Dylan Mills has been jailed for four years for burglarizing the home of an 80-year-old man and stealing vehicles. Mills, 23, has 16 previous convictions, including criminal damage, assault, and drug misuse. The court heard that Mills broke into the home of an elderly man, stole a carving knife, and later stole a car that was involved in a crash. Mills was in foster care from age 12 to 18 and has struggled with drug addiction. His defense highlighted his early guilty plea and his efforts in custody to address his issues. Judge Martin Nolan noted the mitigating factors, including Mills' remorse and his progress in custody, but warned that if he reoffends, sentences would increase. The judge suspended the final year of the sentence for one year and placed Mills under probation supervision for one year post-release.
A Ukrainian man with a significant history of violence, Mykola Kaznacheiev, was jailed for five and a half years after kicking his former partner outside her workplace and threatening to cut her head off. Kaznacheiev, who had served 21 years in prison in Ukraine, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and criminal damage. The incident occurred in June 2025 when he approached his former partner outside her workplace, kicked her in the groin, and threatened her with violence. He was arrested after a colleague intervened. Kaznacheiev's legal team argued that he was homeless and in a psychotic episode, and urged the court to consider deportation instead of imprisonment. However, Judge Elma Sheahan imposed a five-and-a-half-year sentence, noting the seriousness of the offence, the breach of trust, and the victim's ongoing fear and distress. The judge declined to suspend any part of the sentence and ordered no contact with the victim for ten years.
Supt O'Reilly, the applicant, appealed a November Dublin Circuit Civil Court decision to the High Court, where he alleged he was penalised by the Garda Commissioner's office after making protected disclosures regarding unsafe leather holsters. He claimed these defective holsters, supplied by a Kildare saddlery, allowed a pistol to be removed even when the retention strap was closed, potentially contributing to the accidental self-wounding of a Garda at the Israeli ambassador's residence in June 2020. Six days later, Stephen Silver murdered Gda Colm Horkan using the garda's own gun in Castlerea, Co Roscommon. Silver was sentenced in April 2023 to life imprisonment with a minimum time to be served of 40 years for murdering a Garda acting in the course of his duties. During the current High Court hearing, counsel for Supt O'Reilly raised a separate allegation that Supt Liam White shared a prohibited photograph taken inside a courtroom of Supt O'Reilly and three accompanying individuals. Mr Justice Micheál O'Higgins asked parties with knowledge to write to the court and stated he would review the relevant prohibitions. The matter was adjourned to May 19 for further submissions.
Leah O'Toole (29), of Holly Court, Ballybrack, Dublin, pleaded guilty to public order offences and failing to appear in court arising from incidents in Ballybrack and Dún Laoghaire in May and June 2025. The court heard that gardaí were called to the home of the defendant's mother in Holly Court at around 9.55pm on May 18, 2025, where O'Toole was kicking the gate of the property. When gardaí approached her, she began 'shouting and roaring' at them. The court heard there was a smell of alcohol from her breath and she was intoxicated. The offences before the court included threatening or abusive behaviour, intoxication in a public place and failing to appear before Dún Laoghaire District Court on June 4, 2025. The court also heard she was fined €150 at Bray District Court on May 26, 2025, and had another public order conviction in Wexford earlier this year. Defence counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, said O'Toole is a mother of four and that most of the offending occurred over the past two to three years during an abusive relationship which drove her towards alcohol misuse. The court heard she has also struggled with serious alcohol issues since the death of her father. Counsel said she completed a residential treatment programme last year and is continuing with aftercare services at Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Outreach Project. The court heard O'Toole had been previously placed on a one-year probation bond by Judge Anne Watkin in April and is engaging well with treatment services. Judge Conor Fottrell said O'Toole's behaviour towards gardaí was 'unacceptable'. However, the judge said he accepted she was going through personal difficulties and commended her for engaging with treatment. Judge Fottrell convicted and fined her €100 on the intoxication charge and €150 on the public order offence, giving her six months to pay. The remaining matters were taken into consideration.
A woman who drove over a cyclist, leaving him "tortured" by the sound of his breaking bones, has been given a fully suspended sentence. Izabella Aleksandrowicz, 50, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious bodily harm to Andrew Brett in December 2023. Brett, an experienced marathon runner, suffered internal injuries, a fractured pelvis, and was left unable to return to competitive running. He described the accident as the worst day of his life and said he was "tortured" by the sound of his bones breaking. Aleksandrowicz, who remained at the scene and had no prior convictions, was given a 12-month suspended sentence and a two-year driving ban. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged the devastating impact on Brett and his family but noted Aleksandrowicz's remorse and low risk of re-offending. Brett's victim impact statement highlighted the life-changing effects of the accident, including ongoing physical and emotional trauma.
