During a 2020 hearing, the Disclosures Tribunal examined evidence that a senior Garda from the Athlone drugs unit, referred to as Garda A, had made 1,600 phone contacts with an alleged heroin dealer, Ms B, during a 2009 operation. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is investigating whether Garda Nicholas Keogh, who disclosed misconduct in 2014, was targeted or harassed after his protected disclosure on 8 May 2014. Detective Inspector Michael Coppinger testified that the 1,600 contacts were recovered from Garda A's phone, which had been seized in April 2015, and that the data had been downloaded by telecoms before any alleged wiping. In October 2015, investigators searched Ms B's Athlone address and recovered up to 20 devices, including SIM cards, laptops and phones, but the evidence did not meet the threshold for criminal prosecution.
In 2014, Garda Nicholas Keogh made a protected disclosure alleging that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, Garda A, had an improper relationship with a heroin dealer, Ms B, and that Garda A had tipped her off on drug searches. Keogh also claimed that in 2009 Gardaí had planted half a kilo of heroin worth €75,000 on two suspects and that a file had been prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). He further alleged evidence destruction, theft of an investigation file, non‑compliance with a court order, exclusion of a known heroin dealer from an investigation, incorrect evidence storage and improper motives for a drug operation. The DPP, after reviewing the investigation, concluded that the evidence against Garda A was circumstantial and did not reach the threshold for criminal prosecution. The Disclosures Tribunal is hearing evidence on whether Keogh was targeted or harassed after his disclosure. The tribunal is chaired by Judge Sean Ryan.
In a hearing before the Disclosures Tribunal, retired District Court Judge Patrick McMahon, who served as the Confidential Recipient for Garda whistleblower Nicholas Keogh, recounted being surprised to learn that Keogh's name and the details of his protected disclosure were read aloud in the Dáil on the same day he received the information. McMahon explained that he had met Keogh on 8 May 2014 in a car in Kinnegad, where Keogh provided an affidavit dated 7 May 2014 and later a DVD containing an interview with an unnamed individual. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is examining whether Keogh was targeted or harassed after his disclosure. McMahon noted that the announcement in the Dáil caused him distress, as he had arranged a confidential meeting with Keogh. The tribunal is also reviewing the appointment of Assistant Commissioner Dónall Ó Cualáin to investigate the matter, a decision that Keogh expressed anxiety about.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, a 32‑year‑old man was found guilty of falsely imprisoning, threatening to kill and burn the house of his ex‑partner and of assaulting her, including fracturing her jaw in May 2016. He pleaded guilty to assault, damaging her phone and producing a car‑jack handle, and to harassing her between 14 May and 30 June 2016. A separate jury verdict in December last year found him guilty of rape, a conviction he continues to deny. The court heard that on the day of the assault he had been drinking, locked all doors, threatened to burn the house, used a bread knife and a car‑jack handle to assault her, and then raped her while a three‑year‑old child slept nearby. He was sentenced on 24 February. The victim, who has not returned to work and suffers nightmares, said she no longer leaves her home unless necessary and fears his release.
A tribunal has heard that Chief Superintendent Lorraine Wheatley expressed being 'astounded, disappointed and incredulous' upon learning of a bullying complaint made against her by Garda whistleblower Nicholas Keogh. The Disclosures Tribunal is currently in its eighth week of hearing evidence regarding the treatment of Gda Keogh, who made a protected disclosure in 2014. Gda Keogh alleges that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, identified as Garda A, was in an improper relationship with an alleged heroin dealer, identified as Ms B. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is investigating whether Gda Keogh was targeted, harassed, undermined, or bullied after making his protected disclosure on 8 May 2014. Chief Supt Wheatley, who was over Westmeath Garda Division in September 2015, was involved in a disciplinary hearing where Gda Keogh admitted a 'minor breach' of neglect of duty. Gda Keogh was fined €300 for going AWOL after a four-day drinking period in July 2015. He appealed the fine, which was upheld by Chief Supt Wheatley. Gda Keogh later raised concerns about the fairness of the review process, which were disputed by Supt Alan Murray and Chief Supt Wheatley. In November 2017, Chief Supt Wheatley was made aware of a bullying and harassment complaint made by Gda Keogh. The complaint was later investigated by An Garda Síochána and Chief Supt Wheatley was cleared. Earlier, the tribunal heard that Gda Keogh received a lesser fine for going AWOL due to work-related stress and heavy drinking. Supt Murray, who disciplined Gda Keogh, reduced the fine due to mitigating circumstances and stated that Gda Keogh was respectful and decent to deal with, but emphasized the importance of gardaí showing up for work. Gda Keogh later sought a review of the decision from Chief Supt Wheatley, who affirmed the penalty.
