A 77-year-old man with 470 previous convictions has been sentenced to two months in jail for threatening and abusive behaviour towards Luas staff. Paddy McCann, who was released on bail but failed to appear in court, was arrested for being intoxicated in a public place and failing to appear in court while on bail. He pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to two months in prison, to run concurrently with his existing three-month sentence for theft and public-order offences. His solicitor, Andrew Vallely, argued that McCann suffers from various medical issues and was more cogent when sober. Judge Anne Watkin noted that McCann had initially pleaded not guilty before changing his plea, which did not help his case. She sentenced him to two months in prison, taking into account his medical conditions and the fact that he was already serving another sentence.
Fabio De Oliveira Monteiro, a 28-year-old man from Carlow, has pleaded guilty to allowing his bank account to be used to launder €9,650 stolen from a woman through a phishing scam. The victim was tricked into deleting her banking app by a caller posing as her bank, resulting in €19,300 being stolen from her account. Monteiro admitted to providing his account details in exchange for €400, as he was in financial difficulty due to his mother's medical bills and a small drug debt. The court heard that Monteiro has nine previous convictions for road traffic offences and is considered to be at the bottom of the criminal chain in the operation. His defense argued that Monteiro was a victim of others who preyed on his desperation for cash. The judge remanded Monteiro on bail for sentencing next November, noting that he has since secured new employment and is unlikely to come to further garda attention.
A brave Paddy Power worker helped unmask a repeat robber by pulling at his face covering during a raid, enabling gardaí to identify him from CCTV. Charles Darcy, who has 64 previous convictions, claims to have undergone a "sea change" and wants to attend drug treatment. He pleaded guilty to robbery of car keys and unauthorised taking of a car and robbery at Paddy Power. Judge Jonathan Dunphy said he was not prepared to "roll the dice" by immediately releasing Darcy to attend residential treatment. He ordered a probation report and adjourned the case until October 9 for finalisation. The court heard that Darcy had a significant poly-substance addiction problem and these crimes were committed to get money to fuel that addiction. He has a difficult history and has been in and out of custody since he was a young man. He has had a recent awakening with the help of his sister, who is committed to helping put him on the right track.
Andrew Delaney, a violent criminal who fired an improvised 'slam bang' gun at another man, had his sentence increased but the balance suspended by the Court of Appeal. Delaney, who wore a balaclava and shouted 'I will kill you' before firing the gun, was initially sentenced to five years with two suspended. The State appealed, arguing the sentence was too lenient. The Court of Appeal ruled the sentence had a frailty in principle and increased it to six years and six months, with the remainder suspended. Delaney had pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition, and was also sentenced for possessing benzocaine and being a passenger in a stolen vehicle. The court noted the premeditated nature of the attack and the lack of cooperation with gardaí. Delaney's previous convictions for assault and criminal damage were also considered. The court emphasized the seriousness of the offense and the need for a higher sentence. However, as Delaney secured a place in a residential treatment center, the court suspended the remaining portion of the sentence to allow him to complete the program.
Anthony Kinlan (47) has been jailed for six years after carrying out two daylight robberies using an e-scooter and a realistic imitation handgun. He robbed a Paddy Power bookmakers in Dublin 3 in February 2024, stealing €875 in cash, and later robbed a CeX video exchange store on Liffey Street in July 2024, stealing €593 in cash. Gardai found €12,075 worth of stolen goods in his home in March 2025. Kinlan pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery, one count of possession of an imitation firearm, and one count of possessing stolen property. He has 39 previous convictions and a history of drug addiction. His defence highlighted that he had been drug-free for 10 years before relapsing and that he has since detoxed while in custody. Judge Orla Crowe noted the terror caused to customers and staff during the robberies and imposed a seven-and-a-half-year sentence, suspending the final 18 months on conditions.
Nathan Coakley Hutch (33) has been jailed for five years after assaulting a tourist and stealing an elderly man's car. He has 109 previous convictions and was on bail at the time of each incident. He pleaded guilty to assault with intent to cause bodily harm, assault causing harm, and the unauthorized taking of a motor vehicle. In January 2023, he hit a man repeatedly with a bike saddle, causing injury. In June 2024, he headbutted a tourist, causing a fractured nasal bone and mild concussion. In June 2025, he stole a car worth €28,000 from an elderly man. Coakley Hutch has a cocaine addiction and used drugs as a coping mechanism due to threats he faced. His defence highlighted his efforts to address his addiction and his cooperation with the court. Judge Martina Baxter noted the aggravating factor that he was on bail at the time of the assaults and imposed a six-and-a-half-year sentence, suspending the final 18 months on conditions.
