Aaron McCarthy, 22, of Crinan Strand, Dublin 1, was convicted of robbery and taking a vehicle without authority after punching a taxi driver and stealing his taxi, mobile phone and bank cards on 13 August 2011. He also admitted stealing a bicycle that day. A jury at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court found him guilty and sentenced him to five years' imprisonment. McCarthy had been on bail pending an appeal. On 2 March 2015, the Court of Appeal dismissed his appeal on two grounds: the trial judge's handling of a Garda's evidence and a reference to a possible Garda career risk if McCarthy had been acquitted. The judges – Alan Mahon, George Birmingham and Garrett Sheehan – upheld the conviction and McCarthy was returned to prison to serve the remainder of his sentence. He has not yet appealed the sentence's severity. Aaron McCarthy pleaded not guilty.
Jonathan Chubb, a 35‑year‑old former Dublin letting‑agent employee, was sentenced to 200 hours of community service instead of a prison term for stealing €8,660 from tenants across the country between July and December 2012. He pleaded guilty to 11 charges of stealing rent money from properties managed by Grant Thornton Receivers. Chubb claimed he had intended to repay the money and had taken it to ease his own financial difficulties. The judge, Martin Nolan, noted that the crime was a form of white‑collar theft and that Chubb had been found eligible for community service by the Probation Service. Chubb must complete the hours within 12 months. The case was prosecuted by Gerardine Small BL and defended by James Dwyer BL, who highlighted Chubb's prior financial hardship following the economic crash.
The High Court heard further submissions in the extradition proceedings against Ali Charaf Damache, an Algerian-born Irish citizen wanted in the United States for conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists and attempted identity theft. Counsel for the Attorney General stated that 324 inmates in the US prison system have convictions for Islamic-type terrorism offences, with 10 per cent held in the ADX Supermax Prison. Damache's legal team argued that he could also be sent to other facilities with Communication Management Units. The court noted that if convicted in the US, Damache faces up to 45 years in jail. The High Court previously heard allegations that Damache conspired with Colleen LaRose, who was jailed for ten years in 2014 after admitting involvement in a plot to murder Swedish cartoonist Lars Vilks, and Jamie Paulin Ramirez, who was sentenced to eight years in the US after pleading guilty to providing material support to terrorists. In Ireland, Damache was arrested in March 2013 minutes after pleading guilty to sending a menacing phone call to US Muslim activist Majed Moughni in January 2010, for which he was sentenced to three years. Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly remanded Damache in custody until April 21, noting that a judgment was not anticipated by that date.
Wesley Brennan, 28, was sentenced to 18 months' imprisonment for stealing a Honda Accord belonging to Leoney Dunphy during their first date. The theft occurred after Brennan, who met Dunphy on the Plenty of Fish dating site, began shouting at her over her driving and demanded she exit the car so he could drive away. He subsequently sold the vehicle to scrap dealers in Ashbourne. Brennan pleaded guilty to theft of a vehicle worth €5,500. The court noted no violence was used and that Dunphy was not put in fear, though she was flustered. Brennan, who had grown up in Tallaght and was experiencing homelessness and drug debt, apologized to the victim. Judge Martin Nolan imposed the sentence, backdating it to September when Brennan entered custody after bail was revoked.
In Balbriggan District Court on 26 February 2015, two women, Eileen McDonagh (36) and Carolyn Ward (29), were dealt with for stealing €1,782.35 worth of children's clothing from Tesco Extra. McDonagh donated €300 to the Laura Lynn Hospice, leading Judge Dermot Dempsey to apply Section 1.1 of the Probation Act and grant her probation. Ward, who did not attend court and made no donation, was convicted and fined €300. Both had no prior convictions and were described by their solicitor as acting out of desperation with no sophisticated planning. Separately, Ryan Myles (21) was adjourned for a Probation & Welfare Report after pleading guilty to theft of cosmetics and possession of cannabis resin, with 10 prior convictions. A motorist, David Boylan (48), was fined €300 for careless driving after a collision at a crossroads but was not disqualified. Finally, Mathew Lencewicz (21) was convicted of drink driving, fined €200, and received a six‑month driving ban.
Ian Mansfield, 24, and his accomplice Eugene Byrne, 21, were arrested after a "terrifying" armed raid on Clonsilla Post Office on 16 December 2013. Mansfield fled the scene on a motorbike, leading Gardaí on a chase from Dublin to Mullingar, Westmeath. He pleaded guilty to attempted robbery at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a suspended five‑year sentence, conditioned on Mansfield's good behaviour for that period, noting his lack of prior convictions and good family background. The post mistress suffered nightmares and remains cautious. Witnesses reported Mansfield brandishing a hammer and Byrne holding a silver gun; both wore motorcycle helmets. The raid lasted about a minute, ended without cash, and the men escaped on a motorcycle. Byrne also pleaded guilty and is scheduled for sentencing in March.
