Anthony Harte, 24, of Inchicore, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to violent disorder at Morrisey's Pub in January 2013 and handling three stolen motorbikes in February 2012. Judge Mary Ellen Ring, who had previously adjourned sentencing to assess his suitability for community service, accepted a favourable probation report. She sentenced Harte to two years in prison but ordered him to carry out 220 hours of community service in lieu of custody, to be completed within one year. Richard O'Reilly, 29, also pleaded guilty to handling stolen goods during the same 2012 incident. Judge Ring ordered him to perform 160 hours of community service in lieu of a two-year prison term. Darren Foster, 35, who pleaded guilty to the same handling offence, received a two-year suspended sentence from Judge Ring last July. The court heard that Harte and Foster collected the bikes from a dealership, while O'Reilly assisted with the van. Prosecution evidence alleged Harte punched and kicked a victim during the pub altercation, though the victim and pub manager refused to make formal complaints. Defence counsel noted Harte had ceased drug use and that his prior convictions were for minor offences.
Edward McDonagh, a 35‑year‑old father of six from Lucan, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to 15 charges of theft of property from the Health Service Executive and the Department of Social Welfare for the period August 2008 to April 2011. He used the false names Matthew Patterson and John Paul Ward to claim €22,193.80 and €21,789.44 respectively, while also claiming legitimate disability allowance. McDonagh admitted to using the same photograph on identification cards and to having been instructed by an unnamed person on how to obtain birth certificates and PPS numbers. He also confessed to excessive drinking, cocaine use and a heart attack at a young age. Judge Mary Ellen Ring adjourned sentencing to December, taking into account his attempts to repay the fraudulently claimed money and ordering a Probation Service report to assess suitability for community service. The case remains pending, with McDonagh remanded on bail awaiting sentencing.
Leonard Dumbrell, 26, from Wexford, led Gardaí on a high‑speed chase through Dublin's city centre after stealing a car in Ballsbridge. He drove the vehicle at speed, up the wrong way on one‑way streets, and crashed it at Temple Bar Square. The court heard he nearly knocked over pedestrians on O'Connell Bridge while evading police. Dumbrell pleaded guilty to car theft in Dublin 4 and two counts of dangerous driving in Dublin city centre on 2 January 2013. He has 108 prior convictions, including car thefts, assaulting a Garda and violent disorder. Judge Mary Ellen Ring remanded him in custody until sentencing but granted bail to attend an eight‑week residential drug treatment programme, with a four‑week after‑care programme to follow. The court warned that any breach of the bail bond would result in remand in prison. The case highlights the Gardaí's pursuit of a repeat offender with a serious drug problem.
Swords District Court heard several matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Brian Clarke, 28, pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage to Swords Educate Together School. He was convicted and sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for two years. The court ordered him to reside at his sister's address, notify gardai of any change, and pay €200 compensation by February. Dean Whelan, 27, pleaded guilty to theft from a shop. The case was adjourned until December 15th for a Probation report and urine analysis; the judge warned of custody if the report is unsatisfactory. Tracey Brookes and Karen Dooley, accused of theft from three stores, elected trial by jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. They were remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on December 2nd for service of the Book of Evidence. Adam Meehan, 21, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cocaine and methoxyphenamine tablets. The case was struck out after he complied with an order to pay €400 to charity and complete 240 hours of voluntary work, avoiding a conviction. David Lawrence, 19, charged with intoxication and threatening behaviour, had his case adjourned until November 17th pending receipt of CCTV footage.
The High Court will decide on 4 November whether to extradite Patrick Lee, 41, of Newtown, Co. Kildare, to the United States to face 51 charges including 29 counts of wire fraud, six counts of unlawful monetary transaction and 16 counts of aggravated identity theft. Lee denies all allegations and claims the accusations are false. The alleged scheme involved purchasing properties in Boston between 2006 and 2007, using "straw buyers" to obtain mortgages that were never repaid. Lee is accused of forging appraisals and receiving about €1 million for his role. He is currently remanded on continuing bail. The court heard that Lee had bought pre‑paid flight tickets to Ireland in 2006 and that he fears cruel treatment if surrendered. He also cited health concerns and the potential impact on his family if extradited. The judge will issue a decision on 4 November.
Paul O'Shea, aged 26, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to five years' imprisonment, with the final two years suspended, for threatening to kill former partner Louise Jackson and her colleague Stephen Preston on 2 January 2013 at Owensilla, Ballymun. He was also ordered to stay away from both victims for 20 years. O'Shea pleaded guilty and had 48 prior convictions, including indecent telephone messages, assault, robbery, theft and burglary. He was addicted to drugs at the time of the offences. The sentence runs consecutively to a two‑and‑a‑half‑year term he is currently serving for sexually assaulting a female student nurse. O'Shea had been in a relationship with Jackson for six years and they have a child. Jackson had broken up with him after he was charged with sexual assault. She had tried to leave his house but he threatened to "punch the head off her" and later to "slit her throat" with a knife.
