An 83-year-old church pastor was sentenced to 12 and a half years in prison for raping and sexually abusing a child in his congregation over several years. The man was found guilty of one count of attempted rape, one count of oral rape, and three counts of sexual abuse. The victim, who was between eight and 11 years old during the abuse, described the lasting trauma she experienced, including hyper-vigilance, nightmares, and memory loss. She expressed that the church, which should have been a place of safety, became a place of fear. The defense asked the court to consider the man's age and his long history of religious work, but the judge emphasized the breach of trust and the severity of the abuse. The sentence was reduced by 18 months, which was suspended on strict conditions. The victim's statement highlighted the profound impact of the abuse on her life and her determination to reclaim her future.
Neil Elliott, a man in his sixties, was jailed for four years for raping a 16-year-old boy on a Waterford beach. Elliott met the boy through a dating app and had sexual contact with him despite the boy being under the care of the State. The boy reported the incident to gardai, and Elliott was arrested. The court heard that Elliott claimed he believed the boy was 17 and that the boy initiated contact. The victim described the incident as traumatic, leading to mental health issues. Elliott pleaded guilty and expressed remorse. The court noted the age disparity and the vulnerability of the victim. The judge imposed a sentence of five years, with the final year suspended, and ordered Elliott to engage with the Probation Service. The court acknowledged Elliott's guilty plea and lack of prior convictions.
Aaron Connolly, who was serving a life sentence for the murder of Cameron Reilly, had his conviction quashed on appeal. The Court of Appeal found that the trial judge's instructions to the jury were imbalanced and may have been perceived as advocacy for the prosecution. Mr Justice John Edwards noted that the trial judge's comments were overly emphatic and could have influenced the jury's perception. Connolly initially denied any sexual contact with Reilly but later admitted to performing oral sex on him. The trial jury heard that Reilly was bisexual and that Connolly had a history of sexual relations with others. Connolly claimed he left Reilly alive, but the prosecution argued that he was the murderer. The appeal highlighted concerns about the trial judge's comments and their potential impact on the jury. The Director of Public Prosecutions will now decide whether to seek a retrial. Aaron Connolly pleaded not guilty.
William McCarthy (38) of Carlow pleaded guilty to assaulting an Irish Rail ticket inspector and burglarizing a Carlow GAA club. The assault occurred on September 14, 2024, when McCarthy refused to show his ticket and attacked the inspector on the Waterford/Heuston line. The victim suffered injuries including a broken finger and bruising to his face and was treated in hospital. McCarthy also pleaded guilty to criminal damage and theft from the Éire Óg Clubhouse, where he had previously burgled the premises four times. The damage to the cigarette machine was estimated at €2,000, with €2,830 worth of cigarettes and vapes stolen, along with €1,520 in cash. The victim's impact statement highlighted the emotional and financial toll of the assault, including difficulties paying his mortgage and the need for counseling. McCarthy's defense argued that his actions were driven by addiction and desperation to pay off a debt. The judge remanded McCarthy in custody and adjourned sentencing until next week.
A 31-year-old man from Killeshandra, County Cavan, has received a fully suspended two-year sentence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for sexually assaulting a Ryanair cabin crew member during a flight to Dublin Airport. Aaron Brady pleaded guilty to the assault, which occurred approximately 40 minutes before landing. The court heard Brady had consumed approximately five bottles of wine before boarding and between 12 and 15 mini bottles during the flight. Judge Jonathan Dunphy imposed the suspended sentence on strict conditions, including probation service supervision, offence-focused work, addiction support engagement, and attendance at a residential alcohol treatment programme. Brady has paid €3,130 to cover the woman's out-of-pocket expenses and received a five-year ban from Ryanair, which Judge Dunphy noted should be for life. The woman resigned from her position following the incident and described experiencing severe emotional and psychological consequences in her victim impact statement.
A shoplifter who stole Louis Vuitton earrings worth €480 from Brown Thomas and later took clothes from Lifestyle Sports had her three-month jail term replaced with a suspended sentence on appeal. Sasha Staunton, 28, has 29 previous convictions, including theft and possession of stolen property. She was convicted in the District Court of two counts of theft on Grafton Street. On appeal, Judge Ronan Munro noted that Staunton had completed a four-week residential treatment and was off drugs. He suspended her sentence for two years, on the condition that she engages with the probation service and follows their instructions. Staunton's defense solicitor said she had checked herself into a facility in Louth and has been committed to her recovery. The court acknowledged her efforts to address her drug use and gave her an opportunity to avoid jail.
A 26-year-old Dublin man has been jailed for eight years for his role in a brutal assault where he and three others attacked a victim in his home, cutting off most of his right ear with scissors and inflicting severe injuries. The victim was stripped, beaten with mirrors, ornaments, and the toilet cistern, and forced into a bathtub filled with water. The defendant, who was on bail for a previous assault, pleaded guilty to both assault causing serious harm and assault causing harm. Judge Orla Crowe described the attack as 'staggering brutality' and imposed a headline sentence of 12 years, which was reduced to eight years, with 18 months suspended. The court heard that the victim's injuries were extensive, including cuts to his face, limbs, and chest, and that the defendant was a willing participant in the attack. The ringleader received a longer sentence, while the other co-accused had already been sentenced. The victim did not wish to make a victim impact statement.
