Lawyers for Antoin Duffy, accused of the murder of former Sinn Fein official Denis Donaldson, expressed concern over the delay in serving the book of evidence, which has not been provided despite the case being listed multiple times. Stephen Faulkner BL, representing Duffy, noted the murder dates back to 2006 and the book is still not ready. Simon Matthews BL for the State said the book of evidence will be served on October 12. Duffy, who was extradited from Scotland, is charged with the murder of Donaldson and possession of a shotgun and ammunition. Donaldson, a former Sinn Fein official, was shot dead in 2006 after publicly admitting to being an MI5 informer. The Real IRA claimed responsibility for the murder. Duffy's lawyers are seeking bail but face opposition from gardaí due to the lack of evidence served. The case highlights the challenges of prosecuting a murder that occurred over two decades ago, with the delay in serving evidence raising concerns about the fairness of the trial.
Two getaway drivers involved in separate shootings linked to a violent gang feud in Limerick have each been sentenced to six years in prison by the Special Criminal Court. John O'Donovan (19) and Shane Blackhall (21) were third-tier members of the O'Donoghue organised crime group, which has been in a violent feud with the Collins group since 2022. The feud has led to 36 shootings and various attacks using explosives. Blackhall was the driver of a Volkswagen Scirocco used in a drive-by shooting on Hyde Avenue, where a Glock semi-automatic pistol was fired. Blackhall crashed the car into a lampost and was found to have cocaine, heroin, and cannabis in his home. O'Donovan was involved in a separate incident where a Lexus was used to meet a hit team before an Audi was set on fire. Both men pleaded guilty and were sentenced with suspended terms. The judge noted their early guilty pleas and their efforts in prison to rehabilitate.
Andrew Delaney, a violent criminal who fired an improvised 'slam bang' gun at another man, had his sentence increased but the balance suspended by the Court of Appeal. Delaney, who wore a balaclava and shouted 'I will kill you' before firing the gun, was initially sentenced to five years with two suspended. The State appealed, arguing the sentence was too lenient. The Court of Appeal ruled the sentence had a frailty in principle and increased it to six years and six months, with the remainder suspended. Delaney had pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition, and was also sentenced for possessing benzocaine and being a passenger in a stolen vehicle. The court noted the premeditated nature of the attack and the lack of cooperation with gardaí. Delaney's previous convictions for assault and criminal damage were also considered. The court emphasized the seriousness of the offense and the need for a higher sentence. However, as Delaney secured a place in a residential treatment center, the court suspended the remaining portion of the sentence to allow him to complete the program.
Anthony Kinlan (47) has been jailed for six years after carrying out two daylight robberies using an e-scooter and a realistic imitation handgun. He robbed a Paddy Power bookmakers in Dublin 3 in February 2024, stealing €875 in cash, and later robbed a CeX video exchange store on Liffey Street in July 2024, stealing €593 in cash. Gardai found €12,075 worth of stolen goods in his home in March 2025. Kinlan pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery, one count of possession of an imitation firearm, and one count of possessing stolen property. He has 39 previous convictions and a history of drug addiction. His defence highlighted that he had been drug-free for 10 years before relapsing and that he has since detoxed while in custody. Judge Orla Crowe noted the terror caused to customers and staff during the robberies and imposed a seven-and-a-half-year sentence, suspending the final 18 months on conditions.
Derek Boyd, 31, took the stand at his murder trial before Ms Justice Melanie Greally. He admitted to previously pleading guilty to his sister's manslaughter and stated he was serving part of that suspended sentence when the incident occurred. Boyd pleaded not guilty to murdering Mark Carroll, 34, at his home in Finglas on June 9, 2024, and to assaulting Megan Rock. His partner, Chantelle Harcourt, 34, pleaded not guilty to impeding the apprehension of the offender. Boyd testified that he picked up a knife to deter Carroll, who he alleged threatened to kill him, and swung it during a struggle without intent to injure. Prosecution counsel Sean Guerin SC cross-examined Boyd on his prior firearm-related manslaughter conviction and alleged he exaggerated Carroll's threats. The judge directed a not guilty verdict on the count of threatening to kill Megan Rock due to insufficient evidence. The trial continues tomorrow.
Derek Boyd, 31, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mark Carroll, 34, at a Finglas home on June 9, 2024, and to threatening and assaulting Megan Rock. His partner, Chantelle Harcourt, 34, pleaded not guilty to impeding the prosecution of an arrestable offence. The Central Criminal Court trial heard that Boyd was serving a suspended sentence for the 2022 manslaughter of his sister, Sandra Boyd, and unlawful possession of a firearm. He received a four-year sentence for manslaughter, with the final two years suspended, and a concurrent five-year sentence for firearm offences, with the final three years suspended. The court noted he was under active supervision when Carroll died. The prosecution alleges Boyd stabbed Carroll with intent to kill or cause serious harm. Boyd claimed self-defence, stating Carroll lunged at him. Evidence detailed Carroll's history, including a guilty plea to assaulting Rock in Ashbourne, Co Meath, where she was found bruised and shaking, and a pending charge for assaulting a man in Dublin 7 in 2022. The trial continues before Ms Justice Melanie Greally.
