Derek Boyd, 31, took the stand at his murder trial before Ms Justice Melanie Greally. He admitted to previously pleading guilty to his sister's manslaughter and stated he was serving part of that suspended sentence when the incident occurred. Boyd pleaded not guilty to murdering Mark Carroll, 34, at his home in Finglas on June 9, 2024, and to assaulting Megan Rock. His partner, Chantelle Harcourt, 34, pleaded not guilty to impeding the apprehension of the offender. Boyd testified that he picked up a knife to deter Carroll, who he alleged threatened to kill him, and swung it during a struggle without intent to injure. Prosecution counsel Sean Guerin SC cross-examined Boyd on his prior firearm-related manslaughter conviction and alleged he exaggerated Carroll's threats. The judge directed a not guilty verdict on the count of threatening to kill Megan Rock due to insufficient evidence. The trial continues tomorrow.
A single mother of three, Monsurat Balogun, has been awarded €14,500 in compensation after being unfairly dismissed from her administrative role at the Royal College of Physicians (RCPI). Ms Balogun, a project co-ordinator, was sacked in March 2025 on the grounds of 'serious performance failings'. However, the RCPI admitted during a hearing that the dismissal was unfair on procedural grounds. Ms Balogun described the emotional toll of the dismissal, including the impact on her children, who had to be removed from after-school activities due to financial strain. She also faced challenges in finding new work in her field, as she felt unable to seek a reference from her former employer. Ms Balogun had to change her career path and complete additional training to become a healthcare assistant. The adjudication officer, Penelope McGrath, acknowledged that while the RCPI identified performance issues, the dismissal process was flawed. The RCPI admitted the process was 'bad' but maintained that the dismissal was justified. Ms Balogun made efforts to find new work, and the adjudicator noted her determination despite the challenges she faced.
A violent criminal, Colm Carroll, has been jailed for four years after pleading guilty to two counts of assault causing harm to his then partner. Despite his guilty plea, Carroll disputed the facts of the case and claimed he also received injuries during the incident. Judge Sheahan described the attack as 'horrific' and noted that the victim remains deeply traumatised. The court considered aggravating factors, including Carroll's previous convictions, his being on bail at the time, and the incident occurring within an intimate relationship. The judge acknowledged Carroll's genuine remorse and took into account his guilty plea, family support, and efforts to address his addiction. A five-year sentence was imposed, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions. The court directed Probation Services to engage with Carroll before his release to ensure he continues addressing his addiction. The incident involved Carroll kicking and punching his partner while demanding money, leading to severe injuries and long-term trauma for the victim.
Jozef Puska has failed in his attempt to have his life sentence for the murder of Ashling Murphy commence from the date of his arrest in January 2022, rather than the date of the trial jury's verdict in November 2023. Puska's legal team argued that the judge did not provide a valid reason for not backdating the sentence. However, the trial judge, Mr Justice Tony Hunt, stated that the backdate was academic and that the parole board would consider the time served in custody, not the date of arrest. The Court of Appeal upheld the judge's decision, noting that the judge had considered the seriousness of the case and the impact on the victim's family. The appeal was dismissed, and Puska remains in custody.
A woman with 218 previous convictions, including 15 for breaching domestic violence orders, has been jailed for two months after breaching a barring order and refusing to leave her mother's home. The woman, who is in her 40s, pleaded guilty to breaching the order at her mother's south Dublin home on June 29. The case was heard in camera, with the defendant's mother having obtained the barring order in October 2025 after previous assaults. The woman remained at her mother's home for three days, during which her mother saw her drinking and became concerned about potential violence. The court heard that the woman had been working full-time and was sober for nine months before the breach. However, her mental health deteriorated after she stopped taking her prescribed medication and began drinking again. Judge Anne Watkin noted the woman's 16th breach of a domestic violence order and sentenced her to two months in prison, taking into account her guilty plea and the time already spent in custody.
