A jury has been asked to determine whether Joseph Lawlor used reasonable force in stabbing his friend to death after the deceased threatened to throw grenades through his windows. Lawlor, 39, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Michael Ryan, 51, who was found dead in a carpark behind Lawlor's home in Dublin. The incident occurred on June 20, 2024, following a night of drinking and altercations between the two men. Ryan accused Lawlor of calling the gardai to have him arrested for drunk driving and demanded the return of an expensive watch. When Lawlor refused, Ryan allegedly threatened to throw grenades through his windows. Lawlor pursued Ryan to the carpark and stabbed him in the neck, causing his death. The prosecution argues that Lawlor created the situation deliberately to use force, citing audio evidence of Lawlor inviting Ryan to a fight. The defence claims that Lawlor acted in self-defence, citing the Criminal Law (Defence and the Dwelling) Act 2011, which allows for the use of reasonable force against trespassers.
A software salesman who was dismissed from his high-paying job and later resorted to fast food deliveries has lost his case against his former employer, Solarwinds Software Europe DAC, over alleged retaliation for reporting corruption. Ali Izzy was fired in 2024 after revoking a €500,000 discount on a software deal with the Saudi Arabian government, which he claimed was part of a corrupt side deal. His complaints under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 and the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 were dismissed by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). The tribunal found that while Izzy had a reasonable belief in wrongdoing, his actions in blocking the deal constituted misconduct, justifying his dismissal. Izzy alleged that his former boss, Abdul Rehman, had a history of corruption and had attempted to bribe him. However, Rehman denied these claims, and the WRC did not rule on the truth of Izzy's allegations. The tribunal concluded that Izzy's actions were not protected under whistleblower laws and that his dismissal was not retaliatory.
A Romanian national, Ionut Danca, was sentenced to five and a half years in prison for killing a Canadian tourist, Neno Dolmajian, in Dublin city centre. Danca delivered a full-force running kick to the victim's head, who was lying on the ground under the influence of alcohol. The judge described the attack as brazen and stated that there was no need or justification for the act. Dolmajian, a 42-year-old Canadian of Armenian heritage, was visiting Ireland and was due to leave the country the day after the incident. The victim's family attended the sentencing hearing via video-link from Canada and described him as a positive and creative person. Danca's co-accused, Madalin Ghiuzan, was sentenced to 12 months in prison, with the sentence suspended for 12 months. The judge noted that the victim's death was a devastating loss for his family and emphasized the need for justice. Danca's defense highlighted his lack of prior convictions and his exemplary work ethic, but the court ruled that the severity of the crime warranted a significant prison term. Ionut Danca pleaded guilty. Madalin Ghiuzan pleaded guilty.
A rapist who argued that his victim "might have turned something that wasn't a rape into a rape" after her parents discovered emergency contraception pills has failed in his appeal. Matthew Fadeyi, 36, was convicted of raping a young woman in 2018 and received a six-and-a-half-year sentence, with the final year suspended. His legal team argued that the failure to interview the victim's parents prejudiced his trial, but the Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal, stating there was no evidence of prejudice. Fadeyi's counsel suggested the victim may have fabricated the rape allegation after her parents found the pills, but the court rejected this argument, noting it was inconsistent with the defence case at trial. The appeal was also dismissed because the defence had previously argued the victim had invented the allegation to protect her relationship. The court upheld Fadeyi's conviction, emphasizing that the evidence supported the prosecution's case and that the appeal arguments were not credible.
A man in his 20s charged with assault, criminal damage, and drug possession following an incident in Dún Laoghaire has been remanded in custody. The accused is charged with assaulting a woman and causing her harm, damaging a window at a neighbouring property, and possessing heroin, cocaine, and benzodiazepines. He is also charged with criminal damage at Dún Laoghaire Garda Station, where he allegedly spat food onto a cell wall and door after his arrest. No bail application was made, and the accused was remanded in custody to appear by video link for a bail hearing. Judge Anne Watkin directed that the accused receive medical attention for injuries sustained during the incident, as well as for heroin addiction and mental health issues. Legal aid was granted to the accused's defence solicitor. The case highlights concerns about drug use, assault, and property damage in the area, with the accused facing multiple charges that could result in significant legal consequences.
Richard Walsh, 32, of Lisminton, Ballintra, Co Donegal, was sentenced to seven years in prison at the Central Criminal Court for the sexual assault of a woman in her 20s. Walsh pleaded guilty to the offence, which occurred on December 13, 2020, at his home in Ballintra. Justice Tony Hunt described the incident as a serious sexual assault, noting that Walsh's guilty plea was compelled by independent corroboration rather than remorse. The judge reduced a headline sentence of eight years to seven to account for the plea. Walsh was ordered to serve the full term, followed by three years of supervision, including notifying the Probation Service of his contact details and engaging in offence-focused work. The court noted that Walsh was on bail for an unrelated defilement charge at the time of the assault. He had previously pleaded guilty to defilement of a child under 17 and received a custodial sentence of one year and eight months in January 2023. Justice Hunt stated that Walsh's previous conviction complicated sentencing and that his apology carried little weight. The victim, who wished to retain anonymity, stated that the assault ruined her life and caused serious depression. The judge commended her strength and noted that Walsh's misconduct rightly resulted in community shunning.