A Bulgarian national, Elizaveta Vasileva, stole €11,000 from a heavily pregnant woman just one week after arriving in Ireland. The victim had withdrawn the money to fund the birth of her child in Romania. Vasileva followed the woman out of the bank and stole the envelope containing the cash. Passersby intervened, leading to Vasileva's citizen's arrest. She claimed she found the envelope on the floor and intended to return it. Vasileva pleaded guilty to theft and was sentenced to nine months in prison. The court acknowledged her guilty plea and the mitigating factors, including her psychological difficulties and the fact that she was a foreign national. The victim suffered a miscarriage and required hospitalization after the incident, which caused her significant stress.
Patrick Maughan, a 27-year-old with a history of violent crimes including rape and sexual assault, was sentenced to an additional two years in custody for stealing a mobile phone during a robbery in Terenure. The victim, a 64-year-old care assistant, was attacked by Maughan and his accomplice, who later fled the scene. The phone was later recovered from Maughan, who was found in a critical condition at the police station. The court considered the severity of the attack, the impact on the victim, and Maughan's extensive criminal record. The judge noted that the sentence would run consecutive to Maughan's existing 13-year sentence. The victim described the lasting physical and emotional effects of the assault, including ongoing pain and a diminished sense of security. Patrick Maughan pleaded guilty.
A 21-year-old man from Westport, Co Mayo, who is currently serving a 10-month sentence, has been spared additional jail time for stealing an electric scooter valued at €773. Edward Collins pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to stealing the Kukirin G2 Max e-scooter from Beechwood Court in Stillorgan on January 10 last year. Judge Anne Watkin noted that Collins has 14 previous convictions, including seven for theft and fraud, and six for road traffic offences. He also had 15 charges dismissed under the Probation of Offenders Act in January 2025. The judge acknowledged that the Probation Service had worked with Collins for about a year. Collins is currently serving consecutive sentences of seven months and three months, totaling 10 months. The three-month sentence relates to driving without insurance or a licence. His defence highlighted that Collins developed a cocaine addiction at 17 after associating with the wrong crowd. Judge Watkin placed him under the supervision of the Probation Service for 12 months, requiring him to report in person, notify of any address changes, and avoid illegal drugs.
Anthony Cooney, a 38-year-old chronic drug addict, was jailed for nine and a half years for two violent car hijackings. During the first incident, Cooney held a knife to the throat of a 70-year-old woman and threatened to kill her. In the second, he used a fork to threaten a couple, stabbing the driver and demanding money. The stolen car was later involved in a collision with a commercial van, causing significant damage. Cooney was arrested at the scene and was too intoxicated to be interviewed. He later admitted to the hijacking and apologized. The judge noted the severity of the offenses and the trauma inflicted on the victims, emphasizing that Cooney's actions were deplorable and required a long prison sentence. Cooney was also disqualified from driving for eight years.
The Court of Appeal declared Osgur Breatnach's 1978 conviction for the Sallins mail train robbery a miscarriage of justice. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, sitting with Mr Justice John Edwards and Mr Justice Paul Burns, granted the certificate based on Breatnach's asserted factual innocence and a newly discovered fact regarding John Fitzpatrick's alibi. The Director of Public Prosecutions did not dispute that Fitzpatrick's alibi constituted a newly discovered fact. Breatnach, who was originally sentenced to 12 years in prison by the Special Criminal Court, had his conviction quashed in 1980 after the Court of Criminal Appeal ruled his confession was obtained under oppression. He spent 18 months in custody before release. In his affidavit, Breatnach stated he had "no hand, act or part" in the robbery, a claim the DPP did not contest. Counsel Patrick Gageby SC argued that Fitzpatrick's alibi, which was never tested in court because Fitzpatrick disappeared before being charged, cast substantial doubt on all related convictions. The court found the threshold for a miscarriage of justice certificate was met. Mr Justice Edwards ordered that costs follow the event, as the applicant was completely successful. Breatnach, speaking outside court, described himself and the other "Sallins Men" as victims of serious crimes and renewed his call for an independent public inquiry into their treatment.
A Dublin teenager who was the driver of a car involved in a spate of burglaries in Carlow almost two years ago has been jailed for two years. The 18-year-old pleaded guilty to burglary and criminal damage at a housing estate in Killerig, Tullow, and other incidents. He has a number of previous convictions, including many related to stealing and driving stolen cars. The court heard that the teenager had a difficult upbringing, with his father dying when he was a toddler and his mother being abusive. Judge Mary Morrissey acknowledged his difficult background and noted that he had pleaded guilty, which saved the victims from having to give evidence. She set concurrent sentences totalling 36 months and suspended the final 12 months on strict conditions, including engaging with the Probation Service and mental health services. The judge wished him the best of luck and acknowledged his potential.
A serial offender who engaged in a spree of burglaries, ransacking office properties and stealing electronic goods, has been jailed for three and a half years. Mark Byrne, 41, had more than 150 previous convictions when he burgled a number of unoccupied premises in Dublin city centre. He was seen on CCTV footage entering buildings and returning with accomplices to steal more goods. Patrick Higgins and Nikita Ring were also before the court for sentencing in relation to burglaries they committed with Byrne. Byrne pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary, while Higgins and Ring pleaded guilty to their respective offences. The court heard that Byrne and his accomplices caused significant damage to the businesses involved. Judge Martin Nolan jailed Byrne for 51 months, with the final nine months suspended on conditions. Higgins was jailed for 21 months, and Ring received two years with the final six months suspended. The court heard that Byrne has a difficult past with addiction issues and has been in custody since July 2025.