A veteran construction manager who was sacked after 45 years at Murphy International Limited for using the company's resources to build his son's house has lost his claim for unfair dismissal. Dermot Murphy, who was plant operations manager since 1989, was found to have facilitated the unauthorized use of company plant, equipment, and materials for his son's house. The tribunal rejected his complaint under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, noting that the company's investigation showed he had assisted in procuring equipment and materials for his son. The court found that the dismissal was both substantively and procedurally fair. Murphy claimed it was common practice to use company resources for personal use, but the tribunal did not accept this. The company's security manager presented tracking data showing 62 deliveries to the house site and eight pieces of plant left there for 273 days. The adjudication officer concluded that Murphy had assisted in the unauthorized use of company resources.
Richard Kershaw, 37, of Ballyfermot, Dublin 12, was sentenced to four years and nine months in prison after pleading guilty to four counts of arson. Judge Martin Nolan at the Central Criminal Court noted that the damage to vehicles and losses to injured parties amounted to approximately €50,000. The judge stated that the motive was unclear and that Kershaw had no personal animus towards the victims. Although Kershaw has a long record of convictions, including 45 previous District Court convictions, he had not previously served time in custody. The judge set a headline sentence of eight years, reduced to six years due to mitigating factors such as his guilty plea, cooperation with gardaí, work history, and the fact that he lives with his mother, who is in poor health. The final 15 months of the sentence were suspended on conditions, including supervision by the Probation Service upon release. The court heard that Kershaw was highly intoxicated and allegedly using cocaine at the time of the incidents, which occurred over 20 minutes on January 12, 2025. Defence counsel submitted that the offending was linked to addiction and mental health issues, and that Kershaw has since attended residential treatment. Three other counts of criminal damage were taken into consideration. The matter was finalised with the imposition of the custodial sentence and suspended portion.
A double murderer's conviction has been upheld by the Court of Appeal, despite his claim that expert testimony lacked 'scientific validity'. Jason O'Driscoll, who was convicted of murdering Anthony Burnett and Joseph Redmond in Co Louth in 2012, had his appeal rejected. The court ruled that Andrew Wooller of Acuity Forensics was appropriately qualified to give evidence on vehicle identification. O'Driscoll's lawyers argued that Wooller's expertise lacked scientific validity and that his public tweet after the conviction showed a lack of independence. However, the court found that Wooller's evidence was necessary for the jury to interpret the CCTV footage and that the tweet did not establish a lack of independence. O'Driscoll was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2018 for the murders, which were described as 'callous' and 'brutal'. The prosecution relied on circumstantial evidence, including CCTV footage and the identification of a stolen Mercedes S Class as the getaway car.
A Polish cage fighter serving a life sentence for the 2014 murder of a 23-year-old man in Co Roscommon has brought proceedings before the Court of Appeal seeking to have his conviction declared a miscarriage of justice. Leszek Sychulec, now in his 40s and previously resident in Ballymahon, Co Longford, was convicted alongside co-accused Andrzej Gruchacz in June 2016 of murdering Patryk Krupa at Athlone. The victim drowned in the River Shannon after suffering a head injury sustained during a violent assault. A jury returned unanimous guilty verdicts following five hours of deliberation, and mandatory life sentences were imposed. An earlier appeal in 2018 upheld both convictions. At a case management hearing before Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy on 15 May, Sychulec's legal representatives submitted that a miscarriage of justice arose from undisclosed material relevant to State witnesses. The court adjourned the matter to 3 July to allow the prosecution and defence to resolve disclosure issues, with an affidavit containing new evidence to be filed by 15 June. Andrzej Gruchacz pleaded not guilty.
A Brazilian national, Gabrial Fereira Motta Valladares, is facing trial on three counts of attempted murder after allegedly slashing three men in Dublin's Stoneybatter area on February 9, 2025. The accused is also charged with assault causing harm to the same men, as well as possession of a black scissors and a Tactix box-cutter knife. The trial, which is expected to last three weeks, is scheduled to begin on November 9, 2026. The case was listed for case management on July 3, 2026. Gardaí, including unarmed officers and detectives supported by Armed Support Units, responded to the incident, and the accused was initially intercepted and detained by an unarmed plainclothes garda. The charges stem from the alleged slashing-type neck wounds sustained by the victims during the attack.
The jury in the longest-running familial abuse trial in the history of the State has found one man guilty of two counts of raping his deaf niece. The 48-year-old defendant, referred to as Accused B, was convicted of two counts of rape on two occasions between 2008 and 2014. The jury is still deliberating on two further counts against him, as well as 16 additional charges against the other five defendants. The trial, which began last October, involves six men aged between 33 and 55, who face a combined total of 20 charges, including 16 related to the main complainant, who is deaf. The abuse is alleged to have occurred over a 19-year period between 1995 and 2014. The trial has seen some charges withdrawn by the Director of Public Prosecutions, but the jury is continuing its deliberations. The court heard that the defendant admitted to gardaí that he had sex with his niece when she was in her early 20s, and the jury found him guilty of two counts of rape at her grandparents' house. The unnamed 48-year-old pleaded not guilty.