In a 2015 murder trial, the jury heard that Garda Sergeant Mark Nash had reservations about Dean Lyons, describing him as "a bit of a Walter Mitty." Lyons, who died before the trial, was the first person to admit to the 1997 double murder of Sylvia Shields (60) and Mary Callanan (61) at Orchard View in Grangegorman. He was charged in July 1997. The court considered evidence that a key belonging to Ann Mernagh was found in a garden near Orchard View, and that Lyons had thrown the key into a hedge on Rathdown Road, as stated in a July 26, 1997 statement. Lyons also admitted stealing £30 from under a carpet in the same building. The trial also discussed the involvement of Martin Stafford, who was investigated but ultimately excluded from the case. The proceedings remain ongoing. Mark Nash pleaded not guilty.
Paul Flood, 36, of Balbriggan, pleaded guilty to nine counts of theft totaling €19,332 from Weirs Jewellers in Dublin between April 2010 and September 2012. He admitted using the gift‑card and cash‑point systems to conceal the embezzlement, taking cash from the till while falsifying balances. Flood claimed undiagnosed bipolar disorder and acute depression influenced his actions, a view supported by psychological reports presented at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Judge Martin Nolan accepted the evidence and, noting Flood's lack of prior convictions and mental health condition, imposed a three‑year suspended sentence rather than custodial imprisonment. Flood agreed to repay the stolen amount in instalments and was suspended without pay by Weirs following the discovery of the discrepancies by his supervisor, David McCormack, who reviewed CCTV footage and confronted him. The court found no specific purpose for the stolen money, describing it as "just frittered away.".
Gerry Connors, 28, was jailed for four years after a burglary in Killiney, Dublin, where he stole a safe containing €190,000 worth of jewellery and €10,000 in various currencies. He had entered the house by jumping a garden wall, smashed a window, and discovered the safe. Connors claimed he thought the jewellery was scrap and exchanged it for €500 worth of heroin. Gardaí found CCTV footage linking him to the getaway van and blood stains at the scene. He had previously committed a burglary in Shankill, stealing car keys and items worth €2,000, and had 115 prior convictions, including 90 for traffic offences and 12 for burglary. He pleaded guilty to the Killiney and Shankill burglaries in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The judge noted the extensive damage and the lack of appreciation for the value of the stolen items. The case highlighted Connors' ongoing drug habit and the role of his associates in the burglary.
Daniel Keenan, aged 20, was arrested after a Garda officer rang a stolen phone number, pretending to be the owner, and arranged a meeting to buy the phone back. Keenan claimed he had no involvement in the original robbery and said he had obtained the phone from a "junkie" he had just met on the street. He appeared at the agreed meeting point on a bicycle, shouted to the victim that he had the phone, then fell off his bike while turning into a laneway. Gardaí who had been monitoring the meeting found the phone in Keenan's sock. Keenan pleaded guilty to handling a stolen phone on 16 February 2013. He had nine prior convictions for theft, handling, road traffic, public order and criminal damage offences. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced him to two and a half years in prison, suspended in full on the condition that he cooperate with the Probation Service for one year.
Stephen Mulvaney, 39, and his father Paul Mulvaney, 62, were sentenced in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for running a cannabis growhouse in an industrial unit. Stephen admitted responsibility for 94 cannabis plants and was jailed for four years. Paul, who had been in prison two or three times before, received a three‑year suspended sentence after admitting he may have unknowingly assisted his son. The court noted that stolen vehicles—a Hyundai Santa Fe jeep and a Volkswagen Jetta—were found in the unit, along with parts from other dismantled cars. Stephen claimed he knew the jeep was stolen and hid it to avoid detection, and he admitted debt of €22,000 from loans and gambling, which he said motivated the operation. He pleaded guilty to possession of the stolen jeep and possession of cannabis for sale or supply. Paul pleaded guilty to cultivation of cannabis.
A former deputy head of security at Croke Park has received a fully suspended sentence for the theft of premium season ticket booklets. John Gibson, aged 45, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to stealing seven booklets containing 33 tickets each from the stadium between January and March 2014. The booklets, valued at €9,313, were taken while Gibson worked at the Hogan Stand security desk for Brinks Allied. The court heard the tickets could not be sold individually and therefore held no resale value, with Gibson making no financial gain. He subsequently distributed the booklets among family members and associates. Judge Martin Nolan imposed an 18-month prison sentence suspended in full, noting Gibson's considerable remorse and acceptance that his loss of employment constituted sufficient punishment. The judge described him as a decent man who had made a serious mistake. Gibson, of Rush, County Dublin, had no previous convictions.
A man with a 43-conviction record has been sentenced to three years in prison at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following guilty pleas to six counts of burglary. Dermot Carter, aged 46, of O'Rourke Park, Sallynoggin, Dublin, targeted three businesses in Dun Laoghaire on 16 April 2012 and two residential properties and a sports facility in Sandycove and Glenageary on 15 July 2014. During one incident, Carter stole a trilby hat from a home he entered while occupants were present, then wore it whilst attempting further break-ins nearby. The distinctive headwear proved instrumental in his identification through CCTV footage and photographic evidence. He was also linked to the scene via blood samples matching his DNA. The court heard Carter was on methadone maintenance at the time. Judge Martin Nolan described him as "an ineffective burglar, but a burglar nonetheless" and imposed consecutive sentences of 15 months for the 2012 offences and 21 months for those in 2014.
