, she expressed a desire to be taken away by Tusla and given a new family. She credited her partner for making her feel safe and helping her escape the trauma. The court heard that the woman has complex PTSD and experienced suicidal ideation. The convicted men, including her uncle and three brothers, received sentences ranging from seven to 15 years. One brother is on the run, and his sentencing was postponed due to his absence.
A sentencing hearing has taken place in the Special Criminal Court for Shane Blackhall (21) and Co-accused O'Donovan (19), both of whom have pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to drug dealing, firearm possession, and involvement in a criminal organisation. Blackhall admitted to possessing cocaine, cannabis, and diamorphine for sale or supply at Mungret Court on June 10, 2025, and possessing a firearm on January 6, 2025, at Hyde Avenue in Limerick, in circumstances giving rise to a reasonable suspicion that he did not have it for a lawful purpose. He also admitted to unlawfully using a mechanically propelled vehicle without the consent of the owner on June 1, 2025, at Ashbourne Avenue, Limerick. O'Donovan admitted to participating in or contributing to activity intending to facilitate the commission of a serious offence by the O'Donoghue criminal organisation, to wit, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, between April 26 and May 8, 2025. He also faces three further charges of unlawfully using a mechanically propelled vehicle without the consent of the owner, in Limerick on April 27, 2025, and May 8, 2025, and in Monasterevin on April 26, 2025, as well as a charge of arson at Ashroe, Limerick, on May 8, 2025. The matter was adjourned for sentencing on July 27. Five other men are also due to stand trial in relation to their alleged involvement in these offences.
A man will be sentenced later this year for stealing a car and using it to ram a garda vehicle 23 years ago. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Barry Lysaght (46), formerly of Charleville, Co Cork, pleaded guilty to one count of reckless endangerment and one count of the unauthorised taking of a car at a location near the South Circular Road on March 16, 2003. The court heard that Lysaght has been living in the UK for most of the past 23 years. Garda Damien Coleman told Aideen Collard, BL, prosecuting, that on the day in question, he was on patrol with now-retired Garda Michael Kiely at 12.16am when they saw a car being driven in an unusual manner on Parnell Road. The gardai activated the patrol car's blue lights and the car, driven by Lysaght, mounted the footpath, coming to a stop before accelerating and driving off. The car continued through red lights and narrowly avoided colliding with an oncoming taxi.
A 41-year-old woman, Paulina Zawadzka, was jailed for two years for attacking a man after he laughed at her suggestion they should be together. The victim suffered lacerations, fractures to his elbow, little finger, and nose, and has been left with facial scars and post-traumatic stress disorder. The incident occurred in Zawadzka's home in Dublin, where the man was found bleeding heavily, and the house was covered in blood when Gardaí arrived. The court heard that the man had been homeless and living in a hostel, while Zawadzka had a good work history, including at the Shelbourne Hotel. The attack happened after the man was invited for drinks, and he believed Zawadzka was joking when she suggested they be together. However, she hit him with what he thought was a glass bottle. The assault was captured on a call to emergency services made by her flatmate, who described the ongoing violence. Zawadzka had 19 previous convictions, including three for assault. Her defense highlighted her struggles with alcoholism and her efforts to seek treatment. The unnamed 41-year-old pleaded guilty.
The trial of Derek Boyd (31) and Chantelle Harcourt (34) continues before Ms Justice Melanie Greally and a jury. Mr Boyd, of Finglas, Dublin 11, has pleaded not guilty to murdering Mark Carroll (34) at his home on June 9, 2024. He also pleaded not guilty to threatening Ms Megan Rock with death or serious harm and assaulting her on the same occasion. The prosecution alleges Mr Boyd stabbed Mr Carroll with intent to kill or cause serious harm. The jury heard that Mr Boyd was on a suspended sentence for shooting his sister dead in a tragic accident at the time of the alleged stabbing. Ms Harcourt, of Darndale, Dublin 17, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of impeding the prosecution of Mr Boyd. She is accused of cleaning the scene before gardai arrived and acting to impede his apprehension at Blanchardstown Garda Station. Witness Garda Emer Downey testified that Ms Rock identified Mr Boyd as the attacker and described Mr Carroll returning to the house to 'sort it out' after an argument. The trial is ongoing and was not adjourned or finalised at this stage.
A High Court judge has ordered that the mother of a child rape victim be brought before him to face allegations that she filmed her daughter's abuser in court and posted it on social media. The woman is alleged to have made a video recording in court of her 17-year-old daughter's rapist and to have posted it on Facebook. The identity of the 30-year-old Carlow defendant cannot be published to protect the statutory anonymity of the victim. The man was jailed for seven years for repeatedly sexually abusing his partner's teenage niece. He had pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault and one count of orally raping the child. The girl told the court that she was 13 when the defendant started "grooming" her. She said she has struggled with anxiety, depression, trauma, and flashbacks as a result of the abuse. Prosecuting counsel brought the case back before the Central Criminal Court seeking an "attachment order" in relation to contempt of court proceedings. The video post was viewed around 300 times but has since been taken down.