Riley Burke, a 25-year-old Canadian delivery driver, was jailed for five years after being caught with €716,000 worth of cannabis at Dublin Airport. Burke arrived on a flight from Toronto on July 26, 2025, and a suitcase containing cannabis burst open on the luggage belt. Customs officers used a dog to detect a second suitcase, which was also found to contain cannabis. The suitcases did not have Burke's name on them but belonged to two other individuals who were not on the flight. CCTV footage showed Burke waiting for the bags and checking the labels. Burke claimed he had forgotten that he had not checked any luggage and had mistakenly picked up the two suitcases. However, the garda did not accept this explanation. Burke has no previous convictions and has been in custody since his arrest. His defense argued that he was at the lowest rung of the ladder and had no financial interest in the drugs. Burke admitted to having a financial debt and said he was trying to pay it off.
Meta and WhatsApp have been granted permission by the High Court to challenge the €12 million levy imposed on them by Coimisiún na Meán. The companies argue that the commission's calculation of the levy lacks transparency, particularly regarding how the supervisory fee payable to the European Commission under the Digital Services Act was taken into account. Meta and WhatsApp claim they were not provided with any explanation of how the total amount was calculated and were only issued with invoices instead of appropriate notices. The companies are seeking an order to quash the statutory instrument under which the levy was issued and a declaration that the commission acted unlawfully and beyond its power. The applicants argue that the commission has a discretion to impose a levy but must provide transparency on incurred levies. The case was adjourned to April for further proceedings. The companies claim that the levy imposed on them collectively amounts to €12,921,438 and that they had no way to verify the correct formula used in calculating the levy.
Patrick Harte, 84, appeared at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for sentencing following his conviction on 17 counts of indecent or sexual assault against eight boys between 1969 and 1986. Harte, a former teacher and principal at Sancta Maria Christian Brothers school on Synge Street, pleaded not guilty to all charges and continues to deny any offending. This fourth set of prosecutions brings his total convictions for sexual or indecent assaults to 89, involving 32 victims. During the hearing, Judge Martina Baxter heard victim impact statements detailing long-term mental health effects, including alcohol addiction and trust issues. One victim stated that "nobody cared, nobody has ever apologised." Defense counsel John Griffin BL stated Harte does not accept the jury verdicts and instructed that no plea of mitigation would be entered. Harte addressed the court, attempting to raise issues regarding evidence from a different trial, which the Judge dismissed as irrelevant to this hearing. The court noted Harte's previous sentences, including a three-year term in 2020 and a four-year term in December 2024. Judge Baxter adjourned the finalisation of sentencing to March 18 next.
Noel Long, a former British Army soldier and convicted sexual offender, has launched an appeal to overturn his murder conviction for the 1981 killing of Nora Sheehan. Long, now 77, was found guilty in 2023 based on DNA evidence linking him to the victim, as well as other physical evidence such as fibres and paint fragments. His legal team, led by Michael Delaney SC, has raised three main grounds for appeal: the admissibility of DNA evidence, the delay in bringing the case, and the trial judge's handling of the jury charge. Delaney argued that the arrest of Long under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act 1939 was unlawful and that the subsequent search of his car and blood sample were invalid. The prosecution, represented by Seoirse O Dunlaing SC, defended the admissibility of the evidence and the trial judge's decisions. The appeal hearing, which is expected to last three days, continues with the Court of Appeal considering whether the conviction should be overturned based on the legal arguments presented. Nora Sheehan pleaded not guilty.
A murder trial at the Central Criminal Court has heard closing arguments in a case arising from the fatal stabbing of a man in Dublin in June 2024. Joseph Lawlor, aged 39, of Hampton Wood Road in Finglas, Dublin 11, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Michael Ryan, aged 51, who died from a stab wound to the neck in a carpark behind Mr Lawlor's home on 20 June 2024. The prosecution contends that Mr Lawlor inflicted the fatal wound with intent to kill or cause serious injury and was not acting in lawful self-defence. The defence argues that Mr Lawlor was entitled to use reasonable force to protect himself and his property after Mr Ryan, a friend with whom he had been drinking, broke into his home, took cash, and made threats. The jury heard evidence regarding earlier physical altercations between the men and a 999 call made immediately after the incident. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath is presiding over the trial, with closing arguments continuing.
Joseph Richards, 35, pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to conspiring to murder Robert Sheridan, a 45-year-old father-of-two who was fatally shot at his Ballymun home in October 2018. Prosecutors alleged that Richards, who has 99 previous convictions, was "crack crazy" and acted for payment, enlisting someone known to the victim to lure him to the door. Sheridan, who had received a Garda Information Message warning of threats to his life, sustained fatal gunshot wounds to the face. The court heard that Richards is currently serving a prison sentence of six years and five months. In mitigation, his counsel cited a traumatic upbringing, chronic drug addiction, and recent bereavement. Victim impact statements described the killing as a "cold-blooded execution" and detailed the lasting psychological trauma suffered by Sheridan's children. Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned the case to February 24 for finalisation.
