A Dublin man pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court to possessing a 9mm Beretta handgun and silencer following an armed garda operation in September 2017. Andrew O'Keeffe, aged 29, from Drumcliff Road, Cabra West, Dublin 7, was arrested after gardai responded to intelligence regarding a firearm at Ballyfermot. During the incident, officers pursued a white van which fled at speed towards Inchicore. The vehicle came to a stop at bollards on Kylemore Way, and as O'Keeffe and another man ran towards a parked jeep, a garda officer discharged his firearm seven times when the jeep was driven towards gardai. O'Keeffe was detained and the weapon, containing nine rounds, was recovered from a plastic bag discarded during the pursuit. His fingerprints and DNA were found on items connected to the incident. The court heard O'Keeffe has seventy-one previous convictions and a long-standing cocaine addiction. His barrister highlighted his early guilty plea and lengthy period in custody. The three-judge panel remanded him in custody pending sentencing on 31 July.
In the Special Criminal Court, the prosecution closed its case in the trial of three Dubliners accused of murdering 36‑year‑old Gareth Hutch. The court also ruled that mobile phone records could be admitted as evidence. Hutch was shot dead on 24 May 2016 outside Avondale House flats on North Cumberland Street, suffering four gunshot wounds. The prosecution alleged that Jonathan Keogh (32) threatened Hutch the evening before the shooting, that Thomas Fox (31) and Regina Keogh (41) planned the murder, and that Keogh and another man, "Mr AB", were the shooters. Fox, Keogh and the unnamed man pleaded not guilty. The court heard that the State sought to use mobile phone data linked to the accused, while defence lawyers argued it breached privacy rights. The trial will resume with closing speeches from both sides.
The prosecution is close to closing its case in the Special Criminal Court trial of three Dubliners accused of murdering 36‑year‑old Gareth Hutch, nephew of Gerry "the monk" Hutch, who was shot dead on 24 May 2016 outside Avondale House flats on North Cumberland Street. The prosecution alleges that Jonathan Keogh (32) threatened to kill Hutch the evening before the shooting, that Thomas Fox (31) and Regina Keogh (41) were instrumental in planning the murder, and that Keogh and another man, Mr AB, were the shooters. Fox, Keogh and Ms Keogh have pleaded not guilty. The court has heard CCTV footage from Belfast, evidence that Keogh travelled to Belfast after the killing, and mobile‑phone records that the State seeks to admit. Defence lawyers argue the mobile‑phone evidence breaches privacy rights. The trial continues before Judges Tony Hunt, Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh.
A man arrested in Spain following his failure to appear at trial has pleaded guilty to murdering dissident republican Peter Butterly at the Special Criminal Court. Dean Evans, aged 27 and from Dublin, admitted to the charge of murdering Mr Butterly, who was shot dead outside The Huntsman Inn, Gormanstown, County Meath on 6 March 2013. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy remanded Evans in custody pending sentencing on 31 July, when he will receive a mandatory life sentence. Evans is the third person to receive a life sentence for the killing, following the conviction last year of Edward McGrath and Sharif Kelly. Three other men remain scheduled to stand trial later this year on the same charge, including a man with an address in Cavan. Evans had absconded before his trial was due to commence in January 2017, prompting a European Arrest Warrant. He was apprehended in Spain in April and subsequently surrendered to Irish authorities.
The Special Criminal Court heard a voir dire regarding the admissibility of mobile phone data in the trial of Thomas Fox, Jonathan Keogh, and Regina Keogh, who are accused of murdering Gareth Hutch. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge; Mr Fox has additionally pleaded not guilty to unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9 mm handgun. Defence counsel argued that the retention and unrestricted access to call data records breached EU privacy laws and should be excluded. Prosecution counsel Paul Burns SC countered that privacy is not an absolute right and that the Gardaí's access was proportionate, necessary, and justified under a balancing exercise. The State seeks to admit records showing phones "pinged" off masts at relevant times, alleging Mr Keogh threatened the victim, while Mr Fox and Ms Keogh planned the killing. The prosecution described the act as premeditated. The court, presided over by Mr Justice Tony Hunt with Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh, will rule on the admissibility of this evidence at a later date. The trial continues.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 19 July 2018, Jonathan Hawthorn, 45, of Ballintyre Downs, Ballinteer, pleaded not guilty to a charge of membership in the Irish Republican Army (IRA). He was accused of being part of a plot to purchase weapons on the dark web, including a grenade, handgun, ammunition and Semtex, and of arranging a mock delivery to Dolphin House in Dolphin's Barn. An undercover FBI agent had alerted Gardaí after an online user requested the shipment, and Gardaí observed Hawthorn sign for the delivery using the name of James Geraghty. During Garda interviews on 14 September 2016, Hawthorn answered all questions with "no comment," refusing to confirm or deny his alleged IRA involvement or participation in the operation. The case was heard by a three‑judge panel led by Justice Isobel Kennedy, with Judges Gerard Griffin and Gerard Haughton presiding.