Mirons Nekrasovs, 21, of Swords, Dublin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to one count of money laundering and one count of possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The court heard that Nekrasovs, who had no previous convictions, was allegedly coerced by an international organised crime group into allowing his bank account to be used to extort €24,000 from 15 victims, aged 18 to 24, between November 2023 and July 2024. Prosecutors stated that CSAM was found on his devices during a search, though defence counsel argued the material was not distributed and that Nekrasovs was himself a victim of sextortion. Judge Jonathan Dunphy rejected a request for Section 100 treatment, citing the seriousness of the offences, particularly the exploitation of a child. He imposed a global sentence of two and a half years, suspended in full on strict conditions for three years. Nekrasovs was directed to place himself under probation supervision for three years. The judge also declined the defence application to anonymise the defendant, allowing his identity to be reported.
Alexander Crowley, 20, of Dalkey, Co Dublin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for false imprisonment and stalking a woman in August 2024. Crowley pleaded guilty to both charges. Judge Orla Crowe imposed a sentence of three years' imprisonment, with the final year suspended. The suspension is conditional on Crowley having no contact with the injured party for 10 years, continuing to take psychiatric medication, and undergoing Probation Service supervision for one year post-release. The court noted Crowley was an involuntary inpatient who absconded from a mental health facility before the offence, during which he was described as acutely psychotic. The judge stated that absent his mental health difficulties, the headline sentence would have been six years. Crowley's offending was considered diminished by his condition, and his unreserved apology was accepted as genuine. He has no previous convictions. The matter was finalised with this sentence.
Patrick O'Brien, 74, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after being convicted of indecently assaulting a girl in 1990. The victim, who was 15 or 16 at the time, reported the abuse to gardai in 2022 after reading media reports that O'Brien had received a fully suspended sentence for possessing child sexual abuse material. Judge Sinead Ni Chulachain acknowledged the offence as opportunistic but noted the significant age difference between the parties. She imposed a three-year prison sentence, with the final 12 months suspended for one year to incentivise rehabilitation given O'Brien's age. The judge directed O'Brien to undergo Probation Service supervision for one year post-release and to engage in offence or victim-focused work. The court heard that O'Brien accepted the jury's verdict. The victim stated that the ordeal changed the trajectory of her life and that reporting the crime was traumatic. Defence counsel noted that O'Brien complied with conditions of his previous suspended sentence and has no other pending matters. The judge expressed hope that the verdict would provide the victim with comfort, recognising the long-term impact of the assault.
A man who killed a pensioner with an MMA-style back spin kick has been jailed for five years. Joshua Rush (25) pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Charles McCaughley (69) at Fairview Strand, Dublin 3 on June 7, 2021. The court heard that Rush delivered a deliberate kick to the victim, who later died from a traumatic brain injury. Judge Martina Baxter described the attack as unprovoked and called Rush's actions callous. She sentenced him to six-and-a-half years in prison, with the final 18 months suspended on conditions. Rush expressed genuine remorse and has no previous convictions. His sister, the victim's closest relative, did not want to see anyone jailed for his death. Rush's defence highlighted his difficult family background and mental health issues, asking the court to consider his culpability as low.
A 27-year-old man who was convicted of orally raping his younger half-sister when he was a teenager has been sentenced to six years in prison, with the final two years suspended on strict conditions. The judge criticized a testimonial that described the defendant as having a 'strong moral compass' despite his convictions. The court heard that the abuse occurred in the girl's home, where she was a vulnerable child, and that the defendant was in a position of trust as her older step-brother. The judge noted that the age difference and the location of the abuse were aggravating factors. The defendant expressed remorse and accepted his guilt, but the judge emphasized the severity of the crime. The victim's impact statement highlighted the long-term trauma she experienced, including the loss of her sense of safety and the emotional toll of the court process. The defendant will also be placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for five years and will undergo supervision by the Probation Service after his release.
A hijacker who took part in the robbery of a taxi on the M50, which saw the driver try to escape on the busy motorway, has been jailed for three years. Judge Martin Nolan said it was lucky there was no collisions as a result of the incident, which took place close to the M50 Finglas junction on September 15, 2024. Robert Brogan (41) came forward on a signed guilty plea at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to one count of hijacking on that date. His co-accused has taken a bench warrant. Garda Gavin Campbell told the court that he was on patrol on the date in question when he noticed the driver's seat of a car open on the M50. An articulated lorry had just overtaken the car immediately prior to this, the court heard. The gardai pulled up behind the vehicle in question and found Brogan and a co-accused in the process of trying to hijack a taxi driver.
A man known as a 'predatory thief' has been jailed for three years after stealing a tourist's bank card and withdrawing €220 from an ATM in Dublin. Viorel Rostas, who has 79 previous convictions, was convicted of theft and cash fraud. The court heard that the tourist was drinking and got into a taxi with Rostas, who watched him enter his PIN at an ATM and then stole the card. Rostas used the card to withdraw money and was later identified by gardai. Despite his criminal history and high risk of reoffending, the judge noted that Rostas had a work history and had apologized for his actions. The judge described Rostas's behavior as predatory and deliberate, emphasizing that he targeted the victim with intent. Rostas was sentenced to three years in prison, with the judge acknowledging his personal circumstances but emphasizing the seriousness of the crime.
