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2013-12-09 · Waterford
A 47‑year‑old Gerald Vollrath of Tramore Heights, Tramore, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Veronica Vollrath, 83, at Killure Bridge Nursing Home, Killure, on or about 9 January 2012. The case is set to be heard at the Central Criminal Court, where a jury of seven men and five women will be sworn in. The trial is scheduled to begin on Thursday and is expected to last five days.
2013-12-06 · Cavan
A Polish national pleaded not guilty at the Central Criminal Court to the murder of a Romanian man in Co. Cavan in October 2012. Przemyslaw Trebacz, aged 35, of Bramble Rise, Killynebber, is accused of fatally stabbing Costel Catalin Cretu, aged 38, at Connolly Court, Connolly Street, Cavan between 13 and 14 October 2012. He has pleaded guilty to criminal damage relating to a door at the same location on 13 October 2012. The court heard that two witnesses will not give evidence in the trial. Gardaí told the court that one woman's whereabouts remain unknown, whilst another witness is unlikely to appear. A garda described finding the victim on a couch with a stab wound to his chest upon arrival at the apartment. CCTV footage from the date in question was viewed by the jury. The trial is due to resume following an adjournment.
2013-12-06 · Limerick
A Garda Chief Superintendent has given evidence to the Special Criminal Court that he held the belief Michael Kiely was a member of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army. Mr Kiely, aged 43, of Abbeyvale, Corbally, Limerick, has pleaded not guilty to membership of such an organisation on 6 January 2013. Chief Superintendent Dave Sheehan told the court his belief was not formed on the basis of facts arising from the incident itself or Mr Kiely's arrest. The charge relates to Mr Kiely reading a Continuity IRA statement at a graveside oration in Mount Saint Lawrence Cemetery in Limerick. The statement threatened that members of the British Army would become legitimate targets. The gathering commemorated Sean Sabhat, killed during a raid on an RUC barracks in Brookeborough, County Fermanagh, in 1957. Defence counsel indicated Mr Kiely and his partner would give evidence. The trial continues before Justice Paul Butler and two other judges.
2013-12-05 · Dublin
A 36‑year‑old Dublin man, Criostoir MacCarthaigh of An Gleann, Baile Phamar, is on trial at the Central Criminal Court for the murder of David Whyte, a 35‑year‑old man from New Cabra Road. The prosecution alleges that between 24 and 26 September 2008, MacCarthaigh stabbed Whyte more than 100 times, the most serious wound injuring his jugular. The case is based on a post‑mortem that found the excessive stab wounds and on testimony that MacCarthaigh and others were drinking in an apartment on Ulster Street when Whyte was outside. An acquaintance reportedly saw MacCarthaigh with a knife over Whyte's body. MacCarthaigh was then driven to Palmerstown, where he allegedly walked Whyte to a graveyard and repeatedly stabbed him, causing his death. He has pleaded not guilty. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, is expected to last up to 12 days.
2013-12-05 · Cavan
The Central Criminal Court heard evidence in the trial of Przemyslaw Trebacz, a Polish national accused of murdering Romanian Costel Catalin Cretu (38) at Connolly Court, Cavan, between October 13 and 14, 2012. Trebacz has pleaded not guilty to the murder charge but pleaded guilty to criminal damage to a door belonging to Brendan Cosgrove at the same address on October 13, 2012. Prosecution witness Gary Malone, a taxi driver and former neighbour of the accused, testified that he was called by Trebacz at approximately 11:00 PM on the night in question. Malone stated that Trebacz and another man entered his vehicle, with Trebacz sitting in the passenger seat. During the journey, Malone heard Trebacz use the phrase 'Soviet attack' and observed him holding a green woolly sock containing a solid object. Malone reported seeing Trebacz kick in a door at Connolly Court before the men left the scene. He further testified that the other man threatened him, stating, 'shut up or you and your family will be next.' Malone subsequently reported the incident to gardai. The court heard that Trebacz had previously mentioned the IRA to Malone. Malone's evidence is ongoing, and the matter remains at the trial stage with no final verdict or sentence recorded.
2013-12-05 · Dublin
Ruairi O Ceallaigh, a 42‑year‑old former solicitor, was arrested by the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation and charged with seven offences under the Theft and Fraud Act. He is accused of misappropriating about €2.8 million from client accounts at his family‑run firm, Sean O Ceallaigh & Company, over a four‑year period. The alleged thefts include €1,551,366 from a named estate between September 2008 and November 2008, and six other sums ranging from €134,831 to €509,646 from client accounts between 2006 and 2010. O Ceallaigh was brought to Bridewell Garda station, then appeared before Judge Patricia Ryan at Dublin District Court, where he was remanded on bail of €200 with his father, Sean O Ceallaigh, acting as surety for €5,000. He is to face trial on indictment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, with no plea indicated yet. The case will proceed before a judge and jury.