Michael Jones, a 30‑year‑old Belfast sex offender, was sentenced in Dublin for assaulting a security guard, James Bowe, at the Powerscourt Shopping Centre on 26 June 2010. Jones, who was intoxicated, entered the closed centre through an open goods delivery entrance, confronted Bowe, and pulled him to the ground. He struck Bowe's head, kicked and pummelled him, bit Bowe's index finger bone and palm, causing a fractured neck bone and bleeding. A jury convicted Jones in July 2010. Judge Desmond Hogan heard the case and remanded Jones in custody for sentencing next month. Garda Shane Moriarty noted Jones's prior 2007 conviction for indecent assault, a two‑and‑a‑half‑year prison term, and a suspended sentence that was breached in 2010 when he left Northern Ireland for Kildare. Jones has further convictions for theft, assault and traffic offences, and was recently sentenced to two years in prison for a robbery in June 2010. Michael Jones pleaded not guilty.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Damien Costello pleaded guilty to the theft of €20 of petrol from Topaz on the Ballymun Road on May 10th, 2013, and the theft of €20 of petrol from Applegreen Service Station on the M1 at Lusk on July 22nd, 2013. The Judge stated he would consider Costello for 200 hours of community service in lieu of a two-month prison sentence if Probation Services deem him suitable. Costello was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on December 11th. Jevgenijs Zurila is charged with the theft of two containers of diesel valued at €150 from Bently Bros Ltd in Lusk on August 14th, and trespass at the same business on that date. The case was adjourned until October 30th. Stephen Nyantakyi is charged with being intoxicated at Hamlet Lane in Balbriggan on September 18th. This matter was adjourned until October 23rd. Przemyslaw Kutak is charged with the theft of six bottles of wine valued at €48 from Supervalu in Lusk on September 22nd, and the theft of two bottles of wine valued at €16 from the same store on September 27th. A bench warrant was issued for his arrest. Additionally, seven vehicles, 25 airbags, seven Eco units, and one car radio were forfeited to the State under the Police Property Act following a search in Balbriggan.
Swords District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Sean Brennan, 32, pleaded guilty to being intoxicated and using threatening and abusive behaviour outside Wright's Cafe Bar on June 7th. He was ordered to complete 240 hours of community service work in lieu of a two-month prison sentence. Thomas Nicholson, 23, was charged with the theft of an €18,000 mini digger from Balbriggan on March 6th. The matter was sent forward for trial at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, and Nicholson was remanded on continuing bail. Gary Daly, 25, pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of PVP, valued at €1,300, found at his home on November 16th last year. The court adjourned the case until December 15th to allow for a Probation and Welfare report to assess his suitability for a 240-hour community service order in lieu of a four-month prison sentence. James Egan, 29, pleaded guilty to failing to provide a blood, urine, or breath sample at Ballymun Garda Station on December 12th last year. He was convicted, fined €600, and disqualified from driving for four years, with the disqualification postponed for five months until March 30th. Aldona Pastuhova, 42, was charged with having a dog off its lead in a public place. The case was adjourned until November 17th due to the unavailability of the prosecuting garda.
The Irish Human Rights Commission (IHRC) has intervened in the extradition case of Ali Charaf Damache (49), an Algerian-born Irish citizen wanted in the United States to face charges relating to the conspiracy to provide material support for terrorists and attempted identity theft to facilitate an act of international terrorism. The High Court was informed that this is the first time the IHRC has intervened in an extradition case. The US alleges that Damache conspired with Colleen LaRose, known online as 'Jihad Jane,' and others to create a terror cell in Europe capable of targeting US and western European citizens. It is also alleged that Damache, who used the username 'the black flag,' participated in a conspiracy to transfer a stolen US passport to an individual in Pakistan believed to be a member of Al Qaeda. Damache had twice sought judicial review of the DPP's decision not to prosecute him in Ireland, but both applications were refused by the High Court. Three of Damache's alleged co-conspirators have already been sentenced. If convicted of the charges outlined in an indictment returned in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania in October 2011, Damache faces a potential sentence of 45 years in prison. Michael Lynn SC for the IHRC stated that the commission wished to make submissions on human rights issues, including the potential detention in a Supermax prison and the right to practice his Muslim faith. The court heard there was no objection to the application from Damache's counsel or the Attorney General. Damache was not produced in court today as no production order had been made to the Prison Service. Mr Justice John Edwards indicated he was disposed to grant the application, permitting the IHRC to join the proceedings. The extradition case continues on October 28.
Carol Hawkins, 51, former personal assistant to U2 bassist Adam Clayton, was convicted in 2012 on 181 counts of theft from two of Clayton's Bank of Ireland accounts between 2004 and 2008, amounting to €2,869,274. She used the money to buy and maintain 22 thoroughbred racehorses, a €310,000 New York apartment, holidays, her children's education and shopping sprees, and spent €1.4 million on her credit card funded from Clayton's accounts. Hawkins was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment. In the Court of Criminal Appeal, she appealed her conviction and sentence on grounds that the trial court failed to disclose material, did not exclude witnesses, and admitted prejudicial evidence. The appeal was reserved by the three‑judge panel, with no decision announced. The case remains pending while the appeal is considered.
Balbriggan District Court heard multiple matters. Keith Daly pleaded guilty to handling stolen property but was remanded on continuing bail pending a probation report, with the case adjourned to December 11. Lorna Daly, John Scott, and Grainne Kealy were remanded on continuing bail; Daly faces alleged charges of making off without paying and using a false plate, while Scott and Kealy face alleged dangerous driving and careless driving charges, with their cases adjourned to December 11. Denise Creagh pleaded guilty to theft and was convicted, fined €100, and warned of potential custody for future offences. James Whelan pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis and failing to display L-plates; the unaccompanied driving charge was struck out, and he was fined €175. Roberts Trascenko pleaded guilty to drink driving, was convicted, fined €400, and disqualified for two years. Chris Lyaba pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage, and his case was adjourned to January 22 to allow time for compensation. Genadijs Ogurcovs was charged with theft from two shops, and his case was adjourned to October 23 for a plea or hearing date.
