During the trial of Paul Wells Junior, 33, the accused admitted to disposing of the chainsaw used to dismember Kenneth O'Brien, 33, a murder committed by his father, Paul Wells Senior, 51. Wells Junior told Gardaí he had wanted to pay for O'Brien's headstone to express remorse. He explained that he had taken the chainsaw from his car, unaware it had been used in the murder, and later disposed of its blade and chain at The Curragh. He claimed he had no intention of hiding the evidence and that he had been influenced by trauma inflicted by his father. Wells Junior pleaded not guilty to the charges of disposing of the chainsaw motor and its blade and chain. The trial, presided over by Ms Justice Carmel Stewart, continues with the jury hearing closing arguments. The case remains at the trial stage.
Keith Brady, 32, of Cartron Estate, Sligo, was found guilty of murdering musician Matt Kivlehan after three trials. The jury at the Central Criminal Court returned a guilty verdict in one hour and 25 minutes following a two-week trial. Brady had previously denied the murder, which occurred on August 2 or 3, 2015, at Kivlehan's home on Holborn Street. His plea of guilty to manslaughter was rejected by the Director of Public Prosecutions. The court heard that Kivlehan, who was 60 and suffering from ill-health and intoxication, was stabbed twice in the neck. Evidence indicated the scene was staged to resemble suicide, with a knife placed on the victim's chest, while Brady allegedly ordered heroin to be brought to the apartment. Mr Justice Alex Owens sentenced Brady to the mandatory term of life imprisonment, backdated to November 24, 2016, when he first entered custody. In a separate matter, Janice Brady, 29, pleaded guilty to impeding the apprehension or prosecution of her brother, knowing or believing he was guilty of a killing. The victim's brother, Christopher Kivlehan, stated that the family remains appalled by the death and that stress contributed to the death of another brother, Padraic. The judge thanked the jury and exempted them from further service for five years.
A man has been convicted of murdering a Sligo musician following three separate trials. Keith Brady, aged 32, of Cartron Estate in Sligo, was found guilty of the murder of Martin Kivlehan at the Central Criminal Court. The offence occurred on 2 or 3 August 2015 at Mr Kivlehan's home on Holborn Street in Sligo. Brady had initially denied the charge but subsequently offered a plea of guilty to manslaughter, which the Director of Public Prosecutions rejected. The jury, comprising eight men and four women, reached their guilty verdict after deliberating for one hour and 25 minutes. This conviction followed two earlier trials, during which a jury previously failed to reach agreement on a verdict and a second trial collapsed after a broadcast programme that the trial judge considered likely to have prejudiced the jury.
A man in his 70s has filed a High Court challenge to stop his trial for five charges of indecent assault against his cousin, who was a teenage secondary school student in the early to mid‑1980s. The alleged offences are said to have taken place at the accused's home when he was in his 30s. The complainant claims the accused groomed and exploited her during her teens. The accused denies the allegations and argues that the passage of time, the death of witnesses, lost evidence, lack of precise dates in the charges, and his deteriorating neurological health have prejudiced his right to a fair trial. He seeks to quash the indictment and the decision to send him to trial, and to declare that his continued prosecution breaches his constitutional and European Convention rights. Mr Justice Charles Meenan granted permission on an ex‑parte basis, putting a stay on the prosecution and adjourned the matter to January.
In a case heard at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Daniel Smyth, aged 28, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm after an incident on a Dublin bus on 1 July 2018. While a Dublin Fire Brigade member, Paul Bateman, was attending to Smyth, who had passed out on the bus, Smyth attacked Bateman once he had helped him to his feet. Smyth struck Bateman in the face, knocking out his two front teeth. Smyth later returned to the scene and attempted a second attack. He claimed he had no memory of the assault, citing detox from benzodiazepines and a prohibition on alcohol. Smyth had 24 prior convictions and was homeless at the time. Judge Cormac Quinn sentenced him to 20 months' imprisonment, suspending the final 10 months on strict conditions.
In the Special Criminal Court, Eoin Morrissey (20) was sentenced for two counts of impeding the apprehension or prosecution of the killers of Aidan O'Driscoll. Having pleaded guilty, Morrissey received two two-year suspended sentences on each count. Mr Justice Hunt, sitting with Judges Gerard Griffin and Ann Ryan, cited Morrissey's age, positive probation report, progress since 2016, and willingness to perform community service as mitigating factors. The court ordered him to enter a €100 bond. The judge warned that this was a unique opportunity and that further offending would likely result in custody. Earlier in April, co-accused Colin Casey (32) and Daniel Hegarty (24) were convicted on four counts of impeding the apprehension or prosecution of O'Driscoll's killers. Both pleaded guilty. Casey was sentenced to four years and six months in prison, while Hegarty was jailed for four years. The court noted that Casey and Hegarty provided substantial assistance, including burning vehicles and burying evidence, whereas Morrissey's involvement was less proximate, limited to providing a fire-lighter and transport after the events. The State acknowledged it could not prove the defendants knew a murder was planned. O'Driscoll, a Real IRA figure, was shot in Cork in December 2016.