A robber who drove his car at a man, breaking his leg, has been jailed for two years for this and for robbing a car in a separate incident. Evan Campbell, 27, was jailed for the 2023 offences, with Judge Jonathan Dunphy noting he has since made excellent progress in his rehabilitation. The court heard that Campbell drove his car at a man, pushing him against a fence and breaking his leg. The co-accused stole the man's wallet, bank cards, and €150 in cash. Campbell later committed another robbery, where he and two others argued over the value of a car and made off in the victim's car, which had to be written off. Campbell pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery and has 40 previous convictions. Aoife O'Leary BL, defending, said her client committed the offences at a time when his drug addiction was spiralling and his mental health was suffering. Judge Dunphy noted that Campbell has achieved a great deal towards rehabilitation and has not re-offended since 2023.
Jamie O'Brien, a 32-year-old serial burglar, was jailed for three years with the final six months suspended for burglarizing staff lockers at a Dublin restaurant. O'Brien was identified by CCTV and arrested after fleeing the scene. He has 46 previous convictions, including 12 for burglary, and was on bail at the time of the offense. The court heard that O'Brien had significant mental health issues and was abusing drugs at the time. His defense highlighted his guilty plea and unreserved apology. The judge considered the mitigating factors and imposed a three-year sentence. O'Brien has a history of burglary, including a ten-year sentence in 2017 for the burglary, assault, and false imprisonment of an elderly woman. The court also noted that no property was recovered from the restaurant, and no victim impact statements were made.
Rian Dunne, a man with 20 previous convictions, will be sentenced for mugging a tourist in Dublin and robbing three convenience stores. He pleaded guilty to robbery on Bachelor's Walk in 2023 and two robberies and an attempted robbery in 2025. Dunne was arrested after gardaí spotted him running with stolen items. He admitted to the offences being committed to feed a drug addiction. In May 2025, Dunne and another man robbed a service station, taking €81 worth of vapes and demanding cash. They later attempted to rob a second service station and successfully robbed a Mace shop, taking €250 in cash and €450 worth of vapes. Dunne was identified through CCTV footage and arrested at his home in June 2025. He made no admissions when interviewed by gardaí. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned sentencing to allow for the completion of a psychological report.
Dublin city councillors have initiated a High Court challenge against the State to remove the name of former Israeli President Chaim Herzog from a park in south Dublin and rename it after Terence Wheelock, who died in 2005 following his arrest on suspicion of car theft. Herzog, born in Belfast and raised in Dublin, was president of Israel from 1983 to 1993. His son, Isaac Herzog, is the current Israeli president. Political activists have called for the name change in protest against Israel's actions in Gaza. Councillors argue that the government has not introduced legislation allowing local authorities to rename public places. Cllr Conor Reddy, along with several other councillors, is seeking judicial review against the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Attorney General. The case hinges on the failure to introduce regulations under the Local Government Act 2001, which would allow councils to hold local ballots for renaming public places. The court has adjourned the matter to October to allow the State to oppose the application if they wish.
A man will be sentenced later this year for stealing a car and using it to ram a garda vehicle 23 years ago. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Barry Lysaght (46), formerly of Charleville, Co Cork, pleaded guilty to one count of reckless endangerment and one count of the unauthorised taking of a car at a location near the South Circular Road on March 16, 2003. The court heard that Lysaght has been living in the UK for most of the past 23 years. Garda Damien Coleman told Aideen Collard, BL, prosecuting, that on the day in question, he was on patrol with now-retired Garda Michael Kiely at 12.16am when they saw a car being driven in an unusual manner on Parnell Road. The gardai activated the patrol car's blue lights and the car, driven by Lysaght, mounted the footpath, coming to a stop before accelerating and driving off. The car continued through red lights and narrowly avoided colliding with an oncoming taxi.
A serial criminal, Keith Hall, was released from prison for his role in the 2012 manslaughter of Melanie McCarthy-McNamara when he committed arson and robbery in 2025. Hall had previously been sentenced to 20 years for the manslaughter, which was later reduced. The court heard that Hall was involved in events leading up to the shooting, including agreeing to throw a rock to entice people out of a house. In 2025, Hall was caught on CCTV setting a car ablaze and later robbed a Halfords store. He was identified as one of the suspects and had a history of 112 previous convictions. Judge Orla Crowe noted Hall's high risk of re-offending but acknowledged his cooperation with the Probation Service. She imposed concurrent sentences of three years and six months, with the final six months suspended on the condition that Hall engage with the Probation Service.