Derek Boyd, 31, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mark Carroll, 34, at a Finglas home on June 9, 2024, and to threatening and assaulting Megan Rock. His partner, Chantelle Harcourt, 34, pleaded not guilty to impeding the prosecution of an arrestable offence. The Central Criminal Court trial heard that Boyd was serving a suspended sentence for the 2022 manslaughter of his sister, Sandra Boyd, and unlawful possession of a firearm. He received a four-year sentence for manslaughter, with the final two years suspended, and a concurrent five-year sentence for firearm offences, with the final three years suspended. The court noted he was under active supervision when Carroll died. The prosecution alleges Boyd stabbed Carroll with intent to kill or cause serious harm. Boyd claimed self-defence, stating Carroll lunged at him. Evidence detailed Carroll's history, including a guilty plea to assaulting Rock in Ashbourne, Co Meath, where she was found bruised and shaking, and a pending charge for assaulting a man in Dublin 7 in 2022. The trial continues before Ms Justice Melanie Greally.
A worker, Gary Doyle, has won €500 in compensation after his employer, Valeo Foods, delayed paying his wages to a suspended bank account. Doyle, a night-shift general operative, encountered banking difficulties in 2025 and requested cash payments, which were refused. His wages were sent to the suspended account, leading to serious financial hardship. The Workplace Relations Commission ruled that Valeo Foods breached the Payment of Wages Act 1991 by waiting for the bank to return the funds before paying his back wages. Doyle was entitled to receive his wages in one lump sum when he provided new account details, but the delay caused significant financial strain. The adjudicator awarded €500 in compensation for the delay in paying his wages for weeks 40 to 42. The employer argued that cash payments were not feasible, but the court accepted that the wages should have been paid promptly upon providing new account details.
Austin Byrne, a 49-year-old man with a long history of criminal convictions, was involved in a violent incident at Wheatfield Prison and two burglaries in Dublin 2. Byrne stole €20,000 worth of property from two unoccupied homes, including items of sentimental value. During the incident at the prison, he struck another man with a brush handle six times, though he claimed he attempted to de-escalate the situation. Byrne has 98 previous convictions, including multiple burglaries and assaults. He is currently serving a three-year and six-month sentence. The court heard that the burglaries were poorly executed and likely motivated by Byrne's drug addiction. Victim impact statements were submitted, but no property was recovered. Byrne's defense acknowledged his long criminal history and expressed a desire to address his addiction. The judge noted the seriousness of Byrne's actions and ordered urine analysis before adjourning the case. Austin Byrne pleaded guilty.
Jamie O'Brien, a 32-year-old serial burglar, was jailed for three years with the final six months suspended for burglarizing staff lockers at a Dublin restaurant. O'Brien was identified by CCTV and arrested after fleeing the scene. He has 46 previous convictions, including 12 for burglary, and was on bail at the time of the offense. The court heard that O'Brien had significant mental health issues and was abusing drugs at the time. His defense highlighted his guilty plea and unreserved apology. The judge considered the mitigating factors and imposed a three-year sentence. O'Brien has a history of burglary, including a ten-year sentence in 2017 for the burglary, assault, and false imprisonment of an elderly woman. The court also noted that no property was recovered from the restaurant, and no victim impact statements were made.
A Ukrainian woman accused of committing burglaries in south Dublin, including one at the home of a 99-year-old woman, has been refused bail. The woman, who is in her 30s and of no fixed abode, faces multiple charges, including two burglaries, unlawful entry into a vehicle, trespassing, and an alleged assault on a garda. Judge Anne Watkin described the allegations as serious and violent, noting the woman's conduct during the hearing and her likelihood to reoffend. The court heard that the woman allegedly confronted occupants at a residence, grabbed them by the throat, and demanded money. She is also accused of assaulting Garda Odhran Boyle during her arrest. The judge refused bail under Section 2 of the Bail Act, citing the seriousness of the charges and the risk of reoffending. The woman is due to appear again for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Tommi Wong, a senior sales manager, won €51,000 from Deel Ireland EOR Limited for employment rights breaches after his employer allegedly threatened him with job loss if he took parental leave. Wong claimed that his leave was withdrawn shortly after he was told there might be no role available upon his return. After returning from leave, he faced punitive measures, including a performance improvement plan and a final written warning. The Workplace Relations Commission found that Wong suffered discrimination on the grounds of family status and penalization for exercising his right to parental leave. Additional awards were made for breaches of Sunday premium pay and unpaid pension contributions. The total compensation awarded was €51,004.20, reflecting the various employment rights violations alleged by Wong.