A 19‑year‑old, Alexander Whelan, pleaded guilty to manslaughter for the death of 56‑year‑old Bruno Rolandi in a domestic incident at Green Road, Ballymoran, Edenderry, Offaly, on 19 November 2017. Whelan, who lived on Green Road, Lumville, Edenderry, was charged with murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter at the Central Criminal Court. The prosecution accepted the plea. Defence counsel noted Whelan was 18 at the time of the incident. Judge Michael White ordered a probation report and remanded him on continuing bail until 3 February 2020 for sentencing.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the ongoing trial of Liam Brannigan, who is charged with conspiring to murder Gary Hanley between September 15th and November 6th, 2017. Brannigan has pleaded not guilty. The prosecution presented secret recordings from vehicles bugged during a Garda investigation into the Kinahan Organised Crime Gang. Audio clips alleged to involve Brannigan discussed planning a killing, including references to using a gun and waiting for a target. The court also heard testimony regarding surveillance of Brannigan in a Renault Laguna and a Volkswagen Caddy. Separately, Luke Wilson, Joseph Kelly, and Alan Wilson have already pleaded guilty to conspiring to murder Mr Hanley and have been jailed. The trial continues.
A 32‑year‑old mother, Suzanne O'Rourke, pleaded guilty to assaulting a neighbour outside the Timbermills apartment complex on 25 September 2018. She repeatedly punched the woman and then kicked her in the stomach. O'Rourke claimed the attack was triggered by a perceived slight to herself and her child, saying the other mother had spoken to a group of children, including her own, in a way that upset her. She told Gardai the victim deserved the assault and that she had not done half of what she wanted to do. The court noted she had no prior convictions and that she was the sole carer of a child. Judge Martin Nolan described the attack as "pretty vicious" and "without a reasonable reason." He imposed a 20‑month custodial sentence but suspended it on the condition that O'Rourke pay €3,500 as a token of remorse within 18 months, citing the impact imprisonment would have on her child.
A 49-year-old man from Co Wicklow was sentenced to seven years in prison after being convicted by a jury at the Central Criminal Court of four counts of rape and two counts of indecent assault. The offences, which occurred between 1987 and 1989, involved the sexual abuse of a child who was approximately nine years old at the time. The defendant had pleaded not guilty to all charges. Mr Justice Michael White set a headline sentence of 11 years but reduced it to seven, citing the man's constructive life since the offending. The court noted the victim's exceptional courage, as she gave evidence six times across multiple trials, several of which collapsed due to witness unavailability or document issues before the final conviction in March. The judge ruled that an existing order preventing the publication of the victim's and the offender's names would remain in place. The victim, now a married mother, stated she came forward in 2013 to right a terrible wrong and finally achieved justice and closure. Defence counsel highlighted the defendant's good character and the impact a custodial sentence would have on his son with special needs.
Martin Hanley, 55, pleaded guilty to robbing a 65‑year‑old man outside a bookies on Gardiner Lane, Dublin, on 23 November 2017. He knocked the victim, Frank O'Neill, to the ground with a punch, demanded money while O'Neill lay on the ground, and stood on his leg. O'Neill's tibia was broken, leaving him unable to run or walk for a period and preventing him from walking his dog. Hanley, who is undergoing cancer treatment and has had a lung removed, was sentenced to five years' imprisonment, with the final two years suspended, by Judge Karen O'Connor on 29 March 2019. The Court of Appeal upheld the sentence, rejecting the appeal that it was too severe. The appeal was dismissed by Mr Justice George Birmingham, who noted the violence and injury inflicted and the victim's refusal of a €2,000 token of remorse offered by Hanley's family. The final sentence was three years' imprisonment, with no further suspension or adjustment.
A man accused of murdering a musician in County Sligo has heard prosecution counsel argue that his actions before and after the alleged killing demonstrate deliberate intent, despite claims of intoxication. Keith Brady, aged 32 of Cartron Estate, Sligo, is charged with murdering Martin Kivlehan, 60, at his home on New Apartments, Holborn Street on August 2nd or 3rd, 2015. Mr Brady has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. At the Central Criminal Court, prosecution counsel Paul Murray SC told the jury that Mr Brady made multiple conscious decisions following the death, including arranging heroin delivery to the house, altering his clothing, and providing false accounts to gardaí. Mr Murray contended that evidence including two stab wounds to the neck, a knife swap at the scene, and Mr Brady's demonstrated capability to make deliberate choices before and after arrest undermines the defence assertion that intoxication negated intent to kill or cause serious harm. The trial before Mr Justice Alex Owens continues.