Lawyers for the University of Limerick (UL) have informed the High Court that there is no legal barrier to the university initiating a new investigation into former president Professor Kerstin Mey, who was previously alleged to have misled a Government finance committee. Prof Mey's legal team has argued that the allegation of misleading the Dáil Public Accounts Committee (PAC) cannot be revisited, as she has already been vindicated by a prior investigation and a settlement agreement has been reached. In response, UL's legal representatives stated that no absolute relief was granted to Prof Mey following the previous investigation and that the university is entitled to consider new evidence as it emerges. They also denied that the re-investigation is a pre-text for disciplinary action, insisting the university is acting in good faith. Prof Mey has applied for a High Court injunction to prevent the new investigation. She resigned as UL president in 2024 as part of the settlement agreement, following threats of disciplinary action over due diligence and adherence to policies during the purchase of a 20-house development in Rhebogue, Co Limerick. The university paid €12.5 million for the development, which was later valued at €6.5 million. Prof Mey's legal team has argued that the matter cannot be re-investigated due to the settlement agreement, while UL's legal representatives have stated that the settlement allows for the consideration of new evidence. The case is currently under review by the High Court, with the judge reserving her judgment on the matter.
An e-bike rider, Carl Tyrell, who forced a garda to restrain him on a footpath in Ballymun, had his conviction for dangerous driving downgraded to careless driving and his driving ban lifted on appeal. Tyrell was fined €300 and given a two-year disqualification for dangerous driving and no insurance. He appealed, arguing that the conviction was too severe. The garda testified that Tyrell was speeding on the footpath, forcing the officer to jump aside and restrain him. Tyrell's lawyer asked for the charge to be reduced, and Judge Ronan Munro agreed, reducing the charge to careless driving and lifting the disqualification. The judge also dismissed the no insurance charge under the Probation of Offenders Act. Tyrell was placed on a bond for three years with conditions not to ride a bike or motorbike faster than 25km/h. The judge described the incident as an outrage but acknowledged the need for Tyrell to have his licence for his job.
The jury in the longest-running familial abuse trial in the history of the State is continuing its deliberations. The six men on trial, aged between 33 and 55, face a combined total of 20 charges, 16 of which pertain to the main complainant, who is deaf. They are her three uncles and her three younger brothers. All of the men deny any wrongdoing and have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The abuse is alleged to have occurred over a 19-year period between 1995 and 2014. None of the parties can be named for legal reasons. One of these brothers (Accused C) is further charged with four counts pertaining to the sexual abuse of two younger sisters. All men have denied all of the charges against them. The trial started with seven defendants facing a combined total of 103 charges, but one of the brothers (aged 34) had all 22 charges against him withdrawn by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) towards the end of the trial.
A single mother of three, Monsurat Balogun, has secured an admission that her dismissal from the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland (RCPI) was unfair. Balogun was dismissed in March 2025 with one month's notice, citing gross misconduct, but no details were provided. She discovered her dismissal through a system error and was cut off from the company's systems. Balogun was unable to appeal internally due to the lockout and faced financial difficulties, having to pull her children out of afterschool activities. The RCPI conceded the unfairness of the dismissal, and the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) tribunal heard that the employer acknowledged the process was flawed. Balogun struggled to find work in her field and had to retrain as a healthcare assistant. The adjudication officer noted the impact of the dismissal and the employer's admission of wrongdoing. The WRC will determine compensation, with the employer not offering reinstatement.
A 39-year-old mother of three has been jailed for a year after she and her 21-year-old daughter stole six designer jackets worth €12,615 from Brown Thomas in the run up to Christmas 2024. Cathriona Joyce and her daughter Caitlin Joyce of St Brigid's Lawn, Porterstown in Dublin pleaded guilty to the theft in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Garda Shane Quinn explained that CCTV footage showed the two women acting suspiciously on the day the jackets went missing. Three females and two males entered the store, loitered, and were surveilled. The females hid the jackets under their own clothing, while the males carried them out. Searches of the Joyce women's homes found three of the jackets, with one discovered under a Christmas tree in Cathriona Joyce's caravan and two in her daughter's caravan. Four days later, Cathriona Joyce handed over three more Moncler jackets in a black plastic bag. She had previously received suspended sentences for similar convictions.