A frequent international traveller, Khaled Almoghayer, has been given a suspended sentence on the condition that he leaves the country. He was found with €120,000 in cash in his luggage at Dublin Airport and pleaded guilty to attempting to leave the European Union with €10,000 or more. Almoghayer claimed the money was his life savings and intended to buy property in Turkey and get his teeth done. However, he had no bank statements or records to prove the money was his. He had travelled 22 times in the last 12 months to various countries, including Egypt, Morocco, and Palestine. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the seriousness of the offence but considered mitigating factors such as his early plea and lack of previous convictions. She gave him a 12-month sentence, backdated to January, and suspended the balance on the condition that he leaves Ireland within seven days.
Maynooth University administrators failed to act on a pay gap between the managers of its golf and GAA programmes, a tribunal has found. Barry Fennelly, the golf programme manager, alleged gender discrimination in relation to salary. The pay gap between Fennelly and Ms X, the GAA development manager, widened to over €16,000 at one point. The tribunal found that the disparity was rooted in an anomaly rather than discriminatory intent. Fennelly was on a lower pay scale compared to Ms X, who was granted a higher salary when made permanent. The pay gap had closed to €2,433 a year by 2024 after Fennelly was promoted. The adjudication officer noted that the university was aware of the potential issues but did not take action. She had no power to address the historic pay differential under equality law.
Rian Dunne, a man with 20 previous convictions, will be sentenced for mugging a tourist in Dublin and robbing three convenience stores. He pleaded guilty to robbery on Bachelor's Walk in 2023 and two robberies and an attempted robbery in 2025. Dunne was arrested after gardaí spotted him running with stolen items. He admitted to the offences being committed to feed a drug addiction. In May 2025, Dunne and another man robbed a service station, taking €81 worth of vapes and demanding cash. They later attempted to rob a second service station and successfully robbed a Mace shop, taking €250 in cash and €450 worth of vapes. Dunne was identified through CCTV footage and arrested at his home in June 2025. He made no admissions when interviewed by gardaí. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned sentencing to allow for the completion of a psychological report.
Shane Murray, a teenager with 81 previous convictions, was on bail when he punched a homeless man, leaving him with fractures to his skull and face. Murray assaulted Damien Merrigan on a Dublin street in 2023, but left the country after gardai identified him. Merrigan remained in hospital for seven days and later died in 2025. Murray pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm. CCTV footage showed Murray placing something on his hand before the assault. He was identified from CCTV and returned voluntarily in 2024. His defence highlighted his troubled background, including a lack of a father figure and drug use. The prosecution argued for a sentencing range of ten to 15 years due to the unprovoked nature of the assault and the use of an implement. The defence requested a lower sentencing range. Murray's mother was in court to support him. Judge Jonathan Dunphy adjourned the case until Friday to consider the sentencing.
The High Court heard a dispute between tenant Muhammad Amjad and landlord Imtiaz Khan, principal of IMK Property Investment Ltd, regarding an alleged unlawful eviction. Mr. Amjad, a father of six, alleges that on February 28, Mr. Khan arrived at their rental property in Ongar Village with eight individuals and a hammer, issuing explicit threats to strike him if he did not vacate within three minutes. He claims his children were visibly traumatised and seeks a declaration that the lease termination is invalid, along with an interlocutory order to prevent eviction. Mr. Khan and IMK Property deny these claims, describing them as entirely untrue and causing reputational damage. They submit that the tenancy was terminated due to extensive repair needs identified by Fingal County Council, including gas safety checks, and that the family was properly served with notice. Mr. Khan asserts no coercive campaign occurred and that no incident was reported to gardaí. Mr. Justice Micheál O'Connell suggested the matter was suitable for mediation, warning both parties they might regret their "red lines" given the reputational implications and witness testimony. However, following morning negotiations, the case was to continue. The trial is scheduled to last four days. In March, the court had already granted temporary orders restraining interference with the family's quiet enjoyment of the premises.