2013-12-03 · Cavan
A Romanian woman giving evidence at the Central Criminal Court has denied washing floors following the death of her partner at an apartment in Cavan in October 2012. Florentina Sotir (41) is a witness in the trial of Przemyslaw Trebacz (35) of Bramble Rise, Killynebber, Cavan, who has pleaded not guilty to murder. The prosecution alleges that Trebacz stabbed Costel Catalin Cretu (38) during a break-in at Connolly Court, Connolly Street, Cavan between 13 and 14 October 2012. Under cross-examination, Ms Sotir was questioned about a 26-minute gap between the departure of two men from the apartment and her entry to the lobby. She stated she was attempting to revive Mr Cretu by throwing water on him rather than cleaning. The court heard State Pathologist Professor Marie Cassidy concluded Mr Cretu died from a fatal chest wound. Trebacz has pleaded guilty to criminal damage. The trial continues.
2013-12-02 · Cavan
A witness at the Central Criminal Court has acknowledged inconsistencies between her testimony and statements made to gardaí. Przemyslaw Trebacz, aged 35, of Bramble Rise, Killynebber, Cavan, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Costel Catalin Cretu at Connolly Court, Cavan between 13 and 14 October 2012. He has pleaded guilty to criminal damage to a door at the same location on 13 October 2012. The chief prosecution witness told the court she initially stated she did not work during her first fortnight in Ireland, but later acknowledged telling gardaí she began working the day after arrival. She also conceded providing false information regarding how she believed she would be employed. The State Pathologist concluded the deceased sustained two wounds, including a fatal chest injury. Cross-examination of the witness is to resume.
2013-11-29 · Dublin
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, Sean Connolly, aged 34, was charged with the murder of veteran criminal Eamon Kelly, who was killed on 4 December 2012 at Furry Park Road, Killester. Connolly also faced charges of IRA membership and possession of a firearm. His counsel, Ms Siobhan Ni Chulachain, informed the court that solicitor Michael Finucane could not take instructions due to Connolly's illness. Consequently, the judge, Mr Justice Paul Butler, postponed the case for two weeks, with a new hearing scheduled for 13 December, and the prosecution requested a video link for the hearing.
2013-11-28 · Cavan
A Polish national has pleaded not guilty to the murder of a Romanian man at an apartment in Cavan town in October 2012. Przemyslaw Trebacz, aged 35, of Bramble Rise, Killynebber, is accused of fatally stabbing Costel Catalin Cretu during an incident at Connolly Court. The Central Criminal Court heard that Mr Cretu was present in the apartment to supervise two women engaged in sex work. According to the prosecution, Mr Trebacz and another man entered the apartment and left within minutes, with CCTV evidence supporting this timeline. The court was told that Mr Cretu sustained two stab wounds, including a fatal injury to his chest. A neighbour who worked as a taxi driver allegedly transported the accused to the location that night. Mr Trebacz has admitted to criminal damage to a door at the premises but maintains he acted in self-defence. He has pleaded guilty to the criminal damage charge. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Barry White at the Central Criminal Court, continues.
2013-11-28 · Limerick
The Central Criminal Court trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert, and Ian Flanagan has reached the jury deliberation stage. Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert, both of Lenihan Avenue, Limerick City, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of 43-year-old Gerard McMahon, who was stabbed to death on January 18, 2012. Ian Flanagan has also pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender, allegedly by removing a CCTV recorder. Prosecution counsel Michael O'Higgins SC argued that Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert acted as a cohesive two-man unit, making it legally immaterial which individual inflicted the fatal wounds. Defence counsel presented distinct arguments: Anthony Sammon SC suggested provocation for Paul Colbert, while John Phelan SC contended Seán Flanagan intervened to prevent harm. Brendan Nix SC argued Ian Flanagan acted in panic without specific intent. Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan has begun charging the jury of eight women and four men, who will commence deliberations on Friday. The matter is currently at the trial stage, with no findings, sentences, or finalisations recorded.
2013-11-27 · Limerick
The trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert, and Ian Flanagan continued at the Central Criminal Court before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan. Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert, both of Lenihan Avenue, Limerick, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of 43-year-old Gerard McMahon, who was allegedly stabbed to death at their front door on January 18, 2012. Ian Flanagan, also of Lenihan Avenue, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender, specifically accused of removing a CCTV recorder. During testimony, Sandra Flanagan, the accused men's mother, stated she lied to gardai about recycling the device to protect her sons from what she described as terrorising questioning. She revealed that her own father was murdered at the same front door 17 years prior. The prosecution, led by Michael O'Higgins SC, has begun its closing speech to the jury, which is scheduled to continue tomorrow. The matter remains at the trial stage with no findings, sentences, or finalisations recorded.