A sentencing hearing has taken place in the Special Criminal Court for Shane Blackhall (21) and Co-accused O'Donovan (19), both of whom have pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to drug dealing, firearm possession, and involvement in a criminal organisation. Blackhall admitted to possessing cocaine, cannabis, and diamorphine for sale or supply at Mungret Court on June 10, 2025, and possessing a firearm on January 6, 2025, at Hyde Avenue in Limerick, in circumstances giving rise to a reasonable suspicion that he did not have it for a lawful purpose. He also admitted to unlawfully using a mechanically propelled vehicle without the consent of the owner on June 1, 2025, at Ashbourne Avenue, Limerick. O'Donovan admitted to participating in or contributing to activity intending to facilitate the commission of a serious offence by the O'Donoghue criminal organisation, to wit, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, between April 26 and May 8, 2025. He also faces three further charges of unlawfully using a mechanically propelled vehicle without the consent of the owner, in Limerick on April 27, 2025, and May 8, 2025, and in Monasterevin on April 26, 2025, as well as a charge of arson at Ashroe, Limerick, on May 8, 2025. The matter was adjourned for sentencing on July 27. Five other men are also due to stand trial in relation to their alleged involvement in these offences.
Seamus O'Hara, a 78-year-old man from Limavady, Derry, was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court to concurrent terms totalling ten years imprisonment. In March, a jury convicted him of one count of rape and 35 counts of indecent assault of a child, who was aged between six and 12, at his former family home in Donegal between 1976 and 1983. Mr Justice Paul Burns described the conduct as a "prolonged and orchestrated campaign of sexual abuse" involving grooming-type behaviour. During the sentencing, O'Hara turned to the victim and said, "shame on you," remarks the judge dismissed, stating O'Hara was the one who should be ashamed. The judge noted the severe, lasting impact on the victim, including isolation and mental health issues, while acknowledging the delay in the proceedings. In mitigation, the court considered O'Hara's age, health, and work history. O'Hara has previous convictions in Ireland and Northern Ireland for offences including assault, drink driving, and possession of a firearm. His defence counsel, James McGowan SC, stated O'Hara does not accept the verdict and requested to serve his sentence closer to Derry. The matter was finalised with the imposition of the ten-year custodial sentence.
A Kerry firearms dealer has had his conviction for importing and possessing a prohibited component for a WW2-era machine gun overturned on appeal. Judge James O'Donoghue ruled that Patrick O'Mahony Jnr (56) had no 'nefarious intent' in possessing the component. His defence argued that the item was a curiosity to be displayed in a glass case and fell under an exception in the Firearms Act for antique firearms used as a 'curiosity or ornament'. O'Mahony was previously fined €2,000 and had a destruction order made against the component. He appealed, citing his family connection to the weapon and his status as a licensed firearms dealer. Customs officers stopped him at Dublin Airport in 2021 with the component, which was identified as a bolt carrier for a Browning 1919 machine gun. Garda investigations confirmed O'Mahony was a restricted firearms dealer with valid licences. A garda ballistics expert stated the component was prohibited as it could be used in a functioning firearm. However, the judge found no evidence of nefarious intent and allowed the appeal, overturning the conviction.
A Sligo man, Barry Young, has appeared in court in Dublin following an arrest warrant from Northern Ireland, where he is wanted for the murder of gangland figure Robbie Lawlor in 2020. Young, 41, faces charges of murder and possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life. He is the second individual to be brought before the extradition court as part of a joint Garda-PSNI investigation into Lawlor's murder. The PSNI believe Lawlor's murder was linked to a drugs feud involving criminal elements in Dublin, Sligo, and Drogheda. Detective Sergeant Aoife Cronin confirmed Young's identity based on the warrant and informed him of the charges. Young's legal team requested a video link appearance for the next court date, and he was remanded in custody until then.
Two brothers, Patrick Pa' Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42), are on trial for attempting to murder two brothers at an unofficial halting site in Co Offaly. The victims, Anthony McDonagh (40) and Michael McDonagh (46), were shot in the chest, neck, and face with pellets from a shotgun. Anthony McDonagh testified that he locked eyes with Patrick Ward before being shot, while Michael McDonagh claimed John Pio Ward shot him. The prosecution, led by Kevin White SC, argued that the recognition evidence given by the McDonagh brothers was crucial, despite the lack of CCTV footage or maps of the incident. The defence, led by Damien Colgan SC, argued that there was no evidence to support the victims' testimony and suggested they were colluding to falsely accuse the accused. The trial continues with the jury considering whether the McDonagh brothers' accounts were truthful or if they were lying. The accused face further charges of possession of firearms and violent disorder. Patrick Pa' Ward pleaded not guilty. John Pio Ward pleaded not guilty.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44, faced a High Court bail hearing in connection with an extradition warrant issued by Northern Irish authorities. He is charged with murder in relation to the death of Robbie Lawlor on 4 April 2020, and with possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol between 2 and 5 April 2020. Both charges carry potential life sentences. The Criminal Assets Bureau has assessed a liability of over €860,000 against Mr Gill, primarily comprising interest on unpaid income tax dating to 2005. Gardaí objected to bail, citing the seriousness of charges, alleged links to organised crime, and concerns regarding access to cash and potential flight risk. Mr Gill's father offered an independent surety of €100,000, which the State accepted as suitable. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath adjourned the bail application to 3 June, pending clarification regarding Mr Gill's tax payments. The extradition hearing is scheduled for the same date.