The former CEO of Inland Fisheries Ireland, Francis O'Donnell, has denied allegations that he pestered and hounded the agency's former HR director, Róisín Bradley, for written assurances regarding his future employment. O'Donnell, who was dismissed from his position in June 2025, refuted claims that he asked Bradley to meet privately and sign a prepared letter in a hotel car park. He described the allegations as "appalling" and denied any such conduct, emphasizing that Bradley was a high-performing individual with whom he had a strong working relationship. O'Donnell's legal team argued that there was a precedent in IFI for previous CEOs returning to their old roles after stepping down, and he cited an email from Bradley in December 2025 to support his claim. The case is being heard under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 and the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, with O'Donnell alleging that the allegations against him were part of an effort to pressure him into ending his investigation into alleged theft and fraud within the organization. The tribunal has adjourned for further proceedings.
A District Court judge has refused jurisdiction in the case of a woman who admitted stealing €5,500 in cash while working at Paddy Power, stating that taking that amount of money from an employer while in a position of trust was "not a minor matter." Connie Redmond (22), of Longmeadow Apartments, Conyngham Road, Dublin 8, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to stealing €5,500 in cash from Paddy Power at Upper Baggot Street, Dublin 4, on May 6, 2025. Redmond informed the court that her solicitor was not present due to the ongoing industrial action over legal aid rates. Judge Anne Watkin stated that the case should not proceed without the accused having legal representation. She also said she would be refusing jurisdiction, emphasizing that taking that amount of money from an employer while in a position of trust was not a minor matter. The judge ordered disclosure and adjourned the matter until September 8 for a Book of Evidence to be prepared and directions from another court.
Michael Geoghegan, a man with a long history of criminal convictions, was jailed for five years after attempting to rob a bookies and two supermarkets. He dropped his phone and €200 at the scenes of the crimes. Geoghegan pleaded guilty to attempted robbery at Boyle Sports and two counts of robbery at Lidl. He had a debt of €7,000 and committed the offences to pay it off. His defence argued that he did not intend to hurt anyone and that the weapon used was an airsoft gun. The court heard that the offences were terrifying for the victims, who believed the weapon was real. Geoghegan's mother wrote a letter stating that he has changed since being in custody and is on a methadone reduction programme. Judge Orla Crowe imposed a headline sentence of eight years, but suspended the final year with conditions, including probation and addiction services.
A serial thief with 142 previous convictions, Mark Holmes, had his jail term reduced by four months on appeal. Holmes, who has a history of theft and drug addiction, was convicted of multiple thefts from Dublin grocery shops. His defense argued that his offenses were linked to a crack cocaine addiction and a chaotic lifestyle. Holmes was initially sentenced to 20 months in total, but the appeal court reduced the two ten-month sentences to eight months each, to be served consecutively. The court heard that Holmes had been engaging with services and schooling while in custody, and had reduced his methadone usage. Judge Fiona O'Sullivan acknowledged the severity of his criminal history but noted his cooperation and progress in treatment. The reduction was made to reflect his engagement with services and his reduced methadone usage while in custody.
A serial thief with 130 previous convictions has been spared additional jail time after admitting to stealing €165 worth of cosmetics from a Tesco store in Dún Laoghaire. Colin Kevitt (33), of Talbot Street, Dublin 1, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to stealing various cosmetics from Tesco at Bloomfield Shopping Centre on November 23, 2025. Represented by Berna Kennedy BL, Kevitt informed Judge Anne Watkin that he is already serving a 16-month prison sentence for theft. Sergeant Deirdre Ryan highlighted Kevitt's extensive criminal record. Judge Watkin sentenced him to two months' imprisonment, to be served concurrently with his existing sentence. A recognisance of €500 was set in the event of an appeal. The court acknowledged Kevitt's long history of theft-related convictions, but opted not to increase his sentence further.
Joseph Gifford, a 40-year-old man with 134 previous convictions, has been jailed for 20 months for stealing a tourist's motorbike in Dublin. Gifford pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to taking the motorbike from QPark on May 13, 2024. The victim had arrived in Ireland on a ferry from the Isle of Man and parked his motorbike in the car park. The following morning, he discovered his bike was missing. Gardai obtained CCTV footage showing four individuals entering the car park, with three wearing masks and gloves. Gifford was identified as the fourth person. The motorbike was recovered the next day but was written off. Gifford was arrested in March 2025 and admitted to the crime, but refused to identify the other individuals. The court heard that Gifford has a long-standing addiction issue and is a vulnerable person. His defence highlighted his remorse and willingness to address his addiction. Judge Martina Baxter noted the aggravating factors, including Gifford's extensive criminal history, and sentenced him to 32 months in prison, with the final 12 months suspended for two years.