Convicted killer Derek Moore, who was banned from driving and was involved in a serious collision that injured a grandmother, has been granted permission to travel abroad for a family holiday while awaiting sentencing. Moore, who has 44 previous convictions, including dangerous driving and drug possession, was involved in a high-speed incident in Dublin where he struck a grandmother, causing her serious injuries. Despite the severity of the case, a judge allowed him to travel abroad for one week. Moore has pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and is awaiting sentencing, with the court considering his recent diagnosis of ADHD and his need for medication. The grandmother, who suffered facial injuries, a stroke, and a brain bleed, required extensive medical treatment and is now in constant pain. Moore's legal team argued that he would return to Ireland if allowed to travel, and the judge noted that he had previously complied with bail conditions.
A man who is serving a sentence for drug dealing has had his jail term extended by 15 months for further offences of drug dealing and money laundering. Colin Radburn (37) was jailed for four and a half years in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court last November after he was pulled over at a garda checkpoint and found to have €350,000 worth of cocaine and £15,520 in cash in his van. He appeared before the court today on signed guilty pleas to one count of possessing cannabis, one count of possessing the drugs for sale or supply, and one count of money laundering. These charges relate to €19,218 of cannabis and €23,500 in cash which gardai found when they searched his van. Radburn made admissions in custody and told gardai he had a drug debt and was under pressure to transport the drugs and the cash. He now has 32 previous convictions, including the offences he carried out in February 2025.
Two criminals involved in a "very disturbing" assault in which the victim was punched, pulled to the ground and kicked have been jailed for three years and three months. Aidan Daniels (30) and Adam Kelly (21) pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault with intent to cause bodily harm at the Daybreak shop in Loughlinstown, Dublin, on June 23, 2025. Judge Martina Baxter handed both men a sentence of three years and three months, backdated to when they went into custody. Garda Sinead Whelan told the court that a member of the public anonymously called gardai after witnessing the attack outside the shop. The victim declined to make any statement to gardai, but the defendants were identified from CCTV of the attack. Viewing this footage in court, Judge Baxter said: "This is very disturbing." The footage showed Kelly punching and kneeing the victim as he "slides to the ground." She said the victim was then defenceless on the ground and being dragged by his hoodie with one of the men dragging him by his leg.
Sean McGovern, a Kinahan cartel lieutenant, has asked the Special Criminal Court to give him credit for pleading guilty to directing the criminal organization in the murder of a grandfather and the attempted murder of another man. His lawyers also requested additional credit for the time he spent in harsh conditions in a Dubai prison before his extradition to Ireland. McGovern pleaded guilty to directing the activities of the criminal organization in the murder of Christopher Kirwan and the surveillance of James Gately. His defense argued that his role was limited to surveillance and communication, not planning or executing the attacks. Michael Bowman SC highlighted the guilty plea as a significant mitigating factor and requested a reduction in the sentence beyond the standard 25 percent. He also presented testimonials from McGovern's family, emphasizing his rehabilitation and current status in Portlaoise Prison. The prosecution, however, questioned whether additional credit should be given due to McGovern's challenge to his extradition, which prolonged his time in Dubai.
A 42-year-old man was convicted of breaching a safety order after calling his former partner a 'tramp' and making an offensive gesture at a food market. The victim, who was with her new partner and children, stated that the accused drove through the car park, passed her, and made the offensive remarks. The accused denied the allegations, claiming he had gone to the market to buy an air-conditioning unit and had not made any offensive gestures. The court found the victim's evidence credible and convicted the accused. The judge noted that the incident was at the lower end of domestic violence but emphasized that all such cases are serious. The accused, who was already serving a suspended sentence, was ordered to undergo a community service suitability report. The defense highlighted the accused's willingness to engage with the MOVE programme and his part-time work. The unnamed 42-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A self-proclaimed 'drugs lord' named Craig O'Connell, who had 62 previous convictions, was jailed for nine years for raping a 16-year-old girl. O'Connell falsely claimed the girl owed him €12,000 and threatened her with violence if she did not comply. He convinced her to have sex with him, recording the act to provide proof. O'Connell continued to extort money from the girl, taking items such as her mother's wedding band and an engagement ring. He also threatened her former boyfriend, falsely accusing him of being a 'rat' and making him sell drugs to repay a debt. O'Connell pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including rape, theft, and coercion. The court noted the abuse of trust and the deliberate planning to terrify the victims. The judge imposed a sentence of 11 years for the rape and a consecutive six-year term for making a demand with menace. O'Connell was also ordered to attend sex offender treatment and be under post-release supervision.
Two men, Vladislavs Temnis and Ik Joo Kang, were jailed for a combined 11 years after being caught with over €1 million in illicit cash days after arriving in Ireland. Both pleaded guilty to possession of the proceeds of criminal conduct. The Dublin Crime Response Team discovered the cash in a rented Skoda vehicle and later in a hotel room. The men were found to be involved in a money laundering operation. Judge Orla Crowe considered mitigating factors, including their lack of previous convictions and their early guilty pleas. Temnis received a four-year sentence, while Kang was sentenced to seven years. Both were given credit for time served and had their sentences backdated. The court heard that Kang had no knowledge of the criminal nature of the job and felt it was suspicious upon seeing the cash.