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 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.
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 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 Limerick teenager has pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court to helping a criminal gang possess a firearm with intent to endanger life last year. John O'Donovan (19), of Valley View, O'Malley Park, Southill, Limerick, will appear before the court again on July 13 for a sentencing hearing. The charge to which he entered the plea states that between April 26 and May 8, 2025, O'Donovan, with knowledge of the existence of a criminal organisation, participated in or contributed to activity intending to, or being reckless as to whether such participation or contribution could, facilitate the commission of a serious offence by that criminal organisation or any of its members, to wit, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. In a related matter, Shane Blackhall (21) of Mungret Court, Watergate Flats, Limerick, pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine, cannabis and diamorphine for sale or supply at Mungret Court on June 10, 2025.
Patrick Ward and John Pio Ward are on trial at the Central Criminal Court, having pleaded not guilty to all charges. They are accused of attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh and Michael McDonagh, respectively, at an unofficial halting site in Kilcruttin, Co Offaly, on March 21, 2025. Both men also face charges of possession of firearms and violent disorder. The trial is currently in the evidence stage, with Anthony McDonagh testifying before a jury of seven men and five women under Mr Justice Paul McDermott. McDonagh alleged that he locked eyes with Patrick Ward, who he identified as his sister's partner, before being shot in the chest with a shotgun. He claimed Ward fired a second shot towards his son while a crowd of up to 15 people descended on the site. McDonagh stated he believed he, his wife, and children were going to die. The prosecution has noted the victims knew the accused for years. The matter is ongoing, with McDonagh's evidence scheduled to continue on Monday.
A court has heard how there was 'pandemonium' with shots fired and children searching for cover during an attack on an unofficial halting site in Co Offaly. Two brothers are on trial at the Central Criminal Court, charged with attempting to murder another pair of brothers at the site last year. The victims were shot in the chest, neck, and face with pellets from a shotgun embedded near vital organs. Prosecuting barrister Kevin White SC told the jury the victims were fortunate it was not a fatal shooting. Patrick Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42) are charged with attempted murder and possession of firearms. Both have pleaded not guilty. The incident followed a violent altercation outside Tullamore Accident and Emergency Hospital, captured on CCTV, involving Michael McDonagh, his son, and three members of the accused's family. Moments later, a large group from the official Kilcruttin halting site attacked the McDonaghs' unofficial site. The group was in possession of firearms, and shots were fired, causing chaos. The victims will testify that they recognized the shooters, Patrick and John Ward.
Supt O'Reilly, the applicant, appealed a November Dublin Circuit Civil Court decision to the High Court, where he alleged he was penalised by the Garda Commissioner's office after making protected disclosures regarding unsafe leather holsters. He claimed these defective holsters, supplied by a Kildare saddlery, allowed a pistol to be removed even when the retention strap was closed, potentially contributing to the accidental self-wounding of a Garda at the Israeli ambassador's residence in June 2020. Six days later, Stephen Silver murdered Gda Colm Horkan using the garda's own gun in Castlerea, Co Roscommon. Silver was sentenced in April 2023 to life imprisonment with a minimum time to be served of 40 years for murdering a Garda acting in the course of his duties. During the current High Court hearing, counsel for Supt O'Reilly raised a separate allegation that Supt Liam White shared a prohibited photograph taken inside a courtroom of Supt O'Reilly and three accompanying individuals. Mr Justice Micheál O'Higgins asked parties with knowledge to write to the court and stated he would review the relevant prohibitions. The matter was adjourned to May 19 for further submissions.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44 and with an address in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in relation to an extradition warrant issued by Belfast Magistrates' Court. Mr Gill is wanted in Northern Ireland to face charges of murder in connection with the death of Robbie Lawlor in April 2020, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. His legal team sought an adjournment of the bail hearing to review documentation from State bodies covering interactions spanning two decades, received late on the previous day. Counsel indicated she was unable to advise the court on the timeframe required for this review. Mr Justice Sean Gillane adjourned proceedings to 3 June, with liberty to apply for an earlier hearing. The extradition hearing is scheduled for the same date. The defence has raised concerns regarding the admissibility of proposed evidence under EU law provisions, despite its validity under United Kingdom law.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44, with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in relation to extradition proceedings initiated by authorities in Northern Ireland. Gill is wanted by the PSNI in connection with the murder of Robbie Lawlor, shot dead in Belfast on 4 April 2020, and for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. His legal representatives submitted that extradition could prejudice his right to a fair trial, citing divergent interpretations of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the UK and EU regarding the admissibility of encrypted phone data. The High Court rejected an application for additional senior counsel representation, with Mr Justice Sean Gillane finding the legal arguments sufficiently clear. Gill was remanded in custody pending a bail application on 6 May. The extradition hearing is scheduled for 3 June.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44 and with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in connection with an extradition application by Northern Irish authorities. Gill is wanted by the PSNI in relation to the murder of Robbie Lawlor, a 36-year-old man shot dead in Belfast on April 4, 2020. He faces charges on a joint enterprise basis and is also accused of possessing a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life between April 2 and 5, 2020. The PSNI believe the killing was part of an ongoing drugs feud involving criminal elements across Dublin, Sligo and Drogheda. During proceedings before Mr Justice Sean Gillane, Gill's legal team sought to adjourn the bail application to renew a request for senior counsel. The counsel raised concerns regarding the lawfulness and admissibility of evidence, noting differing standards between European and UK courts. The judge remanded Gill in custody pending a renewed application for senior counsel on May 1. An extradition hearing is scheduled for June 3.