Keith Brady, aged 32, of Cartron Estate in Sligo, stands charged with murder following the death of a local musician at New Apartments on Holborn Street in August 2015. He has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. At the Central Criminal Court, the jury heard evidence of interviews conducted by gardaí. In an August 2015 interview at Sligo Garda Station, Mr Brady admitted stabbing the deceased and stated that matters had spiralled beyond his control. However, during a subsequent November interview at Ballymote Garda Station, he denied involvement and claimed memory loss due to intoxication. The court was informed that Mr Brady later approached prison authorities at Castlerea Prison in Roscommon in December 2015, requesting to speak with a sergeant who had previously interviewed him. During this meeting, Mr Brady provided a detailed account in which he acknowledged responsibility, expressed remorse to the deceased's family, and described the incident as unintentional. The trial continues.
The trial of Aaron Brady, 27, accused of murdering Garda Adrian Donohoe in 2013, was postponed until January 2020 for logistical reasons. Brady, who lives on New Road, Crossmaglen, was due to begin on Monday but a defence application delayed the start. The judge, Mr Justice Michael White, said a jury could not be sworn in as planned and a new trial date would be set. He also announced that the court would actively address outstanding issues and arrange for an enlarged 15‑person jury. The pre‑trial hearing will continue, and the court aims to resolve all matters before the new start date. The trial was originally scheduled for October 8 and then November 11, each postponed to handle pre‑trial matters.
In the Special Criminal Court, the prosecution presented an audio clip from a listening device secretly placed in a Nissan Primastar van, showing Joseph Kelly and Alan Wilson discussing a planned murder of Gary Hanley. The men talked about routes to Fairview, traffic, and how to approach Hanley, who walks to the gym at 5 pm. They also considered how to escape the area and how to handle the van after the act. Liam Brannigan, 37, is charged with conspiring to murder Hanley and has pleaded not guilty. Three other men—Luke Wilson, Joseph Kelly and Alan Wilson—have already pleaded guilty to the conspiracy and have been jailed. The trial continues with the court hearing further evidence from surveillance officers who observed Brannigan driving the van in various locations in September and October 2017. The case remains an ongoing criminal proceeding.
A man has been sentenced to twelve years imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court following his conviction on charges of rape, oral rape, and sexual assault. Richard Moloney, aged 41, of Tullaskeagh Drive, Roscrea, County Tipperary, was found guilty of offences against his then 16-year-old foster daughter at their home on 16 July 2016. The jury's verdict followed trial in July this year. Mr Justice Alex Owens imposed the sentence this morning, noting Moloney's breach of trust as a foster parent and his denial of wrongdoing throughout proceedings. The judge described the crimes' impact on the victim as profoundly destructive. A four-year post-release supervision order was also imposed, with conditions including distance from the victim and engagement in alcohol treatment. Moloney carries ten previous convictions for assault and public order matters. The victim, who has waived anonymity, expressed satisfaction with the sentencing outside court.
Mark Carlisle, aged 30, was convicted of violent disorder and assault causing harm after he kicked a man up to 12 times while the victim lay on the ground. The incident occurred on 12 October 2015 in Crumlin when the victim was returning home and was attacked by a group of five or six men. Carlisle was the only one who continued to kick the victim, who suffered a fracture to the base of the skull, intracranial haemorrhage and extensive facial trauma. He had 109 previous convictions, including three for violent disorder, and was already serving a three‑year sentence for a firearms offence. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced him to seven‑and‑a‑half years in prison on 26 July 2018. The Court of Appeal upheld the sentence, dismissing Carlisle's appeal and confirming the severity of the punishment. The decision was made by Mr Justice George Birmingham, with Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy present. Mark Carlisle pleaded not guilty.
In the Special Criminal Court, a surveillance garda told a barrister that it was "disgusting" to suggest their evidence was unreliable. The case concerns Liam Brannigan (37) of Bride Street, Dublin 8, charged with conspiracy to murder Gary Hanley between 15 September and 6 November 2017. Brannigan pleaded not guilty. The court heard that Brannigan was arrested minutes after a loaded semi‑automatic pistol was seized during the arrest of two men near Hanley's home on 6 November 2017. Twenty surveillance officers gave evidence about observations of Brannigan and three men who had pleaded guilty to the plot and were jailed – Luke Wilson (24), Joseph Kelly (35) and Alan Wilson (39). The garda testified that on 6 October 2017 he saw Brannigan in the front passenger seat of a black Renault Laguna, but the barrister questioned the reliability of the identification and the absence of notes.
The Central Criminal Court trial of Paul Wells Junior (33) continues before Ms Justice Carmel Stewart and a jury. Wells Junior, of Beatty Park, Celbridge, Co Kildare, has pleaded not guilty to disposing of a chainsaw motor between January 19 and 20, 2016, and not guilty to disposing of a chainsaw blade and chain on January 20, 2016, in Co Kildare. The prosecution alleges he impeded the apprehension or prosecution of his father, Paul Wells Senior (51), by disposing of the chainsaw. Wells Senior, of Barnamore Park, Finglas, Dublin 11, was jailed for life last year after being found guilty of murdering Kenneth O'Brien at his home in Finglas on January 15 or 16, 2016. Evidence presented includes garda interviews where Wells Junior stated he received the chainsaw from his brother and later disposed of its parts in the Grand Canal and The Curragh. He testified that he believed his father was responsible for the murder and that he disposed of the items out of fear. The trial resumes on Thursday.