John Eghomwanre and Faraj Odukoya were sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for their roles in the St Valentine's Day violence that resulted in the death of Quham Babatunde. Eghomwanre pleaded guilty to two counts of assault causing harm to Mr Babatunde and another man. Odukoya pleaded guilty to three counts of assault causing harm to Mr Babatunde and two other men, one count of violent disorder, and two counts of burglary committed on November 23, 2023. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a five-year prison sentence on both men, backdated to the date they entered custody. The judge noted that both defendants engaged in serious violence and that Odukoya's conduct was more serious, though he acknowledged the younger defendant's age and the opportunistic nature of the burglaries. Earlier this year, co-defendants Rory Carr and Bruno Tache were each sentenced to three years and six months for assault causing harm and violent disorder, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions for two years. Four other men remain before the courts in relation to the incident. The court accepted that neither Eghomwanre nor Odukoya possessed a knife during the attacks.
A convicted killer, currently serving a six-year term for manslaughter, had his prison sentence extended after he rammed his former partner's car with their three children inside and then assaulted his partner's sister in front of her teenage daughter. The man pleaded guilty to assault and criminal damage, and the court considered the breach of a safety order. The judge noted the severity of the accused's actions, including ramming the car with his own children inside, and emphasized the need for control and dominance in his behavior. The sentence was made consecutive to his existing term, with the final two years suspended on strict conditions. The victims' impact statements highlighted the emotional trauma suffered by the family, including the sister who was left with severe facial injuries and the daughter who had to protect her mother. The judge commended the victims for standing their ground and ordered the accused to maintain a ten-year bond to stay away from the complainants.
A man who punched, headbutted, and choked his former partner until she nearly lost consciousness has been sentenced to two years in prison, with the final nine months suspended. The victim suffered severe bruising and experienced long-term mental health issues, including nightmares and insomnia. Jonathan Cooke, 29, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm at the woman's home in June 2024. During the attack, he ignored her pleas to stop and continued the violence. Although he claimed she had struck him first, the victim denied this. Judge Orla Crowe emphasized that the violence was a gross violation of the woman's rights and condemned the actions as unacceptable, regardless of the relationship's context. Cooke was ordered to undergo an intimate partner violence program and probation supervision. The court also noted his difficult background and current efforts to rebuild his life. The victim was given the option to accept a €1,400 token of remorse or have the money donated to a charity.
Seamus O'Hara, a 78-year-old man from Limavady, Derry, was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court to concurrent terms totalling ten years imprisonment. In March, a jury convicted him of one count of rape and 35 counts of indecent assault of a child, who was aged between six and 12, at his former family home in Donegal between 1976 and 1983. Mr Justice Paul Burns described the conduct as a "prolonged and orchestrated campaign of sexual abuse" involving grooming-type behaviour. During the sentencing, O'Hara turned to the victim and said, "shame on you," remarks the judge dismissed, stating O'Hara was the one who should be ashamed. The judge noted the severe, lasting impact on the victim, including isolation and mental health issues, while acknowledging the delay in the proceedings. In mitigation, the court considered O'Hara's age, health, and work history. O'Hara has previous convictions in Ireland and Northern Ireland for offences including assault, drink driving, and possession of a firearm. His defence counsel, James McGowan SC, stated O'Hara does not accept the verdict and requested to serve his sentence closer to Derry. The matter was finalised with the imposition of the ten-year custodial sentence.
Derek Boyd, 31, and Chantelle Harcourt, 34, are on trial at the Central Criminal Court, where both have pleaded not guilty to charges arising from an incident at a home in Dublin on June 9, 2024. Mr Boyd faces charges of murdering Mark Carroll, 34, threatening Megan Rock, and assaulting her. Ms Harcourt is accused of impeding the apprehension or prosecution of another person at the scene and later at Blanchardstown Garda Station. The jury heard from Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster that Mr Carroll died from a fatal stab wound to the chest, which penetrated the pericardial sac and right ventricle. She stated the injury was unsurvivable and caused haemorrhage and shock, with no contributory factors from alcohol or cocaine. Minor injuries consistent with a fight were also noted. The prosecution alleges Mr Boyd stabbed Mr Carroll with intent to kill or cause serious harm. The jury was informed that Mr Boyd was on a suspended sentence for previously shooting his sister dead in a tragic accident. The trial continues before Ms Justice Melanie Greally.
Martin Cunningham (31) of Sheephill Green, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, is set to be sentenced later this year at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for making threats and producing a Stanley knife two years ago. Cunningham came forward with signed pleas from the District Court and pleaded guilty today to threatening to kill or cause serious harm to Mark Howard at Lidl, Clonsilla on February 23, 2024. He also admitted to producing a Stanley knife on the same date. Judge Orla Crowe has adjourned the sentencing until October 26, next. The case has drawn attention due to the severity of the alleged threats and the production of a weapon in a public place. Cunningham's guilty pleas have expedited the legal process, allowing the court to focus on determining an appropriate sentence. The adjournment provides time for the court to consider all relevant factors before delivering a verdict. The case highlights the importance of addressing threats and weapons in public spaces to ensure community safety.