A man from Dublin has been jailed for three and a half years and ordered not to contact his former partner for 30 years after repeatedly breaching court orders and harassing her by sending messages to their 10-year-old child's phone. Judge Martin Nolan criticized the defendant for making life miserable for his former partner and child, noting that he had been given multiple chances to change his behavior. The man had pleaded guilty to harassment over a week-long period in September 2025. He has a history of breaching court orders, theft, assault, and criminal damage. During the period of harassment, he sent over 300 messages, some of which were aggressive and distressing. The victim described the experience as "hell on earth" and said she and her children faced significant emotional distress. The court heard that the man was also on bail at the time for breaching a court order not to contact the injured party.
Denise O'Brien (42) of Fels Point, Dan Spring Road, Tralee, Co Kerry, appeared before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after taking a bench warrant last week. She is accused of 98 counts of fraud, including deception, forgery, and using a false instrument, under the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001. Oisin Clarke BL, defending, explained that his client did not appear on June 15 because she believed the court date was set for June 18, citing a rail ticket she had purchased for that date. He also mentioned that she had been previously in hospital. Counsel requested that the court readmit her to bail. Judge Orla Crowe set an arraignment date of November 16, when O'Brien is due to enter a plea. The judge noted her history of non-attendance but agreed to re-admit her to bail on her own bond of €100. She must sign on daily at a local garda station, provide her phone number, surrender her passport, and refrain from applying for any other travel documents.
A thief who threatened to shoot a taxi driver during a Christmas Eve hold-up has been jailed for an offence described as having a 'particular meanness' to it. David Delaney (26) pleaded guilty to theft at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. He had 13 previous convictions and was on bail at the time of the incident. The taxi driver was targeted in the early hours of December 24, 2023, when Delaney demanded €90 or threatened to shoot him. Delaney also took the taxi driver's dash cam. His defense highlighted his difficult background and current efforts in custody. The judge noted the impact on the taxi driver, who suffered anxiety and stress, and imposed a two-year sentence with six months suspended. Delaney's sentence will be consecutive to his current two-year term for robbery.
A knife-wielding burglar with over 200 previous convictions will be sentenced later this year for a series of break-ins across Dublin. Andrew Cleary (50), who has no fixed abode, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to multiple counts of burglary, theft, trespass, and criminal damage, as well as one count of aggravated burglary, between October 2024 and July 2025. The incidents occurred in various locations, including Sandymount, Killiney, Rathgar, Rathmines, and Ranelagh. Three gardai testified that Cleary entered homes and stole high-value items to sell and fund his drug addiction. In one incident in Ranelagh, a man was working from home when he heard creaking floorboards and saw Cleary entering the room with a knife, demanding money. The victim handed over his wallet and locked the door as instructed. In another incident in Killiney, a monitoring company alerted the homeowner to an activated security alarm. The homeowner viewed footage on his phone and saw Cleary and another man breaking into his home, smashing windows and taking keys. Gardai later apprehended Cleary with stolen items.
A 20-year-old man from Balbriggan, Co Dublin, who was involved in looting during the Dublin riots, was described as a 'follower, not a leader' in court. Faraj Odukoya pleaded guilty to two counts of burglary related to the theft of items from three shops on Mary Street and O'Connell Street. Detective Garda Aoife Farrelly explained that Odukoya was not involved in the initial breach of the stores but entered after the initial break-in and stole items, including Nike runners. The total losses to the affected shops were significant, with Footlocker O'Connell Street losing over €435,200, Mary Street Footlocker losing approximately €323,000, and Lifestyle Sports losing €313,990. Odukoya was identified through CCTV footage during the investigation in 2025, and no evidential value was obtained from his interview. The court heard that Odukoya entered an early guilty plea, and his actions were motivated by opportunism. He is currently in custody and will be sentenced next month for a separate matter. The judge noted that the court will consider the principles of totality and proportionality when determining his sentence.
A serial offender with an 'appalling' 137 previous convictions has been given a fully suspended sentence for a series of theft and public order offences. Judge Derek Cooney noted that the defendant, Margaret Connors (41), has struggled with addiction and has made efforts to address it. Connors pleaded guilty to theft, handling stolen property, and public order offences. She stole alcohol and groceries from a supermarket and was found in possession of stolen items. Connors also admitted to stealing from a store and engaging in threatening behavior. She has a long criminal history and accepted responsibility for her actions. Her defense highlighted her addiction and homelessness. Judge Cooney acknowledged her difficult background and the impact of her addiction but warned that if she reoffended, she would face serious consequences. He suspended her sentences for 12 months, emphasizing that her recovery depends on her commitment.
A 19-year-old man, Calum McDonagh, was jailed for two years and six months for being a passenger in a stolen car that struck and killed a pedestrian in Dublin. McDonagh, who has 91 previous convictions, including dangerous driving and unauthorized vehicle use, pleaded guilty to allowing himself to be carried in the stolen vehicle. The incident occurred on July 17, 2024, when the car hit Michael Farrelly, who died at the scene. Gardai pursued the car for 4.2km before stopping it, where they found the victim. McDonagh was identified through CCTV and forensic evidence, including glass shards on his clothing. He admitted to being in the passenger seat and attempted to get out of the car after the collision. The court heard from the victim's brother, who described the tragedy as destroying their lives. McDonagh's defense highlighted his neurodiversity and adverse childhood, leading to a suspended six-month portion of the sentence.