A 35‑year‑old man, Robert Lawlor, pleaded not guilty to attempted murder of Fiona Mitchell, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, a threat to Rachel Kirwan, and shooting a dog. The Central Criminal Court heard that the attempted murder occurred on 26 May 2018 at Moatview Avenue, Priorswood, when Lawlor, armed, entered Mitchell's garden, fired a shot that shattered the patio door, and fired again as she fled. Mitchell escaped through the front door; Gardaí arrived but the gunman and a second man had fled. A dog that had been barking and raising the alarm was shot dead. Lawlor's alleged motive was that Mitchell's son, Derek, was in a relationship with Lawlor's former partner, Rachel Kirwan, a relationship Lawlor could not accept. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul McDermott.
Seven men were sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for violent disorder on a LUAS tram at Chancery Street, Dublin 7, on February 6, 2016. Sean Kindillon, Jamal Garamanli, Ian Baker, Patrick Dunne, Michael Farrell, Jamie Whelan, and Andrew Byrne each pleaded guilty to the offence. Judge Martin Nolan sentenced all seven to two years' imprisonment, but suspended the sentences in their entirety on strict conditions. The court ordered six of the men to pay €2,500 each within 18 months, while Byrne was ordered to pay €1,500, with funds directed to charity. The incident involved an altercation with members of a far-right anti-Islam organisation travelling to a demonstration. Prosecution evidence included CCTV footage showing Dunne striking a man with an umbrella and Byrne aiming a kick. The judge noted the defendants were working, had good prospects, and expressed remorse, deeming imprisonment unjustified. Kindillon and Garamanli stated they intervened to defend themselves or friends against perceived attacks. None of the far-right group members were charged. A separate co-accused, who pleaded guilty in the District Court, was sentenced to 140 hours of community service in lieu of 14 months' imprisonment for striking a man with an iron bar.
Derek Tuohy, 37, of Lucan, was sentenced to 18 months' imprisonment after pleading guilty to assault causing harm at his home on 1 November 2017. The offence involved him head‑butting his then partner, Samantha Murphy, picking her up by the neck and throwing her out of the house. The incident followed a Halloween party where Tuohy had been intoxicated. He punched Murphy three times on her right thigh, head‑butted her to her right temple, kicked her in the stomach, and then lifted her and threw her out of the house. Murphy suffered a fall down the stairs and was left barefoot on the street. She later obtained a protection order. Tuohy had nine prior convictions for road traffic and public order offences and had made no contact with Murphy or their child since the incident.
At the Central Criminal Court in Dublin, a garda inspector has denied allegations that he fabricated evidence against a Sligo man charged with murder. Inspector Patrick Harney testified that Keith Brady, aged 32, of Cartron Estate, made certain statements upon being charged with the death of Martin Kivlehan on 2 or 3 August 2015 at New Apartments, Holborn Street, Sligo. The defence barrister, Kenneth Fogarty SC, contended that a particular statement attributed to Mr Brady was not included in the inspector's written account, and suggested the omission was designed to present his client unfavourably. Inspector Harney stated the remark appeared in his notebook and was recorded at the time. Mr Justice Alex Owens cautioned the defence counsel on proper procedure when making such allegations. Mr Brady has pleaded guilty to manslaughter but denies murder. The trial before Mr Justice Owens and jury continues. Keith Brady pleaded not guilty.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the trial of Liam Brannigan, 37, of Bride Street, Dublin 8, who is charged with conspiring to murder Gary Hanley between September 15th and November 6th, 2017. Brannigan has pleaded not guilty. The court heard that a National Surveillance Unit garda observed Brannigan driving a white Volkswagen Caddy van in the Suir Road area on October 3rd, 2017. This vehicle was later linked to the arrest of two men on November 6th, 2017, during which a 9mm Beretta pistol and silencer were seized. The defence argued that the garda's failure to record weather conditions or distance hindered the ability to test the identification. The court also noted that Luke Wilson, 24, Joseph Kelly, 35, and Alan Wilson, 39, have already pleaded guilty to conspiring to murder Mr Hanley. Luke Wilson, who also admitted unlawful possession of a handgun with intent to endanger life, was sentenced to 11 years. Joseph Kelly, who also admitted a weapons charge, was jailed for a total of 12 years, while Alan Wilson received a six-year sentence. These sentences were handed down following their guilty pleas, distinct from the ongoing trial of Brannigan.
In a trial at the Central Criminal Court, Paul Wells Junior, aged 33, pleaded not guilty to disposing of a chainsaw motor and blade in County Kildare in January 2016. He claimed he was unaware the chainsaw had been used to dismember Kenneth O'Brien, whose body was found in a suitcase on the Grand Canal. Wells Junior said he had thrown the chainsaw into the canal to avoid hindering the investigation, believing it was stained with what he thought was dog meat. He also stated he had spoken voluntarily to Gardaí to help the O'Brien family seek justice. The court heard that O'Brien died from a gunshot wound to the head, and that his dismembered remains were found in a suitcase. Paul Wells Senior, aged 51, was jailed for life for O'Brien's murder. The trial continues before Justice Carmel Stewart and a jury of twelve.