In the Special Criminal Court trial of Jonathan Keogh, accused of murdering Gareth Hutch, the three‑judge panel ruled that the Gardaí's extensive "trawl" of CCTV footage was proportionate and did not violate Keogh's constitutional right to privacy. Judge Tony Hunt, presiding, found that the footage, which documented Keogh's movements in the days before the shooting, was admissible. The defence argued that the mass capture of images was disproportionate, but the court rejected this, stating that the State had a legitimate interest in investigating crime at Avondale House and that the evidence was gathered in a structured, focused manner. The ruling affirmed that the right to privacy is not absolute and that the State's interest in preventing crime outweighed any intrusion. The trial continues with the prosecution presenting evidence that Keogh threatened Hutch, that Fox and Regina Keogh were involved in planning, and that Keogh and another man, Mr AB, were the shooters. Regina Keogh pleaded not guilty.
During a Special Criminal Court hearing, the trial of three men accused of IRA membership was delayed because an FBI agent could not locate a bible to swear on. The agent, who was to testify via video link from a U.S. federal courthouse, had been told 30 minutes earlier that a bible was required and failed to find one. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy noted that a Christian witness must swear, not merely affirm. The court adjourned for 15 minutes, during which the agent located the holy book. The case involves Jonathan Hawthorn (45), James Geraghty (61), and Donal O'Ceallaigh (33), all pleading not guilty to IRA membership. The FBI agent, who works covertly and uses aliases on the dark web, provided evidence about weapons transactions on AlphaBay, including a grenade, handgun, and ammunition intended for a "Mr Geraghty" at Dolphin House.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the ongoing trial of Thomas Fox, Jonathan Keogh, and Regina Keogh, who have all pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Gareth Hutch. The prosecution alleges the killing was premeditated, with Mr. Keogh and an uncharged man, Mr. AB, acting as shooters, while Mr. Fox and Ms. Keogh are accused of planning the crime. Evidence presented includes a text message sent from a UK number to a phone associated with Mr. Fox hours after the shooting, stating, "your scot free pal" and "there all poxy blaming me." Senior crime analyst Paul Hibbitts confirmed that this UK number also contacted Denise King, Mr. Keogh's former partner, and Ms. Keogh. The court previously viewed CCTV footage of Mr. Keogh in Belfast on the night of the shooting and at the Stenaline Port Terminal the following day. Testimony indicated that Ms. Keogh arranged for money to be brought to Mr. Keogh before he traveled to Scotland. Additionally, analysis of SIM cards found in a car linked to Mr. Keogh revealed significant interaction with numbers associated with Mr. Fox and Mr. AB on the morning of the incident. The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt, sitting with Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh.
A trial date has been set for Nathan Foley, an 18‑year‑old from Rosary Road, Dublin, at the Special Criminal Court. Foley is accused of murdering 55‑year‑old David Douglas on Bridgefoot Street on 1 July 2016 and of damaging a car on Strand Road on 4 July 2016. The prosecution, led by Tony McGillicuddy, noted that Foley's defence had raised a fitness‑for‑trial issue and that a consultant psychiatrist had been requested but the accused has reportedly obstructed the process. Paul Greene, Foley's solicitor, expressed concern that the professional witness had not been properly facilitated and that Foley was anxious for the case to proceed. Judge Tony Hunt, with Judges Patrician Ryan and Michael Walsh, set the trial for 5 December 2016, expecting it to last up to three weeks, and remanded Foley in custody. The case was listed for mention again on 31 July.
Two Dublin men, Gary Gleeson (34) and Stephen Dunne (39), who were contracted by senior figures in an organised crime group to murder Michael Frazer, will be sentenced at the Special Criminal Court. They pleaded guilty in May to possession of a 9mm Luger pistol and 10 rounds of ammunition with intent to endanger life, offences committed on Naas Road, Crumlin on 7 August 2017. The court heard that the men were intercepted by Garda detectives in a Fiat Doblo that contained a loaded firearm, a can of petrol, a lighter, rubber gloves and a small amount of cocaine. The men had previously been charged with conspiracy to murder Frazer between 28 July and 7 August. Defence counsel highlighted the defendants' personal circumstances, including addiction and mental health issues, and pleaded for leniency. The court remanded both men in custody until 30 July when they will be sentenced.
A Dublin man, Donal O'Ceallaigh, 33, was arrested at the crowded entrance of St James' Hospital by armed gardai, some with weapons drawn, during a Special Criminal Court hearing. O'Ceallaigh, along with Jonathan Hawthorn, 45, and James Geraghty, 61, pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation styled the Irish Republican Army. The court heard that the arrest followed a tip from an FBI agent who had monitored Darknet activity and received a message from a user named 'Meat Cleaver' seeking Semtex. A mock‑explosive package was sent to Geraghty's Dolphin House address, delivered by a garda disguised as a DHL driver. Hawthorn signed for the package in Geraghty's name. Detective Sergeant Padraig Boyce testified that he detained O'Ceallaigh at 11.32 am under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act, noting that firearms were drawn and a large crowd was present. The trial continues before Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy and Judges Gerard Griffin and Gerard Haughton.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 10 July 2018, lawyers for 32‑year‑old Jonathan Keogh argued that the extensive CCTV footage of Dublin's north inner city infringed his privacy rights. Sean Guerin SC contended that the footage, covering private interactions in a public area, was obtained without qualification and breached the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and the Data Protection Act. Prosecutor Paul Burns SC countered that no constitutional privacy right was violated and that the evidence was necessary to prosecute the alleged murder of Gareth Hutch. The court was to decide the admissibility of the footage. The case involved Keogh, Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh and another accused, all pleading not guilty to Hutch's murder, which the prosecution described as pre‑meditated and brutal. The trial was scheduled to continue the following day.