Patrick Murphy, a 37-year-old man who admitted to stabbing 20-year-old Jordan Ronan to death outside his home, is now on 23-hour lockup for his own protection after being attacked in prison. Murphy claimed he was defending his family and property when he stabbed Ronan, who was found in his front driveway. Murphy's dog alerted him to the presence of Ronan, and he rushed out of his home armed with a kitchen knife. CCTV footage showed Murphy telling his partner that Ronan was breaking into their car. A jury found Murphy not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter. Ronan's partner, Lauren Geraghty, who was six weeks pregnant with their first child, delivered a victim-impact statement expressing her grief and the loss of their future together. Ronan's father, Stephen Packenham, spoke of his son's wish to meet his daughter and the devastation of identifying his body. Sabrina Ronan, Ronan's mother, thanked those who provided first aid to her son. The pathologist testified that the stab wound was 18cm deep and caused cardiac arrest within minutes.
Carl Innos, a 30-year-old Finnish national, was given a suspended sentence for burglary after breaking into a house in Malahide. Innos claimed he broke into the house because he was trying to find a shortcut after wading through a stream on a golf course. The homeowner found Innos in his conservatory and described him as not being aggressive. Innos asked the homeowner to open the internal doors to allow him to leave the house, but the homeowner instead fled and called 999. Nothing was taken during the burglary, and Innos was caught nearby later that day. The court heard that the homeowner's neighbor had recorded Innos breaking into the house on his phone, which was provided to the gardaí and led to his arrest. Innos admitted to the burglary and pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. He had one previous conviction for failing to appear in court. The homeowner said he has yet to regain his previous feeling of safety in his home and has been left with a lingering sense of deep unease.
A 25-year-old man from Donegal has been sentenced to eighteen months imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court following his guilty plea to the defilement of a teenager. The man, who cannot be identified to protect the victim's privacy, was originally charged with rape but pleaded guilty to defilement on the basis that he may have been unaware or reckless as to consent. The offence occurred in May 2021 when the victim was sixteen years old and the defendant was twenty-one. The court heard the man, who was an acquaintance of the girl's family, initiated contact with her via social media before arranging to meet her. He subsequently drove her to a secluded location where the incident took place. Mr Justice Paul McDermott imposed a two-year-and-six-month sentence, suspending the final twelve months on strict conditions. He noted the significant age difference and breach of trust involved. The man was directed to comply with Probation Services supervision and maintain no contact with the injured party upon release.
A man from Killygordon in Donegal has been sentenced to 12 years imprisonment, with the final six months suspended, following his conviction at the Central Criminal Court for a series of sexual offences. Eunan Merritt, aged 56, was found guilty by jury after an 11-day trial of eight counts of rape, four counts of oral rape, and two counts of sexual assault committed between June 1999 and September 2003. The offences were perpetrated against a woman who waived her anonymity, detailing in her victim impact statement how the abuse had fundamentally altered her life trajectory and ongoing mental health. Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo noted that Merritt had exploited his victim's vulnerability over an extended period and rejected limited cooperation with gardaí as mitigation. The judge observed that the defendant presented contrasting versions of himself to his victims and the public. Merritt maintains he does not accept the jury's verdicts.
The Special Criminal Court sentenced Stephen Carberry and Glen Bride to six years in prison for assisting in the disposal of the dismembered remains of Keane Mulready Woods. Both men pleaded guilty to charges of impeding the apprehension or prosecution of the alleged murderer, Robbie Lawlor, by transporting and burning the victim's body parts in a stolen Volvo V40 in north Dublin. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor described the acts as showing "abhorrent inhumanity and disrespect." Carberry, who had a headline sentence of ten years, received a reduced term due to his guilty plea and the requirement to serve a consecutive sentence for a prior drug offence. Bride, who played a lesser role, had his nine-year headline sentence reduced to six years following his guilty plea and expressions of remorse. The court noted that neither defendant was involved in the murder itself. This sentencing follows earlier convictions in the case: Paul Crosby was jailed for ten years for facilitating the murder; Gerard Cruise received seven-and-a-half years with six months suspended for two years for the same offence; and Ged McKenna was sentenced to four years for assisting an offender by cleaning the crime scene. The court acknowledged the severe trauma suffered by the victim's family, who described the disposal of their son's remains as a "constant and unbearable torment."
Christopher Fitzsimons, 40, of Athlone, Co Westmeath, was sentenced to 13 years in prison by the Central Criminal Court for rape and sexual assault. A jury convicted him last July of all 22 counts, including 18 counts of raping Claire Berry, aged 15 to 16, between 2010 and 2011; one count of raping Tara Berry, aged 16, in 2006; and two counts of sexually assaulting Tara Berry, aged 12. He was also found guilty of one count of sexually assaulting Chloe Berry, aged 14, in 2001. The abuse occurred over a 10-year period while Fitzsimons was in a relationship with the victims' older sister. Ms Justice Eileen Creedon described the conduct as an "egregious abuse of trust" and a "wolf in sheep's clothing." She set a headline sentence of 14 years, reduced to 13 years, citing his lack of previous convictions and work history as a butcher in mitigation. Fitzsimons has been in custody since the verdict. The victims, who waived anonymity, submitted impact statements detailing long-term trauma and his lack of remorse. Prosecutors requested consecutive sentences for the separate complainants, while the defense highlighted his good character.