2013-11-26 · Dublin
Tadhg Costello, 18, of Richmond Hill, Monkstown, pleaded not guilty to attempted murder of Josh Leahy, 18, at Johnson's Court on 31 May 2012. He also pleaded not guilty to assault causing harm and unlawful possession of a knife on the same date. Judge Paul Butler adjourned the trial to the next day after a juror fell ill.
2013-11-25 · Limerick
The Central Criminal Court trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert, and Ian Flanagan continues before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan. Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert, both of Lenihan Avenue, Limerick, have pleaded not guilty to the murder of 43-year-old Gerard McMahon, who was stabbed on January 18, 2012. Ian Flanagan, also of Lenihan Avenue, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender, allegedly by removing a CCTV recorder. Evidence presented by neurologist Dr Peter Boers addressed Seán Flanagan's fitness for a garda interview following an epileptic seizure on January 25, 2012. Dr Boers testified that while Flanagan was fit for discharge into custody, he may have had some impairment the next morning. However, the doctor agreed he was not unfit to be interviewed, noting that Flanagan responded normally by the evening of that day. The court heard that Flanagan made admissions during the interview. Prosecution counsel Michael O'Higgins SC cross-examined the witness, highlighting that Flanagan's mother had lied to gardai about the location of the CCTV device, which was later recovered from a neighbour's house. The jury has viewed video footage of the seizure and the subsequent interview. The trial is ongoing and was adjourned to continue on Wednesday.
2013-11-25 · Dublin
Tadhg Costello, 18, of Richmond Hill, Monkstown, is on trial for the attempted murder of Josh Leahy, 18, at Johnson's Court on 31 May 2012. He has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder, assault causing harm, and unlawful possession of a knife. Judge Paul Butler informed the jury that the court had been dealing with the matter in their absence and instructed them to return tomorrow.
2013-11-22 · Limerick
In a Limerick murder trial, a jury was shown a video of suspect Seán Flanagan having an epileptic seizure during a Garda interview. The case concerns the January 18, 2012 stabbing death of Gerard McMahon, 43, at Lenihan Avenue. Flanagan (28) and his uncle Paul Colbert (46) plead not guilty to the murder. Flanagan's brother Ian (24) is charged with removing a CCTV recorder that could be evidence. The video shows Flanagan's seizure on January 25, when a Garda asked if he was okay and noted he seemed drowsy. The Garda called for help; Flanagan was taken to hospital and returned to the station two hours later. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan, continues with a jury of eight women and four men. The court also heard Ian Flanagan's statements about the CCTV device and his uncle's alleged actions. The trial remains ongoing.
2013-11-21 · Limerick
The Central Criminal Court is currently hearing the trial of Seán Flanagan (28) and Paul Colbert (46), both of Limerick, who have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Gerard McMahon. Ian Flanagan (24), also of Limerick, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender, allegedly by removing a CCTV recorder. The court heard evidence from Detective Garda Michael Murphy regarding interviews conducted with Seán Flanagan following his arrest. Flanagan alleged that he stabbed Mr McMahon three or four times after the deceased threatened him, claiming he did not intend to kill him. He stated that a third individual, who he said was armed with a hatchet and knife, was present. Flanagan told detectives that Mr McMahon was still alive when he left the scene. The trial continues before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan and a jury of eight women and four men.
2013-11-21 · Dublin
In a Dublin court, 18‑year‑old Tadhg Costello pleaded not guilty to attempted murder, assault causing harm and unlawful knife possession after stabbing Josh Leahy, also 18, at Johnson's Court on 31 May 2012. CCTV of the altercation was shown to the jury. Prosecutor Paul Burns argued that Costello, aged 17 at the time, stabbed Leahy in the back during a confrontation that began after a nightclub visit on 30 May. Leahy testified he was attacked by a group, stabbed seven times, and suffered a punctured lung. Witnesses, including Emmanuel Mihaylov and Garda Philip Gleeson, identified Costello as the knife‑bearing assailant. Costello denied involvement, claiming he had swapped clothing and did not throw the knife. The trial proceeded before a jury of eight women and four men under Mr Justice Paul Butler.
2013-11-19 · Dublin
Bernard Daly, 65, former Anglo Irish Bank executive, appeared at Dublin District Court after arrest by the fraud squad. He was charged with four offences under the Taxes Consolidations Act 1997, alleged to have concealed a named account, conspired to obstruct a Revenue officer, and produced incorrect documentation between March and November 2003. Daly pleaded not guilty to each charge. He was remanded on bail with conditions: a €1,000 bond, residence at his current address, 48‑hour notice before traveling outside Ireland or the UK, and weekly sign‑in at Santry Garda station unless abroad. The case will proceed to trial on indictment at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, with a 12‑week adjournment to prepare the book of evidence. His next hearing is scheduled for February 6, when he and a co‑accused will receive the evidence book and return for trial. The judge ordered no prejudicial reporting.