The Special Criminal Court has heard forensic evidence in the ongoing trial of Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh, who have all pleaded not guilty to the murder of Gareth Hutch. The defendants are accused of premeditated murder, with the prosecution alleging that Jonathan Keogh and an accomplice, identified as Mr AB, were the shooters, while Fox and Regina Keogh planned the attack. Forensic scientist Dr Edward Connolly testified that DNA matching Jonathan Keogh's profile was found on a balaclava, neck warmer, and baseball cap recovered from a BMW at the scene. Keogh's DNA was also detected on latex gloves taken from the dressing gown of protected witness Mary McDonnell. The State alleges Regina Keogh provided these gloves to McDonnell the night before the shooting. Additionally, a mixed DNA profile from a petrol can in the car included a match for Thomas Fox. Fox also faces a charge of unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9mm handgun, which he denies. McDonnell, who was granted immunity after a charge of withholding information was dropped, identified Keogh in CCTV footage. The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt and two other judges.
In the Special Criminal Court trial of Jonathan Keogh for the murder of Gareth Hutch, Mr Justice Tony Hunt ruled that ear plugs seized from Keogh on a military aircraft were admissible DNA evidence. The judge said the ear plugs were optional, not compulsory, and lawfully seized, enhancing comfort rather than being essential to life. He also accepted DNA samples, a mouth swab and fingerprints taken from Keogh after a later arrest for another offence, as admissible, stating the taking was lawful and justified. Keogh, aged 32, was extradited from RAF Northolt to Casement Aerodrome on 23 August 2017, where the ear plugs were collected by Gardaí. The trial continues with Mr Justice Hunt presiding alongside Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh. The case involves Keogh, Regina Keogh, Thomas Fox and Mr AB, all charged with Hutch's murder. The prosecution maintains the killing was pre‑planned and brutal. The court has not yet delivered a verdict. Regina Keogh pleaded not guilty. Thomas Fox pleaded not guilty.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the ongoing trial of Jonathan Hawthorn, James Geraghty, and Donal O'Ceallaigh, who have pleaded not guilty to alleged membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army, otherwise Oglaigh na hEireann, otherwise the IRA. Detective Sergeant Brian Roberts testified that he prepared a controlled delivery package containing a non-functional, unearthed hand grenade wrapped with a child's playdough set. He stated he used clingfilm and pink wrapping paper to ensure the package appeared convincing for a covert operation. On September 14, 2016, a colleague in the Covert Operations Unit attempted delivery to the address associated with the defendants. While a signature for James Geraghty appeared on the documentation, the prosecution does not contend that Geraghty signed; rather, it alleges Hawthorn signed in Geraghty's name. The three-judge, non-jury court, presided over by Justice Isobel Kennedy with Judges Gerard Griffin and Gerard Haughton, heard that the investigation stemmed from a tip-off regarding Semtex. The trial continues on Monday.
The Special Criminal Court has adjourned a voir dire hearing to rule on the admissibility of DNA evidence in the trial of Jonathan Keogh, Regina Keogh, and Thomas Fox, who are accused of murdering Gareth Hutch. All three defendants, who have pleaded not guilty to the murder, face charges related to the May 24, 2016, shooting outside Avondale House in Dublin. Mr Fox has additionally denied unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9mm handgun. Defence counsel for Mr Keogh argued that DNA samples taken from him in October 2017 for a separate, unprosecuted offence should be inadmissible, claiming the State had no interest in prosecuting that matter. Prosecuting counsel countered that the investigation was bona fide and the samples were necessary to compare against a mixed DNA profile. The court also heard evidence regarding forensic examinations of vehicles, including a Honda Civic where Mr Keogh's fingerprints were found on a knife and other items, and a white van where Mr Fox's fingerprints were identified on a spray paint cap and plastic bag. The prosecution contends the killing was premeditated, with Mr Keogh and an accomplice acting as shooters, while Mr Fox and Ms Keogh planned the crime. The three-judge panel, presided over by Mr Justice Tony Hunt, will deliver its ruling on the DNA evidence's admissibility on Monday, after which the trial will continue.
Brian Rattigan, 37, of Cooley Road, Drimnagh, appealed his conviction for directing a €1 million heroin supply from prison. He had pleaded not guilty at the Special Criminal Court to possession of heroin and two counts of possession for sale or supply on Hughes Road South, Walkinstown, on 21 May 2008. The court found him the director of a drugs gang and sentenced him to 17 years, back‑dated to June 2008, to run concurrently with a life sentence for the murder of 21‑year‑old Declan Gavin. The Supreme Court quashed the murder conviction in December 2017. Rattigan's counsel argued insufficient evidence of possession and control, citing lack of drug purity testing and questionable expert testimony. He also challenged the validity of warrants used in the case. The Court of Appeal reserved judgment on the appeal.