A 63-year-old man, Michael Donnelly, accused of assaulting his sister during a will dispute had the charge against him dismissed after CCTV footage contradicted key parts of the complainant's account. Donnelly had pleaded not guilty to a Section 2 assault at Woodley Park in 2024. The court heard that the complainant and another sibling arrived at their late mother's house, where Donnelly was living, seeking access to the property. Mobile phone and doorbell footage showed the complainant and another sibling at the doorway filming Donnelly during a heated exchange. The complainant claimed her wrist was struck and that she had difficulty moving her hand. However, the footage showed the phone was in her left hand when it was struck away. The defense highlighted inconsistencies in the complainant's account, noting that she referred to her right hand being struck. Judge Anne Watkin noted the inconsistency between the medical report and the footage and accepted the credibility concerns raised by the defense. She concluded that the charge could not be proven beyond reasonable doubt and dismissed it.
A woman who alleges she was sexually abused by seven family members has testified in court that her younger brother 'learned to rape' her when he was 13. The woman, who is deaf, is giving evidence via video-link and with the assistance of interpreters and an intermediary. She is one of several complainants in a trial involving seven men, including her four younger brothers and three uncles, who are accused of sexually abusing her over a 17-year period between 1996 and 2013. The accused have denied all allegations. The woman's testimony included details of her brother's alleged actions and her assertion that she was telling the truth. The trial is ongoing before Ms Justice Biggs and an extended jury panel.
An offender with a high risk of recidivism who was caught with and distributed videos of child sexual abuse has been jailed for three years and six months, with the final nine months suspended. Murilo Dos Santos (36) of North Circular Road, Dublin 1, pleaded guilty last year at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of images of child sexual abuse, known in law as child pornography, and to distribution of the material between November 18, 2020, and January 2021. Detective Garda Donagh Mannix told the court that a search of Dos Santos' home in Christchurch, Dublin, uncovered 66 videos on his phone, which were in contravention of the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act. Dos Santos shared these videos with six others between October 2020 and November 2020, including one particularly graphic video involving a child aged between six and 12 months. Other videos involved children aged between eight and 12 years old, some engaged in sexual activity with adults. Gardaí also found that Dos Santos used a sharing app to distribute the material.
A retired detective has expressed shock at discovering a Garda in the bedroom of a woman's apartment during a search warrant execution in a burglary investigation. Sinead Warren, who lived in Dublin 8 in 2016, alleges that gardaí falsely branded her as a 'major criminal' and a 'serious female gouger' in WhatsApp messages. She is seeking damages for breach of her constitutional rights, negligence, and deceit. The High Court is hearing her case against the Commissioner of An Garda Síochána, the Minister for Justice, and the Attorney General. Ms Warren and Det Gda Joseph Kavanagh are described as 'law-abiding citizens of impeccable character.' The search was for a pair of yellow shorts linked to the burglary, and the presence of Det Gda Kavanagh in the bedroom was unexpected. Det Gda Mark Kelly, who was present during the search, stated he was shocked and felt obliged to inform his superior. Ms Warren's barrister questioned the inclusion of personal details in the search report, including the names of her deceased brothers.
David Thomas, 42, of Finglas, Dublin 11, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following an appeal. The State successfully appealed a previous decision to dismiss some charges, leading the Supreme Court to overturn that dismissal. Thomas pleaded guilty to unlawful possession for sale or supply of THC contained in cannabis jellies and unlawful cultivation of cannabis at Prospect Hill, Finglas. The charges related to a November 2022 raid where gardaí found 1,500 cannabis jellies, cultivation equipment, and plants with an estimated street value of €50,000. Judge Elma Sheahan considered aggravating factors, including Thomas's 74 previous convictions, and mitigating factors, such as his reported sobriety and addiction support. She imposed a sentence of four years. The final six months of the sentence were suspended on the condition that Thomas keep the peace and be of good behaviour. The matter was not adjourned; the sentence was imposed. A co-accused was previously sentenced in 2024, while a third man remains before the courts.
A Dublin horse handler, Scott Clarke, has been ordered to perform 150 hours of community service after throwing a vape at an American tourist, causing him to lose a tooth. The incident occurred outside the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin 8 in 2023. Clarke pleaded guilty to assault, which carries a maximum sentence of six months. The victim, who is in his 20s, said he feared for his life and that the incident marred his final holiday with his parents. He has undergone dental surgery and continues to experience nerve pain, spending around US$5,000 on dental implants. CCTV footage showed the victim taking down a sign displaying the charges for the horse and carriage rental, leading to a scuffle. Clarke threw the vape at the victim, hitting him in the mouth. Garda Greg Moroney testified that there was no evidence linking the horse handlers to the incident. Clarke has previous drug convictions but none for violent offenses. His defense highlighted that he is a full-time carer for his father, who is in the advanced stages of cancer.
Patrick Honan, 70, has failed in his bid to overturn his conviction for the rape and sexual abuse of his daughter, Noreen Honan. The Court of Appeal dismissed his appeal against the conviction, which was secured following a Central Criminal Court trial in February 2024 where he was found guilty of 48 sample counts, including 25 of rape and 23 of indecent assault. The abuse, which took place in Co Clare between 1977 and 1989, occurred when the victim was aged between three and a half and 16. In March 2025, the Court of Appeal quashed his original sentence of 13 years, with the final 18 months suspended, and imposed a jail term of 19 years following an undue leniency application by the Director of Public Prosecutions. During today's appeal, defence counsel argued that the trial judge erred in allowing evidence of alleged admissions by Honan, as the three witnesses to those admissions were not called to testify, thereby breaching his fair trial rights. The State argued the evidence was admissible and relevant. Mr Justice John Edwards ruled that the court was satisfied the evidence was admissible and that the defence had options to summon witnesses for cross-examination. Consequently, the appeal was dismissed, leaving the 19-year sentence intact.