2013-11-18 · Dublin
Tadhg Costello, 18, of Richmond Hill, Monkstown, has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder, assault causing harm and possession of a knife in relation to an incident on 31 May 2012 at Johnson's Court, Dublin. A jury of eight women and four men was sworn in for a trial set to begin Thursday, expected to last up to seven days.
2013-11-18 · Wexford
The murder trial of Michael Furlong, 36, of Meadowfield, The Moyne, Enniscorthy, collapsed at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin. Furlong had pleaded not guilty to the murder of Patrick Connors, 37, which occurred between 28 and 29 April 2011 at the Carraig Túr apartments in Enniscorthy. Judge Barry White halted the proceedings after concerns were raised about Deputy State Pathologist Dr Khalid Jabbar's opinion on the mechanism of death. The jury was discharged and thanked, and will not serve again for ten years. The trial had begun on 5 November.
2013-11-18 · Limerick
The trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert, and Ian Flanagan continues before the Central Criminal Court, where all three accused have pleaded not guilty. Seán Flanagan and his uncle, Paul Colbert, are charged with the murder of Gerard McMahon, who was stabbed to death in Limerick City in January 2012. Ian Flanagan faces two counts of assisting an offender, allegedly for removing a CCTV recorder. Evidence presented by Detective Garda Pádraig O'Dwyer details a voluntary statement made by Paul Colbert, in which he alleged he attacked the deceased with a hatchet while Seán Flanagan stabbed him. Colbert claimed he acted out of fear after his house was previously shot at and stated he was later warned by Seán Flanagan to deny involvement. He identified himself and Seán Flanagan on CCTV footage and admitted they intended to seriously hurt the victim. The court heard that Colbert initially gave different accounts before confessing, citing fear of his nephews. The matter is currently at the trial stage, with no findings, sentences, or finalisations recorded. The proceedings are ongoing before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan and a jury.
2013-11-15 · Limerick
In the Limerick murder trial, CCTV footage captured the area around the time 43‑year‑old Gerard McMahon was stabbed to death on 18 January 2012. The footage shows two individuals leaving the home of the accused men, Seán Flanagan (28) and Paul Colbert (46), shortly after 12.30 am, moving toward McMahon's cousin's house on Lenihan Avenue. A second camera later records the same two people running, then walking back in the opposite direction, and finally entering the accused men's home. The prosecution alleges that Flanagan and Colbert acted in joint enterprise to attack McMahon, who died of stab wounds to his back and head, with fatal injuries to his lung, liver and kidney. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan, continues before a jury of eight women and four men. Ian Flanagan (24), Seán's brother, pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender for removing a CCTV recording device from the house.
2013-11-15 · Wexford
Michael Furlong, 36, of Meadowfield, Enniscorthy, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Patrick Connors, 37, which occurred between 28 and 29 April 2011 at Carriage Túr apartments. Mr Justice Barry White adjourned the trial, citing the prosecution's inability to cross‑examine pathologist Dr Declan Gilsenan until clarification with Deputy State Pathologist Dr Khalid Jabbar. The case will resume before an eight‑man, four‑woman jury on Monday.
2013-11-14 · Limerick
During a Limerick murder trial, several unnamed schoolgirls testified in the Central Criminal Court that they heard the Flanagan brothers admit their involvement in the killing of 43‑year‑old Gerard McMahon. The girls, who were in a shopping centre on the evening of 18 January 2012, claimed to have overheard Seán and Ian Flanagan discussing the murder. One girl described the brothers saying they stabbed McMahon and that one had a hatchet while the other had two knives. The testimony was given while the trial was hearing the case against Seán Flanagan (28), Paul Colbert (46) and Ian Flanagan (24). Seán and Paul are charged with murder, and Ian with assisting an offender. The trial is proceeding before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan with a jury of eight women and four men. The State alleges the brothers acted in joint enterprise to attack McMahon outside his cousin's house. The trial continues tomorrow. Ian Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Seán Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Paul Colbert pleaded not guilty.
2013-11-14 · Wexford
In the trial of Michael Furlong, accused of murdering Patrick Connors in Enniscorthy, a pathologist testified that Connors' jaw fractures were caused by a fall down the stairs, not a punch. Furlong's defence, led by Mr. Michael Delaney SC, presented Dr. Declan Gilsenan, who argued that scalp wounds did not cause death and that hypothermia, intoxication, and drug use were contributing factors. Gilsenan disputed the prosecution's view that the jaw fractures resulted from a blow, suggesting instead that they were consistent with impact from a rigid surface during a fall. He also questioned the significance of a fractured tooth and the role of alcohol. The prosecution's evidence will be cross‑examined on Friday, and the trial continues. Michael Furlong pleaded not guilty.