Gardai arrested three men – Jonathan Hawthorn (45), James Geraghty (61) and Donal O'Ceallaigh (33) – on suspicion of membership in the Irish Republican Army (IRA). The arrests followed a tip from an undercover FBI agent who had been monitoring the darknet, where a user named Meat Cleaver sought Semtex to be sent to Ireland. The FBI agent received the request via AlphaBay and identified Geraghty's Dolphin House as the delivery address. A mock‑package was sent to Dolphin House by a garda posing as a DHL driver. Hawthorn signed for the package in Geraghty's name, and the garda later arrested Hawthorn at St James's Hospital. O'Ceallaigh was arrested on St James's Street, and Geraghty was taken into custody shortly thereafter. The men pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful organisation.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the ongoing trial of Jonathan Keogh, Thomas Fox, and Regina Keogh, all of whom have pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Gareth Hutch. Mr. Fox also faces a charge of unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9 mm handgun, which he denies. The prosecution alleges the killing was premeditated, with Ms. Keogh instrumental in planning the attack by encouraging witness Mary McDonnell to allow the accused to use her flat as a base. Ms. Keogh denied involvement, stating she did not hold the guns or plan the shooting. She testified that her brother, Mr. Keogh, told her people were blaming him for the incident. The court heard that Mr. Hutch was shot dead outside Avondale House on May 24, 2016, dying from four gunshot injuries. Prosecution counsel described the act as a "brutal and callous murder" involving significant planning. The trial continues before Mr. Justice Tony Hunt, sitting with Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, the panel of Judges Tony Hunt, Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh announced that they would not deliver a verdict in the murder case of Frederick 'Freddie' Thompson until 1 October, despite an earlier expectation of a July 24 decision. Judge Hunt explained that the case was complex and the court had been continuously in session, leading to the delay. Thompson, 37, residing on Loreto Road, Maryland, Dublin, pleaded not guilty to the murder of David Douglas, who was shot six times on 1 July 2016 at Shoestown shop on Bridgefoot Street. The prosecution did not allege Thompson fired the shots but presented evidence that his DNA was found in two 'spotter' cars and that CCTV footage identified him as a driver.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the fifth week of the trial of Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh, who are accused of murdering Gareth Hutch. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Fox, 31, also denies unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9mm handgun. The prosecution alleges the killing was premeditated, with Fox and Keogh instrumental in planning it, while Jonathan Keogh and another man were the shooters. Evidence presented included testimony that Fox was found unresponsive in his cell at Mountjoy Garda Station on May 28, 2016, with a ligature around his neck. He was treated at Mater Hospital and discharged later that day. Regina Keogh, 41, denied involvement in the murder during interviews, stating she had no part in it and did not believe her brother was a shooter. She also denied providing rubber gloves to a key prosecution witness, Mary McDonnell, who has been granted immunity. The court heard that the Hutch family was feared by the accused. The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt, sitting with Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh.
The Special Criminal Court heard further evidence in the trial of Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh, who are accused of murdering Gareth Hutch. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Mr Fox, who also denies unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9mm handgun, testified that he was coerced into involvement, stating a gun was "pushed into" his hand and that Mr Keogh threatened him. The prosecution contends the killing was premeditated, with Mr Keogh and an accomplice identified as Mr AB acting as shooters, while Mr Fox and Ms Keogh were instrumental in planning. Evidence presented included transcripts of Mr Fox's garda interviews, where he claimed he was "smack-bang" in the middle of the event due to pressure from "someone." The court also heard that Mr Fox's DNA was found on a jerrycan recovered from a black BMW parked near the crime scene, though he denied placing it there or providing it for the vehicle's destruction. Additionally, Mr Fox denied spray-painting the BMW's windows despite his fingerprints being on a paint tin. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Tony Hunt and two other judges, continues on Monday.
Conan Murphy, aged 30, the son of Colm Murphy, withdrew his appeal against a six‑year jail term for building an explosive in County Louth in 2010. Murphy had pleaded guilty before trial, while his co‑defendant Philip McKevitt, aged 62, contested the charge and was convicted. Both men had earlier appealed convictions that followed a Supreme Court ruling that Section 29 search warrants were unconstitutional, leading to retrials. Murphy was sentenced to seven‑and‑a‑half years, with the final 18 months suspended; McKevitt received eight‑and‑a‑half years. On Monday, McKevitt withdrew his appeal after the Court of Appeal reminded his lawyers of the court's full powers, and on Thursday Murphy's lawyers formally withdrew his appeal. The case involved surveillance of a house in Aghaboys, where police found a shed containing a bomb‑loading unit, two gas cylinders, 26 kg of glucose, and a command‑wire, and an ERU intervention prevented the device's completion.