Mark Cooke, 26, of Derry Park, Crumlin, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for drug offences. He pleaded guilty to possession of drugs for sale or supply, admitting to being caught with heroin and cocaine in March and May 2013, as well as possession of Diazepam and heroin for sale or supply on March 6, 2013. Judge Martin Nolan suspended a three-year prison sentence on the condition that Cooke keeps the peace for that period. The judge noted it would be unjust to jail Cooke, who is in rehabilitation for long-term consequences of an assault, citing that he is practically housebound. Cooke suffers from weakness on his left side, long-term memory impairment, and depression resulting from an unprovoked attack on July 9, 2013, at St James Walk, Rialto, which left him in a 26-day coma. His childhood friend, Daniel Clarke, 20, of Dolphin House, Dolphin's Barn, pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm to Cooke during that incident. Clarke was previously sentenced to eight and a half years, with the last 18 months suspended. The court heard Clarke straddled the victim and drove a broken glass bottle into his face. Cooke has nine previous convictions, including one for possession of drugs for sale or supply and one for attempted robbery.
Swords District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Denis McLoughlin. Jandean Hyland, who pleaded guilty to assault causing harm, had his case struck out after paying €750 compensation. Anthony Lambe, convicted of causing criminal damage, was fined €200 and remanded on continuing bail until May 18th to pay the fine. Patrick McDonagh was convicted and fined €250 for theft, while his brother Eddie McDonagh, also convicted of theft, was given the benefit of the Probation & Offenders Act. Karl McQuillian, who pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis, had his case adjourned until May 18th for a Probation & Welfare report to assess suitability for 200 hours of community service in lieu of a five-month prison sentence. Algars Putnins, who pleaded guilty to intoxication, obstruction, and threatening behaviour, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear in May to make a €200 charitable contribution, with the Probation Act to be applied if the donation is made. Martin Maughan, who pleaded guilty to careless driving and failing to give a specimen, was disqualified from driving for four years and fined €300.
In February 2015, Glen Walsh, a 27‑year‑old bank teller, was sentenced to a suspended one‑year term at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after stealing almost €500,000 from AIB Crumlin Cross over six months. He handed the cash to co‑accused David Vickery, who used it for betting. The pair later reimbursed the bank, but a €40,000 shortfall remained after losing bets during the 2010 World Cup. Walsh pleaded guilty to theft of €40,000 and was ordered to attend gambling‑addiction counselling. Vickery, also 27, pleaded guilty to possession of €10,000 in stolen money and received a suspended one‑year sentence. Both men were cleared of any involvement in a tiger kidnapping that had forced Walsh to withdraw €210,000 from the bank during a raid, which led to the discovery of his theft. The court noted that the bank was fully recompensed and that neither was likely to reoffend.
Dan Cirpaci, a 26‑year‑old Romanian, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for stealing almost €13,000 from two women who were deceived at separate ATM machines. In each incident the women were told they had dropped a €10 note, after which their cards were swapped for others without their knowledge. Cirpaci used the stolen cards to make unauthorized purchases at shops, post offices and off‑licenses, totaling €12,795. He pleaded guilty to four counts, including €200 from Anne O'Reilly on 17 November 2012, €898 from Ms O'Reilly at Blackrock Post Office the same day, and €899 each from Valerie Casey at Leonard's Corner and Rathmines Post Offices on 19 November 2012. He faced 30 counts in total; the judge suspended the last year of a three‑year sentence. Both women were reimbursed by their banks. The case was heard in 2015.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Noreen McDonagh (21) pleaded guilty to theft and was sentenced to 150 hours of community service in lieu of a one-month prison term. Artur Pietrynka (40) pleaded guilty to urinating in public, intoxication, and threatening behaviour; the case was remanded until April 9th for him to liaise with Probation Services. Niall Skelly (42), charged with failing to comply with gardai, threatening behaviour, obstructing gardai, and theft, was remanded on continuing bail until March 26th, with conditions prohibiting entry to a specific Tesco. Mark Kelly (35), charged with trespass and criminal damage, was refused bail and remanded in custody to Cloverhill to appear on February 25th. Additionally, Vatalie Raru (33), alleged to have swung a nunchuck at gardai, had his case adjourned to March 5th for a hearing date.
Raymond Quinn, 46, a Kildare businessman, was convicted in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for stealing his elderly mother's credit card and using it to make unauthorised purchases, including hotel stays and flights, totalling €14,153. He pleaded guilty to six charges of theft at AIB and Ulster Bank branches and one charge at Brittas. Quinn had no prior convictions. The judge noted the breach of trust and the fact that his mother, now in a nursing home with dementia, had been defrauded. A three‑year suspended sentence was imposed, and Quinn was ordered to pay €8 a week for three years to repay the debt. He receives a weekly social welfare payment of €188 and has been urged to begin repaying the money to his mother. The case highlighted his financial difficulties and the impact of his actions on his family.