David Lee, 32, pleaded guilty to breaching a protection order and threatening to smash a house in Swords on 19 August 2013. He was convicted and fined €100 by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Lee, who has 25 previous convictions, apologized and has not been near the house since. His defence solicitor, Fiona D'Arcy, said he hopes to get a job as a bicycle courier. Paul McGee, 21, pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage and breaching a protection order at his parents' home on 22 July. He was adjourned until 18 December for a probation report; he has five previous convictions and is attending counselling. Geoffrey Melia, 24, pleaded guilty to stealing a bottle of vodka from a Balbriggan supermarket in March. He was fined €200; he has four previous convictions and has stopped drinking. Lisa Jenkins, 41, pleaded guilty to three thefts from a Swords department store, totalling over €800.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence regarding the transformation of David Cullen from a co-accused to a prosecution witness in the trial of Edward McGrath, Dean Evans, and Sharif Kelly. The three men have pleaded not guilty to the murder of Peter Butterly, who was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn at Gormanston, Co Meath, on March 6th, 2013. McGrath and Evans also face firearm offences at the same address and date, to which they have pleaded not guilty. Cullen, who admitted to the unlawful possession of a 9mm Beretta pistol at the scene, pleaded guilty to that charge. In July, he was sentenced to three-and-a-half years in prison, with a nolle prosequi entered on the murder count. Detective Inspector Alf Martyn detailed how Cullen's solicitor contacted gardaí in June to propose immunity in exchange for information identifying the masterminds and those involved with the stolen car and gun. Cullen sought witness protection, financial maintenance, and relocation. The DPP approved engagement with Cullen on June 29. The court is currently considering an application by gardaí to erect a screen for nine National Surveillance Unit officers, citing risks to their safety and operational security. The three-judge panel will rule on this and other legal matters next week, with the case continuing in the non-jury court.
In a High Court hearing on 10 September 2014, the extradition case of Ali Charaf Damache, a 49‑year‑old Algerian‑born Irish citizen, was continued. Damache is sought by the United States on charges of conspiracy to provide material support for terrorists and attempted identity theft to facilitate an act of international terrorism. He allegedly used the username "Theblackflag" and was involved in a plot to transfer a passport stolen from a U.S. citizen to a person in Pakistan believed to be an Al Qaeda member. Three of his alleged co‑conspirators have already been sentenced. Counsel for the State, Mr Remy Farrell SC, noted that Damache could face up to 45 years in prison, though early release might still be possible. Damache had previously sought judicial review of the Director of Public Prosecutions' decision not to prosecute him in Ireland, but both applications were refused by the High Court.
In September 2014 the High Court in Dublin opened extradition proceedings against Ali Charaf Damache, a 49‑year‑old Algerian‑born Irish citizen. The United States seeks to charge him with conspiracy to provide material support for terrorists and attempted identity theft to facilitate an act of international terrorism. US prosecutors allege that Damache, who used the username "Theblackflag," conspired with American woman Colleen LaRose (online name "Jihad Jane") and others to create a terror cell in Europe capable of targeting US and western European citizens. They also claim he participated in a conspiracy to transfer a passport stolen from a US citizen to a person in Pakistan believed to be a member of Al Qaeda. LaRose was jailed in the US for ten years for a plot to murder Swedish cartoonist Lars Vilks, and another alleged conspirator, Jamie Paulin Ramirez, was sentenced to eight years for providing material support to terrorists. Ali Charaf Damache pleaded guilty.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Kieran White pleaded guilty to stealing a bottle of wine from Supervalu. After making a €75 donation to the Molly McNally Trust Fund, the court applied Section 1.1 of the Probation Act. Piotr Boryslawski pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis found under his car seat. Following a €300 charitable donation, the charge was struck out. Valerie Dalton, alleged to have been drink driving, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 11th. Paul McGee, charged with criminal damage and breach of a protection order, was remanded on continuing bail for a hearing on October 6th. Eddie McDonagh and Patrick McDonagh, both alleged to have stolen a steel tube from a boat, were remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 4th. McDonagh also faces allegations of careless driving and not paying a taxi fare, while Patrick McDonagh is alleged to have not paid a taxi fare. All these cases remain at the pre-trial stage with no final sentences passed.
Patrick Lee, 41, of Newtown, County Kildare, is wanted by U.S. authorities for 51 offences including 29 counts of wire fraud, 6 of unlawful monetary transaction and 16 of aggravated identity theft. He allegedly participated in a scheme that defrauded U.S. banks and mortgage lenders by purchasing properties in Boston between 2006 and 2007, converting them into apartments, and using "straw buyers" to draw down mortgages that were never repaid. Lee is accused of forging appraisals and receiving about €1 million for his role. He denies all allegations. The case is adjourned to 7 October, when a judgment date will be set. Lee remains on continuing bail. The maximum penalty for the offences is 42 years' imprisonment. The proceedings are ongoing and no verdict has yet been reached.
A 41-year-old man from Tullyallen, Drogheda has voluntarily surrendered to Northern Irish authorities following his arrest here in June on a European Arrest Warrant. Edward McDonagh appeared before the High Court in connection with 11 alleged offences committed in July and August 2010 across Armagh and Tyrone. The allegations centre on a series of farm burglaries during which a sledge hammer was reportedly used to assault a farmer. A vehicle was also allegedly stolen during the incident. Gardaí in Monaghan observed two men who subsequently crossed the border, leading to arrests at premises in Crossmaglen where false identification was allegedly provided. Two of the charges against McDonagh carry potential sentences of 14 years imprisonment in the North, relating to burglary and concealing criminal property. Mr Justice John Edwards granted the order for surrender, with an application noted to postpone the extradition until after completion of a separate sentence currently being served domestically.