A senior Garda officer has told the Disclosures Tribunal that a whistleblower Garda was confined to indoor duties in 2015 due to concerns about his condition potentially damaging the reputation of An Garda Síochána. Superintendent Aidan Minnock stated that the decision was made by Supt Patrick Murray and that Gda Keogh was struggling with alcohol and work-related stress at the time. Gda Keogh denies that his hands were shaking when he was informed of the decision. The tribunal is investigating whether Gda Keogh was targeted, harassed, or bullied after making a protected disclosure in 2014. Superintendent Noreen McBrien informed the tribunal that an issue with Gda Keogh's car tax had been known since October 2014, leading to the withholding of subsistence and travel payments until the matter was resolved. One of the travel expenses claims made by Gda Keogh was for a meeting with then-TD Luke 'Ming' Flanagan, who would later name Gda Keogh as a whistleblower in the Dáil in May 2014. The expense claims were eventually paid in April 2015 after the car tax issue was resolved. Gda Keogh had claimed that the delays in his expenses and the car tax issue had amounted to targeting him for being a whistleblower, which the witness denied.
In a tribunal hearing on 6 December 2019, Chief Superintendent Patrick Murray denied allegations that he had undermined a whistleblower's claim. The whistleblower, Garda Nicholas Keogh, had reported in May 2014 that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, identified as Garda A, was in an improper relationship with a heroin dealer, Ms B. Keogh's claim was that Ms B had been seen driving around his home in County Offaly on 28 October 2015. Murray described the observation as potentially lacking credibility, noting that Keogh had not reported the incident to local Garda Station and had only entered it into the Pulse system. Ms B denied being in the area that day, stating her car was in a garage in Athlone. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Seán Ryan, will reconvene on 20 January 2020 to continue its investigation into whether Keogh was targeted or harassed after his disclosure. The hearing concluded with Murray's evidence presented to the tribunal.
In a Disclosures Tribunal hearing, Chief Superintendent Patrick Murray denied that assigning Garda Nicholas Keogh to the public desk was intended to humiliate or target him after Keogh's protected disclosure in 2014. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, examined whether Keogh was harassed or undermined following his disclosure of an alleged improper relationship between a senior Athlone drugs unit officer (Garda A) and a suspected heroin dealer (Ms B). Keogh alleged that his work was micro‑managed and that the public desk was the most stressful role, especially given his work‑related stress. He left on sick leave in December 2015. Murray argued the desk was not difficult and that Keogh had no protest. Evidence from Sergeant Andrew Haran described the public desk as the busiest, "booby prize" role, but Murray maintained the assignment was not intended to target Keogh.
In December 2019, a Garda chief superintendent denied allegations that he targeted and humiliated a whistleblower, Garda Nicholas Keogh, after Keogh made a protected disclosure in May 2014. The disclosure alleged that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, identified as Garda A, was in an improper relationship with an alleged heroin dealer, Ms B. Keogh has complained of targeting and harassment by Chief Superintendent Patrick Murray, claiming his work was micro‑managed by three sergeants under Murray's direction. Murray denies these claims, stating he had no issue with Keogh and that any concerns about Keogh's alcohol problem were based on medical facts and welfare support. Murray also denies suggesting a transfer for Keogh and says any assignment of a sergeant to review Keogh's records was to ensure case integrity, not humiliation. The Disclosures Tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is investigating the matter.
In a Disclosures Tribunal hearing, Chief Superintendent Patrick Murray denied taking a sceptical or hostile approach toward Garda Nicholas Keogh, who made a protected disclosure in 2014. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, examined whether Keogh was targeted, harassed, undermined, or bullied after his disclosure on May 8 2014. Murray, who became superintendent at Athlone Garda Station in March 2015, claimed he had no prior knowledge of station problems and had never met Keogh before their first meeting on March 26 2015. He stated he had no opinion about Keogh and that he had not formed any view regarding Keogh's conduct. Murray explained that he had been aware of Keogh's alcohol problem and work‑related stress, but he said he had not judged Keogh's work or welfare. He also noted that he had introduced new procedures in the district and had referred Keogh to a chief medical officer and a welfare sergeant.
The Disclosures Tribunal heard that interviews into Garda Nicholas Keogh's protected disclosure were held at Athlone Garda Station, where Keogh and the accused senior Garda, identified as Garda A, were both working. Judge Sean Ryan chaired the hearing. Keogh had made a protected disclosure on 8 May 2014, alleging that Garda A was in an improper relationship with an alleged heroin dealer, Ms B. The tribunal investigated whether Keogh was targeted, harassed, undermined or bullied after the disclosure. Sergeant Andrew Haran, who led the investigations team, described the decision to conduct the interviews at the station as "an appalling idea" and said it caused discomfort and risk to Keogh's mental and physical health. Haran noted that Keogh's alcohol problems were known but that Keogh was not drunk at work. The tribunal considered the impact of the interview location on Keogh's well‑being and the overall conduct of the investigation.
In a hearing before the Disclosures Tribunal, Superintendent Noreen McBrien testified that she was concerned for the welfare of Garda Nicholas Keogh after he made a protected disclosure in 2014. McBrien, who had been the District Officer at Athlone Garda Station in 2014, recalled that Keogh had been treated for alcoholism but that this had not affected his work. She said she had a good relationship with Keogh and that she was surprised when she learned he was a whistleblower. McBrien explained that she had no prior experience with protected disclosures and that she had tried to support Keogh's welfare. She also noted that Keogh had raised concerns about whether a senior officer, identified as Garda A, should have access to a weapon during an investigation. The tribunal is still hearing evidence on whether Keogh was targeted or harassed after his disclosure.