Jenifer Devine, a mother of eight, was given a suspended sentence for withholding information about her husband's involvement in the murder of her brother-in-law. Devine had fled with her husband, Christopher Devine, who was later convicted of murder. The court heard that Devine was afraid of her husband, who was described as a 'snake' and had a history of significant violence. Devine pleaded guilty to withholding information during the four-day period following the murder. The judge noted that Devine was the sole carer for her two youngest children while her husband was serving a life sentence. The court acknowledged her mental distress and the chaotic living conditions she faced. The judge imposed an 18-month suspended sentence, taking into account her guilty plea, lack of recent convictions, and her role as a primary carer. The victim's family expressed a significant rift due to the incident, and Devine's victim impact statement highlighted the emotional toll on her and her family. Christopher Devine pleaded not guilty.
A man with 193 previous convictions, John Maughan, was given a fully suspended sentence for an attempted robbery that was described as 'heartless and cruel' by the judge. Maughan, 39, pleaded guilty to attempting to steal from a victim who was knocked to the ground during the incident. The court heard that he had not committed any offences in the past six years and had made 'exceptional' efforts to turn his life around. Judge Orla Crowe noted that while Maughan had a lesser role than his co-accused, he was present and twice attempted to steal from the victim. The judge described the victim's experience as being 'set upon and swirled around' by the group, highlighting a 'lack of humanity' and 'heartless and cruel' behaviour. The victim's impact statement was submitted but not read aloud. The judge acknowledged Maughan's difficult background, health issues, and rehabilitation efforts. She noted that his record and being on bail at the time would usually warrant a custodial sentence, but his recent behaviour was 'exceptional'.
Dylan Brady, 39, of Ballybrack, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to assaulting a garda, obstructing a garda, threatening and abusive behaviour, failing to comply with a garda direction, and violent disorderly behaviour. The court heard that Brady, who has 133 previous convictions, became abusive towards staff at St Vincent's University Hospital A&E on November 3, 2024. After refusing a direction to leave, he was arrested and taken to Donnybrook Garda Station. There, he allegedly continued to be abusive, slammed doors, and spat in the face of Garda Lee O'Donoghue while attempting to grab him. Defence solicitor Andrew Vallely stated that Brady suffers from schizophrenia and psychosis and was not medically compliant at the time, noting he is now in residential treatment at Coolmine Lodge. Judge Anne Watkin described the station behaviour as "pretty serious" but decided to deal with the matter under the Probation Act given the guilty plea and treatment progress. Brady was placed on a 12-month probation bond on his own bond of €500, with an independent surety of €500. Conditions include notifying gardaí if he leaves Coolmine Lodge, remaining off alcohol and illegal drugs, engaging with the Probation Service and treatment providers, taking prescribed medication, and completing residential treatment. Judge Watkin warned Brady he "will be jailed" if he commits any further offences.
Declan Connolly, 42, of Dublin 9, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to attempting to make a gain by deception. The court heard that in May 2021, Connolly applied for a €20,000 loan from Ballygall Credit Union using false documents, including a Virgin Media bill, AIB bank statements, and pharmacy payslips. The loan was not granted, and no financial loss occurred. Judge Orla Crowe described the attempt as "ham-fisted" but deliberate, noting it required planning. Aggravating factors included Connolly's 12 previous convictions and the fact that he was serving a partly-suspended sentence for robbery at the time. Mitigating factors included his cooperation with the investigation, lack of further negative attention, and his role as a carer for his mother and part-time worker. Judge Crowe stated the court was "going to give this man a chance" and imposed an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for three years on strict conditions.
A Dutch national's application to stand as an independent surety for a man awaiting trial on drugs conspiracy charges has been rejected by the Special Criminal Court. The court heard that Sadaf Piroozram (52) offered to lodge €30,000 for Ali Ghasemi Mazidi (50), who is charged with conspiring to import controlled drugs valued in excess of €13 million between February and March 2024. Presiding Judge Kerida Naidoo found that Ms Piroozram, who resides in Rotterdam, could provide only limited evidence regarding Mr Mazidi's movements during the relevant period and had relied solely on newspaper reports to understand the allegations against him. The judge determined she was unable to adequately assess the risks involved in standing as surety. The court also rejected proposed monitoring measures involving a mobile phone application, finding no realistic basis for gardaí participation. Mr Mazidi, with an address in the Netherlands, and two other men, including one from Enniskillen, remain awaiting trial in connection with the operation. Seven co-accused have previously pleaded guilty and received combined sentences of 70 years.
Christopher Vaughan, a 63-year-old convicted rapist, was jailed for 13 years for sexually abusing a young girl in her home between 1996 and 1997. The victim described Vaughan as a monster and a coward, urging parents to watch for signs of abuse and teach children to speak out. Vaughan exploited the neglect in the victim's home, where her mother was an alcoholic and unable to protect her. He was violent towards the mother, contributing to a climate of fear. The abuse included two rapes and multiple sexual assaults, with Vaughan threatening to harm the mother and siblings. The abuse ended when the children were moved to their father's home. Vaughan denied the offences, but the court found him culpable, noting his prior rape conviction and the severity of the abuse. The victim's impact statement highlighted the lasting trauma and the need for awareness about child abuse. The court emphasized the need for justice and the importance of protecting vulnerable children.