Derek Boyd, 31, of Scribblestown Place, Finglas, Dublin 11, has pleaded not guilty to murdering Mark Carroll (34) at his home on June 9, 2024. He also pleaded not guilty to making a threat to kill Megan Rock or cause her serious harm, and to assaulting Ms Rock, causing her harm. During his statement, Boyd claimed he acted in self-defence, stating that he believed his life was at risk when Mark Carroll entered his home and refused to leave. He said he grabbed a kitchen knife and warned Carroll not to come closer, but that Carroll lunged at him during a struggle. Boyd claimed he used the knife solely to protect himself. He also mentioned that he had a suspended sentence from a previous conviction for the death of his sister, Sandra Boyd, in a tragic accident in 2022, and that he feared reactivating it. The matter was adjourned for further proceedings. The trial continues tomorrow before Ms Justice Melanie Greally and a jury of seven men and five women.
A migrant construction engineer, Dongming Hou, has been awarded €14,000 for employment rights breaches after working 10-hour days for under the minimum wage. He was employed by Buildify Construction and Technology Limited on the basis of assurances that the company would assist him with a work permit. During his probationary period, he was paid €1,600 a month for an 8am to 5pm workday, with a pay rise promised after completing probation. However, his actual working hours exceeded the agreed upon time, with tasks going beyond engineering functions to include painting, electrical work, and plumbing. Evidence from WeChat group messages showed that his average working week was 56.76 hours. Despite this, his pay remained unchanged. The adjudication officer accepted the WeChat records as credible and ruled that there was a continuing underpayment throughout the employment. The total award included €12,151.34 for arrears of pay and €2,106 for accrued annual leave.
A man with no previous convictions who was in a cannabis-induced psychosis when he stabbed his childhood friend in the back during a bizarre attack has had the balance of his jail sentence suspended. Neal Brennan, 29, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to Cian Brennan on January 2, 2025, on Station Road, Portmarnock. The victim, who was a childhood school friend of Brennan, was stabbed in the back as he was getting into the passenger side of Brennan's car. The victim was hospitalised for four days following the assault, as the wound required surgery due to its proximity to his spine and vital organs. Judge Ronan Munro noted the bizarre nature of the offending and the absence of any previous convictions, which indicated that Brennan's moral responsibility was reduced. He imposed a headline sentence of five years, which was reduced to three and a half years considering Brennan's guilty plea and lack of previous convictions.
A man who raped his partner's 16-year-old sister asked why the victim hadn't screamed during the attack, a court has heard. The 24-year-old defendant, who cannot be named to protect the victim's identity, was convicted of the rape and sexual assault of the teenager at his home in August 2023. The victim, who was not present in court, prepared a victim impact statement detailing the emotional distress and self-harm she experienced following the attack. The court heard that the victim tried to shout out during the assault but found she had no voice. She later told her sister, who confronted the accused, and he denied the allegations, asking why the victim had not screamed. The victim later told her mother part of what had happened, leading to a garda investigation. The defendant, who has no previous convictions, has been in custody since his conviction in April. His defence counsel noted that the accused has a diagnosis of autism and ADHD and has not been in trouble with the law previously or since.
Dublin city councillors have initiated a High Court challenge against the State to remove the name of former Israeli President Chaim Herzog from a park in south Dublin and rename it after Terence Wheelock, who died in 2005 following his arrest on suspicion of car theft. Herzog, born in Belfast and raised in Dublin, was president of Israel from 1983 to 1993. His son, Isaac Herzog, is the current Israeli president. Political activists have called for the name change in protest against Israel's actions in Gaza. Councillors argue that the government has not introduced legislation allowing local authorities to rename public places. Cllr Conor Reddy, along with several other councillors, is seeking judicial review against the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Attorney General. The case hinges on the failure to introduce regulations under the Local Government Act 2001, which would allow councils to hold local ballots for renaming public places. The court has adjourned the matter to October to allow the State to oppose the application if they wish.