In the trial of Robert Lawlor, accused of attempting to murder Fiona Mitchell on 26 May 2018, Mitchell denies that she misidentified Lawlor. She says she saw him through her kitchen window holding a gun, ran out, locked the door, and heard two loud bangs before her dog was later found dead. Lawlor's counsel, Patrick McGrath, argued that Mitchell was "obsessed" with him and had stalked him online, but Mitchell insists she never messaged him and that she did see him that night. Rachel Kirwan, a former partner of Lawlor, recounts their relationship, their children, and a 2018 garden incident where she told Lawlor to leave. Kirwan also recalls a phone call from Mitchell before the shooting. Lawlor has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, a threat to Kirwan, and shooting a dog. The judge will not require the jury until Thursday.
In a 2019 hearing before the Disclosures Tribunal, Chief Superintendent Mark Curran denied that Garda whistleblower Nicholas Keogh became the focus of investigations simply because he made a protected disclosure. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, examined whether Keogh was targeted, harassed or bullied after he alleged Garda collusion in the drugs trade on 8 May 2014. Curran explained that the investigation began with a report written by Garda Aidan Lyons, which was later read by Curran. The report described an alleged interaction between Keogh and a man who claimed Keogh had encouraged complaints against Gardaí. Curran stated that the inquiry was directed at the named man and Keogh, not at other Gardaí, and that Keogh had denied any wrongdoing. He maintained that the focus on Keogh was a result of the allegations made in the report, not of Keogh's whistleblowing.
Brendan Doolin, 37, was sentenced to five years' imprisonment, with the final two years suspended, for harassing six female journalists and writers through hundreds of abusive online messages between 2012 and 2018. The court noted that Doolin had left his home only twice in the previous 17 years and described him as an "internet troll." He pleaded guilty and expressed remorse, factors that mitigated the sentence. The judge imposed strict conditions, including two years of probation, a lifetime prohibition on contacting the six victims, and a maximum seven‑year sentence for any breach. Doolin used multiple email addresses and a monitoring program to send the messages, which included insults, threats, and personal images. The victims reported feeling stalked and psychologically harmed, and the court highlighted the severity of the online harassment. The case underscored the court's view that such conduct constitutes serious criminal behaviour.
A garda whistleblower has concluded three weeks of testimony before an ongoing tribunal, maintaining that a former assistant garda commissioner orchestrated a "deliberate and unmitigated" cover-up when investigating his allegations of garda collusion with a heroin dealer. Garda Nicholas Keogh alleged that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit engaged in an improper relationship with a heroin supplier. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is examining whether Gda Keogh faced targeting, harassment, or bullying following his protected disclosure in May 2014. Gda Keogh submitted a complaint to the Justice Minister in 2016, contending that the subsequent investigation was fundamentally flawed. He referenced the Morris Tribunal's exposure of garda misconduct in Donegal during the 1990s as a parallel case. The tribunal continues hearing evidence, with three Athlone gardaí due to testify.
Garda Nicholas Keogh, a whistleblower, testified at the Disclosures Tribunal that his final days on duty were "paranoid and unbearable" after he made a protected disclosure on 8 May 2014. He alleged that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, identified as Garda A, was in an improper relationship with a heroin dealer, Ms B, who earned an estimated €2,500 a week. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is examining whether Keogh was targeted, harassed, undermined or bullied following his disclosure. Keogh also discussed his drinking problem, noting it had been an issue before the disclosure but had become problematic only once at work. He described feeling like a "sitting duck" for Garda management, being paranoid about documents and phone tapping, and said the last days of his service were difficult, with the 21 December 2015 being his final day on duty. Keogh refused to name his informant, citing concerns about safety.
In a Disclosures Tribunal hearing, Garda Nicholas Keogh testified that he smuggled printed Pulse files out of an Athlone station in his baton pocket and gave them to politicians. Keogh claims the files were re‑classified crimes he considered "fiddling" and that he hid copies in the station and in his baton to avoid Garda HQ monitoring. He alleges that after his protected disclosure on 8 May 2014, he was targeted, harassed and bullied by Superintendent Patrick Murray. Keogh denies intent to "bring down" Murray and says he was merely reporting bullying. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is examining whether Keogh was indeed targeted following his disclosure. The case involves allegations of improper relationships between a senior drug‑unit officer and a heroin dealer, and the alleged suppression of Keogh's complaints by Garda management.