Ross Cahill, 22, of Portrane, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to the unlawful seizure of a taxi van at Castleknock on May 18 last. Judge James O'Donohoe sentenced him to five years in prison but suspended the final two years, noting that Cahill has since been charged with eight other offences and has 30 previous convictions, including two for robbery. The court heard Cahill was highly intoxicated during the attack, where he encouraged an accomplice to stab the driver, Feargal MacEoin, after a €5 fare. In a separate matter concerning a violent attack on MacEoin in April 2012, James Murphy, 20, and Dean Daly, 19, both of Tallaght, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and robbery of a mobile phone, wallet, and cash. Judge Mary Ellen Ring suspended a three-year prison sentence for both men, citing their youth and lack of previous convictions, while describing the incident as a shocking and unprovoked attack. MacEoin stated the 2012 incident left him with significant mental and physical scarring. The accomplice in the 2013 hijacking remains before the courts.
A 16‑year‑old who hijacked a taxi in Dublin armed with a meat cleaver received a two‑and‑a‑half‑year suspended sentence. The teenager, who cannot be named, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a BMW, robbery and production of a knife in Terenure on 18 May 2014. At the time of the offence he was 15 and lived in a care home. He had a prior theft conviction. His defence lawyer, Ronan Kennedy BL, noted that he was accompanied by his mother, a social worker and his sports coach, who is a role model. Judge Martin Nolan emphasised rehabilitation, suspending the sentence and warning that failure to change would lead to future custody. Garda Lee Hunt described the incident: the boy demanded money, threatened the driver with a four‑inch meat cleaver, fled, crashed into another taxi, was chased and arrested, and the cleaver was recovered from him.
In a Dublin city‑centre robbery, 38‑year‑old Deborah Lee lured drunken Mark O'Brien onto a dark back street, where two accomplices seized him in a choke hold and threatened him with a syringe. Lee pleaded guilty to the robbery of O'Brien on 9 June 2014 at Great Strand Street. Judge James O'Donoghue sentenced her to six months, noting the sentence was already served from a prior offence, and conditioned it on her participation in a residential drug‑treatment programme. The judge described Lee's role as a minor, non‑violent consort who set up the robbery but did not take part in the assault. CCTV footage of the trio cashing the victim's winning betting slip led to their arrest. Lee had no convictions at the time of the robbery, though she had been on bail for other offences, and the judge believed she could turn her life around with treatment.
Michael Byrne, 25, was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to two robberies. On 27 April 2014 he robbed a G4 cash‑in‑transit van at Raheny Shopping Centre, taking a cash box that contained €50,000. He had been travelling in a stolen car wearing a balaclava and had struck a security worker, then seized the box and fled. On 1 March 2014 he robbed a teenager on the DART from Sutton to Bayside, stealing an iPhone, iPad Mini, iPad Classic and Beats headphones worth €1,700. Byrne admitted he had taken the items after the teen had shown him his phone. Garda Andrew Fox described Byrne's use of a stolen vehicle, a balaclava, and the subsequent attempts to dispose of the cash box. The court noted the seriousness of both robberies and Byrne's admissions. The five‑year sentence was imposed by Judge Nolan.
In a Kildare case, a woman appealed to Judge James O'Donohoe not to imprison her ex‑partner, Tadgh Delaney, who assaulted and robbed her. She argued that Delaney had reformed and was not seeking vengeance, but wanted the €130 he stole. Delaney, 41, pleaded guilty to assaulting the 36‑year‑old woman on 29 January 2014 at Call a Cab, Celbridge, and to robbing her mobile phone and cash. He had seven prior convictions for traffic offences and theft. The judge offered 240 hours of community service instead of a six‑month jail term if Delaney was deemed suitable. The case was adjourned to March to determine eligibility for community service. The victim described Delaney as a former heroin addict who had been working with Catholic youth organisations and was turning his life around.
Mark O'Reilly, 37, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and possession of an imitation firearm at a service station in Tallaght on 11 March 2012. He was sentenced by the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to three years' imprisonment, with 18 months suspended, on 7 April 2014. The Director of Public Prosecutions appealed the sentence as too lenient, but the Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal. O'Reilly pointed a realistic‑looking imitation handgun at two Gardaí during the robbery attempt. The attendant, Mr Rizman Ali, acted quickly, pressed the emergency button and counted the money while facing threats. Gardaí arrived, produced firearms, and arrested O'Reilly. He did not admit guilt in detention but claimed he had only pointed the gun at the attendant. O'Reilly's suspended sentence was reactivated after a Probation Service application, and he is now serving the suspended portion.