In Balbriggan District Court, several cases were heard. Garreth Lokko, 23, pleaded guilty to breaching a safety order by shouting and kicking into his ex‑girlfriend's house, was fined €100 and paid €20 compensation for door damage. Hayden Holloman, 19, admitted unlawful possession of €300 worth of cannabis, was fined €300 after failing to complete voluntary work. Michael O'Brien, 19, was charged with possession of an orange emergency shatter hammer and €150 worth of criminal damage; a bench warrant was issued after he missed court. Janet Murphy, 33, was charged with intoxication and failed to appear, leading to a bench warrant. Paul Dargle, 18, faced drink‑driving and dangerous driving charges, with a hearing set for September 26. Lorna Daly, 32, was charged with petrol theft and use of a false plate; a bench warrant followed her absence. Peter Rogers, 61, was convicted of intoxication in a public place and fined €75.
In July 2012, three Lithuanian men – Edgaras Jurosiuniuys (24), Liutauras Meskauskas (27) and Andrius Bareikis (33) – carried out an armed robbery at Bramleys jewellers in Carlow. They entered with lump hammers, pepper spray and imitation hand guns, stole jewellery worth about €20,000 and fled in a Fiat Punto. The owner, Pat Bramley, was sprayed with pepper gas during the raid. The men were arrested shortly after and the stolen items were recovered near the motorway to Dublin. Judge Teehan sentenced Jurosiuniuys to five years for robbery and two years for assault, to run consecutively, and Meskauskas and Bareikis to seven years each. On appeal, the Criminal Court of Appeal reduced Jurosiuniuys's robbery term by one year and made it run concurrently with the assault term, giving him one year less in jail. Meskauskas and Bareikis each had one year cut from their seven‑year sentences. No portion of any sentence was suspended.
Balbriggan District Court heard multiple matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Eoin Maguire, Cornelius Price, and Edward Price, accused of serious assaults and endangering a garda, were remanded on continuing bail with strict conditions to reappear on September 4th after an extension was granted for the Book of Evidence. John Butterly, Lorraine Butterly, and Peter Thompson, charged with assaults involving a baseball bat and rolling pin, were remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 25th due to the prosecuting garda's injury. Sebestian Knecht was convicted of driving without insurance and possessing a forged insurance disc, receiving a total fine of €850 and a two-year disqualification. Alan Bowe, charged with drink driving, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 26th. Thomas Gaffney, accused of theft and car theft, was remanded on continuing bail until September 11th. Kieran White, who pleaded guilty to stealing wine, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on July 31st, with the possibility of avoiding a conviction if he pays €75. Mark Donnelly, charged with cannabis possession, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 25th. Stephen Teeling, who pleaded guilty to cannabis possession, was convicted and fined after failing to bring €250 to court, with recognisance fixed for appeal.
Swords District Court handed down sentences to several defendants. John Budgie McDonagh pleaded guilty to stealing a leather jacket and tools worth €87 from TK Maxx on February 11th. Judge Dermot Dempsey convicted him and imposed a six-month prison term, noting he was beyond probation. Co-accused Owen McDonagh pleaded guilty to stealing shoes valued at €54.99 from the same store on the same date. He received a five-month sentence suspended for two years. Stephen O'Doherty pleaded guilty to taking a car without permission and burglary on August 5th, 2013. Judge Dempsey sentenced him to eight months in prison to run concurrently with a term he is already serving. Lisa Jenkins pleaded guilty to three thefts from TK Maxx totaling €842. She was remanded on continuing bail until October 6th for a Probation & Welfare report. Caroline McAleer pleaded guilty to driving without insurance on October 19th last year and was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on September 1st for facts to be heard. Neil Curran is alleged to have assaulted Peter Lynch causing harm; the DPP directed trial on indictment, and he was remanded on continuing bail. Co-accused Jennifer Quinn, charged with assaulting Mr Lynch and using threatening behaviour, was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on September 1st for a plea or to fix a hearing date.
Swords District Court heard several matters involving defendants who pleaded guilty or faced allegations. Jason Kirwin, 27, pleaded guilty to driving without insurance, while disqualified, and without a licence. Judge Conal Gibbons noted his 79 prior convictions and ordered a Probation Report, adjourning the case to September 15th. Stephen O'Doherty and David Fagan pleaded guilty to the unauthorised taking of a car; Fagan also admitted burglary. Both were remanded on continuing bail to reappear on July 15th for sentencing. Rebotilwe Mohlala pleaded guilty to theft and received the benefit of the Probation Act after making a charitable donation. Graham Doyle pleaded guilty to theft; his case was struck out after compensation was paid. Philip Garland, alleged to be in unlawful possession of cannabis, had his case adjourned to July 21st for a plea or hearing date, with the judge remanding him on continuing bail.
Balbriggan District Court heard various matters. James Reid pleaded guilty to hit and run, failing to stop, failing to provide information, failing to keep the vehicle at the scene, failing to report the incident, and having no tax. Judge Dermot Dempsey convicted Reid, fined him €400 for the hit and run offences, fined him €100 for no tax, and disqualified him from driving for six months. Piotr Boryslawski pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis. The judge ordered him to pay €300 to the Molly McNally Trust Fund by month's end, stating the charge would be struck out if paid. Several defendants were remanded on continuing bail. James Walsh, charged with cultivating cannabis, was adjourned to September 18 for service of the Book of Evidence. Gareth Lokko, alleged to have breached a barring order and caused criminal damage, was remanded to July 24. Kevin Harmon, alleged to have assaulted another man causing harm, was remanded to September 25 for DPP directions. Lorna Daly, alleged to have stolen petrol and used a false registration plate, was remanded to July 24 for a plea. Jandean Hyland, charged with assault causing harm, was remanded to July 31. Stephane Mbama, alleged to have dangerous driving and driving without insurance, was remanded to July 31. Michael Bollard, alleged to have breached a safety order, was granted bail with conditions and adjourned to July 17.