Thomas Dannevig, a 21-year-old from Donabate, pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary during the Dublin riots in November 2023. He admitted to entering multiple stores, including Foot Locker and Lifestyle Sports, and stealing items. Dannevig claimed he was not involved in the riots and acted on his own, though he was part of a larger group of looters. He was not charged with criminal damage. The court heard that Dannevig had no criminal intent and described his actions as a stupid decision. He was given a suspended prison sentence of two and a half years, 100 hours of community service, and placed under probation for 18 months. Judge Pauline Codd noted that Dannevig's actions, though minor, contributed to significant losses for the retailers. CCTV footage showed Dannevig moving between stores and stealing items. The court was informed that the total losses from the stores were substantial, with significant damage and lost revenue. Dannevig expressed remorse and apologized for his actions. His mother and stepfather supported him in court, and he has started a pre-apprenticeship course.
Sean McGovern, a senior Kinahan cartel member, swore on his baby's life that he would not stop targeting the Hutch gang following the Regency Hotel attack in 2016. Detective Superintendent David Gallagher testified that McGovern directed the Kinahan gang's activities, including tracking James Mago' Gately, who was believed to be involved in the attack. In text exchanges, McGovern vowed to continue targeting the Hutch gang until all members were gone. McGovern pleaded guilty to directing the Kinahan gang's activities in relation to the murder of Christopher Kirwan and the surveillance of James Gately. Kirwan was an innocent man with no connection to either gang, targeted after being photographed at a Hutch family member's funeral. Gately survived two attempted hits, including one where he was shot five times. McGovern's actions were part of a broader campaign of violence and intimidation against the Hutch gang, highlighting the ongoing conflict between the Kinahan and Hutch criminal organisations.
A man who became a trusted family friend has been jailed for 14 years for the sexual abuse of two young daughters in Galway. Benedick Joel (46) was convicted of 24 counts of sexual assault and one count of attempted anal rape on dates in 2017 and 2018. The court heard that Joel, referred to as 'Uncle Ben' by the children, was a family friend who initially engaged in 'body checks' on the girls and later sexually abused them. Both victims, now in their 20s, reported the abuse in 2022. Joel denied the allegations and has no previous convictions. The victims described the long-term emotional and psychological impact of the abuse, including depression, anxiety, and self-harm. The judge emphasized the breach of trust and the serious degradation of the offences, imposing a global sentence of 15 and a half years, with the final 18 months suspended to encourage rehabilitation.
A violent criminal with 123 previous convictions, Jordan Carroll, has been jailed for over three years for stabbing an English tourist in Dublin's Temple Bar. Carroll, who pleaded guilty to possession of a steak knife, assault causing harm, and violent disorder, was involved in an attack on a tourist celebrating a friend's birthday. The victim was stabbed after a verbal dispute, with Carroll retrieving a knife and lunging at him. Carroll's accomplices fled the scene, but a bloodstained knife was recovered. The court heard that Carroll had a traumatic upbringing marked by violence and criminal exposure. Despite his extensive criminal history, the judge reduced the headline sentence of six years to three years and nine months due to mitigation, including an early guilty plea and cooperation with gardaí. The victim's impact statement highlighted ongoing physical and psychological effects from the attack.
At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Andrew Cash Senior, aged 58, of Whitechurch Heights, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16, was sentenced to two years imprisonment after pleading guilty to providing false information to Irish Passport Services. His daughter-in-law, Mary Cash, aged 35, formerly of Portlaoise, County Laois, received a fully suspended sentence of two and a half years for her involvement in the same offence, committed on 12 June 2019 at Balbriggan Passport Services office. The court heard that Cash Senior and Mary Cash assisted in obtaining a fraudulent passport application under a false name for Andrew Cash Junior, who has since fled the jurisdiction. Mary Cash travelled to Sligo using an assumed identity to acquire a birth certificate necessary for the application. Investigation revealed that a senior member of An Garda Síochána had also been implicated in stamping the false documents. Judge Roderick Maguire noted Cash Senior's 31 previous convictions but acknowledged his absence from garda attention since 2019 and efforts at self-improvement.
A court has ruled that a now 20-year-old man who raped his then girlfriend when they were both teenagers cannot be identified, despite the State's objections. The defendant, who was 16 at the time of the offence, was convicted of rape but acquitted of sexual assault. The court heard that the victim was visibly distressed and crying when she was dragged to the toilet by the defendant. The defendant denied the rape and claimed the sexual activity was consensual. The court imposed a custodial sentence of three and a half years, with the final year suspended for two years. The judge noted the defendant's disregard for the victim's lack of consent and placed him under probation supervision and on the sex offenders register. The court also made a Gilchrist order to prevent the publication of any details that might identify the defendant, citing a culpable delay in charging him as a child. The unnamed 20-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A woman who participated in a €27,500 smishing scam after being contacted on Facebook has been given a suspended sentence and ordered to take part in restorative justice. When gardai asked Facebook to assist in the investigation, they were met with resistance. Mary Maughan pleaded guilty to processing the proceeds of crime through her bank account. The victim was scammed after clicking a link in a text message that appeared to be from An Post. The money was transferred into Maughan's account, and she was asked to make cash withdrawals with two men. She felt intimidated but did not face any threats. Facebook was said to have not assisted gardai in their inquiries. The judge noted the need for deterrence in such cases and sentenced Maughan to 12 months, suspended on conditions, taking into account her cooperation with gardai and genuine remorse.
Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced Dubliner Michael McGinley to a global term of three years for escaping from lawful custody and unlawfully using a vehicle. McGinley pleaded guilty to both charges. The court heard that on April 23, 2024, while remanded at Balbriggan Garda Station, McGinley asked to be taken out for a cigarette. He subsequently ran and cleared a six-foot perimeter wall, evading capture for two months until his arrest in Athboy, Co Meath, on June 19, 2025. He also admitted to driving a Hyundai stolen from Co Kerry on April 21, 2025. Judge Orla Crowe noted that while the escape was not pre-planned or sophisticated, McGinley hid for a significant period. Acknowledging his youth and potential for rehabilitation, the judge imposed a three-year sentence, with the final six months suspended on strict conditions. She also directed 12 months of probation supervision following his release. The sentence was backdated to June 19, 2025, when he entered custody. The matter was finalised with the imposition of this sentence.
A woman who gave her Revolut account details to two men at a rave has avoided a jail term for money laundering. Rebecca Williamson, 25, pleaded guilty to the offence between September 6th and 8th, 2023. She admitted she was intoxicated and did not think about the consequences of giving her details. Judge Martina Baxter noted that Williamson's actions facilitated criminal activity, but she played a lower-level role. A headline sentence of two and a half years was considered, but it was suspended for 12 months. The judge acknowledged her cooperation, remorse, and early guilty plea. Gardai found €13,900 deposited into her account via card top-ups, which was immediately transferred to others. Williamson said she received threatening calls and feared for her safety. Her counsel argued that the incident was an isolated event and that she had been employed since 16 and was reliable. The court ordered a €1,000 donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
A pensioner who cultivated cannabis plants with an estimated street value of €50,000 has avoided a jail sentence. James Berkeley was caught growing cannabis in his Dublin home on two occasions in 2015 and 2017. The court heard that Berkeley had a sophisticated growing operation, including heating and water piping. He admitted cultivating the plants for his own use and said he used cannabis to help with his pain and depression. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia and psychosis in the UK and has been self-medicating with cannabis. His defence highlighted his health issues and his good employment history. Judge Orla Crowe noted that Berkeley had set up a "sophisticated enough operation" but said there was no evidence he had profited from his actions. She suspended a three-year custodial sentence on the condition that he keep the peace and be of good behaviour. James Berkeley pleaded guilty.
A tenant, Philip Lalor, was jailed for 12 months after assaulting his landlord and brandishing a knife in a dispute over leaving a shared accommodation in 2020. Lalor, a repeat offender with 20 previous convictions, was convicted of two counts of assault causing harm, one of producing a Stanley knife, and two counts of threatening and abusive behaviour. The landlord and his wife went to the house to ask Lalor to leave, leading to a confrontation where Lalor choked the landlord and later brandished a knife. Lalor fled through a window but was apprehended by gardai. He resisted arrest and was taken to a cell for his own safety. The landlord described the incident's lasting impact, including stress-related issues and a demotion at work. Lalor's counsel argued for mitigation, citing his regret and willingness to engage with Probation Services. The judge imposed a two-year global sentence, suspending the final 12 months on strict conditions.
Josh Killeen, 19, of Tallaght, Dublin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to two counts of endangerment and possession of a stolen motorbike. The charges relate to incidents on November 3, 2024, January 31, 2025, and March 9, 2025. Prosecution evidence alleged that Killeen, a disqualified driver, led gardaí on high-speed chases, including one where his vehicle flipped on the M50, and another where he drove a stolen van at 120 km/h in a 50 km/h zone. He was also alleged to have been caught with a stolen motorbike. Judge Orla Crowe described the conduct as serious dangerous driving that endangered the public and gardaí. Acknowledging Killeen's remorse, family support, and developmental challenges, the judge imposed consecutive sentences totalling three years. She suspended the final 12 months of the term on strict conditions, resulting in an effective custody period of two years. Additionally, Judge Crowe disqualified Killeen from driving for four years. The matter was finalised with this sentencing.
A man who acted as a 'money herder' in a cash laundering scheme has been jailed for 18 months. Duke Amaechi (28) pleaded guilty to nine counts of possessing the proceeds of crime by withdrawing €18,000 from various accounts between June 2020 and May 2021. He was sentenced to three years, with the final 18 months suspended on strict conditions. Detective Garda Michael Harney described Amaechi as slightly above money mules in the chain and noted that he was not part of an organised crime group. The investigation into money laundering and smishing fraud revealed that Amaechi withdrew money from multiple accounts and moved it between banks. His home was searched in 2022, and items such as phones and a BMW were seized, but no money was found. Amaechi has previous convictions, including one for robbery. His defence highlighted his early guilty plea, lack of wealth, and good family background. The judge noted his role as a courier and the seriousness of his actions, but acknowledged mitigating factors, leading to the suspended sentence.