The Court of Appeal has dismissed the appeal against conviction lodged by Ruth Barry, who was found guilty of cutting the face and causing serious injury to journalist Jennifer Bray on O'Connell Street in 2010. Barry, who denied all charges including robbery and using a blade, was originally sentenced to seven years imprisonment with the final 18 months suspended by Judge Desmond Hogan at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court in July 2012. Her co-accused, Jonathan O'Brien, was also involved in the incident. Barry's appeal argued that the trial was rendered unfair due to the absence of witness Jacob Gajda, whose statement suggested O'Brien handled a blade only after the injury occurred. However, Mr Justice George Birmingham, sitting with Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan and Mr Justice John Edwards, ruled that Gajda's evidence did not address whether Barry possessed a knife. The court found Barry centrally involved in the joint enterprise, noting her actions in robbing Ms Bray and departing the scene proved she never withdrew from the agreement. The judges concluded that the absence of the witness could not render the jury's verdict unsafe or unsatisfactory. Consequently, the appeal was dismissed, and Barry was returned to prison to serve the remainder of her sentence.
In a High Court hearing on 13 February 2015, the Irish Bank Resolution Corporation (IBRC) obtained a summary judgment for €16.2 million against Breifne O'Brien, a jailed businessman serving a seven‑year sentence for running a ponzi scheme. O'Brien, who represented himself, argued that he had no time to prepare and that a 2009 freezing order had prevented him from repaying loans. The judge, Mr Justice Kearns, rejected these defenses, stating they were "bald assertions" and that the freezing order did not impede repayment obligations. IBRC's claim also targeted O'Brien's father, Leo O'Brien, for unpaid loans from 2002, 2004, and 2006, which were used to purchase investment properties. The judgment was granted against O'Brien, while the claim against Leo O'Brien was adjourned to a later date. O'Brien had previously pleaded guilty to 14 counts of deception and theft involving about €8.5 million between 2003 and 2008.
Jorge Garcia, a 41‑year‑old care assistant in Cheeverstown, Dublin, stole €960 from six intellectually disabled residents over six months by falsifying withdrawal forms and using a photocopied signature. He pleaded guilty to six counts out of 32 theft charges dated between 18 April and 8 August 2013. The court noted he had repaid the money and had no prior convictions. Garcia had been sending funds to Spain to support his elderly parents and had suffered financial pressure after a back injury and sick pay. Judge Desmond Hogan accepted his cooperation with the Gardaí, imposed a two‑year suspended sentence, ordered 240 hours of community service, and placed him under Probation Services supervision for 12 months. The case highlighted the vulnerability of the residents and the breach of trust by Garcia.
Stephen Devoy, aged 33, was given a three‑year suspended sentence after pleading guilty to threatening to kill Garda Sam Taylor on 26 February 2012. The court heard that Devoy had been extremely drunk and had been binging on a cocktail of drink and drugs for days after selling his car for €700. He was arrested outside Ned's pub on Townsend Street in the early hours of the morning. Devoy had no recollection of making the threats, but later made full admissions. He has 14 previous convictions, all dealt with in the District Court, including theft, public order offences and violent behaviour in a garda station. Judge Desmond Hogan noted that Devoy has been drug‑free for over a year and is attending Crumlin College studying Graphic & Web Design. He was also placed on a peace bond for three years and directed to undergo a drugs and alcohol treatment programme.
In a 30‑minute incident in south Dublin, 41‑year‑old Francis Gavigan, a drug addict, forced a woman, Eleanor McCarthy, to drive his car while threatening to Taser her and take her children. He showed the children a memorial card of his late mother and claimed he was a "bad apple" desperate to avoid bank robbery. Gavigan pleaded guilty to robbery and false imprisonment. He was sentenced to five years in prison, with the sentence backdated to May 17, 2014. The court noted the victims felt severely threatened but that Gavigan had no intent to harm them. He had 34 prior convictions, including vehicle theft and violent theft, and was reported to be engaging with prison chaplaincy and drug‑addiction support at the time of sentencing.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Sandra Doyle, aged 37, was found not guilty of stealing over €102,000 from the AIB bank account of retired chef Fergus Brugha, aged 62. Doyle had pleaded not guilty to 131 theft charges covering transactions between September 2008 and May 2010, including payments to Ticketmaster, a veterinary clinic, a beauty clinic, a Dundrum credit union, and mobile phone top‑ups. Judge Patrick McCartan directed the jury to acquit, stating the evidence was "entirely confused and inconclusive" and that there was insufficient proof to sustain the charges. Doyle denied all allegations, claiming she had not made any payments without permission and had not used Brugha's card. The judge noted Brugha's own uncertainty about some transactions and his admission that he may have authorized certain payments, leaving the jury to decide which, if any, were authorized. The case concluded with Doyle's acquittal.