The Court of Appeal has fixed November 5 as the hearing date for Alan Wilson's application to change his guilty plea to not guilty and to extend the time to lodge an appeal against his conviction. Wilson, who is representing himself, confirmed under oath that his handwritten affidavits were true. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy ordered Wilson to file submissions by June 25, while the Director of Public Prosecutions has been granted three months to respond. Wilson was originally jailed for six years by the Special Criminal Court in July 2019 for conspiring with others to murder Gary Hanley between September 15 and November 6, 2017. He pleaded guilty to this charge, as did co-accused Joseph Kelly. Kelly, who was recorded instructing the plot, was sentenced to six years for the conspiracy and 12 years for possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life. The matter remains at the procedural stage of an appeal hearing date being set, and the case has not been concluded or finalised. Wilson had previously submitted a letter of apology to the court, expressing regret for aiding a gang and his actions in the alleged murder plot.
Jonathan Gill, with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in connection with extradition proceedings sought by authorities in Northern Ireland. The 44-year-old is wanted by the PSNI in relation to the murder of Robbie Lawlor, shot dead in Belfast on 4 April 2020, and for alleged possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol between 2 and 5 April that year. During today's hearing before Mr Justice Sean Gillane, Gill's barrister submitted that evidence proposed in the case would not be admissible under EU law, though it would be valid in UK courts. The judge scheduled a bail application for the following Wednesday, with Gill remanded in custody until that date. The extradition hearing has been fixed for 3 June. Gill was arrested on foot of a warrant issued by Belfast Magistrates' Court on 31 March.
A 44-year-old man from Clontarf, Dublin appeared before the High Court in connection with extradition proceedings relating to a 2020 murder in Belfast. Jonathan Gill is wanted by the Police Service of Northern Ireland to face prosecution on a joint enterprise basis for the death of Robbie Lawlor, who was shot in the front garden of a house on Etna Drive on April 4, 2020. Mr Gill is also charged with possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life between April 2 and 5 that year. The PSNI believes the killing was connected to an ongoing drugs feud involving criminal elements across Dublin, Sligo and Drogheda. During the hearing before Mr Justice Paul Burns, the court was told that Mr Gill's solicitor, based in Belfast, was unable to attend. The judge agreed to adjourn the matter and set April 24 as the date when an extradition hearing date will be fixed. Mr Gill remains in custody pending that hearing.
An 81-year-old huntsman, Maurice Mahon, was convicted of recklessly discharging a firearm and assaulting a man in his back garden during a deer cull. The victim, Innokenti Belaga, was meditating when a bullet from Mahon's rifle shattered his femur, leaving him with severe physical and psychological injuries. Mahon, a licensed gun holder and karate grandmaster, claimed he thought he was shooting a fox or a dog. The victim's life was drastically altered, with him losing his home, his ability to work, and his ability to engage in physical activities. He described the incident as a life-changing event, with the biggest impact being on his young daughter, who lost her father's presence. Mahon was found guilty after a trial and is awaiting sentencing. His defense highlighted his long-standing involvement in hunting and his good character, but the court heard that the victim's injuries were severe and life-altering. The case has also led to civil proceedings, and the court ordered a Probation Service assessment before finalizing the sentence. Maurice Mahon pleaded not guilty.
Conor O'Brien, 29, of Kilpatrick, Ardee, Co Louth, was sentenced to 11 years' imprisonment, with the final year suspended, after pleading guilty to importing guns and ammunition. At the Special Criminal Court, Ms Justice O'Connor noted that O'Brien used his dual citizenship to purchase firearms in America for sale in Ireland. He also pleaded guilty to five counts of possessing firearms components in suspicious circumstances, including AR-15 barrels and pistol frames, contrary to the Firearms Act 1964. The court ordered the forfeiture and destruction of these items. Although O'Brien was originally charged with two counts of money laundering involving sums of €7,450 and €9,980, the Director of Public Prosecutions dropped these charges. The State indicated it would not pursue forfeiture of the cash, and the court ordered the funds be returned to O'Brien. O'Brien was part of a criminal organisation led by Mark McCourt, 34, of Edenreive, Newry, Co Down. McCourt was previously sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment by the Special Criminal Court after pleading guilty to facilitating the importation of restricted weapons and possessing firearms components between February 2023 and July 2024. Detective Inspector Shane McCartan stated that O'Brien was central to the organisation, which distributed weapons to gangs in Derry, Armagh, Dublin, and Limerick.
