A shoplifter who stole Louis Vuitton earrings worth €480 from Brown Thomas and later took clothes from Lifestyle Sports had her three-month jail term replaced with a suspended sentence on appeal. Sasha Staunton, 28, has 29 previous convictions, including theft and possession of stolen property. She was convicted in the District Court of two counts of theft on Grafton Street. On appeal, Judge Ronan Munro noted that Staunton had completed a four-week residential treatment and was off drugs. He suspended her sentence for two years, on the condition that she engages with the probation service and follows their instructions. Staunton's defense solicitor said she had checked herself into a facility in Louth and has been committed to her recovery. The court acknowledged her efforts to address her drug use and gave her an opportunity to avoid jail.
A double murderer's conviction has been upheld by the Court of Appeal, despite his claim that expert testimony lacked 'scientific validity'. Jason O'Driscoll, who was convicted of murdering Anthony Burnett and Joseph Redmond in Co Louth in 2012, had his appeal rejected. The court ruled that Andrew Wooller of Acuity Forensics was appropriately qualified to give evidence on vehicle identification. O'Driscoll's lawyers argued that Wooller's expertise lacked scientific validity and that his public tweet after the conviction showed a lack of independence. However, the court found that Wooller's evidence was necessary for the jury to interpret the CCTV footage and that the tweet did not establish a lack of independence. O'Driscoll was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2018 for the murders, which were described as 'callous' and 'brutal'. The prosecution relied on circumstantial evidence, including CCTV footage and the identification of a stolen Mercedes S Class as the getaway car.
A 39-year-old mother of three has been jailed for a year after she and her 21-year-old daughter stole six designer jackets worth €12,615 from Brown Thomas in the run up to Christmas 2024. Cathriona Joyce and her daughter Caitlin Joyce of St Brigid's Lawn, Porterstown in Dublin pleaded guilty to the theft in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Garda Shane Quinn explained that CCTV footage showed the two women acting suspiciously on the day the jackets went missing. Three females and two males entered the store, loitered, and were surveilled. The females hid the jackets under their own clothing, while the males carried them out. Searches of the Joyce women's homes found three of the jackets, with one discovered under a Christmas tree in Cathriona Joyce's caravan and two in her daughter's caravan. Four days later, Cathriona Joyce handed over three more Moncler jackets in a black plastic bag. She had previously received suspended sentences for similar convictions.
A former missionary nun, Sister Julie Doran, has told a court that she no longer feels safe in her own home after an on-bail criminal with 346 previous convictions broke into her retirement community. Keith Delaney (41) pleaded guilty to multiple counts of theft, criminal damage, and burglary in Dublin between December 2024 and September 2025. Delaney, who has 346 previous convictions, including 142 theft and 50 criminal damage charges, was identified through CCTV footage and admitted to stealing items, including guitars and a phone, which he sold to fund his drug addiction. The court heard of multiple incidents, including breaking into a hotel room, stealing a laptop and tablet from a hotel, and entering a nursing home where he was seen in residents' bedrooms. Delaney was apprehended after several incidents, including one at a house where retired nuns reside. Sister Doran expressed her distress, stating that she no longer feels safe and has ongoing anxiety. Delaney is currently serving a nine-month sentence and is seeking rehabilitation. The court will consider a probation report before sentencing.
Lee Coleman, 38, of Tyrellstown, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbery committed on August 23, 2020. The court heard that Coleman, who had arranged a meeting with a sex worker, demanded the return of €70 and took her phone, placing her in fear. He subsequently returned to the property, where he smashed windows and kicked the door. Coleman was later found severely beaten and bundled into a car, an incident initially reported as a possible abduction. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged the frightening nature of the robbery but noted Coleman has not come to Garda attention since 2018 and appears to be getting his life back on track. She set a headline sentence of three years before imposing a two-year sentence. This term was suspended in full on the condition that Coleman keep the peace and be of good behaviour for three years. The judge described this as a final chance, holding the suspended sentence over him as a penalty. Coleman has 15 previous convictions, including for assault and theft. Defence counsel highlighted his subsequent sobriety and business setup, while the prosecution noted the victim's phone and money were never recovered.