Derek Lennon, 34, was jailed for four and a half years at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to two counts of threatening a witness, criminal damage to CCTV cameras, assault causing harm, production of a length of wood, and threatening to kill or cause serious harm on October 2 and November 13, 2018. The offences stemmed from a 2017 District Court road traffic prosecution where Lennon, found guilty of dangerous driving, was sentenced to 90 hours of community service and banned from driving for six years. Following an appeal regarding the severity of that sentence, Lennon allegedly intimidated State witness Niall Fitzgerald, who was too afraid to attend court. In November 2018, Lennon allegedly attacked Fitzgerald with a plank of wood and punched him, causing facial injuries and dental damage. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a substantial custodial sentence, noting Lennon's 72 previous convictions and his inability to reform. The sentence was backdated to when Lennon was first remanded in custody last November. Defense counsel highlighted Lennon's remorse and fixation on his driving ban, while the victim reported lasting trauma and diminished faith in the justice process.
The Central Criminal Court heard that Christopher McGrath, aged 38, was stabbed to death on 12 March 2017 at the home of Noel Lenihan, a 67‑year‑old martial arts instructor from Mervue, Galway. McGrath had previously been in an intimate relationship with Lenihan and had been staying at Lenihan's house after failing to secure a room at a homeless shelter. Lenihan was charged with murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter on 12 March 2017. He claimed he stabbed McGrath in self‑defence after a struggle in which McGrath had allegedly threatened to choke him. Acting State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan found five knife wounds, including a fatal frontal wound to the heart. Lenihan accepted responsibility, expressed remorse, and pleaded guilty to manslaughter. The court considered his age, ill‑health, previous good character and remorse before sentencing, which was scheduled for 25 November.
A man convicted of sexually assaulting a young child has been remanded in custody at the Central Criminal Court following his apprehension. The 24-year-old was found guilty on all fourteen counts of sexual assault at two Dublin locations between June 2008 and October 2011, when the victim was aged between five and eight years old. A jury returned unanimous verdicts after a four-day trial in May 2018. The defendant absconded before the verdict was delivered and remained at large for several months. Mr Justice Michael White imposed a seven-year sentence in December 2018 in the man's absence. Upon his arrest today, the court formally recorded that the sentence will commence from the date of his apprehension. The judge noted the defendant's youth as a mitigating factor, as he was himself a minor during the offences. A victim impact statement detailed the child's ongoing psychological trauma. The defendant was arrested in County Cavan, where he had relocated with his family. The unnamed 24-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A man has had his sentence increased following an appeal by the Director of Public Prosecutions on grounds of undue leniency. Aurelijus Kizelavicius, aged 23, of Knocktornagh, Castleblayney, Co Monaghan, pleaded guilty to rape and assault causing harm to a woman on 29 March 2015. The Central Criminal Court heard the woman had accepted a late-night lift from Kizelavicius after becoming stranded in Monaghan town. Upon reaching her home, he attacked her with repeated punches to the face before sexually assaulting her. Mr Justice Paul Butler originally imposed a five-year sentence with the final two years suspended in April 2018. The Court of Appeal today increased the custodial term to seven years with the final two suspended. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy described the offence as a serious rape involving significant additional violence. She noted the victim sustained facial injuries and referenced adverse probation reports and disciplinary breaches in custody. The court also heard the man has agreed to participate in a sex offenders programme.
A 68‑year‑old Dublin man pleaded guilty in July 2019 to five counts of indecent assault on his daughter between 1985 and 1986, when she was aged nine to ten. He later denied the abuse to the Probation Service, claiming he had no idea why his daughter would make the allegations. He appeared in court unrepresented and confirmed he did not wish to alter his guilty pleas, stating he was "guilty" and would feel "forever guilty." Judge Elma Sheahan sentenced him to nine years, suspending the final year on the condition he completes all available sexual‑abuse courses in custody. The sentence was delivered in the presence of the victim, who broke down in tears. She said she had spoken out to stop abuse that had persisted for three generations and expressed forgiveness toward her father.
In a High Court hearing on 11 November 2019, the court considered the case of Eamon Harrison, a 22‑year‑old from Mayobridge, Co Down, who faces 39 counts of manslaughter for allegedly delivering a trailer that contained 39 Vietnamese nationals who were found dead. The court heard that Harrison is of "modest means" and that he will not seek bail. Mr Justice Donald Binchy granted an application for an additional senior counsel to represent Harrison. The hearing followed an earlier appearance on 1 November, when a European Arrest Warrant was endorsed for Harrison, covering 41 offences including the manslaughter charges, conspiracy to commit human trafficking and conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration. The court set a further hearing for 21 November, noting that Harrison's draft points of objection will be formally filed and served on the State by Friday. The case remains at the pre‑trial stage, with no bail or extradition decisions made.