Conor O'Brien, 29, of Kilpatrick, Ardee, Co Louth, was sentenced to 11 years in prison by the Special Criminal Court for facilitating a criminal organisation's importation of restricted weapons and possessing firearms components. O'Brien pleaded guilty to six charges, including participating in the importation of firearms and ammunition between February 2023 and July 2024, and possessing various firearm parts in suspicious circumstances. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor set a headline sentence of 15 years, the maximum penalty, before reducing it to 11 years with the final 12 months suspended for one year, citing his guilty plea as a mitigating factor. The court ordered the forfeiture and destruction of seized firearms and ammunition. The matter regarding the forfeiture of seized cash was adjourned to hear further submissions next week, as money laundering charges against O'Brien are no longer being pursued. His co-accused, Mark McCourt, 34, of Edenreive, Newry, Co Down, was previously jailed for 12 years after pleading guilty to similar charges of facilitating the organisation's efforts to import restricted weapons and possessing firearms components. Detective Inspector Shane McCartan stated that O'Brien played a crucial role in the organisation, which distributed weapons to criminal gangs in Derry, Armagh, Dublin, and Limerish.
A High Court judge has emphasised the importance of media access after the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) excluded reporters from a hearing involving Detective Superintendent Brian O'Reilly. Mr Justice Garrett Simons stated that any departure from public hearings must be strictly justified, questioning the WRC's decision to hear O'Reilly's case behind closed doors. O'Reilly, the acting head of the Garda National Technical Bureau, is seeking to quash a WRC ruling that accepted Garda submissions regarding the 'sensitivities' of his disclosures. He alleges he suffered workplace detriment and pay reductions after raising concerns about defective leather pistol holsters, which he claims endangered armed gardaí and the public. O'Reilly submitted that these holsters may have contributed to the accidental self-wounding of a Garda at the Israeli ambassador's residence in June 2020. The report notes that six days after that incident, Stephen Silver murdered Detective Garda Colm Horkan in Castlerea, Co Roscommon. Silver, of Foxford, Co Mayo, was sentenced in April 2023 to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 40 years for murdering a Garda acting in the course of his duties. O'Reilly stated that Silver told gardaí in custody that he had been able to pull Horkan's pistol from the holster. The Commissioner of An Garda Síochána is named as a notice party in the proceedings.
Det Supt Brian O'Reilly, acting head of the Garda National Technical Bureau, is challenging a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) decision to exclude the media from his hearing. At the High Court, counsel successfully applied for an expedited leave application to be heard tomorrow, seeking to quash a ruling that the case contains "sensitivities" warranting closed doors. O'Reilly claims he suffered workplace detriment and pay reductions after making protected disclosures regarding unsafe leather pistol holsters. He alleges these defective holsters endangered armed gardaí and the public, potentially contributing to an accidental self-wounding incident in 2020. O'Reilly stated that a pistol could be removed even when the retention strap was closed. He referenced the murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan by Stephen Silver in Castlerea, noting that Silver allegedly told gardaí in custody he had pulled Horkan's pistol from the holster. Silver was sentenced in April 2023 to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 40 years for murdering a garda acting in the course of his duties. O'Reilly, who has a 30-year career, claims he suffered work-related stress certified by his GP in April 2023. The High Court will hear the application for judicial review over the proposed press coverage ban tomorrow.
A man has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Central Criminal Court following his guilty plea to offences arising from the fatal shooting of Noel Campion in Limerick city in April 2007. Darragh Quinlivan, aged 42 and originally from Limerick but with an address in Bolton, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and to participating in the activity of the Dundon-McCarthy criminal organisation. The court heard that Mr Campion, then 35, was shot multiple times whilst travelling as a passenger on a motorcycle at Thomondgate. Justice Paul McDermott described the shooting as callous and brutal, conducted in cold blood from close range during mid-morning on a public street. The judge noted victim impact statements detailing the lasting devastation caused to Mr Campion's family. In mitigation, the court considered Quinlivan's guilty plea and evidence of rehabilitation since 2012. The final sentence comprised 16 years with the last 12 months suspended, running concurrently with a four-year term on the organisational charge.
Conor O'Brien (29), of Kilpatrick, Ardee, Co Louth, pleaded guilty in the Special Criminal Court to facilitating a criminal organisation's importation of restricted weapons between February 2023 and July 2024, and to five counts of possessing firearms components in suspicious circumstances. The court heard evidence that O'Brien and co-accused Mark McCourt procured military-grade firearms and ammunition in America, which were smuggled into Ireland in component parts for reassembly and distribution to criminal gangs in Derry, Armagh, Dublin, and Limerish. Detective Inspector Shane McCartan stated that O'Brien was vital to the organisation's operations. Defence counsel argued O'Brien acted under pressure and fear. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, presiding over the non-jury court, adjourned the matter to March 16 for sentence, with O'Brien remanded in custody until then. His co-accused, Mark McCourt (34), of Edenreive, Newry, Co Down, was previously jailed for 12 years by the Special Criminal Court after pleading guilty to facilitating the organisation's efforts to import restricted weapons and possessing firearms components during the same period.