Andrew Larkin, aged 31 of Phibsboro Road, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to burglary committed on 23 April 2013. Garda evidence indicated that Larkin and another man forced entry to Charlestown Shopping Centre on Cardiffsbridge Road, Finglas, at 1am and broke into the Romeo and Juliet hair salon. They attempted to access cash registers, retrieving only €30, before taking approximately €1,000 worth of hair care products and equipment in black bin bags. The stolen goods were recovered during a subsequent garda search of Larkin's home at Dunsink Drive, Finglas. When presented with CCTV footage, Larkin admitted his involvement. He has two prior convictions for burglary. Judge James O'Donohoe imposed a one-year jail sentence, suspended for two years, conditional on Larkin engaging in drug counselling.
Luke O'Connor, 25, from Cherry Orchard, Ballyfermot, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery of Boyles Sports in Park West, Dublin, on 31 March 2014. He had earlier that day lost money at the bookies and, under pressure, attempted to rob the shop. The cashier initially thought the threat was a joke until O'Connor held a tea towel to his face and pointed a gun at him. The cashier fled to the staff toilets, pressed the panic alarm and called Gardaí. O'Connor was later arrested at his home after CCTV footage was reviewed. He claimed the gun was a pellet gun left by his nephew, but it was not recovered. O'Connor had no prior convictions. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced him to a four‑year suspended sentence, noting the unusual nature of the offence and his good standing in the community. The cashier remains traumatised and has since found other work.
Shane Howarth, 19, was sentenced to three months' imprisonment for stealing a Nokia Lumia mobile phone worth €300 from PC Style on Drogheda Street, Balbriggan, on 11 October 2014. He pleaded guilty before Balbriggan District Court. The theft was captured on CCTV and Howarth was identified after the shop owner discovered the phone missing. He had previously received an adult caution in September 2014 and had no prior convictions. Howarth was offered the chance to pay €300 in compensation but only had €50 in court. Judge Dermot Dempsey noted that Howarth did not appear concerned about paying the compensation and therefore imposed the custodial sentence. The sentence was fixed on recognisance pending appeal. The case was heard by Inspector Neil Curran and defence solicitor Donogh McGowan, who described the crime as opportunistic and foolish. The court recorded that Howarth had consumed alcohol on the day of the offence. The sentence was imposed on 12 February 2015.
John Paul Lennon, 34, of St Anthony's Park, Rialto, Dublin 8, will be sentenced on 17 April for a series of offences committed while on bail. He pleaded guilty to two robberies on 31 December 2013 at a Spar shop in Dolphin's Barn and at Basin Street, where he entered wearing a balaclava, threatened staff with a large butcher's knife, and took cash that he later spent on drugs. Lennon also admitted to robbing a taxi driver in Dun Laoghaire on New Year's Day 2014, threatening the driver with a six‑inch knife and a pair of scissors, and to possessing €2,025 of heroin for sale or supply on 23 April 2011, when 13 grams were found concealed between his buttocks. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to an attempted robbery of an Esso garage on 16 April 2014.
The trial of Sandra Doyle, aged 37, continues at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. She denies stealing money from the AIB bank account of retired chef Fergus Brugha, aged 62, over a three‑year period. Evidence shows disputed transactions to Ticketmaster, online motor tax, a veterinary clinic, a beauty clinic, a Dundrum credit union account and mobile phone top‑ups. Doyle, of McCabe's Villas, Booterstown, pleaded not guilty to 131 theft counts at AIB Bank, Morehampton Road, Donnybrook, covering September 2008 to May 2010. Judge Patrick McCartan told the jury to return tomorrow after the State finished its evidence.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Fergus Brugha, aged 62, testified that he never authorised Sandra Doyle, aged 37, to withdraw €102,000 from his AIB bank account over a three‑year period. Doyle, who lives in Booterstown and previously in Gorey, pleaded not guilty to 131 theft counts covering the period from September 2008 to May 2010. The disputed transactions included payments to Ticketmaster, online motor tax, a veterinary clinic, a beauty clinic, a Dundrum credit union account and mobile phone top‑ups. Brugha explained that he had given Doyle money for a college course and a catering job, and that they had a non‑sexual, friendship‑based relationship. He noted that he had not regularly checked his statements and that he had been unaware of the withdrawals until he noticed money moving to a credit union account. The trial, presided over by Judge Patrick McCartan, is scheduled to continue until Friday.
Paul Carabini, aged 48, was sentenced to ten years' imprisonment with three years suspended for a series of armed robberies in Dublin. He pleaded guilty to the robbery of €3,050 at Permanent TSB in Phibsboro on 16 November 2012, to €300 from Mr Sims Shop on 13 June 2013, and to €280 and four pairs of shoes from Shoe Rack on 4 December 2013. He also pleaded guilty to attempted robberies at Hamilton Pharmacy, Dowling's Pharmacy and McDonald's in Phibsboro. During the TSB robbery he held a knife to a pregnant bank worker's stomach while demanding €10,000, and he held a knife to a shop worker's torso at Mr Sims. The court noted his history of 21 prior convictions, heroin addiction since age 16, and lack of formal education. Judge Martin Nolan described him as a "menace to society who caused fear and terror.".