A 35‑year‑old man named Robert Lawlor pleaded not guilty to an attempted murder charge. He is accused of trying to kill Fiona Mitchell on 26 May 2018 at Priorswood, Dublin. Lawlor denied the allegation. A jury of seven men and five women was sworn in at the Central Criminal Court before Mr Justice Michael White. He is scheduled to appear before Mr Justice Paul McDermott tomorrow morning, and the trial is expected to last two weeks.
A 21‑year‑old man, Blake Sweeney, was sentenced to eight years and six months' imprisonment for the manslaughter of Robert Elston, 33, after Sweeney stabbed Elston twice in the abdomen. The incident occurred on 23 May 2018 when Elston set fire to a car in the Sweeney family driveway. Sweeney, who had been told by his mother to stay at home, pursued Elston into the house armed with a knife. The judge noted that Sweeney had no pre‑meditation, had offered to plead guilty, and had cooperated with Gardaí. The sentence was reduced from a headline of ten years to eight years and six months, with the last 18 months suspended, and was back‑dated to the date of the offence. The case was heard at the Central Criminal Court by Mr Justice Tony Hunt. Blake Sweeney was acquitted.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the trial of Ray Kennedy and Laurence Murphy, who have pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation, styling itself the Irish Republican Army, otherwise Oglaigh Na hÉireann, otherwise the IRA on March 6th, 2013. Mr Kennedy is also charged with carrying out an act intending to pervert the course of justice by destroying a mobile telephone SIM card. Prosecution evidence detailed that Mr Butterly was shot dead in the car park of the Huntsman Inn, Gormanston, Co Meath, on that date. Detective Garda Shane Curran testified that a text was sent from Mr Kennedy's phone to the victim's wife at 1.43pm, joking about an IRA arrest, minutes before the killing. The prosecution alleged Mr Kennedy destroyed a SIM card to pervert the course of justice. While four other men have already received life sentences for the murder, and Michael McDermott and Frank Murphy have been jailed for their roles, the current proceedings against Mr Kennedy and Mr Murphy remain at the trial stage. The matter was adjourned to continue on Monday before Ms Justice Tara Burns, presiding alongside Judge Sarah Berkeley and Judge Michael Walsh.
In a hearing before Mr Justice Paul McDermott, the Central Criminal Court set the earliest possible release dates for two teenage boys convicted of murdering and sexually assaulting 14‑year‑old Ana Kriegel. Boy A, now 15, faces a life sentence with a review after 12 years and an additional eight‑year term for aggravated sexual assault; his earliest release from the custodial portion is June 18, 2031. Boy B, also 15, received a 15‑year detention sentence with a review after eight years; his earliest release is June 18, 2027. Both boys will be detained at a young offenders centre until age 18, then transferred to an adult prison. Mr Justice McDermott ordered bi‑annual probation, governor and education reports to be prepared for the reviewing court, beginning after their release from Oberstown detention centre. The reports aim to inform the court of the boys' development and progress, not to micro‑manage their sentences.
A 41‑year‑old man was sentenced to 18 months' imprisonment for assaulting his wife and his 15‑year‑old step‑daughter on 3 December 2018 at their home. The assault began when the man, armed with a kitchen knife, attacked his wife in front of small children who ran to get the older sister. The step‑daughter tried to protect her mother, was struck several times, and the man then turned on her, hitting her four times. The wife reported that the man had previously assaulted her in June 2018, pushing her against a wall and biting her shoulder. The man pleaded guilty to both assaults, had no prior convictions, and had been taking antidepressants while also abusing alcohol. The judge noted his cooperation, remorse, and good work history, but imposed a custodial sentence to serve as a deterrent. The wife expressed that she did not want him jailed, but the court considered the impact on the family.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Laurence Murphy and Ray Kennedy, both charged in connection with the killing of Peter Butterly, entered legal argument regarding the retention of mobile phone data under the Communications (Retention of Data) Act 2011. This legal challenge is linked to the case of convicted murderer Graham Dwyer, whose appeal against a High Court declaration that the Act breached EU law is due before the Supreme Court in December. Murphy and Kennedy pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation, styled the IRA, on March 6, 2013. Kennedy is additionally charged with carrying out an act intending to pervert the course of justice by destroying a mobile telephone SIM card. The prosecution alleges the killing was meticulously planned. Four men—Kevin Braney, Edward McGrath, Sharif Kelly, and Dean Evans—have already received life sentences for the murder. Michael McDermott and Frank Murphy, the latter being Laurence Murphy's brother, have also been jailed for their roles in the killing. The trial continues before Ms Justice Tara Burns, Judge Sarah Berkeley, and Judge Michael Walsh.