Seamus O'Callaghan, a retired Franciscan brother and convicted sex offender, has been jailed for 11 years for raping a teenage boy while working as a teacher in Offaly almost 30 years ago. O'Callaghan, 82, was convicted of one count of anal rape following a Central Criminal Court trial in May. The victim, who was 13 years old at the time, stated that the incident took his childhood away and caused long-term psychological damage. O'Callaghan has 11 previous convictions for indecent assault, all involving teenage boys. Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo noted the significant, long-lasting impact of the abuse on the victim's life and imposed a headline sentence of 13 years, which was reduced to 11 years due to O'Callaghan's age and medical issues. The court heard that O'Callaghan had cooperated with the investigation but his statements were found to be false self-serving denials. The case highlights the long-term consequences of sexual abuse and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.
A 39-year-old man has been sentenced to four years in prison for repeatedly raping his niece over a two-year period when he was a teenager and she was a child. He pleaded guilty to four charges, including rape and oral rape, between July 2000 and July 2002. The victim, who was between six and eight years old at the time, described the abuse as physically painful and emotionally traumatic. She began drinking at 12 and experienced anxiety and panic attacks as a teenager. She later attempted suicide and required hospitalization. The man expressed deep regret in a letter, acknowledging the severity of his actions and suggesting he had been abused as a child. The judge noted the breach of trust and the man's remorse but reduced the headline sentence of seven years to five, with the final year suspended. The victim encouraged others who have been abused to come forward.
A profoundly deaf woman who was sexually abused by several male relatives over an 11-year period has expressed relief after four of her family members were convicted of 13 counts of abuse. The trial, which lasted 131 days, was the longest in the country's history. The woman, who suffered from severe language deprivation and lived in a dysfunctional family, described feeling trapped and controlled by her relatives. She said she only felt safe in her grandfather's company and at school. In her victim impact statement, she expressed a desire to be taken away by Tusla and given a new family. She credited her partner for making her feel safe and helping her escape the trauma. The court heard that the woman has complex PTSD and experienced suicidal ideation. The convicted men, including her uncle and three brothers, received sentences ranging from seven to 15 years. One brother is on the run, and his sentencing was postponed due to his absence.
A sentencing hearing has taken place in the Special Criminal Court for Shane Blackhall (21) and Co-accused O'Donovan (19), both of whom have pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to drug dealing, firearm possession, and involvement in a criminal organisation. Blackhall admitted to possessing cocaine, cannabis, and diamorphine for sale or supply at Mungret Court on June 10, 2025, and possessing a firearm on January 6, 2025, at Hyde Avenue in Limerick, in circumstances giving rise to a reasonable suspicion that he did not have it for a lawful purpose. He also admitted to unlawfully using a mechanically propelled vehicle without the consent of the owner on June 1, 2025, at Ashbourne Avenue, Limerick. O'Donovan admitted to participating in or contributing to activity intending to facilitate the commission of a serious offence by the O'Donoghue criminal organisation, to wit, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, between April 26 and May 8, 2025. He also faces three further charges of unlawfully using a mechanically propelled vehicle without the consent of the owner, in Limerick on April 27, 2025, and May 8, 2025, and in Monasterevin on April 26, 2025, as well as a charge of arson at Ashroe, Limerick, on May 8, 2025. The matter was adjourned for sentencing on July 27. Five other men are also due to stand trial in relation to their alleged involvement in these offences.
A self-described jihadist, Abdullah Khan, who previously inspired by Isis set fire to a pub owned by Conor McGregor and stabbed a garda in Dublin, has not cooperated with a psychologist assessing his risk. However, Khan has agreed to undergo a full assessment by a prison psychologist before sentencing. Khan pleaded guilty to eight charges, including arson, assault on a garda, and engaging in terrorist activity. The court heard that Khan was part of a wider group of like-minded radicals and that his actions were similar to terrorist attacks in Europe. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor ordered a probation report to assess Khan's radicalisation and the need for post-release supervision. The court adjourned the case to July 27 to confirm if Khan will engage with the risk assessment process. Counsel for Khan stated that he is willing to abide by the conditions set out in the probation report and undergo a full assessment by a prison psychologist.