Swords District Court heard several matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Jerry Flynn pleaded guilty to theft of petrol and dangerous driving. He received a three-month suspended sentence, a €200 fine, and a two-year driving disqualification. He was remanded on a one-year peace bond, conditional on paying €58.94 to Great Gas and €140 compensation to the attendant. Damien Krywult pleaded guilty to two counts of dangerous driving. He was convicted and fined €300 for each offence, with a total two-year driving disqualification. Jeffrey Carter pleaded guilty to driving without insurance and without a licence. He was sentenced to five months in prison, fined €200, and disqualified from driving for two years. Gary Fitzgerald was convicted in his absence of driving without insurance and without an NCT. He was fined €500 for the insurance offence and €250 for the NCT offence, and disqualified from driving for two years. Gabriel Akinsanya pleaded guilty to theft. The judge indicated he would consider 240 hours of community service in lieu of a four-month prison sentence only if Akinsanya completes 40 outstanding hours from 2003. He was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on September 15. Kim Howard, charged with theft, was remanded on continuing bail until October 6 for a mention.
Kevin Jarlath Mitchell, 55, a former senior official at ACC Bank in Kilrush, was jailed for four years after pleading guilty to ten counts of theft, obtaining cash and a cheque under false pretenses, and falsifying a DIRT compliance certificate between January 1993 and February 2012. He stole €197,000 from pensioner John Patrick Ryan, who was led to believe his money was in a high‑interest account, and €250,000 from long‑term friends Patrick and Susan Flanagan. ACC Bank reimbursed Ryan and the Flanagans, and Mitchell surrendered his entire pension fund, valued at €600,000, as restitution. On appeal, the court found the offences very serious and, after considering Mitchell's restitution and lack of danger of reoffending, suspended the last two years of his sentence on the condition of good behaviour and keeping the peace.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Catherine Smith pleaded guilty to theft of €213 worth of gardening items from a Tesco supermarket. The judge indicated he would apply the Probation Act if she makes a charitable contribution. Marek Laska pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis for sale or supply and possession of digital weighing scales. The judge applied the Probation Act, ordering him to attend HOPE and assist other drug users, avoiding a conviction. Linda Murphy pleaded guilty to stealing four blank cheques from her employers. The case was adjourned until September 11th to allow her to provide the remaining €160 in compensation, with a warning of a custodial sentence if unpaid. John Paul Fitzgerald pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis resin. He was convicted, fined €400, and ordered to destroy the drugs, with the judge warning he is close to a prison sentence. James Walsh, alleged to have cultivated cannabis plants, was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on July 3rd for a plea or trial. Ann McGann was convicted of attempting to drive while intoxicated. She was disqualified from driving for three years and fined €300.
Swords District Court heard multiple matters. Charges against Shane Langan and Kieran Kennedy for mutual assault were withdrawn following an agreement on the division of blame. Sean Cullen, alleged to have breached a protection order, was remanded on continuing bail with strict conditions, including residing at his father's house and remaining sober. Thomas Nicholson, charged with stealing an €18,000 mini digger, was remanded on bail for DPP directions. Luke Nestor pleaded guilty to theft; the judge ordered 200 hours of voluntary work before considering conviction. Jason Mitchell pleaded guilty to cannabis possession and was convicted and fined €200. Mateusz Sniezek pleaded guilty to drink driving and was disqualified for three years, with the ban postponed until December 1st. Oksana Smirnova pleaded guilty to failing to provide a sample; she was convicted, fined €650, and disqualified for four years. Brendan Hill pleaded guilty to public order offences and was fined €300 in total.
Swords District Court heard several matters involving defendants Rebotilwe Mohlala, Keith McNamara, and Mariam Aroh. Mohlala, 39, pleaded guilty to the theft of €22.98 worth of goods from Tesco Extra in Millfield on June 21st, 2013. Judge Dermot Dempsey indicated he would consider applying the Probation Act if a €200 charitable donation was paid. The matter was adjourned until July 7th to allow the defendant time to arrange the funds. McNamara, 22, pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of €1,100 worth of cannabis herb and the drug itself, found at his home on May 18th, 2013. He claimed he was selling to friends to afford his own use. Judge Dempsey described this as a commercial enterprise. McNamara was remanded on continuing bail for an updated restorative justice report on September 8th. Aroh, 38, was charged with non-display of L-plates, having no driving licence, and giving a false date of birth. She pleaded guilty to the first two charges but contested the false details. Judge Dempsey found her guilty of giving a false date of birth. She was fined €100 for the L-plates offence and €100 for the false date of birth, with other charges taken into consideration.