A former missionary nun, Sister Julie Doran, has told a court that she no longer feels safe in her own home after an on-bail criminal with 346 previous convictions broke into her retirement community. Keith Delaney (41) pleaded guilty to multiple counts of theft, criminal damage, and burglary in Dublin between December 2024 and September 2025. Delaney, who has 346 previous convictions, including 142 theft and 50 criminal damage charges, was identified through CCTV footage and admitted to stealing items, including guitars and a phone, which he sold to fund his drug addiction. The court heard of multiple incidents, including breaking into a hotel room, stealing a laptop and tablet from a hotel, and entering a nursing home where he was seen in residents' bedrooms. Delaney was apprehended after several incidents, including one at a house where retired nuns reside. Sister Doran expressed her distress, stating that she no longer feels safe and has ongoing anxiety. Delaney is currently serving a nine-month sentence and is seeking rehabilitation. The court will consider a probation report before sentencing.
Paul Kelly, 47, of Killarney, Co Kerry, was convicted at a trial in November 2024 of 12 sample counts of sexual assault, two counts of oral rape, and 12 counts of anal rape of his younger brother, Anthony Kelly. The abuse occurred between 1995 and 1999 when Anthony was aged 10 to 14. Kelly, who was 16 to 20 during the offences, denied all charges but was found guilty. He was sentenced to seven and a half years' imprisonment by Ms Justice Melanie Greally. In a subsequent appeal against conviction, counsel for Kelly argued that evidence of the complainant's statement to a witness in the "present perfect continuous tense" was unfairly admitted, as it implied ongoing abuse seven years after it ended. The State's counsel rejected this as an "academic exercise on phraseology," noting the witness had also used the past tense. The appeal court, presided over by Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, reserved its judgment to a later date. Anthony Kelly waived his anonymity to allow his brother to be named, stating the abuse caused lifelong trauma, including suicidal thoughts and self-harm.
The High Court heard arguments regarding an application by former University of Limerick (UL) president Professor Kerstin Mey for an injunction to prevent a new investigation into an allegation that she misled the Dáil Public Accounts Committee (PAC). Counsel Marcus Dowling SC, appearing with Christopher McMahon BL, argued before Ms Justice Marguerite Bolger that the matter cannot be revisited because Prof Mey was previously vindicated by a Special Disclosures Group investigation and the parties reached a settlement. This settlement, agreed in 2024, included her resignation from the presidency and a clause warranting no disciplinary action. The proposed re-investigation, initiated in May 2025, concerns alleged conflicting accounts regarding the non-attendance of UL's chief corporate officer, Andrew Flaherty, at a May 2023 PAC meeting. Prof Mey's affidavit states the initial investigation found no wrongdoing on her part. Counsel submitted that UL has no legal obligation to re-open settled matters and that the settlement was final. The hearing was adjourned to allow UL's counsel, Brian Kennedy SC, to address the court.
In an attempted‑murder trial at the Central Criminal Court, Patrick Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42) are charged with trying to kill Anthony McDonagh (40) and Michael McDonagh (46) at an unofficial halting site in Co Offaly on 21 March 2025. Dr Chloe Doran testified that Anthony had innumerable shotgun pellet wounds to the chest, heart, lungs and major vessels, with a CT scan showing pellets in the heart, jugular vein, aorta and collapsed lungs. Michael also suffered numerous pellets in the torso, neck and chest, with a CT scan revealing pellets in the heart, neck and large arteries. Both men were treated by multiple doctors and nursing staff, monitored in intensive care, and were described as "very lucky" not to suffer serious complications or death. The accused pleaded not guilty to all charges, including possession of firearms and violent disorder.
A McDonalds security guard, Alfred Edward, denied calling a customer, Paul Cronin, a 'queer' during an incident last year, while Cronin accused Edward of calling him a 'black monkey' before ejecting him from the premises. The dispute was heard at a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) hearing under the Equal Status Act 2000. Cronin, who identifies as gay, claimed he was removed from the restaurant on 24 January 2025 due to prejudice and bias. Edward denied using any discriminatory language and stated he had no knowledge of Cronin's sexuality. Cronin described the encounter, saying Edward was aggressive and refused to discuss the situation with him. He alleged that Edward grabbed his phone and physically pushed him out the door, causing him to fall. Cronin later emailed McDonalds Ireland but did not mention the alleged slur, citing embarrassment. He sought €500 in compensation, claiming he was assaulted and injured. Edward, who has lived in Ireland for three years, stated he was from Germany and had no awareness of Cronin's sexuality.
A chef has been jailed for three years after playing a key role in the delivery of cannabis valued at nearly €250,000, concealed in food boxes. Andres Pozo (25) of Rehoboth Place, Dublin 8, pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis and cannabis resin for sale or supply, as well as handling the proceeds of crime. Judge Martina Baxter noted the premeditated nature of the crime, the use of an innocent address and a false name, and the significant harm caused by drug trafficking. She acknowledged Pozo's early guilty plea, cooperation with the investigation, and positive behavior in custody, but emphasized the seriousness of the offense. The court imposed a headline sentence of seven and a half years, reduced to four and a half years with the final 18 months suspended on strict conditions, including a requirement to leave the country upon release. The operation involved a joint effort between gardaí and Revenue, with a controlled delivery leading to Pozo's arrest. The cannabis was hidden in a food pallet and later analyzed to be worth over €246,000.