The High Court in Dublin has ordered the extradition of 18‑year‑old David Kerrigan to the United Kingdom. Kerrigan is wanted in the UK for the murder of Joshua White, 29, who was stabbed to death on Frampton Park Road, Hackney, on 26 April. White died from a stab wound to the heart after being attacked by men with knives, including "zombie" knives, in an incident described as gang‑related. Kerrigan is also wanted for an attempted murder of another man in Hackney shortly after White's attack. Two other teenagers have been arrested and charged in connection with the attacks. Kerrigan's lawyers objected, citing a risk of "inter‑prisoner violence" in UK prisons, but the court rejected this argument and ordered his surrender. The court noted that the reports of violence were not systemic and did not show Kerrigan would face a greater risk than other inmates.
During the Central Criminal Court trial, the jury heard that Paul Wells Senior, aged 51, shot Kenneth O'Brien in his back garden on 15 or 16 January 2016, dismembered the body with a chainsaw and dumped it in the Grand Canal. The prosecution alleged that the accused, Paul Wells Junior (33), who was charged with impeding the apprehension or prosecution of his father, had been forced by his father to carry explosives and join the IRA. Witness Gary Wells testified that his father was a violent man who had a toxic relationship with family members, had attacked his sister and mother, and had tried to get his son to carry explosives. Gary Wells also described how his father had asked him to dispose of a chainsaw and other items, and how he had been involved in a football team to keep him busy. Paul Wells Junior pleaded not guilty.
A man has been sentenced to ten years imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following his conviction on twenty-four counts of indecent assault. Thomas Patton, aged 51, was found guilty by jury in July of abusing his young cousin over a six-year period between 1984 and 1990 at Castlefinn, County Donegal. The offending began when the victim was six years old. Judge Melanie Greally imposed four years for offences committed when Patton was a minor and six years for those committed in adulthood, to run consecutively. The judge cited the extreme nature of the abuse, its duration and regularity, the victim's age, breach of trust, and severe psychological harm as aggravating factors. In mitigation, she noted Patton's youth during the initial offences, absence of previous convictions, and subsequent productive life. The victim, who waived anonymity, described lasting trauma and family division resulting from disclosure. Thomas Patton pleaded not guilty.
At the Central Criminal Court, a trial heard that a woman alleging rape initially described three men as being involved in the assault. The complainant told the court she attended a party at a flat in a County Leitrim town in 2017 where she consumed alcohol. She stated she lost consciousness and awoke to find the first accused assaulting her. She reported hearing male voices and subsequently blacked out again, regaining consciousness as the second accused was assaulting her. Two Leitrim men have pleaded not guilty to rape charges. The second accused also denies oral rape. During cross-examination, the defence put to the complainant that she had previously given an account involving three assailants. The complainant confirmed this, noting she had heard voices in the room. A nurse from the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit in Mullingar confirmed the complainant initially reported three men were involved. The nurse stated she observed genital injuries consistent with non-consensual activity, though acknowledged such injuries could also occur during consensual contact.
A Special Criminal Court hearing on 7 November 2019 considered evidence that Liam Brannigan, aged 37, was driving a white Nissan Primastar van that had been fitted with a listening device by Gardaí. Surveillance officers reported seeing Brannigan in the Blackpitts area on 2 October 2017, heading toward Greenville Avenue, wearing black sunglasses and a cap, and described him as unshaven with stubble. The same van had been seen the day before, on 1 October 2017, with Joseph Kelly driving it in Fairview, and Alan Wilson sitting in the back. Brannigan is charged with conspiracy to murder Gary Hanley between 15 September and 6 November 2017 and has pleaded not guilty. The court heard that the van was used extensively as a spotter car and for surveillance of Mr Hanley. The hearing also noted that other conspirators, including Kelly and Wilson, had pleaded guilty and been jailed. The trial did not address any verdict or sentencing for Brannigan.
David O'Brien, aged 67, was sentenced by Judge Karen O'Connor at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to a total of eight years' imprisonment for indecent assault on four boys between 1972 and 1981. The sentence was imposed on four separate counts, each carrying two years, and the final 18 months were suspended on the condition of 12 months' probation. O'Brien pleaded guilty to eight counts of indecent assault and had previously been jailed for six and a half years in 2015 for similar offences. He admitted to molesting a number of boys while a scout leader, including fondling and non‑penetrative acts, and claimed he had abused between 30 and 40 children. The court noted his guilty plea and expressed remorse, but emphasised the breach of trust and the victims' loss of childhood innocence. The victims gave impact statements describing lasting physical and emotional harm, and the judge praised their courage.
A murder trial at the Central Criminal Court heard that blood matching a musician found stabbed to death in his Sligo home was present on two knives recovered from the scene. A forensic scientist told the court that DNA evidence from a knife discovered on the body of Martin Matt Kivlehan, who died on August 3, 2015, matched the deceased. Blood matching Mr Kivlehan was also found on a second knife located in the kitchen. A garda ballistics expert noted the positioning of one knife on the victim's chest and observed two stab wounds, stating he had never encountered a scene where a person had inflicted two such injuries on themselves. Witnesses described Mr Kivlehan as a well-liked man who enjoyed company. Keith Brady, aged 30, of Cartron Estate, Sligo, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. That plea was rejected and his trial continues before Mr Justice Alex Owens.