In February 2014, two Dublin men, Robert Day (43) and Hubert Duffy (46), were charged with membership of the Irish Republican Army, an unlawful organisation, before the Special Criminal Court. On 2 February 2014, Day was additionally charged with unlawful custody of 400 counterfeit €50 notes found at Monck Place, Phibsborough, and with handling a stolen BMW motorcycle at Phoenix Park Racecourse Apartments, Navan Road, Dublin 7, between 11 November 2013 and 2 February 2014. Duffy was charged with handling the same stolen BMW motorcycle at the same address on 12 November 2013. Both men were arrested by the Special Detective Unit and other Garda units as part of operations against dissident republican groups. In court, Day pleaded not guilty to both charges, while Duffy made no reply after caution. The men were remanded in custody to appear again on 18 June before the non‑jury court. The case was heard by Justice Iseult O'Malley. The charges remain pending.
In Swords District Court, Judge Dermot Dempsey applied the Probation Act to 34‑year‑old Natasha Reilly, who breached a Protection Order by being drunk and threatening to "smash the face" off her victim. Reilly had been remanded in custody since 19 May and had detoxed, completed an anger‑management course and remained in custody to address her chronic alcoholism. She is now focused on staying sober and rebuilding her relationship with her children. The court also heard other cases: a 32‑year‑old woman, Jennifer Reilly, was remanded on continuing bail for alleged theft of two pairs of shoes; a 22‑year‑old man, Jamie Bowbrick, was given further time to pay a €350 charitable donation after pleading guilty to unlawful possession of cannabis and obstruction; a 38‑year‑old woman, Gillian O'Donnell, was remanded on continuing bail for alleged theft of a pair of boots; a 28‑year‑old man, Mark Jackson, was remanded on continuing bail for.
In 2014 a Dublin man, Kevin Walsh, aged 25, was sent back to jail after the Court of Criminal Appeal activated nine months of the suspended portion of his eight‑year manslaughter sentence. Walsh had originally been convicted of killing 20‑year‑old James Burke in 2005 and received an eight‑year sentence with five years suspended. In 2007 the appeal court increased the suspended portion to three years. Walsh had been required to keep the peace, remain under probation supervision and abstain from drugs or alcohol. In 2011 he pleaded guilty to stealing pizzas worth €34, a breach of his bond. The judge noted Walsh's sporadic attendance at the Tallaght Probation Project and his regular drug use while there. The court deemed his failure to comply with the probationary conditions serious and therefore invoked nine months of the suspended sentence, remanding him to the Circuit Court. Kevin Walsh pleaded not guilty.
In a High Court ruling on 26 May 2014, Mr Gerard Killally's bankruptcy was extended by 12 months, keeping him bankrupt until June 2015. Killally, a former Fianna Fail politician and businessman, was declared bankrupt in July 2009 with debts of about €70 million. The extension follows a 2012 conviction at the Midland Circuit Criminal Court for stealing €18 000 of refrigeration equipment, for which he received a three‑year suspended sentence. Mr Chris Lehane, the bankruptcy official, applied for the extension citing Killally's conviction and undisclosed pension plans. Mr Justice Brian McGovern granted the order, citing "good public policy" and the need for bankrupts to cooperate with the official assignee. He also imposed an income‑payment order of €433 per month until May 2016. Killally's counsel opposed the extension, arguing it constituted a double punishment for the 2012 conviction.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Martin Lawrence pleaded guilty to the theft of €30 worth of items from a Skerries supermarket. The court applied the Probation Act and warned him to stay away from the store. Mark Donnelly, charged with unlawful possession of cannabis for sale and supply, was adjourned until June 19th pending DPP directions. Linda Hess, charged with unauthorised taking of a vehicle and driving without insurance, was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on June 5th. James Heraghty, alleged to have assaulted a garda, used threatening behaviour, and obstructed a garda, was remanded on continuing bail to re-appear on June 12th. Dayne Barnwell, alleged to have assaulted a bouncer causing a fractured ankle, was remanded on continuing bail until June 26th. Additionally, Tony Thunder, charged with criminal damage, failed to appear; the case was adjourned until June 12th for gardai to caution him. All defendants were processed at the charge or pretrial stage, with no convictions recorded in this report.
Swords District Court heard several matters before Judge Dermot Dempsey. Julie Delaney pleaded guilty to possessing a security de-tagger for use in a theft at Lifestyle Sports. She was convicted, fined €150, and the device was ordered destroyed. Drew Lynch pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of heroin at Jacko Park. Judge Dempsey warned him he was 'sailing close' to a prison sentence before convicting him and imposing a €300 fine. Natasha Reilly, alleged to have breached a protection order by threatening a victim, was remanded in custody with consent to bail. Strict conditions were imposed, including surrendering her passport, staying away from the Broadmeadow address, and providing a satisfactory address. She is to reappear on May 26th. Michael McDonagh, charged with dangerous driving and driving without insurance, was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on July 14th. Additionally, Simon Morrissey's case for being drunk and abusive to gardai was struck out after he donated €200 to St Vincent de Paul.
In Balbriggan District Court, 42‑year‑old Linda Murphy, a cleaner, pleaded guilty to stealing four blank cheques from her employers, Jack and Terry Maloney, between February and August 2013. She cashed one cheque for €320 and did not cash the other three. Murphy had made voluntary statements to Gardaí and admitted the theft. Her solicitor described her as a mother of three, recently homeless, now living in Balbriggan, caring for a three‑year‑old grandchild, and undergoing a divorce. Judge Dermot Dempsey questioned her willingness to pay compensation, noting she had no money to offer. He ordered her to provide compensation by June or face a custodial sentence and remanded her on continuing bail until 26 June, when she will appear again. The case remains at the pleading stage.