Lee Coleman, 38, of Tyrellstown, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbery committed on August 23, 2020. The court heard that Coleman, who had arranged a meeting with a sex worker, demanded the return of €70 and took her phone, placing her in fear. He subsequently returned to the property, where he smashed windows and kicked the door. Coleman was later found severely beaten and bundled into a car, an incident initially reported as a possible abduction. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged the frightening nature of the robbery but noted Coleman has not come to Garda attention since 2018 and appears to be getting his life back on track. She set a headline sentence of three years before imposing a two-year sentence. This term was suspended in full on the condition that Coleman keep the peace and be of good behaviour for three years. The judge described this as a final chance, holding the suspended sentence over him as a penalty. Coleman has 15 previous convictions, including for assault and theft. Defence counsel highlighted his subsequent sobriety and business setup, while the prosecution noted the victim's phone and money were never recovered.
The jury in one of the longest-running trials in the history of the State has retired to consider its verdicts following seven months of evidence in which it was alleged that six men sexually abused three members of their own family. Ms Justice Caroline Biggs told the remaining 12 jurors that they could take as much time as they need in their deliberations. The 13th remaining juror was discharged today as per the law following a random draw. Two jurors were previously discharged for personal reasons during the course of the trial at the Central Criminal Court. The enlarged panel was sworn due to concerns that not all jurors would be able to see the matter through to the end. The six men on trial, aged between 33 and 55, face a combined total of 20 charges – 16 of which pertain to the main complainant, who is deaf. They are her three uncles and her three younger brothers. The abuse is alleged to have occurred over a 19-year period between 1995 and 2014.
Paul Morris was sentenced to four years in prison for sexually exploiting a vulnerable teenager between 2009 and 2010. The victim, now 31, testified that he reported the abuse to social services when he was 17 but received no action. He described Morris as 'pure evil' and spoke of the lasting impact on his life, including strained relationships with his daughters. Morris had previously been jailed for eight years in 2022 for similar offenses. The court heard that Morris manipulated the victim, isolating him from his family and providing him with drugs and money. Judge Orla Crowe emphasized the violation of the child's innocence and the predatory nature of Morris's actions, with the sentence to be served consecutively to his existing prison term. Paul Morris pleaded guilty and was convicted.
Aaron McCarthy, a 33-year-old appellant, appeared before the District Court Appeals Court to challenge the severity of his five-month imprisonment sentence. He was previously convicted in the District Court of obstructing a peace officer under section 19 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994. Garda Brian Kelly testified that on October 6, 2024, McCarthy refused to leave a Dublin 7 dwelling after being arrested, requiring six gardai to subdue him. Kelly noted McCarthy's history of 96 previous convictions, including criminal damage and assault. Defence counsel Seosaimhín Ní Chathasaigh BL argued that McCarthy accepts responsibility, is remorseful, and suffers from an acquired brain injury affecting emotional control. She stated he is now substance-free and willing to attend anger management courses. Judge Ronan Munro indicated he required further information before considering suspending the sentence, warning that non-compliance with conditions would render suspension pointless. Consequently, the matter was adjourned until October to allow for the preparation of a probation report. The court did not conclude the appeal at this stage, leaving the original five-month sentence in effect pending the report.
A barman, Sean Murphy, has been awarded €10,000 in compensation after a ruling by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) found that a remark made by his boss, Barry Hennessy, violated his dignity at work. The incident occurred during a busy shift in February 2025 at the Hunted Hog bar in Castlemartyr, Co Cork, when Mr Hennessy reportedly told a customer, "Ah never mind him, he doesn't be with it half the time." Mr Murphy, who has diabetes, described the comment as "humiliating" and damaging to his dignity. He had been working for over five hours without a break, and the remark was made openly in the restaurant. Mr Murphy claimed that the working conditions at the bar were unsuitable for his health and that the comment, along with the broader working environment, amounted to discrimination on age and disability grounds. Mr Hennessy denied that the remark was intended to belittle Mr Murphy, stating it was made in a "jovial, lighter manner" to manage customer expectations.
Two men who were high on laughing gas and randomly attacked a woman have been told by a judge that some crimes cannot be walked away from. The attack occurred on Seamus Ennis Road, Finglas, where the woman was pushed to the ground and assaulted. The victim suffered injuries and had her phone stolen. CCTV footage captured the attackers, identified as Craig Mains (28) and Shane Daly (27). Both pleaded guilty to assault and related charges. Judge Ronan Munro described the attack as savage and an outrage. Mains received a three-year sentence with the final 18 months suspended, while Daly received a three-month suspended sentence. Both were placed under probation supervision. The victim was commended for her resilience. The defendants expressed remorse and offered financial compensation. Mains has a history of drug use and is in treatment, while Daly is drug-free and has no recent convictions.