2013-11-14 · Dublin
A 54‑year‑old former head of treasury at Anglo Irish Bank, Tiernan O'Mahoney, is to stand trial on indictment in Dublin District Court for four charges under the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. The offences relate to the period from 25 March 2003 to 17 November 2003 and include allegations that he knowingly concealed a bank account, conspired to obstruct a Revenue officer, concealed an account from inspection, and produced incorrect documents. O'Mahoney made no reply to the charges after being cautioned and was given a true copy of the indictment. He was arrested by the Garda Fraud Squad at Bridewell Garda station. Bail was granted on a €100 bond with conditions requiring him to remain at his home in Wicklow, sign on Fridays at Bray Garda station, and give 48‑hour notice of any address change or travel outside Ireland or the UK.
2013-11-14 · Louth
Eimantas Valteris, Patrick McDonagh, and Park Vale were charged before the Special Criminal Court with the unlawful possession of a .32 inch auto (7.65mm) calibre IZH 79-8 model Baikal semi-automatic pistol, serial number TPB358706. Valteris is alleged to have possessed the firearm at Balmoral Industrial Estate, Navan, Co. Meath, while McDonagh is alleged to have possessed it at Main Street, Castlebellingham, Co. Louth, both on June 10, 2013. McDonagh is additionally charged with membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army. The matter is at the trial stage, with all charges alleged or contested. During a bail variation hearing, counsel for Valteris requested an amendment to his curfew conditions to accommodate employment as a security guard. The court, presided over by Mr Justice Paul Butler with Judges Margaret Heneghan and William Hamill, granted the variation, adjusting the curfew to 6am to 7am with gardai consent. The court remanded the accused men on continuing bail until December 12. No pleas, findings, sentences, or finalisations were recorded in this report.
2013-11-13 · Limerick
In a Limerick murder trial, forensic evidence showed DNA matching the deceased, Gerard McMahon, on clothing and shoes belonging to Seán Flanagan (28) and Paul Colbert (46). The DNA was found on a pair of tracksuit bottoms and runners attributed to Seán Flanagan, with a mixed profile indicating two individuals, the major profile matching McMahon's. Blood staining on the tracksuit bottoms was described as airborne, suggesting close proximity during the attack. The State Pathologist confirmed McMahon died from stab wounds to his back, with additional wounds to his head. A small axe found at the accused men's home was deemed capable of incising the head but not stabbing. Seán and Ian Flanagan are brothers; Paul Colbert is their uncle. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan, continues before a jury of eight women and four men. Ian Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Seán Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Paul Colbert pleaded not guilty.
2013-11-13 · Wexford
Michael Furlong, 36, of Meadowfield, Enniscorthy, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Patrick Connors, 37, who died between 28 and 29 April 2011 at Carraig Túr apartments. In court, Furlong denied that he killed Connors or used kitchen knives to lacerate his scalp. He also denied breaking Connors' jaw, claiming the jaw was intact when he went to sleep and that Connors had fallen down the stairs. Furlong said he did not stab or assault Connors with a knife and that the blood on a knife found at the scene could not have come from Connors. He stated he had not cried for Connors beyond the first week. The pathologist's report cited sharp and blunt force trauma to the head and acute alcohol intoxication as causes of death. The trial continues.
2013-11-12 · Limerick
During a Limerick murder trial, an expert witness testified that a CCTV system seized from a house in the city was the same system that had been missing from the home of the accused men shortly after the killing. The electronic engineer gave evidence to the Central Criminal Court in the case of three men charged with the death of a 43‑year‑old man. Seán Flanagan (28) and Paul Colbert (46) of Lenihan Avenue, Prospect, Limerick City, are charged with the murder of Gerard McMahon on 18 January 2012. They have pleaded not guilty to murdering him outside his cousin's house, also on Lenihan Avenue. Ian Flanagan (24) of the same address has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender on the same date. He is accused of removing a CCTV recording device from their house, knowing it might form evidence in a prosecution.