A judge has warned a pregnant woman that she will face jail if she steals again, after rejecting her claim that she was distracted by funeral arrangements following the death of her father-in-law. Emma Baker (33), of Heather Lawn, Ballinteer, Dublin 16, pleaded guilty to stealing €423.76 worth of clothing from Marks & Spencer and a pair of Puma Club 2 Era runners worth €70 from Elverys Sports at Dundrum Town Centre. Defending counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, told Dún Laoghaire District Court that the offences occurred on August 12, 2025, the same day Baker learned that her father-in-law had died. Judge Anne Watkin responded: "And because of that she decided to take a pair of shoes?" Mr O'Brien said Baker had funeral arrangements on her mind at the time. The judge replied: "She didn't have only funeral arrangements on her mind. She had a pair of shoes on her mind." Mr O'Brien said Baker had no issues with drugs or alcohol, was unemployed and was heavily pregnant.
Dozens of retail theft cases were heard in Dún Laoghaire District Court as part of 'Operation Táirge', a garda initiative targeting repeat offenders in south Dublin. One defendant, Patrick Connors (24), who is already serving a 22-month jail term, was sentenced to three months in prison for stealing €12 worth of alcohol from a Centra store. Connors, who has over 70 previous convictions, pleaded guilty to theft on July 30, 2025. His sentence will run concurrently with his existing term. Connors' case was one of 41 matters heard in court on Wednesday. Most of the cases were for mention only, with Judge Anne Watkin adjourning proceedings for approximately eight weeks for disclosure, including CCTV evidence. Some defendants failed to appear, leading to bench warrants, while others attended and were given dates for further hearings. A number of defendants appeared without legal representation amid ongoing action by criminal defence solicitors over legal aid fees. Judge Watkin reminded those without legal representation that they needed to know how they intended to plead ahead of their next court date.
A 39-year-old woman from Dublin pleaded guilty to three counts of making threats to kill or cause serious harm and to the production of a samurai sword at her home in May 2021. During the incident, she threatened to cut the legs off of gardai and her former partner while waving the sword out of an upstairs window. The woman, who cannot be named to protect the anonymity of her children, was in a highly distressed and agitated state, reportedly intoxicated and behaving erratically. She had a history of mental health issues, was prescribed antidepressants, and had a history of suicidal ideation. The court heard that she had 25 previous convictions, including 21 for road traffic offences and one for a drugs offence and robbery. The woman's relationship with her former partner was described as volatile, and he was also taking drugs. The woman later left the property and went to live with her mother, while her two younger children are currently in care.
A woman, Elisabeta Silaghi, who has 21 previous convictions, including six for theft, was warned by a judge that she would be sent to prison 'for as long as I can' if she reoffended. Silaghi pleaded guilty to stealing €885 worth of groceries from Dunnes Stores. The judge noted that this was Silaghi's seventh theft conviction and that her last theft conviction resulted in a fine. Rather than imposing a custodial sentence, the judge placed Silaghi on a probation bond. Silaghi was directed to notify the Probation Service of any change of address or phone number. The judge warned the defendant that she had been given a final opportunity to avoid prison, saying, 'One more time and it's jail.' Silaghi is raising her five-year-old child alone, is unemployed and reliant on social welfare. David Nally BL, defending, said his client was pleading guilty, was very apologetic and had accepted responsibility for her actions.
Two women from West Dublin have avoided jail for stealing baby formula and other goods from a Tesco store in Tallaght, while a third woman's case was discharged on the condition of a donation to the poor box. Alina Muntean (21), Flora Muntean (27), and Sabina Munteanu (47) all pleaded guilty to stealing goods worth €290. Security staff detained them after they passed payment points without paying. CCTV footage confirmed the theft, and the stolen items were recovered and returned to the store. One woman was arrested at the scene, while the other two, who had children with them, attended a garda station the following day. Alina Muntean had no previous convictions and expressed remorse. Judge Peter White directed her to make a €200 donation to the poor box and remanded the matter. Flora Muntean, who had two previous convictions, was given a four-month suspended prison sentence and fined €200. Sabina Munteanu, who had two previous convictions, was also given a four-month suspended prison sentence and fined €200.
Arthur Bradford, a Ghanian man, was jailed for six and a half years for raping an intoxicated woman he approached at a nightclub in Dublin. He was convicted by a Central Criminal Court jury last month. The victim, who wished to remain anonymous, described waking up in a house she had never been to, with her underwear inside out and feeling as if she had had non-consensual sex. CCTV footage showed Bradford approaching her while she was unsteady on her feet. Bradford claimed the encounter was consensual. The victim's impact statement highlighted the trauma and lasting effects of the rape, including on her relationships and education. Bradford, who has 21 previous convictions, including for theft and money laundering, was subject to a deportation order. The judge noted the traumatic impact on the victim and imposed a six-and-a-half-year sentence, encouraging Bradford to engage in offence-focused work while in custody.