A Marks and Spencer worker, Mark Brennan, has won a challenge against his dismissal after his then-wife secretly copied and shared his staff discount card with her family and friends. A Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) adjudicator ruled that the dismissal was disproportionate and unfair. The adjudicator, Michael McEntee, noted that while Brennan was careless in allowing his ex-partner access to the discount card, the company's response was excessive. Brennan's discount card was used 73 times over six weeks, with only one transaction linked to his own card. M&S argued that internal auditors flagged serious anomalies, but the adjudicator found that the company overreacted. Brennan was immediately informed of the misuse and offered to repay the €464.39 in discounts claimed. The adjudicator awarded Brennan €2,000, reducing the original €4,000 by 50% due to his contribution to the incident. The decision highlights the need for a balanced approach in disciplinary actions, especially in cases involving personal relationships.
The jury in the trial of a garda accused of raping his former wife and of child cruelty towards two of his daughters will continue their deliberations for a fourth day, after being given the option of returning a majority verdict. The 48-year-old defendant has pleaded not guilty at the Central Criminal Court to one count of child cruelty of his now 17-year-old daughter on dates between 2015 and 2024. He has also pleaded not guilty to two counts of raping his wife on dates in 2009 and 2021. He has further pleaded not guilty to two counts of child cruelty of his now 24-year-old daughter on unknown dates between 2007 and 2020. He also denies a charge of assault causing harm to this daughter on an unknown date in late 2021 to early 2022, after she had turned 18. All parties in the case have a statutory right to anonymity. The alleged offending took place at two locations in the north-west of the country where the family was living at the relevant times.
The State has dropped the charges against a man whose conviction for rape was quashed by the Court of Appeal. The man (27), who cannot legally be identified, was previously convicted of two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault at an apartment on Middle Abbey Street, Dublin 1, on February 15, 2018. Trial judge Mr Justice David Keane sentenced him to eight and a half years in prison. The Court of Appeal however quashed that conviction, finding that the trial judge had failed to warn the jury of the dangers of convicting after the complainant initially nominated another party as having sex with her and did not refer to the accused. On Wednesday, the case was listed for mention before the Central Criminal Court when lawyers for the Director of Public Prosecutions informed Mr Justice Paul McDermott that the State were entering a nolle prosequi on all counts. Mr Justice McDermott then ordered that the defendant be discharged from all counts. The man has a statutory right to anonymity.
A man will be sentenced later this year for stealing a car and using it to ram a garda vehicle 23 years ago. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Barry Lysaght (46), formerly of Charleville, Co Cork, pleaded guilty to one count of reckless endangerment and one count of the unauthorised taking of a car at a location near the South Circular Road on March 16, 2003. The court heard that Lysaght has been living in the UK for most of the past 23 years. Garda Damien Coleman told Aideen Collard, BL, prosecuting, that on the day in question, he was on patrol with now-retired Garda Michael Kiely at 12.16am when they saw a car being driven in an unusual manner on Parnell Road. The gardai activated the patrol car's blue lights and the car, driven by Lysaght, mounted the footpath, coming to a stop before accelerating and driving off. The car continued through red lights and narrowly avoided colliding with an oncoming taxi.
A 41-year-old woman, Paulina Zawadzka, was jailed for two years for attacking a man after he laughed at her suggestion they should be together. The victim suffered lacerations, fractures to his elbow, little finger, and nose, and has been left with facial scars and post-traumatic stress disorder. The incident occurred in Zawadzka's home in Dublin, where the man was found bleeding heavily, and the house was covered in blood when Gardaí arrived. The court heard that the man had been homeless and living in a hostel, while Zawadzka had a good work history, including at the Shelbourne Hotel. The attack happened after the man was invited for drinks, and he believed Zawadzka was joking when she suggested they be together. However, she hit him with what he thought was a glass bottle. The assault was captured on a call to emergency services made by her flatmate, who described the ongoing violence. Zawadzka had 19 previous convictions, including three for assault. Her defense highlighted her struggles with alcoholism and her efforts to seek treatment. The unnamed 41-year-old pleaded guilty.
A teacher is pursuing a 24-year-old gender discrimination claim against UCD, alleging that the university refused him a place on a Master's course despite him being "more qualified than at least the least-qualified" woman who was chosen ahead of him. Patrick Kelly of Edenderry, Co Offaly, applied to the High Court today seeking permission to cross-examine the university's director of legal services, Julian Bostridge. Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty fixed a date in May 2027 for the hearing of the motion. Ms Justice Gearty set a further date of 15 July for the substantive hearing of the matter, at which time it will be 25 years old. Mr Kelly has taken his case against University College Dublin, National University of Ireland, Dublin, with the Director of the Equality Tribunal as a named notice party. He submits that when he applied for a place on a social sciences Masters course in March 2002, he was "under-marked" because of his gender and discriminated against during his course interview.