2013-11-12 · Dublin
Eight men from Dublin were arrested on Good Friday after a Garda search of a commercial premises in Clondalkin, part of an investigation into dissident republicans. They were charged on March 29, 2013, before the Special Criminal Court with membership of an unlawful organisation, namely Oglaigh na hEireann, otherwise the Irish Republican Army (IRA). The accused – Kevin Braney (38), Des Christie (49), Eamon McNamee (32), Hubert Duffy (45), William Jackson (53), Declan Phelan (31), John Brock (40) and Darren Murphy (42) – were all brought before the court on Easter Sunday. Counsel for the State, Vincent Heneghan, said evidence had been served and the trial was expected to take about six weeks. Judge Paul Butler set the trial for January 13, 2015, and instructed the men that any alibi defence must be notified within 14 days, with witnesses only allowed to appear with 21 days' notice. The court would adjust its schedule to accommodate the case.
2013-11-12 · Dublin
Seven men from Dublin were charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) at a Special Criminal Court hearing in July 2013. The accused – Peter Burns (39), Kevin Braney (39), Michael Barr (33), Brian Nick McBennett (54), John Brock (41), Declan Phelan (31) and Desmond Christie (49) – were all charged on the same date, 3 July, with membership of an unlawful organisation. Four of them – Braney, Phelan, Brock and Christie – had also been arrested on Good Friday following a Garda search of a commercial premises in Clondalkin, and were charged again on 29 March 2013. Mr Vincent Heneghan BL for the State announced that books of evidence could be served on all accused. Judge Paul Butler scheduled the case for mention again on 11 December and noted that the next hearing could be conducted via video link, though he would adjourn if the matter turned into something else and required the accused to appear in person.
2013-11-11 · Limerick
During the murder trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert and Ian Flanagan, the jury was shown a hatchet found in the home of the accused men on 18 January 2012, the day the 43‑year‑old Gerard McMahon was killed. Garda Josephine Falvey identified the black‑and‑yellow‑handled hatchet, measuring its handle 12.25 inches and blade 5.75 inches, and testified that she had searched the house that day. The hatchet was not immediately visible, lying behind a panel inside the door. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan, has heard that Seán and Ian Flanagan are brothers and that Paul Colbert is their uncle. The State alleges that Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert acted in joint enterprise to attack McMahon, who was stabbed numerous times as he climbed the steps of his cousin's house. The jury, composed of eight women and four men, continues to hear the case. Ian Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Seán Flanagan pleaded not guilty. Paul Colbert pleaded not guilty.
2013-11-11 · Wexford
A Wexford man, Michael Furlong, aged 36, is on trial for the murder of his friend Patrick Connors, aged 37, who died between 28 and 29 April 2011 at CarraigTúr apartments. Furlong pleaded not guilty. He told Gardaí that he used a "sword or screwdriver" to open the sitting‑room door, which Connors had locked. He claimed he could have called an ambulance to break the door but Connors said he was fine. Furlong denied any argument earlier that evening, denied locking the door himself, and said he did not know why Connors did not want him to get the key. He also said he left the sword in the flat and did not remember how it ended up in the rear car park. The trial continues before Mr Justice Barry White and a jury, with post‑mortem evidence to be presented.
2013-11-08 · Wexford
The Central Criminal Court trial of Michael Furlong, 36, of Enniscorthy, continued before Mr Justice Barry White. Furlong, who has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Patrick Connors, 37, at Carraig Túr apartments between April 28 and 29, 2011, faces charges alleging he caused fatal sharp and blunt force trauma to Connors' head, neck, and jaw. Prosecution counsel John O'Kelly SC highlighted evidence that Connors' injuries corresponded to two knives found in Furlong's apartment. Ballistics expert Detective Garda Janette O'Neill testified that she was satisfied the deceased was involved in a violent altercation, citing extensive bloodstains, an overturned table, and chaotic debris such as mayonnaise and ketchup. Under cross-examination by Michael Delaney SC, she acknowledged the possibility that events other than a struggle occurred. Garda Patrick Freyne testified that a sword was found in the apartment car park. The jury, comprising seven men and five women, heard that Connors had purchased wine prior to the incident. The matter was adjourned and is scheduled to continue on Monday.
2013-11-08 · Limerick
Paramedics testified that the 43‑year‑old deceased was found in a pool of blood with puncture wounds all over his body. They were giving evidence to the Central Criminal Court in the trial of three men charged with his death. Seán Flanagan (28) and Paul Colbert (46) of Lenihan Avenue, Prospect, Limerick City are charged with murdering Gerard McMahon on 18 January 2012 at a house on Lenihan Avenue. They have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Ian Flanagan (24) of the same address has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender on the same date, accused of removing a CCTV recording device from the house, knowing it might form evidence. The jury has heard that Seán and Ian Flanagan are brothers and that Mr Colbert is their uncle.