Murad Khandokar, 47, was sentenced to three years in prison for sexually assaulting a 26‑year‑old woman on a Dublin bus on 30 April 2016. During the 15‑20 minute journey he attempted to pry the woman's legs apart and tried to penetrate her with his fingers, while also touching her thighs and attempting to use a baseball cap to conceal his hand. The victim, who was wearing leggings, resisted and froze, describing the experience as being "hemmed in" and terrified. Khandokar had previously been convicted of sexual assault, harassment and breach of a barring order. He pleaded guilty, and Judge Martin Nolan imposed a four‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence, suspending the final 18 months on conditions including probation supervision after release. The case was brought by Garda Louise Carroll, who noted the victim's complaint and CCTV evidence that identified Khandokar. The victim's impact statement highlighted her frustration, anger, shame and desire for consequences.
In a Disclosures Tribunal hearing, Garda Nicholas Keogh claims a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, referred to as Garda A, was in an improper relationship with a heroin dealer, Ms B, who earned an estimated €2,500 a week. Keogh alleges that after making a protected disclosure on 8 May 2014, he was targeted, harassed, or bullied by Garda management. He reports that he had periods of absenteeism in July 2015 due to drinking and stress, and that his superintendent, Patrick Murray, addressed his absences and alcohol issues. Keogh says he was marked as having flu when he was actually suffering from work‑related stress and alcohol abuse, and that the Chief Medical Officer was kept in the dark about his stress. He also claims that his medical certificates were withheld and that he was told he was "under no stress" despite his own statements to the contrary.
In a Disclosures Tribunal hearing, Garda Nicholas Keogh denies alleging a cash theft by three Gardaí and claims Garda management handled the investigation in a "sinister" manner. Keogh, who made a protected disclosure on 8 May 2014, says he never claimed that €800 was stolen by three guards and spent on alcohol and gambling. He alleges that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, identified as Garda A, was in an improper relationship with a heroin dealer, Ms B, who earned about €2,500 a week. Keogh states that Garda management investigated the claim, but no evidence was found and the matter was dropped. He accuses the investigation of being targeted, harassed and bullied, and describes the process as unusual and lacking proper follow‑up. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is hearing Keogh's testimony and the cross‑examination by counsel for An Garda Síochána. The case remains at the tribunal stage, with no verdict or outcome reported.
In a hearing at Dublin Castle, Garda medical officer Gda Nicholas Keogh testified that a senior Garda, referred to as Garda A, was in an improper relationship with a heroin dealer, Ms B, who earned about €2,500 a week. Keogh, who made a protected disclosure in May 2014, claimed he was harassed and bullied after the disclosure. He admitted to an alcohol dependency since 2012, which led to periods of sickness and unfitness for duty. Keogh used alcohol and Xanax together, despite warnings that the drugs should not be combined. The Chief Medical Officer recommended Keogh be stood down on 18 December 2015, citing his unfitness for work. Keogh disputed the recommendation, stating he had not been notified of his unfitness and that he had been working on 21 December 2015. The tribunal is examining how Keogh was treated following his disclosure.
In a Disclosures Tribunal hearing, Garda Nicholas Keogh, a whistleblower, accuses Superintendent Patrick Murray of "massaging" crime figures and undermining his work. Keogh alleges that Murray criticised four of his investigations and re‑classified a robbery he recorded as serious to a lower category on the same day, calling it a non‑crime. Keogh claims this was an attempt to discredit him after he made a protected disclosure in 2014. Murray denies targeting Keogh, stating his queries were aimed at ensuring high‑standard investigations. Keogh argues the re‑classifications and persistent scrutiny amount to harassment, while Murray maintains they were procedural. The tribunal considers whether the re‑classifications constitute bullying or corruption, with Keogh insisting he is not alleging corruption. The case remains at the tribunal stage.
At the Disclosures Tribunal in Dublin Castle, Garda Nicholas Keogh testified that he had been bullied and harassed by his superiors after making a protected disclosure in May 2014 about alleged collusion between Gardaí and drug dealers in Athlone. Keogh claimed that the "dogs on the street" were aware of the collusion and that a senior member of the drugs unit had been aiding a heroin dealer, Ms B, who had no prior drug convictions. He said he entered the information into the Garda Pulse system to protect himself and to make it available to all Gardaí. Keogh alleged that he was targeted and discredited by his superiors, that he had been investigated by Assistant Commissioner Michael Finn, and that he had taken sick leave in 2015. The Tribunal is examining whether the questioning and investigations amounted to targeting or discrediting Keogh, while an allegation of mobile‑phone tapping was dropped for lack of evidence.
In a 2019 Disclosures Tribunal hearing, Garda whistleblower Nicholas Keogh alleged harassment and bullying by Garda management after he made a protected disclosure in 2014 about colleagues in Athlone. Keogh, who served in the drug unit from 2009 to 2011, claimed that a drug‑unit colleague, referred to as Garda A, had aided and abetted a woman named Miss B in heroin trade, with a weekly turnover of about €2,500. He recorded this in a Pulse entry. Keogh also reported that a mother's complaint of assault against Miss B was dismissed, though the mother's daughter gave a separate statement. The tribunal examined 22 matters, including allegations that Commissioner Nóirín O'Sullivan had instructed Keogh's superior to isolate him, and that Keogh faced harassment over car tax, sick leave, back pay, and other workplace issues. The hearing focused on whether these actions constituted targeting or discrediting of Keogh.