Dubliner Conor Wallace (34) has been sentenced to three years in prison, with the final year suspended for two years, following his guilty plea to coercive control between May 2021 and December 2022. The court heard that Wallace subjected his then-partner to a prolonged period of controlling, abusive and violent behaviour, including during the Covid-19 lockdown. After the relationship ended in December 2022, Wallace continued to harass the victim through numerous emails, texts and calls, and even threw a bottle through her window in December 2023. Separate charges of criminal damage and harassment were taken into consideration in sentencing. The court heard that Wallace lied about his personal circumstances, including claiming to have no family and fabricating stories about his health, in order to manipulate the victim into giving him money. The victim, who was present in court with supporters, described Wallace as a 'complete fraud' and stated that his actions left her psychologically damaged and in a 'state of fear'. Judge Orla Crowe noted that Wallace showed an utter lack of empathy and that the victim demonstrated an extraordinary level of kindness. The sentence was reduced from four years to three years to account for mitigating factors, including Wallace's guilty plea and his attempts to address his alcoholism. The suspended portion of the sentence is conditional on Wallace keeping the peace, engaging with the Probation Service, and disclosing any future intimate partner relationships to the Probation Service. He is also prohibited from having any contact with the injured party.
A payroll worker who stole €7,832 from a charity within two months of starting her job has received a 12-month suspended sentence. Denise McGreevy (32) pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to theft by overpaying herself. Garda Jason O'Carroll explained that McGreevy was responsible for payroll and accounts for the charity's 12 staff. She claimed she had made a mistake in overpaying herself, but it was later discovered that there were four overpayments, including one that was reversed. McGreevy repaid the money and was fired in March 2023. It was also found that there was an irregularity in petty cash, which she also repaid. The court heard that McGreevy still maintains the overpayments were mistakes. Judge Orla Crowe noted that McGreevy had made a "huge breach of trust" and imposed a 12-month suspended sentence on strict conditions.
A Romanian serial sex offender, Liviu Tenea, who committed two counts of aggravated sexual assault on a vulnerable woman in Leinster, failed to convince the Court of Appeal that his 19-year sentence was excessive. Tenea, who had a prior conviction in Spain, targeted a drunk woman, tricked her into his car, and drove her to an isolated location where he brutally raped her twice. The court found that Tenea showed no remorse or insight into the harm caused, and his actions were planned and executed with malice. The judge emphasized that the victim was an 'easy target' due to her intoxication and isolation. The court upheld the 19-year sentence imposed by the Central Criminal Court, noting that Tenea's guilty plea did not mitigate the severity of the crime due to the strength of the evidence against him. The victim suffered extreme harm, and the court ruled that the sentence was appropriate given the nature of the offence and Tenea's history of violence.
Two men have been jailed for a combined nine years following the discovery of cannabis grow houses in Co Galway. Aloyzas Bukantus, 45, of Church Street, Edgeworthstown, Co Longford, pleaded guilty at Galway Circuit Criminal Court to possession of drugs for sale or supply and money laundering. Tomas Dumbliavskas, 31, from Lithuania, pleaded guilty to cultivation of cannabis. The offences occurred on 13 March 2024 at properties in Skehana South near Ballinasloe and Tallavnamraher, Creggs. Gardaí executed simultaneous search warrants, recovering cannabis plants and herb with a combined estimated value of €415,000. Dumbliavskas was discovered hiding in a partition wall; Bukantus was present at the other premises. Judge Eoin Garavan sentenced Dumbliavskas to four years, suspending the final twelve months on condition he leave the jurisdiction within two weeks of release. Bukantus received seven years, with the final year suspended for two years, and was placed under probation supervision for one year post-release.
A paedophile who was repeatedly caught with high volumes of child abuse material, including violent images of infants being tied up and abused, has failed to have his five-and-a-half-year jail term reduced on appeal. David McGrath, 32, was jailed for five and a half years by Judge Elma Duffy at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court in February last year. She imposed consecutive sentences totalling eight-and-a-half-years but suspended the final three years for a period of six years on strict conditions. McGrath had appealed his jail term, arguing the sentence was "disproportionate" and represented an error in principle. Dismissing McGrath's appeal, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy said the sentencing judge had made no error and acted within her margin of discretion. He said the cumulative sentence was neither excessive nor disproportionate and no error in principle had been identified. McGrath has two previous convictions for possession of child pornography from 2017 and is deemed as being at high risk of reoffending. The unnamed 32-year-old pleaded guilty.
A 24-year-old Wicklow man was sentenced today at the Central Criminal Court after being convicted of eight counts of sexual assault following a trial last December. He had previously pleaded guilty to two further counts of sexual assault before the trial commenced. The offences, which occurred between December 2015 and July 2017, involved the defendant, then aged 13 to 15, abusing a girl aged 10 to 11 who was fostered by his mother. Ms Justice Eileen Creedon set a headline sentence of four years, reducing it to three years in light of mitigating factors including his early guilty pleas and lack of previous convictions. She suspended the final year of the sentence on conditions, including two years of Probation Service supervision post-release. The judge also ordered that the media must not identify the offender, despite the victim's wish to waive her anonymity, citing the defendant's age at the time of the offending. Defence counsel had argued for a suspended sentence, highlighting the defendant's youth, remorse, and community support. The court noted the victim's impact statement, which described lasting psychological harm. The matter was finalised with the imposition of the custodial sentence and the anonymity order.