Two men who were high on laughing gas and randomly attacked a woman have been told by a judge that some crimes cannot be walked away from. The attack occurred on Seamus Ennis Road, Finglas, where the woman was pushed to the ground and assaulted. The victim suffered injuries and had her phone stolen. CCTV footage captured the attackers, identified as Craig Mains (28) and Shane Daly (27). Both pleaded guilty to assault and related charges. Judge Ronan Munro described the attack as savage and an outrage. Mains received a three-year sentence with the final 18 months suspended, while Daly received a three-month suspended sentence. Both were placed under probation supervision. The victim was commended for her resilience. The defendants expressed remorse and offered financial compensation. Mains has a history of drug use and is in treatment, while Daly is drug-free and has no recent convictions.
A thief who broke into a car and was found with a stolen bike had his nine-month jail sentence fully suspended on appeal. Stephen Carlisle (41) is currently serving another sentence and plans to enter residential drug rehabilitation upon release. Judge Ronan Munro noted that Carlisle is a menace when under the influence of drugs but a decent person otherwise. Carlisle was convicted in the District Court for possessing a stolen bicycle and faced additional charges. He appealed the severity of his sentence. Sergeant Stephen Walsh provided details of Carlisle's previous incidents, including attempts to steal a bike and rummage through a car. Carlisle had 49 previous convictions. His defence counsel, Lydia Daly BL, stated that Carlisle is now off methadone and aims to enter residential treatment. Judge Munro suspended the sentence for two years, requiring Carlisle to comply with the High Park Residential Rehabilitation Programme.
A former accountant pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to theft and deception offences committed over six weeks in early 2025. Michelle Dillon, aged 59 and homeless, stole a bank card and medical card from an elderly patient at a Dublin hospital on 20 February. She subsequently travelled to Cork, Clare, Meath, Westmeath and Wicklow, presenting herself as the legitimate account holder at various banks to withdraw approximately €8,000 in cash. She also made contactless payments totalling €133. Withdrawals occurred in Cork city, Bray, Dublin city centre, Navan, Athlone and Ennis. When presenting at an AIB branch in Navan on 4 March, a warning mark was active on the account, yet she convinced staff she was the genuine holder. She was arrested in October 2025 at Cavan General Hospital after presenting under a false name. The victim's bank refunded all monies. Judge Elma Sheahan described the initial theft as despicable and the subsequent deceptions as planned, premeditated and brazen.
A garda detective testified that 3D-printed guns are becoming more prevalent in Ireland. Craig McKeever (21) pleaded guilty to possessing a 3D-printed .22 calibre pistol and three rounds of ammunition. The gun, made of polymer, is small, easy to conceal, and not detected by metal detectors. During a patrol in Inchicore, gardai found McKeever with a bulletproof vest and a 3D-printed gun. The gun was found to be functional and lethal. McKeever claimed he was carrying the gun for protection after receiving threats against his life. He has 14 previous convictions, including theft, drugs, and road traffic offences. His defense argued that he was in a dangerous situation due to threats from a third party. The court heard that McKeever's family had received notices of threats, and his home was firebombed. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the seriousness of the offense and sentenced McKeever to four years and six months, with the final six months suspended on strict conditions.
Joe Malone, a criminal with approximately 160 previous convictions, failed in his appeal to overturn his conviction for trespassing outside a Dublin home. Malone claimed he was praying outside a church at 2am and looking for his dog when he was arrested. He was convicted of trespassing and handling stolen property, receiving ten months imprisonment for trespassing and ten months consecutive for handling stolen property. Malone's defense argued that the incident did not meet the level of fear required under the law, but the court rejected this, noting the severity of the incident. Malone denied trespassing and claimed mistaken identity, but the judge found his evidence unconvincing. The injured party expressed feeling unsafe in her home. The court imposed a jail sentence of eight months for handling stolen goods and 12 months for trespassing, with conditions to stay away from the injured parties and attend rehabilitation programs.