A 37‑year‑old man from County Clare was sentenced to more than nine years in prison for raping a 13‑year‑old girl in 2011 after chasing her on church grounds. He denied the rape but was convicted of defilement after DNA proved he was the father of the girl's child, born when she was 16. The court described him as a "dangerous sexual predator" with a long history of sexual offences, noting he will be released while still young. He will undergo seven years of post‑release supervision, must not contact anyone under 18 and must avoid loitering near places where children gather. The victim, now 20, said the assault ruined her life, causing ongoing anxiety and affecting her relationships. The man had previously been convicted of 17 sexual offences, including the defilement charge, and had 37 convictions in total. The unnamed 13-year-old pleaded guilty.
In 2017, Detective Sergeant Eve Doherty was convicted of harassing State solicitor Elizabeth Howlin by sending abusive letters and emails over an 18‑month period. The court found Doherty had called Howlin "corrupt", "incompetent useless hobbit" and "two‑faced bitch". She was sentenced to three years' imprisonment in January 2018, with no suspended portion, and served 20 months in Dóchas women's prison. In July 2019, the Court of Appeal suspended the unserved balance of her sentence, allowing her release on condition she does not contact Howlin or related parties for five years. The appeal also rejected Doherty's claim that evidence was unlawfully obtained under the Communications (Retention of Data) Act 2011, stating the data was not personal and did not breach her rights. Doherty remains suspended from Gardaí and her salary has been terminated.
Eve Doherty, 51, a detective sergeant in An Garda Síochána, was found guilty by a jury at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of harassing State solicitor Elizabeth Howlin between September 2011 and March 2013. The harassment involved sending abusive letters and emails to Howlin's home, workplace and GP, calling her "corrupt", "incompetent useless hobbit" and "two‑faced bitch". Doherty denied the charge and was acquitted on two counts of making false statements. She was sentenced to three years' imprisonment in January 2018. Doherty has appealed the severity of the sentence to the Court of Appeal, arguing that prison is more difficult for her as a Garda and that no suitable open prison exists for women. The Court of Appeal has reserved its judgement. The case highlights the seriousness of harassment of public officials.
Eve Doherty, a former detective sergeant, has lost her appeal against a conviction for harassing State solicitor Elizabeth Howlin. The Court of Appeal, presided over by Mr Justice John Edwards alongside President Mr Justice George Birmingham and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, upheld the jury's finding of guilt from Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Doherty was originally found guilty of harassing Ms Howlin between September 2011 and March 2013 by sending abusive letters and emails. She had denied the charge but was found not guilty on two separate counts of making false statements in March 2012. In January 2018, Judge Melanie Greally sentenced Doherty to three years imprisonment, describing the communications as containing outright and "scurrilous" lies. Doherty's legal team argued that evidence obtained under the Communications (Retention of Data) Act 2011 was inadmissible because the Act breached EU law, and that the trial judge erred regarding the definition of harassment and the exclusion of certain documents. The Court of Appeal rejected these grounds, ruling that the retained data did not constitute Doherty's personal data and that her privacy rights were not breached. The judgment dismissed all appeals, thereby upholding the original conviction and sentence.
The High Court has granted Shawl Property Investments Ltd a temporary injunction against an unnamed woman and her former partner, who are accused of unlawfully occupying a Dublin 6 property. Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds issued the ex-parte order on Wednesday, requiring the pair to vacate the residence and prohibiting them from harassing the company or engaging in intimidation. The court heard that the defendants allegedly broke into the property, changed the locks, and forced the company's directors and tenants onto the street. Counsel for the plaintiff stated that the woman was jailed for contempt last May for refusing to comply with possession orders and was released in August after giving undertakings to vacate. The judge expressed concern that the woman's teenage daughters were being used as pawns and directed that the Child and Family Agency be made aware of the proceedings. She also directed that Gardaí accompany the service of proceedings. The matter was adjourned and will return before the Court on Friday.
A man with serious psychological issues has agreed to High Court orders that prohibit him from harassing, watching, pestering or communicating with a woman who alleges he stalked her online for almost a decade. The woman, who feared for her safety because of frightening online messages, brought the case after the unwanted communications—emails and social media messages—began when they were both students at the same Third Level College. She says she only had one personal interaction with the man, during a group presentation. After she asked him to stop, he continued to contact her, causing her anxiety and sleep difficulties. She has complained to Gardai and the college. The court granted the orders, noting the woman had pursued the action as a last resort due to the Gardai's handling of the matter. The man's lawyers confirmed his serious psychological issues.
A woman told the High Court that she fears for her safety after receiving frightening online messages from a male "stalker" who had been a fellow student at the same Third Level College almost a decade ago. She says she only had one personal interaction with him during college and that the unwanted e‑mails and social media messages began then and continued for several years, intensifying in recent weeks. The man has claimed he has "very strong feelings" for her, that he is entitled to further contact, and that he loves her. He has threatened her, accused her of ignoring his feelings, and called her a monster. The woman has asked the court for an injunction to prevent the man from intimidating, harassing, watching, besetting and communicating with her. The judge has directed that the Gardai and members of the defendant's family be made aware of the proceedings and adjourned the matter for a week.