In the Special Criminal Court, two mobile phones were excluded from evidence in the ongoing trial of Liam Brannigan, who is charged with conspiring to murder Gary Hanley between September 15th and November 6th, 2017. Mr Brannigan has pleaded not guilty. Mr Justice Paul Coffey ruled that the phones taken from Mr Brannigan's pockets upon his arrest must be excluded due to an "irreconcilable conflict of evidence" regarding which garda searched him. The court rejected applications to exclude a third phone found in a car park and a fourth 085 phone located in church grounds. The 085 number was deemed significant by gardai based on information from three co-accused: Luke Wilson, Joseph Kelly, and Alan Wilson. These three men have already pleaded guilty to conspiring to murder Mr Hanley and were sentenced. Luke Wilson, who also admitted to unlawful possession of a Beretta handgun with intent to endanger life, was jailed for 11 years. Alan Wilson received a six-year sentence, while Joseph Kelly, who also admitted a weapons charge, was jailed for a total of 12 years. The current trial continues with surveillance evidence presented, including CCTV footage and witness testimony identifying Mr Brannigan in a vehicle and at a petrol station on the day of the alleged conspiracy.
At the Central Criminal Court, a woman has given evidence of alleged sexual assaults following a party in a County Leitrim flat in 2017. The complainant told the jury she awoke twice from unconsciousness to find herself being assaulted by two men she had previously known. She recalled hearing male voices outside the bedroom discussing how to remove her from the premises. Both defendants, now in their 20s, have pleaded not guilty to rape. The second accused additionally denies oral rape. The men maintain the sexual contact was consensual. During examination, the woman described physical force, throat pressure, and distress. She subsequently contacted her boyfriend and attended a Sexual Assault Treatment Unit for examination. The court heard she received a Snapchat message saying "soz" from the first accused. The trial before Ms Justice Eileen Creedon and a jury continues.
A witness in the Special Criminal Court has testified that the shooting of dissident republican Peter Butterly in Gormanston, County Meath on 6 March 2013 was an "IRA operation". David Cullen, now in the Witness Protection Program, gave evidence in trials of Laurence Murphy and Ray Kennedy, both charged with membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the IRA. Mr Kennedy also faces a charge of perverting the course of justice. Cullen said he was asked to dispose of a firearm immediately after the shooting and that he knew beforehand someone would be targeted, though not the victim's identity. He recovered the gun near Gormanston College and was arrested shortly after. Four men have previously received life sentences for Mr Butterly's murder, while two others received custodial sentences. During proceedings, Justice Tara Burns ruled on disclosure issues concerning Cullen's earlier statement that Mr Murphy was "never a member of the IRA", which defence counsel argued was belatedly provided. Laurence Murphy pleaded not guilty. Peter Butterly pleaded not guilty.
A 32-year-old man charged with murder at the Central Criminal Court has expressed remorse through his legal counsel. Keith Brady of Cartron Estate, Sligo, pleads not guilty to the murder of 60-year-old Martin Kivlehan on August 2nd or 3rd at New Apartments, Holborn Street, Sligo, but has admitted manslaughter. During the trial before Mr Justice Alex Owens, Brady's counsel conveyed to the deceased's brother, Christopher Kivlehan, that his client is "deeply ashamed" of the circumstances. The prosecution outlined that the musician suffered two stab wounds to the neck and was significantly intoxicated at the time of death. Evidence indicated the wounds were severe, with one severing major arteries. Friends described the deceased as a talented, well-liked gentleman and accomplished musician. The trial, involving a jury of eight men and four women, continues at the Central Criminal Court.
A judge at the Central Criminal Court has warned jurors at a murder trial not to conduct independent investigations into the case. Mr Justice Alexander Owens addressed the jury hearing the case against Keith Brady, aged 32, from Cartron Estate in Sligo, who is charged with the murder of Martin Kivlehan between 2 and 3 August 2015 at New Apartments, Holborn Street, Sligo. Brady pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, though the Director of Public Prosecutions did not accept this plea and the trial for murder will proceed. The judge cautioned jurors against using internet searches, social media platforms, or map applications to research details. He warned that non-compliance would constitute contempt of court and instructed them to avoid discussing the case outside the courtroom. Evidence was set to begin the following day, with the prosecution expected to open its case at 10.30am. The trial was anticipated to last approximately two weeks.
Ciaran McGuire, aged 21, was sentenced by Judge Martin Nolan to a fully suspended three‑year prison term for assault causing harm after he mistakenly struck Stephen McQuillan, believing McQuillan had insulted his girlfriend. McGuire's attack left McQuillan with a fractured jaw, a cut to his face, loss of three teeth and €20,000 in dental costs. The court imposed strict conditions, requiring McGuire to pay €3,000 in compensation to the prosecuting Garda and an additional €10,000 within 18 months, with the possibility of the money being transferred to charity if McQuillan declined. McGuire pleaded guilty at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, had no prior convictions, and expressed contrition, apologising for his actions. The judge noted McGuire's cooperation and the court's willingness to enforce the suspended sentence under the stated conditions.