2013-11-07 · Limerick
The trial of Seán Flanagan, Paul Colbert, and Ian Flanagan continued at the Central Criminal Court before Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan. Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert, both of Lenihan Avenue, Limerick, have pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Gerard McMahon on January 18, 2012. Ian Flanagan, also of Lenihan Avenue, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender on the same date. He is accused of removing a CCTV recording device from the house, allegedly knowing it might form evidence in a prosecution against the other accused men. The State alleges that Seán Flanagan and Paul Colbert acted in joint enterprise to attack Mr McMahon. Witness Joe McEvoy testified that he opened his front door around 12.30am to find his cousin, Mr McMahon, bleeding from multiple stab wounds. Mr McEvoy stated he helped his cousin inside, where he collapsed, revealing stab wounds to his back. Garda Wayne Cahalan testified that he arrived at the scene at 12.38am, observing pools of blood and stab wounds on Mr McMahon's back, head, and neck. Mr McMahon was transported to Mid-Western Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 1.45am. The jury has heard that Seán and Ian Flanagan are brothers and that Mr Colbert is their uncle. The matter is ongoing and has not been finalised.
2013-11-07 · Dublin
At Balbriggan District Court, David Donnelly, 20, of Lusk, pleaded guilty to assaulting a woman causing her harm on August 5th. Judge Dermot Dempsey accepted jurisdiction following a DPP direction for summary disposal. Donnelly was remanded on continuing bail to allow for a medical report and to hear the facts on January 9th, 2014. Thomas Dennis, 21, of Skerries, is alleged to have caused injury to a woman, driven on a provisional licence without a qualified driver, used a vehicle without an NCT, and failed to report an accident on December 16th, 2012. Dennis was granted free legal aid and remanded on continuing bail. His case was adjourned until January 13th, 2014. Noel Orange, 29, of Naul, is alleged to have possessed a knife and provided gardai with a false name and address on August 24th. Orange was remanded on continuing bail. His matter was adjourned until November 14th for a plea or hearing date.
2013-11-07 · Wexford
In a Wexford murder trial, Michael Furlong, aged 36, pleaded not guilty to the killing of Patrick Connors, aged 37, which occurred between 28 and 29 April 2011 at Carraig Túr apartments. The jury heard that Furlong had a history of schizophrenia, while Connors had mental health problems, including depression and episodes of hearing voices. Witness Shauna Young, who had been engaged to Connors, confirmed his psychiatric hospitalisations and his attempts at self‑harm, though she denied knowledge of a 2010 suicide attempt. Dr Stephen Bowe testified that Furlong, at the time of the incident, had an odor of alcohol, claimed to have consumed two bottles of wine the previous night, and described a past schizophrenia diagnosis. He also noted scratches on Furlong's legs that were inconsistent with walking dogs, suggesting trauma. The case remains before Mr Justice Barry White and a jury of seven men and five women.
2013-11-06 · Wexford
In a Wexford murder trial, the Central Criminal Court heard evidence concerning the death of Patrick Connors at Carraig Túr apartments, Enniscorthy, on 28–29 April 2011. The accused, 36‑year‑old Michael Furlong, pleaded not guilty. Garda Brian Phillips and Garda Antoinette Byrne arrived at the apartments at about 11.40 pm on 28 April, following a report of a man covered in blood. They found no one outside, no buzzer, and no response to knocks. Phillips claimed he shouted for the door to open, heard voices, and eventually forced the door after a loud bang. Inside, he met two men: one identified as Furlong, who appeared intoxicated and confused, and another as Paddy Connors, who refused medical help and asked the officers to leave. After a 15‑minute attempt to persuade them, the officers left. A shopkeeper, Mary Murphy, later testified that Furlong entered her shop after 8 am the next morning, saying "Paddy's dead.
2013-11-05 · Limerick
Three Limerick men—Seán Flanagan (28), Paul Colbert (46), and Ian Flanagan (24)—are on trial at the Central Criminal Court for the death of 43‑year‑old Gerard McMahon, who was stabbed to death on 18 January 2012. Seán and Paul pleaded not guilty to murder; Ian pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender. The prosecution alleges McMahon was attacked while heading to his cousin's house on Lenihan Avenue, receiving 16 stab wounds: seven to the back of the head, three to the side, and three to the back of the trunk, and a hatchet was also used. The State claims the men acted in joint enterprise, leaving the house armed with a common intention to attack McMahon. The trial will resume on Thursday before Justice Garrett Sheehan and a jury of eight women and four men.
2013-11-05 · Wexford
A 36‑year‑old Wexford man, Michael Furlong, is on trial for the murder of his 37‑year‑old friend Patrick Connors, who died between 28 and 29 April 2011 at the Carraig Túr apartments in Enniscorthy. Furlong pleaded not guilty. In his opening statement, the prosecutor, Mr John O'Kelly SC, described how police received two calls on the morning of 29 April: first from a neighbour who said a man was dead, then from Furlong himself. Police entered the apartments, found Connors' body on the second flight of stairs, and noted blood on walls and floor. Furlong admitted that Connors had fallen after a night of drinking, but claimed he had given him clothing to soak up blood and covered him with a fleece. He said he woke the next morning to find Connors on the stairs, naked from the waist up.