A pizza chef, Syed Saeed Akhtar, who was dismissed after allegedly making inappropriate comments to young girls and sending "creepy" texts to a 16-year-old customer, has lost his challenge against the dismissal. The Workplace Relations Commission heard that Akhtar made "creepy" remarks to girls as young as 12, calling them "little princesses" and making lewd gestures. He was given a verbal warning by the shop owner, Jin Hintao, after these incidents. However, the following month, it was discovered that Akhtar had used the company's customer database to send inappropriate texts to a 16-year-old girl, including a message asking, "What u have plan for weekend?" The girl's mother confronted Akhtar, who claimed he had intended to send the message to an adult woman and called it a "total mistake." Akhtar admitted to sending the text but denied the verbal warning. The adjudicator, Lefre de Burgh, ruled that the dismissal was both procedurally and substantively fair, stating that texting the 16-year-old girl was "gross misconduct" justifying summary dismissal.
A grieving Garda sergeant, Sgt Laura Gaffey, has submitted a judicial review application to the High Court, alleging bullying and discrimination within An Garda Síochána following the death of her son. She claims that a superior officer made a discriminatory comment, stating, "I suppose you thought you would get a consolation prize for losing your son," after she applied for a new position following her child's death. Sgt Gaffey, who has 18 years of experience, alleges ongoing bullying by a supervising inspector since 2018, including criticism for taking maternity leave. She further claims that her complaints led to a data breach, with sensitive personal information being shared without her consent. Sgt Gaffey also alleges that she was intentionally undermined in her role, not provided with necessary equipment, and faced hostile treatment from another superior officer. Although an internal panel cleared the officer of bullying, Sgt Gaffey claims the process involved a breach of her privacy, including references to her mental health and the death of her son.
A thief who broke into a car and was found with a stolen bike had his nine-month jail sentence fully suspended on appeal. Stephen Carlisle (41) is currently serving another sentence and plans to enter residential drug rehabilitation upon release. Judge Ronan Munro noted that Carlisle is a menace when under the influence of drugs but a decent person otherwise. Carlisle was convicted in the District Court for possessing a stolen bicycle and faced additional charges. He appealed the severity of his sentence. Sergeant Stephen Walsh provided details of Carlisle's previous incidents, including attempts to steal a bike and rummage through a car. Carlisle had 49 previous convictions. His defence counsel, Lydia Daly BL, stated that Carlisle is now off methadone and aims to enter residential treatment. Judge Munro suspended the sentence for two years, requiring Carlisle to comply with the High Park Residential Rehabilitation Programme.
A man who led gardai on a high-speed chase across Dublin and County Meath has been jailed for five years. Dziugas Odinas (25) was driving dangerously, including on the wrong side of the road and through traffic. The chase involved 12 patrol cars and an air support helicopter. Odinas was later found with drugs and a knife. He pleaded guilty to possession for sale or supply of drugs and dangerous driving. His previous convictions include road traffic offences. Judge Sarah Berkeley acknowledged his drug addiction and noted his efforts to turn his life around. She imposed concurrent sentences of five years, suspending the final 12 months on condition he engages with the Probation Service. He was also disqualified from driving for five years.
A 'high level' drugs offender has been jailed for seven and a half years after being caught with cannabis and cocaine twice within six months. Cillian Nolan (29) was found with €119,000 worth of cannabis and €7,774 worth of cocaine during a search of an apartment. He also had €4,125 in cash and drug paraphernalia. Nolan pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of drugs and possession of criminal proceeds. His previous convictions include drug dealing and harassment. Judge Orla Crowe noted that Nolan was working at a higher level and imposed a nine-year sentence, suspending the final 18 months on condition he engages with the Probation Service. He was also backdated to October 2, 2025, when he went into custody.
A former accountant pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to theft and deception offences committed over six weeks in early 2025. Michelle Dillon, aged 59 and homeless, stole a bank card and medical card from an elderly patient at a Dublin hospital on 20 February. She subsequently travelled to Cork, Clare, Meath, Westmeath and Wicklow, presenting herself as the legitimate account holder at various banks to withdraw approximately €8,000 in cash. She also made contactless payments totalling €133. Withdrawals occurred in Cork city, Bray, Dublin city centre, Navan, Athlone and Ennis. When presenting at an AIB branch in Navan on 4 March, a warning mark was active on the account, yet she convinced staff she was the genuine holder. She was arrested in October 2025 at Cavan General Hospital after presenting under a false name. The victim's bank refunded all monies. Judge Elma Sheahan described the initial theft as despicable and the subsequent deceptions as planned, premeditated and brazen.
Lawyers for the State defended the use of social media photos showing the Bray Boxing Club shooter holding a gun as evidence in his trial. Gerard Cervi was found guilty of murdering Robert Bobby' Messett and was sentenced to life imprisonment. His appeal argued that Facebook photos and CCTV footage should not have been shown to the jury. The State's counsel, Paul Murray SC, defended the admissibility of the photos, stating they showed Cervi's familiarity with guns. He also addressed concerns about the CCTV footage, noting that the judge gave clear directions to the jury. Cervi's counsel argued that the jury should have been given more warnings about identifying him from the footage. The court reserved judgment on the appeal. Gerard Cervi pleaded not guilty.