A man who sexually abused a teenager over 20 years ago was sentenced to 38 months in prison, with the final four months suspended. The victim, who was 16 at the time, spoke out during the sentencing, saying that the abuse had stolen his childhood and left him with lasting trauma. He described the abuse as a secret he carried for years, leading to isolation, drug use, and a damaged relationship with his mother. The court heard that the abuse occurred over a year and involved mutual touching and oral rape. The accused, who had a previous conviction for sexual assault, was convicted on ten counts of gross indecency. The judge noted the prolonged nature of the offense and imposed consecutive sentences. The victim expressed gratitude to those who supported him and said he now feels seen and heard for the first time. The unnamed 62-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A criminal with over 270 previous convictions has been jailed for robbing €10 worth of name badges from a Dublin city centre hotel. Gary Simpson, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and was handed a sentence of three years and nine months, with the final nine months suspended on strict conditions. The court heard that Simpson entered the hotel in the early hours of June 26, 2025, and initially asked a staff member if there was a room available. After being told there were no available rooms, Simpson demanded money and threatened the staff member with a knife. He took €10 worth of blank name badges before fleeing the scene. Simpson has a troubled background, with a long-standing addiction to alcohol and drugs. His defence counsel highlighted his addiction issues and his desire to complete residential treatment. Judge Orla Crowe noted that the experience must have been frightening for the hotel staff member and imposed a sentence that would provide support on Simpson's release.
A barrister has compared a garda search of a Dublin apartment to the surveillance methods of the East German Stasi, as depicted in the film The Lives of Others. Sinead Warren was present during the 2016 search, where gardai discovered her long-term partner, Detective Garda Joseph Kavanagh, in a bedroom. She claims the search was a ruse to interfere in her personal life and relationship with Kavanagh, alleging that senior gardaí deemed the relationship inappropriate and conducted surveillance and inquiries to investigate it. Warren is seeking damages for breach of constitutional rights, negligence, and deceit, claiming she was falsely labeled as a 'major criminal' in WhatsApp messages. Her brothers were killed in Dublin in 2004 and 2012, but she has no criminal history. Gardai stated the search was for a laptop burglary investigation, and the theft did not involve Warren or Kavanagh. The court heard that the search was part of an investigation into a burglary, and gardai have denied any surveillance of Warren's home or Kavanagh's movements. The judge has reserved his judgment.
An aggressive beggar has been given a suspended jail sentence for obstructing elderly parishioners as they entered a church at Christmas and for fleeing from the arresting garda. Razvan Rostas, who receives €232 per week in social welfare, was found guilty of aggressive begging and obstructing a garda. The court heard that elderly parishioners had to move around Rostas at the church entrance, and he fled when arrested. Rostas has three previous convictions, including one for theft and two previous begging offences. The judge fined him €250 for the aggressive begging offence and gave him six months to pay. For obstructing the garda after fleeing arrest, the judge imposed a two-month prison sentence suspended for 12 months. The defense argued that the prosecution had not proven obstruction, but the judge accepted the evidence of the garda and found the obstruction proven. Razvan Rostas pleaded not guilty.
A prisoner who stole €200 from a south Dublin supermarket has been sentenced to 10 months in prison. David Cummins (37), who is currently serving a sentence at Cloverhill Prison, pleaded guilty to theft at SuperValu, Knocklyon Shopping Centre, on April 16, 2023. Gardaí said Cummins took the money from the till by putting his hand behind the counter. He was identified following inquiries after reports of a suspicious male in the area. The court heard that Cummins has over 80 previous convictions and that he had a difficult upbringing in Ballymun. His father died suddenly in 2004, and he suffered a serious road traffic accident that left him with a brain injury and ongoing side effects affecting his decision-making. He turned to drugs and is currently in prison. His defence asked the court to be as lenient as possible, noting his guilty plea. Judge John King imposed a 10-month sentence, backdated to May 8, to run concurrently with his current sentence.
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 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.
A thief who was caught with a mobile phone he could not unlock has had his jail sentence more than halved on appeal. Judge Simon McAleese told Keith Commins (29) that he hoped he would not be proven "naive and overindulgent" in his decision to suspend part of the appellant's sentence. Commins was previously convicted of possessing stolen property, failing to comply with a garda member, and resisting or wilfully obstructing a garda. He received a three-month jail sentence and a one-month consecutive sentence. He later lodged an appeal against the severity of his sentence. Gardai found the phone during a patrol and noted that messages on the phone referred to a work presentation, despite Commins saying it belonged to his unemployed girlfriend. Defence counsel, Lydia Daly BL, said that her client is serving a nine-month sentence for another matter and has secured stable accommodation upon his release. Judge McAleese decided to suspend the three and one month consecutive sentences for a period of two years.
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.
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'.
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.
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.