A financial advisor, Natasza Korajda, and her daughter-in-law, Natalia Koziol, were unfairly dismissed by Stephen Hamilton Financial Services after their employer discovered they were planning to launch a rival business, according to a tribunal ruling. Ms Korajda had joined the company in 2013 as a JobBridge intern and later became a top performer, earning a six-figure salary. In 2023, she and Ms Koziol set up their own firm, NK Capital Partners Ltd, and registered the business name 'Get Mortgage,' but did not start trading immediately as they needed Central Bank approval. Ms Korajda intended to seek regulatory approval before discussing the plans with her employer. However, the Central Bank contacted Mr Hamilton shortly after, leading to a change in his stance. He initially took a conciliatory approach but later demanded their resignations or faced disciplinary action. The employees were suspended and threatened legal action if their access to systems was not restored. Mr Hamilton argued that the dismissals were necessary due to concerns about client information and competition.
A murder accused, Joseph Lawlor, told a prosecution barrister that it was '100 percent coincidental' that he threatened to stab his friend, Michael Ryan, hours before doing so. Lawlor claimed he was in fear after Ryan broke into his house and threatened to throw grenades. He said Ryan took a bag containing almost €4,000 in profit from selling Zopiclone tablets. Lawlor followed Ryan outside with a knife and stabbed him in the neck, claiming it was accidental. He described Ryan as a 'capable and dangerous' man and said he feared for his life. The prosecution suggested Lawlor was not scared but wanted to 'send a message' that nobody threatens him. Lawlor denied intending to harm Ryan and said he was trying to scare him away from his house. The trial has heard that Lawlor and Ryan were drinking together and had earlier arguments captured on CCTV. Lawlor pleaded not guilty to the murder of Ryan, who was found dead in a carpark.
A murderer who claimed he was acting in self-defence when he stabbed his ex-partner's boyfriend to death has failed in an appeal against his conviction. Nassar Ahmed (45) of The Mews, Kilrush Road, Ennis, had pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the manslaughter of Eoin Boylan (32) at Gordon Drive, Cloughleigh, Ennis, on April 14th, 2020. The trial jury found Ahmed guilty of murder after deliberating for just two hours and five minutes, rejecting his claim of self-defence. Ahmed was sentenced to life imprisonment by Ms Justice Eileen Creedon in July 2022. The prosecution argued that Ahmed had invited Boylan to a fist fight and then stabbed him in a 'sneak attack' while concealing a knife. Ahmed told gardaí he grabbed a sharp object but could not remember what it was or where he threw it. The prosecution described his lies as 'borderline laughable'. The jury watched CCTV footage showing Boylan retreating from the attack. Ahmed admitted to unlawfully killing Boylan but claimed self-defence. The jury rejected his claim, finding he was the aggressor.
Mark Salmon, 32, of West Dublin, pleaded guilty at the Special Criminal Court to four charges, having originally faced 16 offences including directing a criminal gang. Defence counsel Dominic McGinn indicated progress had been made, leading to arraignment on lesser counts. Salmon admitted acquiring or possessing property valued at €24,257.44 in 2022 and €60,565.41 in 2023, knowing or being reckless as to whether it was proceeds of criminal conduct. He also pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine worth over €13,000 for supply on March 26, 2024, near Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim, and making a threat to kill or cause serious harm to a man between January 1 and May 20, 2024. The prosecution noted the pleas were offered on a full facts basis, with the drugs charge incorporating threats and criminal damage. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, presiding, granted an application to extend legal aid for a psychological report. The court directed that victim impact statements be prepared. The matter was adjourned for sentencing to May 11, and Salmon was remanded in custody until that date.
A 63-year-old Dublin man who pleaded guilty to multiple sexual assaults on six children over a seven-year period will be sentenced later this month. The victims, including five of his first cousins and a cousin of a cousin, described the defendant as a 'cool older cousin' who groomed them. One victim recounted being sexually assaulted in her bedroom and later again as an adult. The court heard that the abuse caused significant pain and family splits. The defendant has previous convictions for sexual assault and was given a suspended sentence in 2005. His legal team asked for leniency, citing his role in caring for elderly parents and his good work history as an engineer. The judge remanded him into custody for sentencing.
A man accused of being part of a right-wing group that targeted a mosque in Galway claims he cannot receive a fair trial due to the wording of the Explosives Act. Karolis Peckauskas (38) of Newfoundwell Road, Drogheda, Co Louth, has been granted leave from the High Court to challenge the fairness of his trial under the Act, which he argues violates his fundamental human rights. He was arrested on November 4 last year at O'Moore Place, Portlaoise, Co Laois, and charged with possessing six litres of hydrogen peroxide and an explosive substance. Peckauskas has not entered a plea and plans to apply for bail for the third time. In November, he was denied bail at Portlaoise District Court and again at the High Court in December. His co-accused, Garrett Pollock (35), was also refused bail. Evidence presented included a video of four masked men planning violent action and a manifesto for a right-wing group. Judge Andrew Cody described the video as resembling a statement released after a terrorist attack.