Detective Garda John Pirollo described being strangled by John McDonagh during an arrest at a halting site as a "deeply harrowing experience" with lasting emotional and psychological effects. McDonagh, 36, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and was jailed for two and a half years. The court heard that McDonagh had a history of 23 previous convictions, including assault and drug offenses. During the incident, McDonagh drove at the detective, attempted to pin him between his car and a patrol vehicle, and later strangled him during a struggle. The garda suffered injuries, including bruising and difficulty swallowing. McDonagh expressed remorse, wrote a letter of apology, and offered €5,000 as a token of remorse. Judge Martina Baxter noted the seriousness of the incident and the risk to the garda's life, but took mitigating factors into account, including McDonagh's guilty plea and mental health issues. She imposed a headline sentence of four years, reduced to three-and-a-half years with the final 12 months suspended on conditions.
A man with 82 previous convictions has been jailed for four years after repeatedly kicking his former partner in the head while on bail. Lee Byrne, 28, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The victim described ongoing medical issues, including anxiety, persistent concussion syndrome, and headaches. Byrne was on bail at the time of the incident and was later arrested. Gardai found evidence of injuries on Byrne's hands and blood on his feet. The victim detailed the assault, saying Byrne targeted her head with kicks. She was hospitalised over 20 times and is on medication for seizures and anxiety. She described the trauma and how Byrne's actions changed her life. Judge Elma Sheahan imposed a five-year sentence, with the final year suspended, and ordered Byrne to engage with the Probation Service. The judge noted the assault occurred in an intimate relationship and considered Byrne's guilty plea and remorse. Byrne's defence highlighted his history of drug addiction and psychiatric issues. Gardai confirmed the victim's injuries were severe, with significant damage to her face.
Gerard McCarthy, 64, of Clonlost, Killucan, Co. Westmeath, was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court after pleading guilty to 24 sample counts of rape and 24 sample counts of indecent assault. The offences, which occurred between 1979 and 1985, were committed against his niece, Catriona Mahon, when she was aged between seven and 13. Mr Justice David Keane imposed a sentence of seven years' imprisonment, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions for two years. The judge directed McCarthy to participate in a sexual offender's rehabilitation programme if deemed suitable and imposed a two-year post-release supervision order. Aggravating factors included the high degree of breach of trust, the victim's age and defencelessness, and the persistent nature of the offending. Mitigating factors included McCarthy's early admissions of guilt, his signed guilty pleas at the District Court, and his lack of previous convictions. The court acknowledged the victim's courage in coming forward after four decades of silence. McCarthy's defence counsel highlighted his cooperation, medical issues, and a letter of apology expressing shame. The judge affirmed that the shame lay solely with the convicted man and wished the victim well in her recovery.
Irish Rail and Tipperary County Council are in a legal dispute at the High Court over a signal mast near the historic Cahir Rail Station, a Gothic revival structure from the 1850s. Irish Rail claims the mast is 130 metres away from the protected building and asserts that it has installed over 700 similar masts nationwide without issues. They are challenging the council's enforcement notice, issued under the Planning and Development Act 2000, which requires the mast to be removed by September. Irish Rail argues that the council incorrectly determined the mast's impact on the protected structure and misinterpreted the curtilage area. They also claim the council acted beyond its authority by suggesting that exempted works lose their exemption if they affect a protected structure's character. Irish Rail states that the protected status now only applies to the station building, not the other nearby structures. The council's warning carries a potential fine of up to €12 million and two years' imprisonment for non-compliance. The case will be heard again at the High Court on July 20.
In the Central Criminal Court, the jury heard that Derek Boyd, who was on a suspended sentence for a prior shooting, allegedly stabbed Mark Carroll to death on 9 June 2024. Boyd's partner, Chantelle Harcourt, is accused of trying to clean the scene before Gardaí arrived. Witness Megan Rock testified that she, Mark, Boyd and another person drank cocaine in Boyd's garden on 8 June, left after Boyd told them to leave, and later returned to the house to see if they could stay the night. Rock said she saw Mark running out of the house with blood on his chest. She also claimed Boyd had pulled her by the hair and threatened her. Boyd and Harcourt have both pleaded not guilty to the charges. The trial will continue tomorrow before Justice Melanie Greally and a jury.
A man in his 50s has been convicted and fined €500 for breaching a protection order, despite requesting a deferred case. The man, who resides in Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to breaching a protection order made in January 2025. The order was put in place following the breakdown of his relationship with the injured party, who is his former partner. The breach occurred on March 1, when he verbally abused the injured party and put her in fear. The court heard that the man had no previous convictions and was remorseful, but Judge Conor Fottrell emphasized the seriousness of the breach and the purpose of protection orders. The man was fined €500 and given six months to pay, with the court noting that the breach, although not violent, was still a serious matter.