Jeffery Smith, 42, was sentenced to five years in prison at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for possession for sale or supply of €108,114 worth of cannabis resin and €1,269 of diazepam, found in his home on Donomore Avenue, Killinarden, Tallaght. Smith admitted owning two stolen laptops and a stolen iPad, also discovered in his house. He claimed the drugs were held to pay a €25,000 debt incurred after becoming dependent on valium following a 2003 back injury. Smith denied being a dealer. The judge noted his modest criminal record and that he should have known the seriousness of his actions. Smith, with 20 prior convictions, did not reveal who he was holding the drugs for, citing fear of being shot. Defence counsel described Smith as having gotten involved in a situation far beyond his control.
Swords District Court heard four matters. Gary Daly, 25, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of PVP. He was deemed suitable for 240 hours of community service in lieu of a prison sentence and is currently engaging with the Probation Service. Ann Gavin, 45, pleaded guilty to theft of clothes and theft of perfume and hair dye. Judge Dermot Dempsey convicted her and sentenced her to four months in prison. Babatunde Eyinola, 41, pleaded guilty to driving without insurance and driving without a driving licence. Judge Dempsey convicted him, fined him €400, and disqualified him from driving for one year for the insurance offence, taking the licence charge into consideration. Ailish Hammond, 38, pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis herb. Judge Dempsey ordered a probation report to assess her suitability for 240 hours of community service in lieu of a three-month prison sentence. The matter was adjourned until April 20th.
Dermot Molloy, 36, of Dunshaughlin, pleaded guilty to robbery and attempted robbery on Capel Street in July 2012. He had 57 prior convictions, 15 for robbery. In Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Judge Martin Nolan accepted his plea but, citing his apparent rehabilitation, imposed a three‑year suspended sentence rather than imprisonment. Molloy was captured on CCTV during the raids: on July 7 he entered a hair salon, shouted for money, brandished a knife, and fled after a customer resisted; the next day he and another man stole €420 from a salon using a syringe. He was arrested in November 2012 while on remand for other offences. The case was defended by Willie Hughes BL, who presented evidence from the TV3 documentary "Prison Families" and a producer, but the judge declined to consider it. The prosecution, led by Fiona McGowan BL, highlighted the CCTV evidence and the victim's account of Molloy's threat with a knife.
James Gantley, a 62-year-old Dublin playwright, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to demanding money with menaces from DX Ireland staff between October 11 and November 11, 2011. The court heard that Gantley was recruited for his voice characterisation skills to act as a "spokesperson" in an extortion scheme following the theft of a DX van containing legal documents, including NAMA files. He phoned DX staff and Managing Director Kevin Galligan, claiming the documents would be destroyed unless €100,000 was paid. Although Gantley admitted to the charges, he stated he hoped to make "a few bob" but received nothing. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a five-year sentence, suspended in full. The Judge described the case as a "close run thing" but ruled that an immediate custodial sentence would be unjust. He noted that the method of demanding money through menaces regarding legal documents was baffling. Gantley, who has ten previous convictions dating back to 1993, was identified via a recorded phone call where he haggled the demand between €50,000 and €100,000. His defence counsel highlighted his ill health, role as sole carer for his wife, and his description of the behaviour as "stupid."
Paul Bradley, 34, with 101 prior convictions, was sentenced to 20 months in prison for robbing Hickey's Pharmacy on Harold's Cross Road on 14 December 2013. He pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The robbery involved Bradley demanding money from the till, smashing the cash registers, and taking €480, while an accomplice stole prescription medication. Garda Paula Burke reported that neither man carried weapons but their hands in pockets caused concern. Both fled the pharmacy and were chased by Gardaí; Bradley was caught in a taxi but escaped through gardens before being arrested the next day. Judge Martin Nolan, who had previously described Bradley as a "gentle giant", noted his long-term drug addiction and his desire to rehabilitate, and accepted his plea of guilty before sentencing. Luigi Rea BL argued for a chance to prove his client's commitment to drug treatment. The sentence reflects the robbery and Bradley's extensive criminal history.
In February 2015, Joseph O'Toole, aged 19, avoided a jail term after pleading guilty to two counts of robbery at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The court, led by Judge Mary Ellen Ring, sentenced him to three years in prison but suspended the sentence in full, citing his efforts to address drug addiction. O'Toole was involved in two separate attacks on Church Road, Mulhuddart. The first, an assault on a pensioner named Fred Mulligan, involved a bicycle strike, kicking, and a demand for money, resulting in Mulligan receiving €100 and hospital treatment. The second attack targeted Isabella Szyrajew, who was cycling with groceries; O'Toole and a co‑accused knocked her off her bike, beat her, dragged her by her rucksack, and stole €50 worth of goods. Garda Alan Gordon witnessed the second assault and later arrested O'Toole after a violent struggle.