A man has been sentenced to eight years in prison at the Central Criminal Court for the attempted murder of his ex-girlfriend in County Roscommon. Gerard Mooney, aged thirty-nine and formerly of Castlerea, pleaded guilty to attempting to shoot the woman in the head on 12th February 2017 at Cartron. He also admitted possessing a sawn-off shotgun, making threats to kill, criminal damage, harassment, and burglary. Justice Michael White imposed a twelve-year sentence on the attempted murder charge, suspending the final four years. The judge noted that Mooney came "within a hair's breadth" of a murder conviction and that his victim survived only due to mechanical failure when the weapon jammed repeatedly. The court heard the accused had made over 250 calls to the victim between 7th and 12th February and had breached court bail conditions prohibiting contact. Justice White identified the case as exemplifying how intimate relationships can become dangerous, citing psychological difficulties and substance abuse as contributing factors. All sentences will run concurrently and were backdated to February 2017.
Warren Nolan, 22, was sentenced today by Mr Justice Paul McDermott to the mandatory term of life imprisonment for the murder of Alan O'Neill. Nolan was found guilty of this charge by a majority jury verdict in December. He was also found guilty by unanimous verdict of setting fire to the car used in the attack. For the arson, the judge imposed a six-year sentence, noting that while an appropriate range was seven to ten years, he considered Nolan's young age and mitigating factors. Both sentences were backdated to September 2017. The court heard from Doris O'Neill, the victim's mother, who described her son as a "gentle giant" and stated she would never understand his murder. Counsel for Nolan highlighted his difficult background and low intellectual ability, while the prosecution noted his 24 previous convictions, including a recent firearms offense. Evidence indicated the shooting was planned, with the stolen vehicle stalking the victim prior to the attack. Nolan was arrested near a burning car and denied involvement in the murder during interviews, claiming he only set the vehicle alight. The judge's sentencing concluded the procedural stage for these proven charges.
Eve Doherty, 50, was found guilty by a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of harassing State solicitor Elizabeth Howlin between September 2011 and March 2013 by sending abusive letters and emails. She was convicted of harassing a State solicitor and was sentenced to three years imprisonment in January 2018. Doherty was found not guilty on two counts of making false statements in March 2012, where she claimed Ms Howlin was perverting the course of justice. She has appealed her conviction on more than a dozen grounds, including that the State retained her data under the Communications (Retention of Data) Act 2011, which she argues was "doomed" under EU law. The Court of Appeal has reserved its judgement. The appeal focuses on the legality of the data used by the prosecution and the alleged breach of EU privacy directives. The case remains at the appeal stage, with no further outcome announced.
A Dublin man has been remanded in custody pending sentencing at the Central Criminal Court following his guilty plea to attempting to murder his ex-girlfriend in County Roscommon. Gerard Mooney, aged 39, admitted to the attempted murder of a woman on 12th February 2017 at Cartron, near Carrick-on-Shannon. He also pleaded guilty to charges including burglary, assault causing harm, possession of a shotgun, threats to kill, harassment, and criminal damage. Evidence heard at the court revealed that Mooney attended the victim's home in Cartron where he fired a shot through a glass door and confronted her with a sawn-off shotgun in the kitchen. He repeatedly pulled the trigger but the weapon repeatedly jammed. The victim provided a statement describing the ordeal and its ongoing psychological impact. Mooney, with previous addresses in Castlerea, was arrested later that evening. Justice Michael White remanded him in custody until 18th January for sentence.
Eve Doherty, a former detective sergeant, moved to appeal her conviction for harassing State solicitor Elizabeth Howlin. Doherty was found guilty by a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of sending abusive letters and emails to Ms Howlin between September 2011 and March 2013. She was found not guilty on two counts of making false statements. In January 2018, Judge Melanie Greally sentenced Doherty to three years imprisonment, describing the communications as containing outright and "scurrilous" lies. Doherty, who maintains her innocence, argued that the conviction should be overturned because the State retained technical evidence, including a static IP address and data from a Canadian server, under the Communications (Retention of Data) Act 2011. Her counsel, Michael O'Higgins SC, contended that this Act was "doomed" and breached EU law, which had been struck down by European Courts. He submitted that the trial judge erred in failing to exclude this evidence, as well as other documents and an email regarding the Garda Commissioner, citing privacy breaches and lack of authorship proof. The appeal panel, led by President George Birmingham, heard that the 2011 Act was the law of the land at the time of the alleged offences. The matter was adjourned, with the DPP's counsel, Kerida Naidoo SC, scheduled to make submissions on Thursday next.