A 19-year-old woman who was sexually abused, orally raped, and threatened at knifepoint by her father as a child has told a court that she plans to build an 'amazing life' for herself. The woman delivered her victim impact statement during the sentencing of her 39-year-old father, who was jailed for 16 years and six months. The abuse occurred between 2017 and 2021 in the family home in Limerick when the girl was aged between 11 and 15 years old. The man was convicted on 25 charges, including attempted rape, oral rape, sexual assault, and threatening to kill her. The woman stated in her victim impact statement that she tried to take her own life in May 2024 and that if it were not for her brother, she would not be here today. She said she is no longer in fear of her father and that she is leaving all the evil darkness with him. The judge described the case as serious and imposed an 18-year sentence, suspending the final 18 months on strict conditions. The unnamed 19-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A now 75-year-old Limerick man, Tom White, repeatedly groped and sexually abused a young girl when they were neighbours more than 50 years ago, the Central Criminal Court has heard. White had regular access to the girl's house and repeatedly touched her inappropriately and subjected her to lewd commentary and physical abuse, his sentence hearing was told today. White went on to marry, had three children, and never came to garda attention in the intervening 50 years, his sentence hearing was told. His victim wishes for White to be named but wants to maintain her anonymity, Ms Justice Eileen Creedon was told. White, of Brookhaven, Montpelier, Co Limerick, was found guilty by a jury of 10 counts of indecent assault of the girl at her home and his home in Limerick on dates between August 1971 and August 1976 following a trial earlier this year. He was acquitted of a number of other counts on the indictment. The complainant was aged between 13 and 16 at the time of the offence, while White was in his 20s.
Lisa Temple, 56, was given a one-year suspended sentence in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for assaulting two security officials during a home repossession. She refused to enter a good behaviour bond, leading Judge Martin Nolan to order her into custody, stating no one is above the law. Temple, who represented herself during the trial, was convicted of assault and possession of a taser. Her legal team argued the case was emotionally charged and a long-standing property dispute. During the sentencing, Temple protested and was taken into custody. The incident occurred in March 2022, where she punched one official and used a taser on another. Neither official required medical attention. Judge Nolan noted her behaviour was disgraceful but did not believe she deserved a custodial sentence. He allowed her legal team to reapply for a bond if she changed her mind.
A 60-year-old Dublin man was given a suspended three-year sentence for harassing a vulnerable woman who had recently ended an abusive marriage, during which she was repeatedly raped. The woman described the man's behaviour as persistent, threatening, and frightening, and stated she was in a very vulnerable position. The man, who pleaded guilty, was sentenced by Ms Justice Eileen Creedon, who considered mitigating factors such as his guilty plea and lack of reoffending. The woman detailed how the man followed her to various places, including her children's schools and local shops, and even threatened suicide. She expressed that the man's actions made her feel unsafe and caused her significant emotional distress. The man's defence argued he was acting out of character and was going through a difficult period. The court acknowledged the woman's victim impact statement, highlighting the lasting effects of the harassment on her mental health and daily life.
A young man who killed a pensioner with an MMA-style kick which caused him to fall to the ground and suffer a fatal head injury, has been remanded in custody ahead of sentencing next month. Joshua Rush (25) pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to the manslaughter of Charles McCaughley (69) at Fairview Strand, Fairview, Dublin 3 on June 7, 2021. Shortly before the incident, Mr McCaughley ordered fish and chips from a takeaway where staff said he "was in good form", Detective Sergeant David Ennis previously told Diana Stuart SC, prosecuting. Another witness waiting for a bus told gardai that he saw three youths passing an older man as he walked along Fairview Strand. He said he saw one of the young men – Rush – employ a "back spin kick, like MMA" on the older man, causing him to fall on his back. The trio left the scene and were seen entering accommodation nearby. When the witness ran to his assistance, Mr McCaughley was unconscious and there was blood coming from his mouth.
Christina Hayes, 36, praised Detective Garda Maria Flynn for her dedication in pursuing justice for the sexual abuse she suffered as a child at the hands of her stepfather, Tommy Barry. Barry was jailed for 12 and a half years after being convicted of sexual assault and rape of the child between 1996 and 1998. Hayes waived her right to anonymity to allow Barry to be named. She detailed the long-term effects of the abuse on her mental health, relationships, and self-worth. Detective Flynn worked on the case for over 25 years, including after Barry escaped from prison in 1999 and lived in the UK under different aliases. Hayes expressed gratitude to her teacher, who first reported the abuse, and to Detective Flynn for her persistence. Barry, who denied the charges, had a history of convictions in Ireland, Scotland, and England. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor acknowledged the courage Hayes showed and the efforts of Detective Flynn in bringing Barry to justice. Hayes emphasized her determination to protect her daughter and ensure she grows up safe and valued.