Conor O'Brien, 29, of Ardee, Co Louth, pleaded guilty in the Special Criminal Court to facilitating a criminal organisation's importation of restricted weapons between February 2023 and July 2024, and to five counts of possessing firearms components in suspicious circumstances. The court heard evidence that O'Brien and co-accused Mark McCourt procured military-grade firearms and ammunition in America, which were smuggled into Ireland in component parts for reassembly and distribution to criminal gangs. Detective Inspector Shane McCartan stated that O'Brien was central to the organisation, describing a "symbiotic relationship" with McCourt, who was directing operations. While defence counsel argued O'Brien acted under pressure, the prosecution highlighted communications referencing sales to "Ireland's top criminals" and the discovery of working firearms in a shed rented by O'Brien. O'Brien has no previous convictions. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, presiding over the non-jury court, adjourned the matter to March 16 for sentence, with O'Brien remanded in custody until that date. His co-accused, Mark McCourt, 34, of Newry, Co Down, was previously sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment after pleading guilty to similar charges of facilitating the importation of restricted weapons and possessing firearms components.
Jamie Berry and Stephen Mulvey, a recidivist criminal and his nephew, have been sentenced to a combined total of ten years and nine months for conspiring to murder a teenager in Dublin four years ago. Mr Justice Paul McDermott noted that both men were deeply involved in the planning of the ambush, which failed only due to medical intervention. The victim suffered life-threatening injuries from gunshot wounds to his lower cheek, neck, and thigh. Both men pleaded guilty and received reduced sentences of six and a half years, with portions suspended. The judge highlighted the serious nature of the conspiracy, the procurement of a firearm, and the reckless indifference to public safety. Mulvey, with 91 previous convictions, and Berry, with six, were found to have a high level of culpability. The court also noted that the victim, who was 17 at the time, declined to make a victim impact statement. The case was retried after an initial acquittal was overturned on appeal.
A 42-year-old man originally from Limerick City has pleaded guilty to participation in an organised criminal group and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life in connection with the fatal shooting of Noel Campion on April 26, 2007. Darragh Quinlivan, with an address in Manchester, did not plead guilty to murder. The Central Criminal Court heard that Campion, aged 35, was shot multiple times while travelling as a passenger on a motorcycle near Thomondgate in Limerick City. Quinlivan later fled to the United States, where he made incriminating statements to police and others whilst intoxicated, statements he subsequently characterised as "talk" and sarcasm. He was deported to Ireland in 2008. The case was reviewed as a cold case in 2022. Quinlivan has 24 previous convictions. Justice Paul McDermott remanded him in custody for sentencing on February 9. Victim impact statements were heard from Campion's daughter and widow.
A 42-year-old man, Darragh Quinlivan, has pleaded guilty to shooting Noel Campion in Limerick City in 2007 as part of the Dundon McCarthy organised crime group. Quinlivan was charged with murder but pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and participating in the criminal organisation to commit murder. The victim was shot while riding as a back passenger on a motorbike near St Munchin's Church. Quinlivan, who has lived in the UK, was remanded on bail until January 23 for his sentence hearing. The prosecution counsel indicated that the sentence hearing would take an hour. The court heard that Quinlivan had complied with bail conditions and was living in Ireland. The judge agreed to the bail conditions and remanded him until the hearing date.
A 59-year-old man from Silloge Park, Ballymun, Dublin 11, who claimed he found a bag containing over €19,000 worth of cannabis and three shotgun cartridges in a local park, has been given a fully suspended three-year sentence. Anthony White pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis for sale or supply and unlawful possession of the shotgun cartridges. He told gardai he found the items in an area where bikes are burned and hid them to avoid his brother discovering them. However, Garda Tommy Kinneally stated he did not believe White's explanation. Judge Martin Nolan noted that White was holding the drugs for some small reward and considered his low level of culpability, as well as his personal circumstances. The judge said White was a mature man who would have known his actions were wrong but concluded there was little use in sending him to prison. White has no previous convictions and has been working on a Community Employment scheme.
In a Dublin trial, Christopher Devine, aged 44, admitted to killing Michael Tormey, 49, but denied murder, pleading guilty to manslaughter. A psychiatrist, Dr John Hillery, testified that Devine suffered from a substance‑induced psychotic disorder caused by cocaine, which diminished his capacity to control himself. Hillery noted Devine's self‑reported "shovelling big shovels of shit up his nose" and erratic behaviour over 18 months of daily cocaine use. He also described Devine's paranoia, fear of being followed, and belief that a firearm had gone missing. Forensic psychiatrist Dr James Walsh disagreed, stating Devine met criteria for cocaine intoxication rather than a mental disorder. The trial, before Justice Melanie Greally and a 12‑person jury, continues tomorrow. The article does not report any verdict or sentencing. Christopher Devine pleaded not guilty.