The Court of Appeal has upheld the conviction of Ryan Glennon, a 25-year-old Dublin man, in the first recorded trial at the second Special Criminal Court. Glennon was convicted in 2016 of membership of an illegal organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army, otherwise Oglaigh na hEireann, otherwise the IRA. The appeal, heard by President Mr Justice George Birmingham with Justices Mahon and Hedigan, was dismissed as the court found the prosecution mounted a particularly powerful case. The original non-jury court, presided over by Mr Justice Eagar, relied on belief evidence from Chief Superintendent Peter Kirwan, who stated he believed Glennon was an IRA member based on confidential information. The court also considered inferences drawn from Glennon's refusal to answer material questions during Garda interviews, including inquiries about his presence in a Courtown, Co Wexford house containing Semtex explosive, rockets, and improvised explosive device materials. Physical evidence linked Glennon to the scene, with his fingerprints found on a handcart holding a water butt used for storage and his DNA detected on gloves in the kitchen. Surveillance testimony further placed him at the premises, a holiday home owned by his parents, where bags were seen being transferred from vehicles. The Court of Appeal rejected all grounds of appeal, confirming the original finding of guilt.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the trial of Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh, who are accused of murdering Gareth Hutch. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. Additionally, Mr. Fox has denied unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9 mm handgun on May 23, 2016. The prosecution alleges that Mr. Fox was instrumental in planning the killing, which occurred on May 24, 2016, outside Avondale House in Dublin. Mr. Hutch died from four gunshot injuries. During testimony, Mr. Fox stated he went to Mountjoy Garda Station to clear his name, claiming he had no involvement in the Hutch/Kinahan feud. He denied pulling the trigger or sourcing weapons, asserting he was merely trying to distance himself from co-accused Jonathan Keogh after learning of a threat on his life. The court heard details from seven of nine garda interviews, where Mr. Fox described his relationship with Mr. Keogh and his presence near the scene. The trial continues tomorrow with the remainder of Mr. Fox's interviews.
Darren Weldon, a 47‑year‑old taxi driver from Kilbarrack, Dublin, had his 2014 conviction for membership of the Irish Republican Army quashed on appeal. The Special Criminal Court had found him guilty on 14 October 2014, sentencing him to five years' imprisonment with the final year suspended. The Court of Appeal held that the trial court's finding was "factually incorrect" because it relied on a photo from Weldon's iPhone that did not actually show him, and that the evidence left a "substantial gap" in the court's reasoning. The appeal judge, Mr Justice John Hedigan, noted that the conviction was based on a combination of opinion evidence, DNA linking Weldon to a car bomb's number plate, and the disputed photo. With the conviction deemed unsafe, it was quashed, a retrial ordered, and Weldon was released on bail to appear again before the Special Criminal Court on 29 June 2018. Darren Weldon pleaded not guilty.
The Court of Appeal has quashed the conviction of Michael Connolly, a 45-year-old from Dundalk, for membership of an unlawful organisation, styling itself Oglaigh na hEireann, otherwise the Irish Republican Army, otherwise the IRA, on December 16, 2014. Connolly had pleaded not guilty at the Special Criminal Court, where he was found guilty and sentenced to three years imprisonment by Mr Justice Tony Hunt, presiding alongside Judge John O'Hagan and Judge Flann Brennan, on July 10, 2017. The appeal centered on the trial court's refusal to view an intelligence file that grounded Assistant Garda Commissioner Michael O'Sullivan's "belief evidence" regarding Connolly's membership. The trial court had upheld the Assistant Commissioner's claim of privilege over the material, citing State security and protection of life, and declined to inspect the file. In allowing the appeal, Mr Justice Alan Mahon, sitting with President George Birmingham and Mr Justice John Edwards, ruled that the trial court's reasons for rejecting the request to view the file were insufficient to justify their refusal. The Court of Appeal noted that the belief evidence significantly contributed to the guilty verdict. Consequently, the court quashed Connolly's conviction, ordered a retrial, and remanded him on bail to appear before the Special Criminal Court on Monday next.
During the Special Criminal Court hearing, a ballistics expert confirmed that all discharged bullets found at the Avondale House carpark, where 36‑year‑old Gareth Hutch was shot dead on 24 May 2016, originated from a single Makarov 9 mm handgun. The expert noted that a second Makarov handgun, also found at the scene, was not used. The first handgun had no safety engaged, an empty magazine, and a capacity of eight rounds; the second was loaded with six rounds, had its safety engaged, and a magazine capacity of eight. The expert also collected swabs from the car, clothing, and other items linked to the accused. The prosecution maintains that the murder was pre‑planned, with Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh each playing a role, and that the shooting was carried out by Keogh and another man. The trial continues before the three‑judge panel. Thomas Fox pleaded not guilty. Regina Keogh pleaded not guilty. Jonathan Keogh pleaded not guilty.
In the Special Criminal Court, a key witness, Mary McDonnell, testified that she did not understand the seriousness of her situation when she made a statement to Gardaí about the fatal shooting of Gareth Hutch. McDonnell, who was initially charged with withholding information, had that charge dropped and was granted immunity. She made a voluntary statement on 25 May 2016, implicating Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Michael Keogh in Hutch's murder. Gardaí expressed concerns for her safety, and she and her daughters were taken to Mountjoy Garda Station. McDonnell exercised her right to silence for three days. The court heard that her statement provided "very fruitful" information that significantly advanced the investigation. The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt, with Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh presiding. Thomas Fox pleaded not guilty. Regina Keogh pleaded not guilty.