A woman described as a 'law-abiding citizen of impeccable character' has claimed in the High Court that she was wrongly branded a 'major criminal' and a 'serious female gouger' after her relationship with a garda became known. Sinead Warren alleges that following a search of her home, messages circulated on WhatsApp suggested that her long-term partner, Gda Joseph Kavanagh, had been 'caught in the scratcher' with her. She claims that Gda Kavanagh was removed from a Special Crime Task Force and faced intimidation and harassment from his superiors. Ms Warren is seeking damages for breach of her constitutional rights, negligence, and deceit. She alleges that the search of her home was an interference in her personal life and that senior gardaí deemed the relationship inappropriate and set out to interfere. The State denies these allegations. Ms Warren claims that Gda Kavanagh was 'intimidated' and 'harassed' by superiors and that he was informed he 'needed time away from his position'. The non-jury trial continues at the High Court.
A former professional boxer with a stellar career and an unbeaten record has been jailed for over five years for two burglaries in Dublin last year. Tony Bates, originally from Clondalkin, was before the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court where he pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary, assault, trespass, and obstructing a police officer. In one incident, he punched a man and threatened him with a knife during a burglary at an address on Mount Pleasant Avenue Lower. In another, he stole packages from the post room of an apartment block on Grand Canal Street. Garda Andras Leginszki testified that Bates stole keys and packages from the post room and returned later to use the keys to steal more. He was apprehended, charged, and bailed. Garda Alison Egan explained that Bates had gone to a man's home to ask for drugs, became aggressive, and punched him before taking a pack of prescription tablets and threatening him with a knife. A neighbor contacted gardai, who found Bates in possession of another person's driving licence and a bank card.
A man and his cousin are to be assessed for community service after pleading guilty to participating in a prolonged and unusual fraud that began 11 years ago. Simon O'Donnell (43) of Swords, Co Dublin, pleaded guilty to providing false information in a passport application in 2019. His cousin Winnie O'Donnell (59) of Dublin 22 pleaded guilty to providing false information to the Civil Registration Service in 2011. The pair attempted to create a fictitious identity by registering the birth of a 'David O'Donnell' in 1980, with Winnie falsely claiming to be his aunt. The birth certificate was later used in a passport application that was stopped by biometric safeguards. Simon admitted the fraud was to obtain social welfare to pay off people threatening him due to a feud. Winnie admitted there was no such person as 'David O'Donnell' but did not dispute the signature on the form. The court heard that Simon had no previous convictions for deception offences, while Winnie had eight summary convictions for theft and fraud.
A cleaning supervisor, Edel Kelly, has been left jobless after being banned from a PepsiCo factory in Carrigaline, Cork, following a dispute over hygiene. Kelly, who worked for Mount Charles, a contract cleaning firm, was banned in April 2025 after flies were found during an audit. She claimed the audit was not properly explained to her and that the site ban was unjustified. Kelly had worked at the factory for three years and said there were no prior issues with her team's work. She argued that the site ban effectively ended her employment as Mount Charles had no alternative roles for her in Belfast. Kelly is also pursuing a separate complaint under the European Communities (Protection of Employees on Transfer of Undertakings) Regulations 2003, alleging that Bidvest Noonan, the new cleaning contractor, breached the regulations by refusing to transfer her into its employment. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) hearing heard that PepsiCo's human resources lead confirmed Kelly was an employee of Mount Charles and that she had no appeal process with Pepsi to clear her name.
A wealthy New Yorker, Henry McGowan, has been found not guilty of murdering his father at a five-star resort in Co Laois by reason of insanity. The 12 jurors accepted evidence from two psychiatrists that McGowan, who was suffering from schizoaffective disorder, was not in control of his actions when he killed his father, John McGowan, at Ballyfin Demesne hotel. Defence counsel Michael Bowman SC argued that the case was tragic, as the father had prioritised his son's well-being over his own. Prosecuting counsel Brendan Grehan SC said John McGowan had travelled from the US to help his son, only to be killed. The trial heard that Henry had a history of mental health issues, including a manic episode in 2022 and a subsequent involuntary admission to a psychiatric hospital in Paris. He had also experienced delusional beliefs, including the idea that his father was an imposter. The jury reached a unanimous verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity after deliberating for just over an hour.
A trial has heard that Henry McGowan, accused of murdering his father John McGowan at a five-star resort in Co Laois, suffered from schizoaffective disorder and was under the delusional belief that his father needed to be sacrificed to protect the plane. Two psychiatrists testified that McGowan was experiencing an acute psychotic episode and met the criteria for a special verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. The trial heard that McGowan had previously lunged at a family on a flight to Paris in 2022, believing he needed to sacrifice an infant to prevent a war. He was involuntarily admitted to a psychiatric hospital in Paris for 28 days and later received long-term antipsychotic treatment in the US. McGowan's mental state was described as profoundly psychotic, with delusions that his father was an imposter involved in a conspiracy. He believed he was ordained by God to kill his father, who he saw as a source of evil. The trial continues with the jury considering the evidence and the possibility of a not guilty by reason of insanity verdict.