A father-of-six, Christopher Devine (44), has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Michael Tormey (49) but guilty to the manslaughter of the deceased, who was shot five times in his front garden in Ballyfermot on January 9, 2022. The trial heard that Mr Tormey suffered severe injuries, including rib fractures and partial lung collapse. The defence is expected to call a consultant psychiatrist who will testify that the accused was suffering from substance-induced psychotic disorder at the time. However, the prosecution argues that Mr Devine was not suffering from a mental disorder but was under the influence of cocaine. Detective Garda Janette O'Neill testified that she found two discharged cartridge cases in the car used by the accused. Detective Sergeant Mark Collander stated that a Heckler & Koch submachine gun, a rare firearm in Ireland, was used in the shooting. Mr Devine told gardai that he was best man at Mr Tormey's wedding but now faces the tragic reality of having shot his friend.
A 'vulnerable' mother and cancer survivor, Sarah Jane Byrne, was jailed for four years by the Special Criminal Court for possessing an arsenal of weapons 'secreted' under the stairs of her home. Despite her lawyers' requests for a short sentence, Judge Karen O'Connor emphasized the need for a deterrent and the protection of society from weapons of brutality. Byrne, along with Jamie Moss, pleaded guilty and were considered at low risk of reoffending. Byrne's defense highlighted her mental health and addiction issues, as well as her history of domestic abuse. Gardai discovered firearms, including a sub-machine gun and a shotgun, during a search of her home. Judge O'Connor noted the serious nature of the weapons and the aggravating factors in Byrne's case, including her drug addiction and history of domestic abuse. She also acknowledged Byrne's cooperation and ongoing rehabilitation. Moss, who had an impressive work history, was sentenced to three years and eight months, with the final 20 months suspended. Both sentences are to run concurrently.
Des Hanley, a 63-year-old gambling addict, has been given a fully suspended sentence for robbing a bookmaker's shop in Carlow. Hanley believed the shop should not have taken his bets and that the money he stole was "rightfully" his. He pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of a firearm with criminal intent. The robbery occurred on the day of The Grand National, and Hanley used an old, non-functional gun to demand money from the shop. The staff member was terrified and suffered panic attacks afterward. Hanley's defense highlighted his chronic gambling addiction, early onset dementia, and mental health issues. The judge acknowledged Hanley's remorse and the mitigating factors, including his guilty plea and the gun's inability to fire. He imposed a four-year suspended sentence with probation supervision for two years. The court noted that Hanley had lost significant sums in the shop and had a history of gambling. The victim impact statement emphasized the lasting trauma on the staff member, who felt unsafe in his home and town. The judge ruled that Hanley's actions were unacceptable despite his personal struggles.
Kenneth Kelly, 54, of Monaseed Demesne, Gorey, was sentenced to six years in prison by Judge James McCourt at Wexford Courthouse for demanding €1,000 from a victim over an alleged drug debt on 31 January 2024, a crime that involved threats and the possession of a .177 calibre air pistol and ammunition. Kelly had 12 prior convictions, including armed robbery. He appealed, arguing the judge had wrongly linked his threats to the victim's subsequent suicide and that the eight‑year headline sentence was excessive. The Court of Appeal, led by Mr Justice Anthony Collins, rejected the appeal, noting the maximum penalty for such an offence is 14 years and that the judge had not erred in assessing the gravity of the crime or Kelly's culpability. Collins upheld the six‑year sentence, stating no evidence justified suspending any part of it. The appeal was dismissed. Kenneth Kelly pleaded guilty.
Conor O'Brien, 29, of Kilpatrick, Ardee, Co Louth, pleaded guilty to all six charges before the Special Criminal Court. He admitted to facilitating a criminal organisation's efforts to import restricted weapons and ammunition from the US to Ireland between February 2023 and July 2024. He also pleaded guilty to five counts of possessing firearm components in suspicious circumstances, including AR-15 and Anderson AM-15 barrels, Sig Sauer pistol frames, and slides, seized in Ardee in July 2024. The court noted the organisation's function was importing and reassembling restricted firearms for distribution to other criminal groups. O'Brien was remanded on continual bail to appear for sentencing on January 12. His co-accused, Mark McCourt, 34, of Edenreive, Newry, Co Down, was previously jailed by the Special Criminal Court after pleading guilty to similar charges of facilitating the importation of restricted weapons and possessing firearms components. McCourt had offered 10 pipe bombs as a free gift to seal a €75,000 deal to supply smuggled guns and ammunition. The gang leader was jailed for 12 years two weeks prior after being caught in a raid where parts for six weapons and hundreds of rounds of ammunition were seized.