Anthony and Kathleen Hogan of Mullica Lower, Donard, Dunlavin, Co Wicklow, have brought High Court proceedings against Kevin Lawlor Senior and his son Kevin Junior, also of Mullica Lower, Donard, Dunlavin. The Hogans claim that a JCB allegedly destroyed a pump house on the Lawlor property in September, leaving their home without running water. They allege that Mr Lawlor Senior demolished the pump house and has since erected a steel fence blocking access to the site, preventing the Hogans from restoring water. The Hogans say Mr Lawlor Senior has been intoxicated and aggressive, threatening them and interfering with workers. They seek injunctions to stop harassment, allow access to the property and right of way, and to enable the restoration of the well and pump house. Mr Justice Tony O'Connor granted Mr Lupton permission to serve short‑notice proceedings on the Lawlors, with the matter adjourned to next week's sitting.
In a Dublin murder trial, 22‑year‑old Warren Nolan was accused of shooting Alan O'Neill, 35, in the front garden of O'Neill's home on 27 May 2015. The prosecution, led by Shane Costelloe SC, argued that Nolan planned the hit, used a getaway car, and fired four shots, killing O'Neill twice. Evidence included CCTV showing a car "stalking" O'Neill, a witness, Michelle Usher, who described the shooter as a teenager, and forensic findings of firearms residue on a glove taken from Nolan and petrol on his clothing. Nolan denied being the shooter and claimed he only set the car on fire. Defence counsel Michael Bowman SC challenged the forensic analysis, the handling of evidence, and the reliability of the detective's statements, urging the jury to consider the lack of definitive proof linking Nolan to the shooting. The case was presented to a jury of twelve, with the judge to deliver the charge the following day. Warren Nolan pleaded not guilty.
In December 2018, a 49‑year‑old man from Clare raped his 17‑year‑old stepdaughter after deceiving her as an online stranger who claimed to possess compromising information. He threatened her with a sexually explicit video, demanded she produce more videos, and insisted she have sex with him. He pretended to help her by sending a video of himself masturbating, then threatened to expose his abuse unless she complied. The stepdaughter, fearing jail for her stepfather and wanting to protect her mother, pleaded to allow the sexual act, leading the man to rape her under the pretense of the threats. He pleaded guilty to rape in 2010 and to harassment from 2009 to 2010. The court imposed a ten‑year sentence, suspended the last two years, and required participation in a sex‑offender treatment programme. The stepdaughter, a foreign national, was placed in foster care after the abuse was revealed.
The Special Criminal Court trial of Kevin Braney, 44, of Tallaght, Dublin 24, continued before Mr Justice Paul Coffey. Braney has pleaded not guilty to the murder of dissident republican Peter Butterly in March 2013 and the unlawful possession of a semi-automatic pistol. Protected witness David Cullen, who turned State's evidence after his murder charge was dropped, was cross-examined regarding his credibility. Cullen admitted to past dishonesty, including retaining WPP rent allowance and avoiding prosecution for harassment of an ex-girlfriend, which he denied. The court heard that Cullen was sentenced on July 2, 2014, to seven years in prison for unlawful possession of a firearm, with three and a half years suspended. The trial remains ongoing, with the defence challenging the witness's reliability and the prosecution presenting evidence of the shooting at The Huntsman Inn in Gormanston.
A 38-year-old man from Roscommon has pleaded guilty to the attempted murder of a woman in County Roscommon. Gerard Mooney of Castle Hill, Castlerea appeared before the Central Criminal Court on 19th November 2018, where he admitted attempting to murder the woman on 12th February 2017 at Cartron, Carrick-on-Shannon. Mooney had previously pleaded guilty to related offences including burglary, assault causing harm, possession of a shotgun, making threats to kill or cause serious harm, criminal damage, and harassment of the woman between 7th and 12th February 2017. A trial scheduled for May 2019 was vacated following the guilty pleas. Mr Justice Michael White directed preparation of a urinalysis report, a Governor's report from Castlerea Prison, and a victim impact statement. The accused was remanded in custody pending sentencing on 18th December 2018.
In November 2015, 24‑year‑old Edward Andrews, already serving a four‑year robbery sentence, harassed pub owner Stephen Rooney in Dublin. Andrews warned Rooney that the area was "his patch" during a 30th birthday celebration at The Farmhouse Inn, Monkstown. The next day he drove close to Rooney's workplace, revved his engine and shouted threats, then fled. A few days later, Andrews blocked Rooney into a cul‑de‑sac in his car, threatened to shoot him, and made a trigger‑pulling gesture. Rooney, who was in his own vehicle, reported the incident to Gardaí. Andrews pleaded guilty to harassing Rooney at several Dublin locations between 21 and 26 November 2015. He was sentenced by Judge Melanie Greally to a three‑year jail term, with the final 12 months suspended, after acknowledging his guilty plea, youth, and efforts to become drug‑free.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Christopher Lenihan, aged 28, was sentenced to three years' imprisonment, with the final 12 months suspended, following a 2017 assault on his ex‑partner Grace Brady at the Plaza Hotel, Tallaght. Lenihan held Brady down, punched her repeatedly, grabbed her hair, and covered her mouth to silence her. He later threatened to release personal photographs of her if she did not comply. After the attack, Lenihan sent over 200 harassing texts and emails, and was arrested for harassment in January 2017. He pleaded guilty to false imprisonment and assault causing harm, and admitted further harassment between 13 and 31 January. The judge noted Lenihan showed no remorse and had limited insight into the impact of his actions. Lenihan must complete probation supervision for 18 months, offence‑focused work, and a domestic‑violence programme if suitable. He has a prior conviction for breach of a barring order in February 2016.