A 23-year-old woman has been fined €500 for driving an electric scooter in a public place in Dublin nearly three years ago, when such vehicles were not legally allowed on Irish roads. Maria Jigala, who resides at Ticknock Road, Sandyford, Dublin 18, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to driving an electric scooter without insurance on 23 March 2023, in Stepaside Village. She was stopped following a report of a minor collision. Gardai stated that Jigala, who required a Moldovan interpreter, had no previous convictions and had not been in contact with gardaí since the incident. She was described as co-operative at the time. Her defence counsel, Silvia-Maria Crowley BL, explained that her client works as a beauty specialist and needed the ability to drive for work. She had been trying to arrange insurance but had not been successful. Judge Conor Fottrell noted that the case was primarily about the lack of insurance. He imposed a fine of €500, with six months to pay. Other charges, including failing to produce insurance and driving without a licence, were also considered.
Simon O'Donnell and his cousin Winnie O'Donnell were involved in a prolonged and unusual fraud attempt that began 11 years ago. They created a fictitious identity to claim social welfare benefits. Simon pleaded guilty to providing false information in a passport application in 2019, while Winnie pleaded guilty to providing false information to the Civil Registration Service in 2011. The court heard that they registered the birth of a fictitious person named 'David O'Donnell' and submitted the birth certificate as part of the passport application. The passport application was stopped due to biometric safeguards, leading to an investigation. Simon claimed he did it to obtain social welfare to pay off people threatening him due to a feud. Winnie admitted there was no such person as 'David O'Donnell' but did not dispute that the signature on the form looked like hers. The court heard that the fraud was a bet to see if they could be successful in submitting the application. Both defendants expressed remorse and asked the court to consider non-custodial sentences.
The trial of Henry McGowan, accused of murdering his father John McGowan at a five-star resort in Co Laois, has heard that the accused described impulsive behavior such as buying a pink coat in Harrods and renting a Lamborghini in Paris in the lead-up to the murder. Consultant forensic psychiatrist Dr Stephen Monks testified that McGowan was experiencing a relapse of schizoaffective disorder and met the criteria for a special verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. McGowan, who is independently wealthy, had previously been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and had been treated with antipsychotic medication. His family expressed grave concerns for his mental health, and his father had traveled to Ireland on a 'mission of mercy' to help him. McGowan described his father as an imposter involved in a conspiracy and believed he was ordained by God to kill him. The trial continues with the jury considering the evidence and the possibility of a not guilty by reason of insanity verdict.
Joseph Lawlor, a 39-year-old man from Dublin, has taken the stand in his murder trial, claiming he stabbed his friend Michael Ryan in self-defense after Ryan allegedly threatened to throw grenades through his window. Lawlor told the Central Criminal Court that he only wanted to scare Ryan and make him leave him alone. The trial has heard that both men had been drinking together throughout the day and that they had previously been involved in the sale of sleeping tablets. CCTV footage showed a physical altercation between the two men, and Ryan was arrested for drink driving before returning to Lawlor's home later that night. Audio from a neighbor's Ring doorbell captured Ryan demanding the return of a watch, prompting Lawlor to confront him. Lawlor said that when he heard a bang and saw Ryan in his sitting room, he froze in fear. He claimed that there was a scuffle over a bag and that he fell to the ground. Joseph Lawlor pleaded not guilty.
Lawyers have argued that an alleged informal and somewhat vulgar working environment at Apple meant a worker should not have been sacked after a colleague complained about him using derogatory language. Vinicius dos Santos, a legal specialist at Apple's offices in Cork, was sacked for gross misconduct after a colleague, Robertha Abreu, complained about his inappropriate remarks. The tribunal heard that dos Santos used derogatory language towards a female contract worker, referring to her as "this thing" and "this dumb one" in Portuguese. Abreu also accused him of calling her and the contractor "tramps" and "whores" in Portuguese. Dos Santos was also accused of making a remark about "fluffy puffy" to another worker. The defense argued that the working environment was informal and that the language used was part of the culture among Portuguese speakers. The prosecution, however, argued that the language used was inappropriate and made Abreu feel uncomfortable. The case was adjourned for further evidence, with the adjudication officer stating she would hear from both dos Santos and Abreu in the next hearing.
Izabella Aleksandrowicz, a 50-year-old woman from Swords, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious bodily harm after she ran over Andrew Brett, a cyclist, in Dublin City Centre. Brett, an experienced marathon runner, was crushed by the front and rear wheels of Aleksandrowicz's SUV as she made an illegal right-hand turn. He suffered severe injuries, including damage to his liver, internal bleeding, and a fractured pelvis. Brett described the accident as the worst day of his life and said he is still tortured by the sound of his breaking bones. He stated that the accident had a monumental impact on him and his family, changing his life forever. Aleksandrowicz remained at the scene and had a full Polish driving license with no alcohol or drugs in her system. The court heard that the road conditions were good and there were no obstructions. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned the case for sentencing and ordered a report from The Probation Service. Aleksandrowicz expressed her sincere apology and said she has been suffering from anxiety since the accident.