Robert Day, a 47‑year‑old from Cabra, Dublin, was sentenced to five years' imprisonment by the Special Criminal Court for membership of the Irish Republican Army (IRA). The sentence, back‑dated to the day he entered custody on 1 June, followed his conviction on 1 June for belonging to an unlawful organisation. Day had been a member of the IRA in Dublin since about age 18 or 19. In 2014 he participated in an attempt to purchase €20,000 of forged €50 bank notes for €2,200 in legitimate money, an operation that was foiled by Gardai. He was also convicted under the Theft Act for possession of the forged notes. In August 2015, members of the Belfast Brigade questioned Day and others at a house in Castleknock to identify the person responsible for the failed operation.
Two foot soldiers, Gary Gleeson (34) and Stephen Dunne (39), were arrested in August 2017 after Garda detectives intercepted a Fiat doblo van in Dublin. The van contained a loaded 9mm Luger pistol with ten rounds, a can of petrol, tissues, a lighter, rubber gloves and a small amount of cocaine. DNA evidence linked Dunne to a SIM card in a tracking device found on Michael Frazer's van, and to the firearm's handle and trigger. A recorded conversation from 7:19 pm on 7 August revealed Gleeson demanding "head shots" to secure payment, with Dunne agreeing to approach Frazer. The men had previously been charged with conspiracy to murder Frazer. At the Special Criminal Court, they pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition with intent to endanger life. The court remanded them in custody until 13 July for further reports, with no sentencing yet announced.
A 53-year-old man from Castleblayney in County Monaghan has been committed for trial at the Special Criminal Court on a charge of membership of an unlawful organisation styling itself the Irish Republican Army. James Joseph Cassidy, of Tullycollive, faces allegations relating to September 21st, 2016. The three-judge court, presided over by Mr Justice Tony Hunt alongside Judge Patricia Ryan and Judge Michael Walsh, set a trial date of January 28, 2019. Mr Cassidy was remanded on continuing bail pending the commencement of proceedings.
During a Special Criminal Court hearing, Denise King, former partner of Jonathan Keogh, testified that Keogh swore on their baby's life that he did not shoot Gareth Hutch. King said Keogh, who feared for his safety, often stayed at her flat and that she had received a message from him asking to stay the night before Hutch's murder. She described how Keogh later sent an envelope of €2,000 to her, which she counted. King also recounted that Keogh had threatened to kill Hutch the evening before the shooting and that he and others were involved in planning the murder. The prosecution argued the killing was pre‑meditated and that Keogh, Thomas Fox and Regina Keogh each had a role. The trial was set to continue before Mr Justice Tony Hunt and two other judges. Gareth Hutch pleaded not guilty. Thomas Fox pleaded not guilty. Regina Keogh pleaded not guilty.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh, who have all pleaded not guilty to the murder of Gareth Hutch, heard evidence from witness Jessica McDonnell. Ms McDonnell, whose mother Mary McDonnell was granted immunity after a charge of withholding information was dropped, testified that she never had a one-on-one conversation with Mr Keogh. Although she initially told gardaí she recognized his voice on the morning of the May 24, 2016 shooting, she stated under cross-examination that she was tired and had limited prior interaction with him. The court ruled her statement to gardaí admissible. The prosecution alleges the killing was premeditated, contending that Mr Keogh threatened the victim the previous evening, while Mr Fox and Ms Keogh planned the attack. Mr Fox also faces a charge of unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9mm handgun, which he denies. The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt, sitting with Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh.
Three judges of the Special Criminal Court have retired to consider their verdicts in a trial involving five defendants accused of IRA membership and related offences. The State's case relies on recordings from bugs in a Dublin house where an alleged IRA inquiry was held, and on belief evidence from Detective Chief Superintendent Anthony Howard, who claimed privilege over the material. Defence counsel argued that the belief evidence was untested, that the State had not called expert voice‑recognition evidence, and that the privilege claim weakened the prosecution's case. Each defendant—David Nooney, Seán Hannaway, Edward O'Brien, Kevin Hannaway, and Eva Shannon—pleaded not guilty to membership or assistance charges. The judges will announce their decision on 29 June, with the trial stage remaining a verdict‑making hearing rather than a sentencing or appeal proceeding.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the ongoing trial of Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Mr Keogh, who have all pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Gareth Hutch. Mr Hutch was shot dead outside Avondale House flats in Dublin on May 24, 2016. The prosecution alleges the killing was premeditated, with Mr Keogh threatening the victim the previous evening and Fox and Keogh planning the attack. During cross-examination, Detective Sergeant Enda O'Sullivan testified that key witness Mary McDonnell was not threatened or offered inducements when she provided a voluntary statement to gardaí. He denied that gardaí recommended McDonnell be charged with murder, clarifying that she was originally charged with withholding information, a charge later dropped in exchange for immunity. O'Sullivan stated that McDonnell was considered a facilitator rather than a principal offender. The court ruled that part of the garda investigation file, regarding recommendations to the DPP, should be made available to the defense. The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt, sitting with Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh.