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 criminal attempted to rob three shops on the same Dublin street in under five minutes but left each one empty-handed. Michael O'Toole, 41, pleaded guilty to three counts of attempted robbery at two Paddy Power premises and a Spar on Talbot Street on October 17, 2023. He also pleaded guilty to possession of stolen property and theft. O'Toole used an uncapped syringe during the robberies and fled each time without success. He has 86 previous convictions, 12 from the Circuit Court. Gardai found stolen items from an Airbnb in Dublin, including iPads and a laptop, which were traced to O'Toole via CCTV footage. He was arrested but refused to answer questions. His defence argued that he had drug addiction issues and was making progress in custody. Judge Martina Baxter ordered a probation report and additional urine analysis, adjourning the case until December 17, 2026.
A judge described an assault as "very disturbing" in which the victim was punched, pulled to the ground, and kicked. Aidan Daniels, 30, and Adam Kelly, 21, pleaded guilty to assault with intent to cause bodily harm. CCTV footage showed Kelly punching and kneeing the victim, who was then dragged by his hoodie and leg. The victim was kicked and stamped on multiple times while on the ground. Kelly has 38 previous convictions, including theft and drug dealing, and was on a suspended sentence. Daniels has 18 previous convictions, including possession of a flick knife and aggravated burglary. Both were arrested and bail was refused. Their defence argued that the assault was out of character and that they were remorseful. Judge Martina Baxter ordered reports from prison governors and adjourned sentencing to May 1 next.
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.
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 serial offender who breached a protection order, stole alcohol, and acted in a threatening and abusive manner in public had his 13-month jail sentence replaced with a fully suspended sentence on appeal. The man, who had 31 previous convictions, was found guilty of multiple offenses, including theft, failure to appear in court, and using threatening behavior. His defense highlighted a probation report showing that he had made significant progress in addressing his alcohol addiction and was committed to residential treatment. The court acknowledged his change in behavior but noted that he remained at a high risk of reoffending. Judge Christopher Callan decided to suspend the 13-month sentence for two years, with conditions that the defendant must enter the supervision of the probation service, address his substance misuse issues, and avoid contact with the injured party. The court emphasized the need to balance the severity of the offenses with the potential for rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
An unnamed 30-year-old man was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to making a threat to kill or cause serious harm in April 2025. The defendant, whose identity is protected to preserve the anonymity of the children involved, admitted to the charge following an incident where a dispute between two six-year-old girls escalated. Prosecution evidence, including door camera footage, alleged the man threatened to set a neighbour's house on fire and encouraged his daughter to stab the other child with scissors. The court heard the man had prior convictions for assault, theft, and road traffic offences, though he has not been in trouble with gardaí since this incident. Defence counsel David Fleming BL described the man's reaction as disproportionate and noted his client's remorse, anger management attendance, and voluntary work. Judge Orla Crowe remarked that the offence should not have taken place and that the reaction was completely disproportionate. She imposed a sentence of 18 months, which was suspended in full for two years. Strict conditions were applied, requiring the man to stay away from the injured party and their family. Additionally, the judge ordered that €1,000, brought to court as a token of remorse, be paid over to the injured party.
Cheryl Robinson, a 49-year-old accountant from Rathdrum, Co Wicklow, has been jailed for two and a half years for stealing nearly €30,000 from Foxrock Golf Club between October 2018 and July 2020. She pleaded guilty to ten charges of theft at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Robinson has a prior conviction for similar offenses, having stolen €125,000 from a former employer in 2010 and serving two years in prison. Judge Orla Crowe noted that the theft was an unsophisticated series of actions, with Robinson routinely transferring money to pay bills. She acknowledged Robinson's difficult personal circumstances, including mental health issues, and suspended 18 months of the sentence on the condition that she engage with the Probation Service. Gardaí discovered the theft during a forensic investigation into the club's accounts, revealing that Robinson had redirected payments to her own account. Robinson's defense highlighted her role as the sole carer for her three children and her lack of financial support from her former husband.
A 19-year-old teenager pleaded guilty to being a passenger in a stolen car in Dublin almost two years ago. The defendant entered a guilty plea before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, admitting to knowingly allowing himself to be carried in a vehicle without the owner's consent on July 17, 2024. Defence counsel Gerardine Small SC informed the court that a psychological report is being prepared. The defendant was remanded in custody, and Judge Orla Crowe directed the preparation of a victim impact statement. A sentence date was set for June when the full facts of the case will be given. The court has not yet determined the specifics of the case, and the defendant will be sentenced after further evidence is presented.