2013-11-05 · Dublin
A 45‑year‑old man named Stephen Hendrick of Ballymun, Dublin, was charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA) and possession of ammunition. He was arrested in July at a yard in Cloghran by the Special Detective Unit and the Crime and Security Section. At an out‑of‑hours sitting of the Special Criminal Court, he was formally charged with IRA membership and with possessing ammunition in suspicious circumstances. The State served a book of evidence on him, and the court will remand him on continuing bail until December 6, when the case will be listed for mention.
2013-11-04 · Wexford
A 36‑year‑old Wexford man, Michael Furlong of Meadowfield, The Moyne, Enniscorthy, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Patrick Connors (37) at the Carraig Túr apartments in Enniscorthy between 28 and 29 April 2011. He was arraigned before the Central Criminal Court, where a jury of seven men and five women was sworn in for a three‑week trial that will commence on Tuesday morning before Mr Justice Barry White.
2013-10-31 · Limerick
The jury was discharged in the trial of three men charged with the death of Gerard McMahon in Limerick. Sean Flanagan (28) and Paul Colbert (46) pleaded not guilty to murder, while Ian Flanagan (24) pleaded not guilty to two counts of assisting an offender. Judge Paul Carney announced that no judge was available to hear the case this week, causing the jury to be discharged. A new jury will be empanelled for the trial on Monday.
2013-10-30 · Dublin
Sean Connolly, 34, of Bernard Curtis House, Bluebell, was charged before the Special Criminal Court with the murder of veteran criminal Eamon Kelly on 4 December 2012 at Furry Park Road, Killester, and also faced charges of IRA membership and firearm possession. His counsel, Siobhan Ni Chulachain BL, requested additional time to review a large amount of evidence disclosed the previous week. The defence asked the court to reschedule the case for mention on 29 November, and Judge Paul Butler ordered Connolly to remain in custody until that date.
2013-10-29 · Dublin
In the Central Criminal Court, the prosecution argued that the injuries sustained by Mary Ryan were inconsistent with her boyfriend Waldemar Solowiow's account of a brief struggle. An autopsy revealed death by neck compression and blunt force trauma to the head. Solowiow, a 46‑year‑old unemployed welder and mechanic, pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. He claimed a physical fight the night before, stating he did not intend to kill her. The prosecution highlighted the severity of the injuries and evidence of a prior alcohol problem, questioning whether a slap could cause such harm. The defense contended that Solowiow's intent was absent, citing provocation and the possibility of a manslaughter verdict. Judge Patrick McCarthy instructed a jury of eight men and four women to deliberate on the case.
2013-10-24 · Limerick
The Special Criminal Court has granted 31-year-old Thomas McMahon permission to travel to Lithuania for a second time this year, despite objections from gardai. Mr McMahon, of Ros Fearna, Murroe, is on bail on a charge of membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army, otherwise Oglaigh na hEireann, otherwise the IRA. He faces this charge alongside co-accused Noel Noonan (34), of St. Patrick's Hostel, Clare Street. Both men were arrested in February near Cahir, Co Tipperary, by the Special Detective Unit during an investigation into dissident republican activities. The court, presided over by Mr Justice Paul Butler, acceded to an application by counsel Mr Michael Bowman BL to vary bail restrictions until November 6th to allow Mr McMahon to attend a family wedding. Detective Inspector William Hanrahan stated that gardai objected because they could not monitor Mr McMahon while he was abroad, noting he is due to stand trial in March next year. However, the judge noted the variation was for a very limited period and that Mr McMahon had returned from a previous visit. The court agreed to the variation, noting the bail surety was present. The matter remains at the pre-trial stage, with the trial scheduled for next year.
2013-10-18 · Clare
The jury is set to begin deliberations in the Limerick murder trial of John Coughlan, a 33‑year‑old electrician from Pineview Gardens, Moyross. Coughlan pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter for the fatal shooting of Daniel Treacy, 35, at Topaz garage, Caherdavin, Ennis Road, on 22 February 2010. The court rejected the plea, and a jury of seven women and five men was sworn in for a two‑week trial. Prosecutor Ms Úna Ni Raifeartaigh SC described the case as complex, noting a planned shooting and a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia, while highlighting the earlier killing of Coughlan's brother, Darren, by Treacy's brother. She urged the jury to consider CCTV footage and the accused's alleged hearing voices. Defence counsel Mr Brian McCartney QC argued for diminished responsibility, citing psychiatric evidence of schizophrenia, and urged a manslaughter verdict.