Philip McKevitt, 62, of Aghaboys, Mount Pleasant, Dundalk, was convicted by the Special Criminal Court for possession of explosive substances on 22 May 2010. He had denied the charges. McKevitt's co‑accused, Conan Murphy, 32, had pleaded guilty and received a six‑year sentence, while McKevitt was sentenced to eight and a half years. McKevitt had previously been tried and convicted in 2011, but a Court of Criminal Appeal overturned that verdict and ordered a retrial. The investigation began in May 2010 after Gardaí received information about IRA activity in Louth. Surveillance outside McKevitt's house observed him with Murphy and a garda heard an angle‑grinder in the shed. On 22 May, Gardaí entered the shed, finding two adapted gas cylinders, fifty‑two 500‑g glucose bags, a 377‑metre wire, and a match to McKevitt's DNA on a cylinder handle.
A man from Lucan has been sentenced to six years imprisonment at the Special Criminal Court for his involvement in a kneecapping incident in County Dublin in January 2013. Eamon McNamee, aged 37, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence, namely assault causing harm. The court heard that a man was shot in the leg at Fairgreen, Saggart after being brought to the location by McNamee and others. Gardaí recovered a bullet and found firearms residue on McNamee matching residue on the injured party's clothing. McNamee remained silent during police interviews. The three-judge court reduced his sentence from eight years and six months to six years, suspending the final two years following his public disassociation from unlawful organisations. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy noted this undertaking was a rare occurrence before the court and that McNamee held the lowest rank in the chain of command. He was also ordered to enter a €1,000 bond to keep the peace for five years.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh for the alleged murder of Gareth Hutch continues. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charge of murdering Mr Hutch, who was shot dead outside Avondale House flats in Dublin on May 24, 2016. Fox has additionally denied unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9 mm handgun. The prosecution alleges the killing was premeditated, with Mr Keogh threatening the victim the previous evening, while Fox and Keogh are accused of planning the crime. Mr Keogh and an accomplice are alleged to have been the shooters. Detective Sergeant Enda O'Sullivan testified regarding a protected witness, Mary McDonnell, whose statement he described as "explosive" and "unbelievable." He stated that gardaí became immediately concerned for the safety of McDonnell and her twin daughters after she provided the statement in her flat. O'Sullivan explained that McDonnell was not treated as a suspect at the time, despite CCTV footage showing suspects entering her apartment. He noted that no notes were taken during a preliminary conversation before the formal statement was recorded. The defence cross-examined the witness on procedural matters, including the decision not to arrest McDonnell. The trial is ongoing and has not been finalised.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, a prosecutor presented audio recordings from a bugged Dublin house, claiming they proved an IRA inquiry took place on 7–8 August 2015. The recordings allegedly captured four accused—David Nooney, Kevin Hannaway, Seán Hannaway and Eva Shannon—conversing about the inquiry. The prosecutor argued the voices were identifiable and that the term "IRA" appeared repeatedly, supporting the claim of an unlawful organization. Defence counsel challenged the authenticity of the recordings, noting the lack of expert testimony, possible editing, and unclear voice identification. They also questioned the prosecution's assertion that IRA activity is automatically unlawful, citing examples of decommissioning and political aims. The accused pleaded not guilty to membership and assistance charges, and the court was instructed to consider the evidence as reliable. The case remains at the hearing stage.
In the Special Criminal Court, three Dubliners—Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh and Mr Keogh—are on trial for the murder of 36‑year‑old Gareth Hutch, nephew of Gerry "the Monk" Hutch. Hutch was shot dead on 24 May 2016 outside Avondale House flats on North Cumberland Street, sustaining four gunshot wounds. The defendants have pleaded not guilty. Fox also denies unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9 mm handgun on 23 May 2016. The court will decide on Thursday whether a statement made by Jessica McDonnell, daughter of key witness Mary McDonnell, is admissible. McDonnell, 19, gave video‑link evidence that she did not recall telling Gardaí she heard Mr Keogh in her mother's flat on the morning of the killing, though she admitted recognising one voice as Mr Keogh in a statement to Gardaí at Mountjoy Garda Station on 25 May 2016.
The Special Criminal Court heard evidence in the trial of Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh, who have pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Gareth Hutch. Prosecution counsel Paul Burns SC presented testimony from Detective Sergeant Enda O'Sullivan, who stated gardaí became "immediately concerned" for the safety of witness Mary McDonnell after she provided a statement regarding the shooting. Ms McDonnell was subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder with a firearm, though she was later treated as a witness and granted immunity. The court also heard from Jodie and Jessica McDonnell, who described events on the morning of May 24, 2016, including hearing noises and observing Jonathan Keogh in their flat. Jessica McDonnell acknowledged discrepancies between her earlier statement and current testimony, attributing them to the passage of time. The prosecution contends the killing was premeditated, alleging Mr Keogh threatened the victim, while Fox and Regina Keogh planned the act. The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt, sitting with Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh.