Piotr Doening, a 42-year-old man, was jailed for six years for burglary and possessing over €260,000 worth of drugs. Doening stole from his neighbour's home while she was on holiday, breaking into the house out of desperation after losing his job. The court heard that Doening had previously been caught with 37 cannabis plants, cannabis herb, and amphetamines at his home. Gardai obtained a warrant after aerial footage detected a high heat source in the attic, leading to the discovery of the drugs. Doening pleaded guilty to burglary, theft, and attempted theft. His neighbour discovered the break-in after receiving a notification that her Revolut card had been used. A large amount of property, including a television, sound system, jewellery, and €100 in cash, was stolen. Doening admitted to hiding most of the stolen property and returning everything but the cash. Judge Elma Sheahan noted that the burglary represented a breach of trust and acknowledged Doening's remorse and efforts to deal with his drug addiction.
An actor who appeared on the crime drama series Love/Hate has been jailed for four years for a violent attempt to rob a café and for carrying out a later robbery of a convenience store while covered in blood. Leroy Harris (32) was stopped by gardaí and arrested for his own safety after being spotted in Dublin city with bloodstained hands. It was later discovered that he had just robbed a convenience store using a broken pint glass. Earlier that evening, Harris had attempted to rob a café by squeezing under the shutters and swinging a wine bottle at the owner, who managed to push him out. Harris pleaded guilty to the attempted robbery of the Flower and Bean Café and to the robbery of Day Today' convenience store. Garda Aidan Doyle stated that Harris told the café owner it was a robbery before swinging the bottle at him. The owner, who was with his wife and child at the time, was concerned for their safety and noted that Harris appeared intoxicated.
Matas Kuzevicius, a grocery thief, has been jailed for three and a half years after attacking supermarket staff with a syringe and claiming he had HIV. Kuzevicius was stopped by security staff while trying to leave a supermarket with stolen groceries and produced a syringe filled with a bloodlike substance. During the struggle, an assistant manager received a scrape to the hand. Kuzevicius, who has 33 previous convictions, claimed he had HIV, but testing showed he did not have the virus. He admitted to stealing groceries, assault causing harm, possession of a syringe, and threatening to injure with a syringe. The court heard that Kuzevicius had a history of drug addiction and homelessness. Judge Orla Crowe described the incident as a "very, very serious and dangerous situation" and set a headline sentence of six years, which was reduced to four years, taking into account his early guilty pleas, remorse, and rehabilitation in custody. The final six months of the sentence were suspended on conditions, including supervision by the Probation Service.
Two criminals with a combined 365 previous convictions have been jailed for seven and a half years for a "distressing" and "gratuitously violent" robbery, during which the victim was falsely imprisoned, strangled, and thrown headfirst onto LUAS tracks. The victim was approached by Conor Manning (30) and Jackie McElhaton (50), who struck him with a glass bottle and took his phone. Manning then threw the victim headfirst into LUAS tracks and attempted to strangle him. The victim lost consciousness multiple times and was later admitted to hospital for treatment. Both pleaded guilty to the robbery, and McElhaton also pleaded guilty to an earlier robbery. The court heard that the victim described the experience as deeply distressing and frightening, with lasting physical and psychological effects. Judge Martin Nolan noted the level of violence was gratuitous and reduced the headline sentence of 10 years to seven and a half years, taking mitigating factors into account.
Convicted killer Derek Moore (aka Hutch), who was banned from the roads, high on drugs, driving at 158km/h and pulling wheelies on his motorbike when he struck a Ukrainian grandmother in Dublin city centre, leaving her with serious injuries, has asked a court to allow him complete a detox programme. Moore of Champions Avenue, Dublin 1 has pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious harm to Valentyna Linck on May 27, 2022 at Amiens Street. Moore (42) also pleaded guilty to two counts of dangerous driving and a count of driving under the influence of an intoxicant on the same date. Further counts of dangerous driving are to be taken into consideration by the court. Moore has 44 previous convictions, including those for manslaughter, assault causing serious harm, attempted robbery and possession of drugs. His previous convictions also include eight for dangerous driving and one for endangerment. He was disqualified from driving for five years at the time of this offence, the court was told.
Dún Laoghaire District Court dismissed a €200 keg-theft charge against Niall Kelly after Judge Anne Watkin found a gap in the CCTV chain of custody. Kelly was separately placed on a €500 peace bond for 12 months after being accused of abusive behaviour towards a hospital worker. His defence said symptoms of Huntington's disease could be mistaken for intoxication, while the judge accepted the medical circumstances as mitigation but not an excuse for abuse. Niall Kelly pleaded not guilty.