Martin Ward (64) was jailed for 12.5 years for repeatedly raping and sexually abusing his partner's niece when she was at her most vulnerable. Ward was found guilty of 27 counts of sexual abuse, including three counts of rape, nine counts of oral rape, and 15 counts of sexual assault. The abuse occurred between 2000 and 2004 when the girl was sent to live with Ward and his partner. The victim, Martina Ward, waived her anonymity and described the abuse as having stolen her childhood. She stated that Ward manipulated her and caused her profound trauma, including PTSD and ongoing mental health issues. Ms Justice Melanie Greally noted the breach of trust and the severity of the abuse. The judge set a headline sentence of 16 years but reduced it to 12.5 years considering mitigating factors such as Ward's lack of related convictions and his community work. Ward has eight previous convictions for road traffic offences and made no admissions during the trial.
Wayne Roche, who murdered his partner's father, John O'Connor, was sentenced to life imprisonment, with the judge criticizing his "appalling" behavior throughout the trial. Roche had repeatedly lied and tried to blame an innocent man, Michael Bancewicz, for the murder. The judge noted that Roche had a significant criminal history, including 83 previous convictions for assault, robbery, and other violent crimes. During the sentencing hearing, Roche interrupted the proceedings and left the court before the sentence was handed down. The judge praised the victim's family for their "patience and dignity" in the face of Roche's provocations. The family described the attack as "vicious" and "inhumane," stating that Roche had shown no remorse. The court heard that Roche had taken the victim's future from his family and that the victim had been robbed of his life. Roche's defense argued that he did not accept the jury's verdict, but the judge emphasized the severity of the crime and the need for justice. Wayne Roche pleaded not guilty.
Anne Marie Forrester, a former Tesco employee, has been given a fully suspended prison sentence of two and a half years for stealing €6,500 from her employer. Forrester had a previous conviction for a similar offence and was given the benefit of the Probation Act. The court heard that Forrester was present during the cash transfers and stole individual bags of €500. She later submitted a sick note and was not in work for seven weeks. Forrester has since engaged with MABS to address rental arrears and is making weekly repayments. She is a carer for her mother and works 18 hours a week. The court acknowledged her personal difficulties and mental health issues but noted that stealing from an employer must be deterred. Forrester was ordered to repay €7,000 over 18 months to Tesco. Anne Marie Forrester pleaded guilty.
A Lithuanian man with a history of violent convictions has been sentenced to nine and a half years in prison for raping a woman and threatening to "cut her face off and eat her" shortly after they met. Tasas Ruzas (42) was found guilty of rape, anal rape, and making a threat to kill or cause serious harm following a trial in the Central Criminal Court. The incident occurred after a day of drug and alcohol use with the victim, who had initially met Ruzas in Dublin city centre. During the assault, Ruzas punched the victim, raped her without a condom, and then anally raped her. The victim managed to escape and call for help. Ruzas has numerous previous convictions in Ireland, Lithuania, and the UK, including theft, assault, and dangerous driving. The judge noted the extreme humiliation and degrading nature of the sexual offences and the violence inflicted on the victim, who suffered a fractured eye.
A disqualified driver, Conor Warburton, narrowly avoided hitting two children in a double buggy while fleeing gardai in a stolen car. Warburton (36) was jailed for three years and disqualified from driving for ten years after pleading guilty to charges including endangerment, dangerous driving, and unauthorized use of a vehicle. The incident occurred on May 9, 2023, when Warburton drove at high speed through a bus stop, narrowly missing the children and a garda who was about to exit a patrol car. The car had false registration plates and Warburton was not insured at the time. The pursuit lasted around 30 seconds over 800 meters before gardai lost sight of the car. Warburton has 66 previous convictions, including dangerous driving and no insurance. His defence highlighted addiction issues as the root of his offending, and he has been clean for seven months. Judge Orla Crowe noted the reckless and dangerous nature of his actions and the aggravating factors of his previous convictions and disqualification.
Thomas Grace, a serial criminal with over 250 previous convictions, was jailed for two on-bail offences, including breaking into a couple's home and ransacking it while they slept. Judge Orla Crowe noted that Grace's criminal history dates back nearly 25 years and includes a wide range of offences, from burglary and robbery to drug-related crimes and assaults. She acknowledged Grace's struggle with heroin addiction, which began at 18, but emphasized that many people have been directly affected by his actions. Grace was sentenced to concurrent terms of 18 months and three years and nine months for theft and burglary, with the final nine months of the second term suspended on strict conditions. Grace pleaded guilty to stealing from a café and burglarizing a family home. His legal team highlighted his troubled past, including leaving school at 13 and falling into addiction and criminality after returning home. Despite showing remorse, Grace's long history of offending and ongoing drug addiction were significant factors in the court's decision.