A 38-year-old Roscommon man has pleaded guilty to threatening to kill a woman and harassing her, whilst facing a separate attempted murder charge. Gerard Mooney of Castle Hill, Castlerea appeared before the Central Criminal Court on 23 July 2018, where he admitted to burglary at a residence in Cartron, Carrick-on-Shannon on 12 February 2017. He also pleaded guilty to assault causing harm, possession of a shotgun, making threats to kill or cause serious harm, and criminal damage during the same incident. Additionally, Mooney admitted to harassing the woman by persistently following, watching and communicating with her between 7 and 12 February 2017. Mr Justice Michael White remanded him in custody pending trial on the attempted murder charge and outstanding counts scheduled for 27 May 2019. The court noted that the firearms offence carries a presumptive minimum sentence of five years, with sentencing to follow after trial.
In a High Court hearing on 26 June 2018, dentist Mr Michael Maguire alleged that his colleague, Mr James Hiney, had installed secret cameras in their shared dental premises at Market Point, Mullingar, without his consent. Mr Maguire claimed the cameras, along with wiring and a microphone, captured his staff and patients, and that the footage was used to target his patients with marketing messages. He also alleged that Hiney had engaged in vandalism, harassment, and defamation, and that Hiney had withheld information from insurers about the building. Mr Maguire sought orders to prevent Hiney from monitoring his employees, to stop solicitation of his patients, to halt proposed construction works, to return all data including patient lists, and for damages. Justice Costello granted Mr Maguire permission to serve short‑notice proceedings against Hiney on an ex‑parte basis. The case is set to return to court later in the week.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Christopher Lenihan, aged 28, pleaded guilty to false imprisonment and assault causing harm after beating his ex‑partner Grace Brady at the Plaza Hotel, Tallaght, on 13 January 2017. Lenihan held Brady down, punched her repeatedly, grabbed her hair, and bit her arm, preventing her from breathing. He later sent over 200 harassing texts, threatening to release personal photographs if she did not comply. Brady reported the attack to Gardaí, who arrested Lenihan at his home on 31 January. Lenihan also admitted harassing Brady between 13 and 31 January. He has a prior conviction for breach of a barring order. The judge adjourned the case to July, noting Lenihan's alcohol abuse and high risk of re‑offending, and indicated a likely prison sentence.
Stephen Costello, 47, and his wife Karen from Woodstown Gardens, Knocklyon, sued the Garda Commissioner for damages over alleged trespass, intimidation and harassment. They claimed a 2005 injunction had restrained Gardaí from entering their home without a warrant or a household member's request. The Commissioner denied the claims. The case was scheduled to begin but was adjourned over medical reports. After negotiations, the parties settled, and the case was struck out. The settlement was confidential. Costello alleged that Gardaí had harassed him since the 1990s, including arrests, searches, and strip‑searches, and that the harassment had caused distress, health problems, and affected his work and family life. The Commissioner denied all allegations of harassment. The High Court accepted the settlement and dismissed the case.
Conor O'Hora, 41, of Portmarnock, was sentenced to three years in prison for harassing RTÉ newsreader Sharon Ní Bheoláin and for three counts of possessing child pornography. He pleaded guilty to harassing Ní Bheoláin between March 2013 and January 2014, which involved posting over 30 altered photographs of her on a website and engaging in 40 sexually explicit and violent online conversations. He also pleaded guilty to knowingly possessing child pornography on a mobile phone and a computer hard drive, with 93 images of children aged eight to 17 found on his devices. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a four‑and‑a‑half‑year sentence, suspending the final 18 months, and ordered O'Hora not to contact Ní Bheoláin. He was also required to keep the peace and be of good behaviour for 18 months under probation supervision. The court noted his cooperation with Gardaí and his efforts at rehabilitation. The co‑accused received an 18‑month suspended sentence earlier this year.
Conor O'Hora, 41, of Heather Walk, Portmarnock, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to harassing RTÉ newsreader Sharon Ní Bheoláin between 27 March 2013 and 7 January 2014 and to three counts of knowingly possessing child pornography. The harassment involved posting over 30 modified photographs of Ní Bheoláin on a website reachable via a Google search of her name. The child‑pornography charges concerned roughly 100 images of children in sexually explicit activity and 40 explicit online conversations between O'Hora and a co‑accused. The images were found on O'Hora's HP Pavilion laptop and iPhone, depicting children aged eight to 17, including three identified children. O'Hora was remanded overnight pending sentencing; Judge Martin Nolan warned that he would certainly face jail for his "debasing behaviour" and "insidious harassment." The court heard that the co‑accused had received an 18‑month suspended sentence earlier this year, now being appealed by the DPP for undue leniency.