Michael McDonagh admitted stealing €17,000 from Cadell bar after entering through a rear door, with CCTV and a subsequent search linking him to the burglary. He received a four-year sentence with the final year suspended, alongside probation supervision and a five-year exclusion from the premises; insurance covered the unrecovered cash. Michael McDonagh pleaded guilty.
Gary Riordan's three-month sentence for stealing a backpack containing medication from the Mater Hospital emergency room was reduced on appeal. The court also took other theft, bicycle and drug matters into consideration, while noting his treatment and education in custody; the two-month term will run concurrently with another sentence. Gary Riordan was convicted.
David Doyle admitted theft, criminal damage, public intoxication, threatening behaviour, resisting arrest and two counts of failing to appear in court. Despite a negative probation report, Judge Derek Cooney deferred custody, imposed a probation bond and ordered full engagement with probation, warning that further offending would mean prison. David Doyle pleaded guilty.
John English pleaded guilty after stealing €25 of Smirnoff vodka from Tesco in Dún Laoghaire days after leaving prison. Judge Anne Watkin remanded him on bail with strict reporting, probation and treatment conditions, warning that a breach would lead to jail; the case was adjourned for a probation report.
Carl McGuinness was remanded in custody after being charged with robbing a staff member at a Ranelagh ice cream parlour. Gardaí told the court they tracked him using the location finder on the allegedly stolen iPhone 13 and found a hammer when they stopped him.
Bryan Butler received a three-year-and-six-month sentence, suspended in full, after pleading guilty to attempted robbery at a convenience store in Cabinteely while wearing a children's clown mask. Judge Orla Crowe imposed conditions that he remain drug free and not come to further garda attention after hearing evidence of his rehabilitation.
David Craddock was sentenced after admitting 10 sample counts of theft from KPMG between 2014 and 2019. Galway Circuit Criminal Court heard that 129 thefts were uncovered, more than €900,000 was repaid, and the judge set a headline sentence of six and a half years before mitigation and suspension reduced the term.
Maria Muntean, 37, pleaded guilty to robbery and endangerment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court regarding a fake taxi scam in March 2023. The court heard that Muntean drove a vehicle while her son, Damit Rostas, lured a 19-year-old victim into the car. When a garda patrol appeared, the victim was pushed from the moving vehicle. Rostas was sentenced to 27 months in custody last year for his role. Muntean, who has 50 previous convictions, admitted the charges. Defense counsel Gregory Murphy BL submitted that Muntean acted as a follower, apologized on her behalf, and requested a suspended sentence, citing her care responsibilities for seven children, including one with serious medical issues. Judge Martin Nolan described the offense as serious and concluded that Muntean could not avoid a custodial term given her record. However, acknowledging the impact on her children, the judge adjourned finalisation until May to allow time for care arrangements to be made. Muntean was remanded on continuing bail pending the adjourned sentencing.
Darren White, 49, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to 13 counts of cash robbery at Dublin City hotels between August and December 2005 and one count of robbery of a Londis shop in 2006. The validated procedural stage is an appeal. White had previously pleaded guilty to the first count in May 2007 and was granted bail, but he failed to appear for sentencing and travelled to the UK. He was apprehended in April 2025 following a road traffic matter. Judge Martina Baxter noted that White had rehabilitated, raised a family, and engaged in community work. She determined that a custodial term was not appropriate given the breadth of his rehabilitation. The court imposed a 10-year sentence, which was suspended for 10 years, and ordered White to carry out 240 hours of community service. The matter was adjourned.
CJ Losty drove a stolen car through green areas where children were playing, across footpaths and the wrong way on the M3 while fleeing gardai, reaching more than 160km/hr. He pleaded guilty to endangerment and dangerous-driving charges and received a three-year global sentence, with the final year suspended, plus a six-year driving ban.
Michael McDonagh and Georgina McCarroll were sentenced after pleading guilty to demanding money with menaces from a German tourist in Temple Bar. McCarroll also admitted stealing his iPhone. Judge Sinead Ni Chulachain imposed three years and six months on McCarroll and three years on McDonagh, suspending 18 months of each sentence and placing both under Probation Service supervision.