A roads offender, Charlene Lawlor, tested positive for cannabis when she knocked down a three-year-old girl on a pedestrian crossing in Dublin 12, leaving the child with a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain. Lawlor initially blamed the child's mother for not keeping her daughter back on the scooter, but later expressed regret for her victim-blaming comments and acknowledged her culpability. The incident occurred on June 21, 2022, when Lawlor, driving at a speed exceeding the 30 km/h limit in effect due to nearby schools, collided with the child. The girl required emergency treatment and ongoing medical care, including regular MRIs and injections. Lawlor, who has eight previous road traffic convictions, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious bodily harm and drug driving. Judge Martina Baxter ordered a urine analysis report and noted that Lawlor should pay for it herself. The court also heard that Lawlor had a difficult childhood and currently has stable housing. The case was adjourned for finalisation on October 20.
A random garda stop in Dublin city centre led to the discovery of €375,400 in cannabis and cocaine. The driver, Patryk Czajczynski (32), was not on the garda radar but raised suspicion due to nervous behavior. During the search of his vehicle, gardai found €6,500 of cannabis. A follow-up search of his address in Ratoath, Co Meath, uncovered small amounts of cannabis, cocaine, and amphetamines, along with a key to a storage locker in Finglas. The locker contained 13.9kg of cannabis and 1kg of cocaine. Further searches, including one at a property in Dublin 11, led to the seizure of an additional €4,000 in cannabis. Czajczynski was re-arrested but no evidence was obtained during the interview. He has previous convictions for road traffic offences and obstruction. His defense argued that he was not the owner of the drugs but was transporting them for payment. The court heard that Czajczynski had a serious spinal injury from an accident in 2018 and used cannabis for self-medication.
A garda detective testified that 3D-printed guns are becoming more prevalent in Ireland. Craig McKeever (21) pleaded guilty to possessing a 3D-printed .22 calibre pistol and three rounds of ammunition. The gun, made of polymer, is small, easy to conceal, and not detected by metal detectors. During a patrol in Inchicore, gardai found McKeever with a bulletproof vest and a 3D-printed gun. The gun was found to be functional and lethal. McKeever claimed he was carrying the gun for protection after receiving threats against his life. He has 14 previous convictions, including theft, drugs, and road traffic offences. His defense argued that he was in a dangerous situation due to threats from a third party. The court heard that McKeever's family had received notices of threats, and his home was firebombed. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the seriousness of the offense and sentenced McKeever to four years and six months, with the final six months suspended on strict conditions.
A data analyst and gambling addict who submitted fake claims to VHI, resulting in the insurance company paying him €40,770 over nine months, has received a fully suspended two-year sentence. Daragh Kennedy (33) falsified receipts and claimed he had attended medical consultations that did not occur. When VHI investigated, the medical professionals involved confirmed that Kennedy had not attended as claimed. He immediately admitted to the fraud and explained that he had a gambling addiction, having gambled away the money. His insurance policy was cancelled, and he began a repayment plan. Kennedy cooperated with gardaí and admitted to the fraud, stating he has struggled with gambling since the age of 21. He has a third-level degree and has worked as a data analyst. He has repaid €17,400 to date and is making monthly payments. He has the support of his partner, parents, and has received help from gambling addiction services. Testimonials were submitted to court, and he has not gambled for over a year. Daragh Kennedy pleaded guilty.
The trial of Patrick Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42) continues at the Central Criminal Court, where both men have pleaded not guilty to all charges. They are accused of attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh (40) and Michael McDonagh (46), respectively, at an unofficial halting site in Kilcruttin, Co Offaly, on March 21, 2025. Both accused also face charges of possession of firearms and violent disorder. During testimony, Michael McDonagh stated he was 100 percent certain that John Pio Ward shot him in the chest with a shotgun-type gun. He described seeing a crowd of 12 to 15 men approaching the site before the incident. Under cross-examination, the defence challenged his certainty, noting he did not initially identify the shooter to gardai that night, though McDonagh denied lying to the jury. The trial is ongoing before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of 12, with proceedings scheduled to continue tomorrow.
A former Google employee, Eyob Van Haute, failed in his equality claim against the company, alleging racial discrimination in performance management processes. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) rejected his complaint under the Employment Equality Act 1998, stating he failed to provide sufficient evidence of discrimination. Van Haute claimed he was placed on performance improvement plans despite scoring higher than a colleague who was not subjected to the same process. He argued that the company's performance management was inconsistent and that other black employees were treated similarly. The adjudicator found no evidence of discrimination and ruled in favor of Google. Van Haute's lawyer argued that the company selectively used context to explain weaker performance. The WRC concluded that Van Haute had not established a prima facie case of discrimination.