The Garda Commissioner has sought to have the claim for damages brought by Stephen Costello (43) and his wife, Karen, dismissed. The couple alleges they have been subjected to an ongoing campaign of Garda harassment and intimidation. In 2005, the couple was granted an injunction preventing Garda entry to their home except under a warrant or at the request of a household member. The Gardai deny the claims. Mr Costello believes the Gardai mistakenly think he is involved in the drugs trade, stating he has never been involved in any illegal activity. The Garda Commissioner has asked the court to strike out the Costellos' claims for alleged trespass, intimidation, and harassment. The couple has opposed the application. Mr Justice Michael White reserved his decision. Counsel for the Commissioner argued there was an inexcusable and inordinate delay by the Costellos in progressing their claim. The Costellos' counsel denied any delay, citing changes in legal representation and illness of the barrister. Mr Costello, who worked in the environmental section of South Dublin Co Council, stated the Gardai commenced harassment against him 18 years ago. He said he was first arrested in 1996 and questioned about stolen guns. The detective who questioned him was later discharged and has been convicted of criminal convictions. Another garda who arrested him was convicted and jailed for dangerous driving causing death, while another who arrested Mr Costello was jailed for tax evasion. The couple obtained a High Court injunction against the Gardai, but Mr Costello claims he has continued to face harassment, including being stopped, searched, and strip searched for drugs on multiple occasions. The claims of harassment are denied.
In 2009, John Paul Buck, aged 34, was sentenced to life imprisonment by Mr Justice George Birmingham after a Central Criminal Court jury found him guilty of fatally stabbing 30‑year‑old Fergus Roche in a vacant house on 1 October 2005. Buck also set fire to the house and received a concurrent five‑year arson sentence. The appeal court heard that an alleged confession by Buck to Detective Garda Larry Bergin in August 2006 was admitted as evidence. Buck denied the confession, but the detective claimed Buck admitted stabbing Roche while he slept, describing Roche as his "best friend". The appeal argued the confession was improperly admitted, citing late cautioning, the lack of tape, and the influence of media coverage on the jury's deliberations. The court postponed further hearing to the next two to three weeks. Buck had seven prior convictions, including arson, robbery, and burglary.
Trevor O'Shea, 36, was convicted of robbing 83‑year‑old Bridget Campbell outside the Pro‑Cathedral on 30 March 2010. The robbery left Campbell with a broken leg, fractured cheekbone, a laceration above her left eye and a hip pin. O'Shea received a five‑year sentence in March 2012, with one year suspended, after a five‑day trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. He appealed the conviction, but on 12 May 2014 Mr Justice Liam McKechnie dismissed the appeal, stating the court would later give written reasons for the decision.
In Balbriggan District Court on 8 May 2014, Andrew Gosson, aged 24, pleaded guilty to threatening and abusive behaviour on 17 December 2013 and again on 16 January 2013 while driving on the M1. He had one prior road‑traffic conviction. Defence solicitor Fiona D'Arcy said he was under severe pressure from a gambling problem and was not working at the time. Judge Patrick Clyne declined to fine him, noting he was better off feeding his children, and bound him to a peace bond for one year. Separately, 87‑year‑old Michael Murphy was remanded on continuing bail in his absence to appear on 5 June after being charged with dangerous driving on 16 November 2013. Finally, 39‑year‑old William O'Gorman was remanded on continuing bail to re‑appear on 26 June after being charged with robbery, assault and possession of a screwdriver outside St Peter's and Paul's Church on 11 April 2014.
In Swords District Court, four brothers, John Lawrence (23), William Lawrence (22), Stephen Lawrence (21), and Christopher Lawrence (20), pleaded guilty to failing to comply with garda direction and being intoxicated in a public place on April 20th at Hogs & Heifers Bar and Grill in Swords. They were ordered to make a €800 charitable donation to avoid a conviction. The court heard that the men were celebrating the birth of Christopher's baby and were intoxicated. Judge Patrick Clyne informed the court that the men are currently unemployed and that if they make the donation, the case will be struck out. Anbridas Stabinis (42) pleaded guilty to the theft of two bottles of vodka from Dunnes Stores in The Pavilions Shopping Centre in Swords on March 20th. He was given a 14-day suspended sentence and bound to the peace for two years. Darrell Ferguson (21) and Shane Murphy (22) were remanded on continuing bail to re-appear before the court on May 27th after being charged with assaulting another man causing him harm. Patrick Kerley (21) had his case struck out after making a €250 charitable donation to Fingal Bereaved by Suicide.
Balbriggan District Court heard several matters, including the sentencing of Karl Robinson. Robinson pleaded guilty to driving without insurance and while disqualified at Station Road in Lusk on June 29, 2013. Judge Dermot Dempsey ordered him to complete 240 hours of community service in lieu of a three-month prison sentence, following a Probation Services consultation. He was also disqualified from driving for four years. In separate proceedings, Patricia Ferris, alleged to have refused or failed a breath sample at Balbriggan Garda Station on April 21, was remanded on continuing bail for a hearing at Swords District Court on June 9. Emma Nevin, charged with selling counterfeit cigarettes at Balbriggan Sunday Market on April 27, was also remanded on continuing bail for a plea hearing on June 9. Debbie Whelan, alleged to have produced a wheel brace during an argument on Chieftain's Road on July 8, 2013, was remanded on continuing bail for a hearing on May 16. Finally, Bridget O'Leary pleaded guilty to the theft of €54.81 worth of groceries from Tesco in Balbriggan on October 8, 2013. She was remanded on continuing bail to reappear on June 12 for the facts of the case to be heard.