The Court of Appeal has reserved judgment in the appeal by John McDonagh, who was convicted in 2001 of the rape and murder of Siobhan Hynes and sentenced to life imprisonment. McDonagh, formerly of The Demesne, Keeraunbeg, Carraroe, pleaded not guilty but was convicted following three days of jury deliberations. He is now seeking to utilize advances in DNA technology to re-examine trial exhibits, arguing that modern methods could yield new results. The State argues that scientific advancements alone do not justify re-testing, noting that McDonagh did not seek such testing in his 2007 appeal. Counsel for the State, Paul Carroll SC, stated that the conviction was based on numerous strands of evidence, including fibre analysis, rather than solely on DNA. The defence, represented by Michael O'Higgins SC, contends that a reasonable possibility exists for obtaining a new result from retesting. The court heard evidence from forensic experts regarding the limitations of 1999 technology versus current methods. Ms Justice Nuala Butler and Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy discussed the relevance of potential new DNA findings. The matter was adjourned for the court to deliver its reserved judgment.
Haitham Nofal was fined €800 for driving an uninsured KuKirin e-scooter without a licence and refusing to provide his address. Nofal, who works as a barber, pleaded guilty at Tallaght District Court to the charges. The court heard that the e-scooter, which could travel at more than 20km/h, required a driving licence and insurance. Nofal claimed he was unaware of the legal requirements and had not realized the scooter was illegal. He is preparing for his driving theory test and was willing to complete a driver awareness course. Judge Miriam Walsh imposed fines for driving without insurance, driving without a licence, and refusing to provide his address. Nofal was spared from disqualification, and the fines were set with payment periods.
The Court of Criminal Appeal has adjourned the hearing of John McDonagh's appeal against his 2001 conviction for the rape and murder of Siobhan Hynes. McDonagh, formerly of The Demesne, Keeraunbeg, Carraroe, pleaded not guilty at trial but was convicted following three days of jury deliberations and sentenced to life imprisonment. He now argues that his conviction is unsafe due to advances in forensic technology. The three-judge court paused proceedings after two days of submissions to hear further expert evidence. Forensic experts testified that DNA analysis was in its infancy in 1998, with modern methods offering greater sensitivity for detecting seminal fluid and touch DNA, particularly in samples immersed in water. However, State experts maintained that the original fibre evidence, which linked McDonagh's clothing and car to the victim, was robust and that further testing would likely strengthen rather than weaken the prosecution's case. The court will continue to examine whether novel forensic applications could demonstrate a miscarriage of justice.
An Army corporal from Athlone, Co Westmeath has initiated High Court proceedings against the Minister for Defence and the Attorney General, alleging he was prevented from promotion to a specialist IT sergeant position despite meeting all required qualifications. Corporal Adam Courtney, who joined the Defence Forces in 2011 and has completed multiple overseas deployments, claims he was the sole qualified candidate for the role under the 2025-2026 Junior Non-Commissioned Officer competition. He had been performing sergeant-level duties at Custume Barracks whilst receiving a substitution allowance and states he completed all mandatory courses before the September 2025 closing date. Corporal Courtney seeks a court order of mandamus requiring his promotion. He contends that military authorities subsequently filled the position with an already-promoted sergeant serving in a supernumerary capacity since 2024, who he asserts lacks the necessary qualifications. Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty granted his ex parte application at the High Court this week and adjourned the matter to March.
In the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, four men – Rory Carr, Bruno Tache, David Oloo Omee, and Sean Forde – pleaded guilty to various charges related to a series of violent incidents in Dublin City Centre on February 15, 2025. Carr admitted to three counts of assault causing harm to Quham Babatunde, Adetola Adetuilehim, and a third man in separate incidents, as well as charges of violent disorder and affray. Tache admitted to assault causing harm to Babatunde and another man, along with charges of violent disorder and affray. Omee and Forde admitted to charges of assaulting Adetuilehim causing harm and violent disorder, and affray, respectively. Judge Crowe directed urine analysis for Carr and adjourned the finalisation of sentence for Carr and Tache to March 10. Probation reports were ordered for Forde and Omee, and they were remanded on continuing bail to April 21. Tache was on bail for an offence of money laundering and was also subject to a suspended sentence for drug dealing. Carr was on bail for an offence of drug dealing and was also subject to a suspended sentence of two years for possession of knives from 2023. Omee was on bail for an outstanding offence at the time. The matter was adjourned and never described as concluded or finalised.
An air conditioning technician is seeking €1,650 in unpaid wages from his former employer, Nical Engineering Ltd, after leaving the job ten days into a new role in September 2024. The company admits it owes the money but claims the worker owes them around €3,500 for damage to a company van after it was seized by gardaí. The worker, Nathan Collins, denies the allegations and says the company is not following the law by offering cash instead of bank transfer. The company's representative, Hugh Hegarty, stated that the money is available in Mullingar and that the worker must collect it in person with the assistance of the gardaí and their solicitor. The company director, John Masterson, said the worker had issues with his work and that the van had to be cleaned and fumigated after being left in Galway. The case is being heard by the Workplace Relations Commission, with both sides presenting their arguments.
A woman who is deaf and alleges that seven family members sexually abused her over a 17-year period has left a cross-examination in anger after one of her brothers denied the allegations. The woman, who is giving evidence via videolink and with the help of interpreters, said she was angry when her brother claimed he never had sex with her. The trial involves seven men, including her four younger brothers and three uncles, who are accused of 103 charges of sexual abuse. The woman has faced challenges in communicating timelines and has used charts and symbols to assist her. The court has heard that one of the accused, Accused E, was living with other family members during part of the alleged abuse period. The trial continues before Ms Justice Biggs and an extended jury panel of 14 jurors. The unnamed 55-year-old pleaded not guilty.