The trial of Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh for the murder of Gareth Hutch continues at the Special Criminal Court. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge; Mr Fox also denies unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9mm handgun. The prosecution alleges the killing was premeditated, with Mr Keogh and an accomplice identified as the shooters, while Fox and Keogh allegedly planned the attack. During cross-examination, protected witness Mary McDonnell denied allegations by defense counsel that she fabricated evidence or was coerced into the narrative. She stated she was not asked to assist in the murder and rejected claims of unfair treatment by Gardaí, despite her initial charge for withholding information being dropped in exchange for immunity. The court heard that McDonnell identified Mr Keogh as one of the gunmen and reported he threatened to kill Mr Hutch the night before the incident. The defense argued McDonnell's relationship with Keogh and her mental health history undermined her credibility. The matter was adjourned and continues on Monday before Mr Justice Tony Hunt and two other judges.
The trial of Thomas Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh, who are accused of murdering Gareth Hutch, continues at the Special Criminal Court. All three defendants have pleaded not guilty to the murder charge; Mr Fox has additionally denied unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9mm handgun. The prosecution alleges the killing was premeditated, with the accused using a flat as a base to wait for the victim. State witness Mary McDonnell, who identified Mr Keogh as one of the shooters, is currently being cross-examined. She testified that she has repeatedly requested to return to her home in the Avondale House complex where the shooting occurred, stating she expects to do so once the trial concludes. Counsel for Mr Keogh questioned her regarding Gardaí statements that she could not return until the investigation was complete, suggesting she was pressured to answer questions to ensure her protection. The witness denied recollection of specific offensive comments attributed to detectives but agreed such statements were hurtful. The trial is ongoing before Mr Justice Tony Hunt, sitting with Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh, and is scheduled to continue tomorrow.
A 28-year-old Dublin man has pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court to unlawful possession of a firearm and silencer. Andrew O'Keeffe, with an address on Drumcliff Road in Cabra West, Dublin 7, admitted to possessing a 9mm Beretta handgun and silencer at Kylemore Way in Ballyfermot on 6 September 2017. The three-judge court, presided over by Mr Justice Tony Hunt alongside Judge Patricia Ryan and Judge Michael Walsh, remanded O'Keeffe in custody pending sentencing. He will return before the court on 24 July for sentencing to be imposed.
Larry McCarthy, aged 39, was convicted by a non‑jury Special Criminal Court of assaulting cyclist David Foran, 33, on 25 November 2014 and of threatening to use unlawful violence with two others. The court sentenced him to six years' imprisonment on 31 July 2017. McCarthy appealed, arguing that the admission of Foran's initial statement was improper under section 16 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006. The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal, agreeing that the statement was admissible. On a subsequent sentence appeal, the Court of Appeal suspended the final 15 months of McCarthy's six‑year term, citing errors in the original sentencing court's weighting of a 1999 violent‑disorder conviction and the exclusion of mitigating factors such as positive testimonials and difficult family circumstances. McCarthy was required to enter a two‑year good‑behaviour bond after release. The case remains at the sentencing‑appeal stage. Larry McCarthy pleaded not guilty.
Robert Day, 47, of Cabra, Dublin, was convicted on 1 June 2023 of membership of an unlawful organisation, the Irish Republican Army (IRA). He had previously been convicted in 2016 for possession of €20,000 in forged €50 bank notes, a charge for which he was on bail when the membership offence occurred. At a Special Criminal Court hearing, Detective Sergeant Padraig Boyce described how National Surveillance Unit listening devices monitored a group of men suspected of IRA involvement, including a house takeover in Castleknock on 7 August 2015. Day was questioned on 8 August about a February 2014 operation to buy counterfeit cash. He denied IRA membership and knowledge of the operation, repeating "no comment." The court noted the maximum sentence is eight years and remanded Day in custody until 25 June, when sentencing will take place.
The Special Criminal Court heard that State witness Mary McDonnell is not in the Witness Protection Programme, despite an estimated €40,000 spent since March 2017 on her safe accommodation. A family liaison officer testified that McDonnell declined the programme because a family member did not wish to change their name. She is currently managed at a local district level, with costs initially covered by An Garda Síochana and later by the North Central Division local fund. Prosecution counsel Paul Burns SC stated that the State alleges Regina Keogh and Jonathan Keogh encouraged McDonnell to allow Thomas Fox to use her flat as a base to wait for Gareth Hutch prior to his shooting on May 24, 2016. McDonnell, who has been granted immunity from prosecution, is willingly giving evidence. The three accused—Fox, Regina Keogh, and Jonathan Keogh—have all pleaded not guilty to murdering Mr Hutch. Fox has additionally denied unlawfully possessing a Makarov 9mm handgun. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Tony Hunt, continues.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing on 8 June 2018, Detective Chief Superintendent Anthony Howard testified that he believes three men—David Nooney (53), Seán Hannaway (48), and Edward O'Brien (42)—are members of the Irish Republican Army (IRA). The men are charged with membership of an unlawful organisation. Two other defendants, Kevin Hannaway (69) and Eva Shannon (60), are pleading not guilty to assisting the IRA by interviewing persons involved in IRA‑related criminal activities on 7 and 8 August 2015 at Riverwood Park, Castleknock. Howard explained that he had reviewed Garda material on the three men and was satisfied that they were members of the IRA at that time. He stated he would claim privilege over the material, citing protection of life and state security, and would hand it over only if directed by the court. The trial is presided over by Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy with Judges Gerard Griffin and Gerard Haughton.