In Swords District Court, Henry Afeni (49) admitted to making a gain or causing loss by deception at TK Max in The Pavilions Shopping Centre in Swords on December 8th, 2013. He was sentenced to 100 hours of community service in lieu of a five-month prison sentence. Raymond O'Hara (47) pleaded guilty to burglary at Portmarnock Hotel on December 11th, 2012, and his case was adjourned to June 23rd for the facts to be heard and sentencing. Declan Fitzsimons (34) admitted to using threatening and abusive behaviour at Cedar Grove in Ridgewood, Swords on January 1st. Judge Dermot Dempsey imposed a conviction and fined him €500, noting that Fitzsimons had the opportunity since February to make a charitable donation. Debra Maguire (44) was found guilty of handling stolen goods worth €363.55 at The Pavilions Shopping Centre in Swords on November 17th, 2013, and was sentenced to 100 hours of community service in lieu of a five-month prison sentence. All cases were at the sentence stage.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has suspended deliberations in the trial of a 30-year-old man charged with murdering a pensioner in Sligo. Simon McGinley, of Connaughton Road Car Park, Sligo, has pleaded not guilty to murder but admitted manslaughter in the death of Eugene Gillespie, aged 67, on September 22nd, 2012. Mr McGinley has also pleaded guilty to false imprisonment and trespass to commit robbery at Mr Gillespie's home on Old Market Street on September 19th, 2012. The State did not accept the manslaughter plea. Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan directed the jury that the central question was whether the accused intended to cause serious injury. The prosecution argued intention can form instantaneously, while the defence submitted that pathological evidence showed injuries consistent with punches rather than a weapon. After deliberating for one-and-a-half hours, the jury will resume tomorrow.
The Central Criminal Court heard evidence from Deputy State Pathologist Dr Michael Curtis in the ongoing trial of Simon McGinley, a 30-year-old Sligo man. McGinley, of Connaughton Road, Sligo, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Eugene Gillespie (67) but admitted to the manslaughter of the pensioner in Co. Sligo on September 22, 2012. He also pleaded guilty to the false imprisonment of Mr Gillespie and trespass to commit robbery at his home in Old Market Street on September 19, 2012. The State did not accept the manslaughter plea, and the trial commenced last Tuesday. Dr Curtis testified that he performed a post-mortem at Galway University Hospital on September 23, 2012, and visited the deceased's home. He reported severe blunt force trauma to the head, face, and neck, including fractures to the skull base, jaw, and ribs, as well as ligature marks on the wrists and neck. The pathologist stated the cause of death was bronchial pneumonia due to coma resulting from the trauma, with hand ischemia from binding as a contributory factor. Detective Sergeant Con Lee also gave evidence regarding McGinley's demeanor during interviews. The matter was adjourned, and the trial continues.
Swords District Court heard four sentencing matters presided over by Judge Dermot Dempsey. Dean Fagan, 19, pleaded guilty to using threatening and abusive behaviour, failing to comply with garda direction, and being intoxicated. The judge imposed four months detention for failing to comply with garda direction and two months for threatening behaviour, taking intoxication into consideration. Robert Doyle, 20, pleaded guilty to being intoxicated, using threatening and abusive behaviour, and failing to comply with garda direction; his case was struck out after he paid a charitable donation. Brian Johnson, 27, pleaded guilty to the unauthorised taking of a vehicle and handling stolen property. He was convicted and sentenced to a suspended nine-month term for the vehicle offence, remanded on a peace bond for two years, and given a three-month custodial sentence for handling stolen clothes. Robert Krzemien, 42, pleaded guilty to driving while under the influence of alcohol. He was convicted, fined €400, and disqualified from driving for three years, effective July 1st.
At the Central Criminal Court, a 30-year-old man from Sligo has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of a 67-year-old pensioner in September 2012. Simon McGinley of Connaughton Road faces charges of false imprisonment and robbery related to an incident at the victim's home on Old Market Street. The State rejected his manslaughter plea and the trial proceeded. Forensic evidence presented to the court indicated that blood matching the deceased's DNA profile was recovered from a wooden candlestick holder and a drawer at the property. A mixed DNA profile recovered from bloodstained cord found around the victim's wrists showed the accused as the major contributor. Medical testimony outlined the accused's emotional state when interviewed, during which he stated the incident was a robbery that escalated. The trial at the Central Criminal Court is ongoing.
A 30-year-old man from Sligo has pleaded not guilty to murder but admitted manslaughter following the death of a 67-year-old pensioner in September 2012. Simon McGinley, of Connaughton Road, has also pleaded guilty to false imprisonment and trespass to commit robbery at a property on Old Market Street. The Central Criminal Court heard that the State rejected the manslaughter plea, and a jury was sworn for trial. During interviews at Sligo Garda Station, the accused told gardai he struck the victim once or twice, tied his hands, and placed a blanket under his head before leaving the scene. He stated he searched the house, obtained a small sum of money, burned his clothing that night, and made a 999 call the following day. The accused maintained he did not intend for the victim to die. The trial continues.
A 30-year-old man from Sligo has pleaded not guilty to murder but admitted manslaughter in connection with the death of a 67-year-old pensioner in September 2012. Simon McGinley of Connaughton Road has also admitted false imprisonment and trespass to commit robbery at the victim's home on Old Market Street. The Central Criminal Court heard that the State rejected the manslaughter plea and a jury trial commenced. Medical evidence described severe head injuries including skull fracture, brain swelling, and extensive bruising. The deceased died following cardiac arrest at Sligo General Hospital. Detectives told the court that McGinley appeared distressed during interview, expressing remorse and stating the victim "wasn't meant to die." He indicated he had attempted to alert gardaí to the man's location but they attended the wrong address. The trial was ongoing at reporting.