Josh McEnroe, 24, of Dublin 8, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for his role in a firearm discharge incident in Dublin 2 on November 15, 2022. McEnroe pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting another person in possession of a firearm for an unlawful purpose. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a 32-month sentence, describing McEnroe's culpability as "in the middle" of the co-accused and towards the lower end. The court noted that McEnroe's two co-accused had already been sentenced in October 2023. Brandon Kelly, 21, pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition for an unlawful purpose and received a global seven-year sentence. Jamie Byrne, 28, pleaded to aiding and abetting the reckless discharge of a firearm and was jailed for 27 months. Evidence indicated that following a verbal altercation with a juvenile, McEnroe dropped a jacket, which the boy later retrieved. Kelly and Byrne subsequently returned on a motorbike, with Kelly appearing to carry a firearm, which was then discharged. No injuries were reported. McEnroe, who has 48 previous convictions, apologized to the court, stating he had turned his life around and is now drug-free and working part-time.
Sarah Jane Byrne, 37, and Jamie Moss, 22, were remanded in custody by the Special Criminal Court until 1 December after pleading guilty to firearms offences. Byrne admitted possession of a 9mm Makarov pistol, 27 rounds of 9mm Luger ammunition, a 12‑gauge sawn‑off Beretta shotgun and a Tokarev submachine gun, all found during a Garda operation on 16 February 2024 at Old Navan Road, Blanchardstown. Moss admitted possession of a 9mm Makarov pistol and a 9mm Makarov Sellier and Bellot round of ammunition, also seized on the same day. Byrne's counsel described her as a vulnerable woman with mental health and addiction problems, who stored firearms to pay a debt to drug dealers and had recently overcome addiction but relapsed after a cancer diagnosis. Moss's counsel highlighted his recent completion of a carpentry apprenticeship and community respect. Both defendants had no prior convictions and were considered low risk of reoffending.
Mark McCourt (34) of Edenreive, Newry, Co Down, was sentenced by the Special Criminal Court today. Having pleaded guilty in July to participating in a criminal organisation's efforts to import restricted weapons between February 2023 and July 2024, and possessing firearms, McCourt was jailed for 12 years for arms smuggling. This sentence was based on a 15-year headline term, reduced by 20% for his early guilty plea. He was concurrently sentenced to 10 years on four firearms possession charges, reduced from 12.5 years on the same basis. The remaining 20 counts on the indictment were taken into account. The court noted McCourt was caught red-handed with military-grade weapons, including parts for six assault rifles and hundreds of rounds of ammunition seized in a Co Louth raid. Det Insp Shane McCartan stated McCourt controlled the importation of firearms components from the USA for reassembly and distribution. McCourt's jail term has been backdated to his arrest on 19 July 2024. The report also notes a separate conviction for criminal damage, where McCourt was jailed for three years, with 18 months suspended, for ramming an off-duty garda's car. No adjournments were recorded; the matter was finalised with sentencing.
Ryan Craig, a 25-year-old man from Clondalkin, appeared at the Central Criminal Court where he pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm and endangerment. The court heard that on October 20, 2024, Craig struck Dillon Gilligan with his van on Cloverhill Road, dragging him for up to 30 feet. The victim suffered critical injuries, including a fractured skull, arm, chest, pelvis, and ankle, as well as internal bleeding. Evidence indicated the attack was opportunistic rather than pre-planned, arising from a long-standing feud in the Ronanstown area. Craig was arrested at Dublin Port and recorded on CCTV stating he had "smashed" the victim. Although originally charged with attempted murder, Craig admitted to the lesser offences in July. The court noted Craig has four previous convictions and that the victim, who was previously convicted of carrying a firearm, has since left a rehabilitation facility. Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned the matter to November 14 for finalisation. Separately, the report references a prior sentencing where Judge Ronan Munro sentenced John Gilligan to six and a half years, with the final 18 months suspended, for offences committed in 2019.
A key witness has told the Central Criminal Court that he feared Ruth Lawrence, who is accused of murdering two men in April or May 2014. The 45-year-old from Mountnugent in Co Meath has pleaded not guilty to killing Anthony Keegan and Eoin O'Connor. Jason Symes gave evidence via video-link, stating he witnessed Lawrence carrying a firearm on multiple occasions. He recalled that on Good Friday 2014, Lawrence and her boyfriend Neville van der Westhuizen borrowed his daughter's car while he waited in Dublin. Upon their return to Patrick's Cottage in Meath, Symes said the couple removed numerous bags from the vehicle. He testified that he later heard Lawrence mention a headlock and a twist in connection with the deceased men. Symes said he fled Ireland fearing for his family's safety but returned to provide testimony. The trial continues before Justice Tony Hunt and a jury.
A sniffer dog alerted Gardaí to a 9mm submachine pistol, silencer and 37 rounds of ammunition hidden in the boot of a Citroën C4 parked at the home of Glen Dempsey, a 30‑year‑old father of four from Cuthbert Meadows, Clondalkin. Gardaí seized the vehicle after the dog signalled the boot, and a technical examination revealed a rusted but fully functional Scorpion submachine gun, a silencer and live ammunition. Dempsey, who had previously pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm, ammunition and a silencer in suspicious circumstances on 15 May 2024, claimed he was holding the gun because he owed €20,000 in drugs debt and was threatened by a third party. He said he had never seen or touched the weapon and that the car was not his or his partner's.