A senior Aer Lingus executive, Adrian Dunne, denied giving false evidence at an employment tribunal and rejected the claim by a sacked pilot's lawyer that he is a "bare-faced liar." The tribunal is hearing complaints by former A320 captain Tom O'Riordan, who claims he was penalized for making protected disclosures about alleged toxic fumes on an aircraft. O'Riordan alleges he was poisoned by fumes and suffered brain damage, ending his flying career. His complaints under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 and other legislation are denied by Aer Lingus. O'Riordan was terminated for breaching the airline's social media policy. His lawyer, David Byrnes BL, accused Dunne of providing false evidence about the airline's reporting obligations. Dunne denied the allegations, stating that the pilot was responsible for ensuring an air safety report was filed. The tribunal is continuing with further legal exchanges and is due to continue later this month.
Joe Malone, a criminal with approximately 160 previous convictions, failed in his appeal to overturn his conviction for trespassing outside a Dublin home. Malone claimed he was praying outside a church at 2am and looking for his dog when he was arrested. He was convicted of trespassing and handling stolen property, receiving ten months imprisonment for trespassing and ten months consecutive for handling stolen property. Malone's defense argued that the incident did not meet the level of fear required under the law, but the court rejected this, noting the severity of the incident. Malone denied trespassing and claimed mistaken identity, but the judge found his evidence unconvincing. The injured party expressed feeling unsafe in her home. The court imposed a jail sentence of eight months for handling stolen goods and 12 months for trespassing, with conditions to stay away from the injured parties and attend rehabilitation programs.
A 38-year-old man, Gerard Cervi, who was convicted of murdering Robert Bobby' Messett at Bray Boxing Club in 2018, is appealing his conviction. His barrister, John Fitzgerald SC, argues that the trial judge made errors in admitting Facebook photos showing Cervi holding a firearm, as they were irrelevant and prejudicial. He also claims that the jury should have received stronger warnings about identifying Cervi from CCTV footage. Additionally, Fitzgerald contends that surveillance photos of Cervi in his garden and evidence from the Volkswagen Caddy van were improperly admitted. Cervi was found guilty of Messett's murder but acquitted of attempting to murder Pete Taylor and Ian Britton. The appeal hearing continues, with the State's legal team to respond to Fitzgerald's submissions. The trial judge admitted the Facebook photos based on the stance Cervi adopted, which mirrored that described by Pete Taylor. Cervi was sentenced to life imprisonment in December 2023. The unnamed 38-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A 51-year-old man from Baldoyle, Stephen Comiskey, was jailed for two years and four months after being found in possession of 101 files of child sexual abuse material. He had been engaging in explicit conversations with minors over a social media app, and gardaí discovered that he had communicated with several juveniles under the age of 18. Comiskey admitted to the court that he had been conversing with these children and apologized for his actions. He claimed he had no intention of meeting them but acknowledged that children had been abused to create the images found on his devices. The court heard that Comiskey had been attending counseling since November 2024 and is on medication for depression and anxiety. His defense highlighted his difficult childhood and struggles with his sexuality, but the judge emphasized the severity of the offense and the need for protection of children. The sentence was imposed after the court determined that the threshold for custody had been exceeded. Stephen Comiskey pleaded guilty.
Philip Dignam, a 41-year-old man from Wicklow, was jailed for seven years after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a sleeping woman and recording the incidents. He had previously received a suspended sentence for possessing child abuse material. The victim, Kathleen Morris, discovered the videos in 2022 when her former partner used her phone. Dignam claimed the woman had consented to the acts as part of a role-play, but the court found that the assaults occurred while she was asleep or unconscious. Justice Burns noted that Dignam had committed the offenses for his own sexual gratification and had breached the trust of his partner. The judge imposed a sentence of eight years, with the final year suspended on strict conditions. The victim waived her anonymity to encourage others to come forward, and Dignam expressed remorse for his actions.
Patrick Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42), both of Kilcruttin, Tullamore, Co Offaly, are on trial at the Central Criminal Court, charged with attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh (40) and Michael McDonagh, respectively, at an unofficial halting site on March 21, 2025. Both accused have pleaded not guilty to all charges, which also include possession of firearms and violent disorder. The trial is ongoing before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of seven men and five women. During testimony, Anthony McDonagh stated he was "100% sure" Patrick Ward was the shooter, describing how Ward pointed a gun at him from a distance of up to three feet. McDonagh suffered a chest wound, a broken nose, and embedded pellets. He denied cross-examination suggestions that he was mistaken or had a motive to implicate Ward, asserting his identification was correct. Defense counsel for John Pio Ward questioned whether the shooter could have seen the victim, but McDonagh maintained his view was unobstructed. The matter was adjourned and continues tomorrow.
A man who sexually abused a teenager over 20 years ago was sentenced to 38 months in prison, with the final four months suspended. The victim, who was 16 at the time, spoke out during the sentencing, saying that the abuse had stolen his childhood and left him with lasting trauma. He described the abuse as a secret he carried for years, leading to isolation, drug use, and a damaged relationship with his mother. The court heard that the abuse occurred over a year and involved mutual touching and oral rape. The accused, who had a previous conviction for sexual assault, was convicted on ten counts of gross indecency. The judge noted the prolonged nature of the offense and imposed consecutive sentences. The victim expressed gratitude to those who supported him and said he now feels seen and heard for the first time. The unnamed 62-year-old pleaded not guilty.