Adam O'Mara, aged 20 and resident in County Louth, received a suspended sentence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following a high-speed pursuit on the N1 Motorway near Drogheda on 8 February 2012. O'Mara pleaded guilty to unlawful use of a stolen white Toyota Dyna, dangerous driving, and driving without insurance. During the 40-minute chase, the then 17-year-old attempted to ram a garda vehicle on four occasions whilst weaving through traffic and overtaking dangerously. He also threw objects from the vehicle before it came to a stop due to mechanical failure. Judge Mary Ellen Ring imposed a two-and-a-half-year custodial sentence, wholly suspended, and disqualified him from driving for four years. In mitigation, the court noted O'Mara's completion of a welding course and his engagement with drug treatment services since the offence. He was ordered to comply with probation supervision and maintain good behaviour for the period of the suspended sentence.
Sean McAuley, 20, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of Ketamine, MDMA, and cannabis for sale or supply. Following the completion of voluntary work and a positive Probation Report, Judge Dermot Dempsey struck out the case. In a separate matter, John Butterly, 39, pleaded guilty to assaulting Peter Thompson and producing a baseball bat. Lorraine Butterly, 34, is charged with assaulting three individuals and producing a rolling pin. Peter Thompson, 41, pleaded guilty to assaulting John Butterly. All three were remanded on continuing bail until April 13th for a hearing at Swords District Court. Zacheaus Odinga, 45, pleaded guilty to driving without insurance on Drogheda Street in Balbriggan. Judge Dempsey convicted him, fined him €400, and declined to invoke disqualification under special circumstances. The report also notes that David Cummins, 25, is charged with attempting to steal cash and a can of Coke; his case is scheduled for March 30th. Jade Gannon, 32, pleaded guilty to theft and non-payment of a taxi fare, receiving fines of €100 and €75 respectively. Andrea Bunce, 44, is alleged to have stolen stock and cash; she was remanded on continuing bail until February 12th. John Maxwell, 36, is charged with possession of cannabis; his case was adjourned until March 12th for the service of the Book of Evidence.
Jonathan Gilmore, 42, of Rowman House, Mespil Road, was sentenced to one year in prison at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for embezzling over €35,000 in fines. The defendant, a former Court Service administrative officer, entered signed guilty pleas to 50 charges of theft dating from September 2010 to August 2012. He had stolen cash paid by the public to offset fines, using subsequent payments to cover previous debts until the scheme collapsed. Judge Martin Nolan imposed the custodial sentence, stating that Gilmore had betrayed a position of trust by handling State monies. The judge noted that while he had sympathy for Gilmore, who had cooperated fully and repaid all stolen funds, the breach of trust necessitated incarceration. Gilmore, who had no previous convictions and was dismissed from his role, had significant gambling debts and had spent €440,000 on bets between 2008 and 2013. The case had been adjourned overnight following evidence heard on Wednesday. Defense counsel highlighted Gilmore's cooperation and financial ruin, while the prosecution detailed how complaints about unpaid fines led to his arrest and full admissions in April 2013.
Daniel Keenan, aged 20, was arrested in Cabra after a Garda officer, posing as the owner of a stolen phone, arranged a meeting to buy it back. Keenan claimed he had no involvement in the original robbery and said he had obtained the phone from a "junkie" he had just met. He appeared at the agreed meeting point on a bicycle, shouted to the victim that he had the phone, then fell off his bike while turning into a laneway. Gardaí who had been monitoring the scene found the phone in Keenan's sock. He pleaded guilty to handling a stolen phone on 16 February 2013 and has nine prior convictions. Keenan was remanded in custody until 25 February pending sentencing. The case was heard at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The article does not state the final sentence.
In August 2013, 33‑year‑old Mark Pierce was caught stealing from a church poor box in Inchicore. While being restrained by Father William Fitzpatrick (67) and John McShane (47), he threatened the priest with an uncapped syringe, saying he would gouge him, and then urinated on himself. Pierce, a father of four, pleaded guilty to theft and threatening to injure a priest. He had prior drug convictions. Judge Martin Nolan described the theft as "a pretty offensive crime but not a serious one" and noted the frightening nature of Pierce's behaviour. The priest and McShane had to use all their strength to restrain him. Pierce later admitted he had used the syringe earlier that day and was attempting to fish coins from the poor box to fund his €40‑a‑day drug habit. He was sentenced to one year in prison.
Sean Powell, 23, was sentenced to two and a half years' imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for robbing two shops in five minutes to obtain cash for a Valentine's date. He was arrested after Gardaí spotted his getaway car and found him hiding in a wardrobe, his feet protruding from the closet. Powell was intoxicated and unfit for interview for four hours. He admitted to the robberies, claiming he wanted money to take his girlfriend out. The court heard the couple had recently become engaged and had one daughter. Powell pleaded guilty to robbery of Eurospar and Carry Out Off Licence in Hartstown Shopping Centre on 27 January 2014. He had seven prior convictions for minor offences. Judge Martin Nolan accepted his admissions and rehabilitation efforts, but deemed a custodial sentence unavoidable, sentencing him to two and a half years.