A man from Tullow has been jailed for 21 months after €5,000 worth of cannabis was found hidden behind a couch in his home. Michal Plecha (50) of Shroughaun Close, Tullow, pleaded guilty at Carlow Circuit Criminal Court to possessing cannabis valued at €5,100 and amphetamine valued at €525 on November 27, 2024. He also admitted to possessing a stolen chainsaw and bicycle. The court heard that a warrant was secured to search his home, where the drugs were found in a sportsbag behind the couch. A digital weighing scale, plastic bags, and €900 in cash were also discovered. Plecha claimed the cash was for buying a car, but gardaí suspect it is from drug trafficking. The stolen items were found in his home, and Plecha said he had bought the chainsaw second-hand and that a friend had left the bike behind. His defence accepted that his engagement with The Probation Service had been inconsistent.
Jim McCarthy, 27, formerly of Oughterard, Co Galway, pleaded guilty at Galway Circuit Criminal Court to one count of hijacking a vehicle on Foster Street, Galway, on April 10, 2024, and to burglary, assault, and possession of an article at St Lawarnce Park, Loughrea, on January 23, 2024. Prosecution evidence alleged that McCarthy hijacked a car from a woman using a knife and later assaulted a resident in Loughrea, striking him with a knife and stealing cash. The court heard that McCarthy has 11 previous District Court convictions. Defence counsel noted that McCarthy has addressed addiction issues, completed a 12-week course at Cluine Mhuire, is employed, and has engaged with the Probation Service. Both injured parties declined to provide victim impact statements or participate in a restorative justice programme. Judge Brian O'Callaghan adjourned the case for an updated probation report in January 2027. The matter was adjourned and not concluded.
Anthony Carroll, who impersonated a garda and stole €3,000 from two pensioners, could not attend his sentencing hearing due to an emergency. Carroll pleaded guilty to burglary and impersonating a garda in January 2024. The victims, both 71-year-olds, were awakened at 4:15 am by Carroll, who was wearing a monkey hat and a crowbar, claiming to be conducting a raid. He stole €3,000 from the victims, who had no connection to drugs. Carroll was arrested in February 2025 and admitted to the crime. He has 31 previous convictions, including robbery and criminal damage. His defense argued that he was under the influence of cocaine and had no prior criminal intent. Judge Martina Baxter noted Carroll's record of duplicity and required him to be drug-free and undergo a community service assessment. However, Carroll did not appear for his sentencing as he claimed there was an emergency, with his solicitor informing the court that someone had fallen down the stairs. The case was adjourned to the next court term in June.
Gavin Cooke was jailed for eight years for participating in a burglary while on bail, during which a homeowner was threatened with a metal bar and her daughters were in fear of being raped. Cooke pleaded guilty to burglary after the indictment was amended. The court heard that the burglar threatened the woman with a metal bar, demanding cash, and the other two men went upstairs where the woman's daughters were. The woman gave the man €50, but he continued to demand cash. The Audi used in the crime was found on fire nearby, with Cooke's name and prisoner number stitched into the garment. Cooke has 69 previous convictions, including robbery and drugs offences. The judge noted the long-term psychological harm to the woman and her daughters and imposed an eight-year sentence, to be served consecutively to his current sentence.
A burglar who was spotted by gardai on the roof of a cafe on St Stephen's Green and had to be assisted down by the fire brigade has had his six-month jail term replaced with a suspended sentence on appeal. Judge Ronan Munro said that Enda Murray (44) seemed like he had been a "successful" burglar and thief who "ran out of road". Murray, with an address at Deansgrange Road, Dun Laoghaire, was convicted in the District Court of burglary and was sentenced to six months imprisonment, consecutive to another three years in custody for another matter. He was also convicted of entering the curtilage of a building as a trespasser, which was taken into consideration by the judge, and possession of stolen property, for which he got a six-month suspended sentence. He later lodged an appeal against the severity of his sentence. Sergeant Stephen Walsh told the District Court Appeals Court that on February 6, 2025 at Insomnia on St Stephen's Green, a trespasser was spotted on the roof of the building by gardai.
William McCarthy (38) of Carlow pleaded guilty to assaulting an Irish Rail ticket inspector and burglarizing a Carlow GAA club. The assault occurred on September 14, 2024, when McCarthy refused to show his ticket and attacked the inspector on the Waterford/Heuston line. The victim suffered injuries including a broken finger and bruising to his face and was treated in hospital. McCarthy also pleaded guilty to criminal damage and theft from the Éire Óg Clubhouse, where he had previously burgled the premises four times. The damage to the cigarette machine was estimated at €2,000, with €2,830 worth of cigarettes and vapes stolen, along with €1,520 in cash. The victim's impact statement highlighted the emotional and financial toll of the assault, including difficulties paying his mortgage and the need for counseling. McCarthy's defense argued that his actions were driven by addiction and desperation to pay off a debt. The judge remanded McCarthy in custody and adjourned sentencing until next week.