Gavin Hanway, of Limekiln Green, Walkinstown, Dublin, launched an appeal against his convictions for assault causing serious harm and aggravated burglary. He was previously found guilty by a jury at Portlaoise Courthouse of stabbing Kevin Kenny at a house in The Hermitage, Portlaoise, Co Laois, on July 26, 2016. Following the trial, Judge Keenan Johnson sentenced Hanway to 12 years in prison. In the current appeal, counsel James Dwyer SC argued that the seizure of Hanway's car breached his constitutional rights because the search warrant was issued in another garda's name. He also challenged the admission of evidence regarding Hanway's testosterone use, claiming it was prejudicial, and argued the jury verdict was not properly delivered under section 35(2) of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. The State's counsel, Aoife O'Leary BL, countered that the trial judge had correctly ruled the car evidence admissible in the interests of justice despite the procedural irregularity. She further noted that the testosterone evidence was probative and that the jury was merely polled on their numbers after returning the verdict. The Court of Appeal, comprising Mr Justice John Edwards, Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, and Mr Justice Alexander Owens, heard the arguments. The court reserved judgment in the case to a later date, meaning the matter was adjourned and not concluded.
An Offaly man, Patrick Killally, who was jailed for 11 years for the sexual abuse of two children, argued that his trial was unfair due to the admission of evidence about a third party confronting him after hearing him "roaring" at a child to come into a bedroom. Killally was convicted of multiple counts of sexual assault and rape of two boys over different periods. His defense claimed the evidence was more prejudicial than probative, as it was not related to the charges against him. The prosecution argued the evidence had probative value in discrediting Killally's claim that he had never been left to babysit the injured party. The court reserved judgment on the appeal, with the defense emphasizing the lack of evidence that Killally called the child into the bedroom and the other child's testimony that she was not abused.
The trial of Derek Boyd (31) and Chantelle Harcourt (34) continues before Ms Justice Melanie Greally and a jury. Mr Boyd, of Finglas, Dublin 11, has pleaded not guilty to murdering Mark Carroll (34) at his home on June 9, 2024. He also pleaded not guilty to threatening Ms Megan Rock with death or serious harm and assaulting her on the same occasion. The prosecution alleges Mr Boyd stabbed Mr Carroll with intent to kill or cause serious harm. The jury heard that Mr Boyd was on a suspended sentence for shooting his sister dead in a tragic accident at the time of the alleged stabbing. Ms Harcourt, of Darndale, Dublin 17, has pleaded not guilty to two counts of impeding the prosecution of Mr Boyd. She is accused of cleaning the scene before gardai arrived and acting to impede his apprehension at Blanchardstown Garda Station. Witness Garda Emer Downey testified that Ms Rock identified Mr Boyd as the attacker and described Mr Carroll returning to the house to 'sort it out' after an argument. The trial is ongoing and was not adjourned or finalised at this stage.
A High Court judge has ordered that the mother of a child rape victim be brought before him to face allegations that she filmed her daughter's abuser in court and posted it on social media. The woman is alleged to have made a video recording in court of her 17-year-old daughter's rapist and to have posted it on Facebook. The identity of the 30-year-old Carlow defendant cannot be published to protect the statutory anonymity of the victim. The man was jailed for seven years for repeatedly sexually abusing his partner's teenage niece. He had pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault and one count of orally raping the child. The girl told the court that she was 13 when the defendant started "grooming" her. She said she has struggled with anxiety, depression, trauma, and flashbacks as a result of the abuse. Prosecuting counsel brought the case back before the Central Criminal Court seeking an "attachment order" in relation to contempt of court proceedings. The video post was viewed around 300 times but has since been taken down.
A PwC employee, Jasch Asher, has lost a challenge to his dismissal after being found to have worked remotely from India for weeks when he should have been based in Dublin. The company discovered through access card data and internet traffic that he had been working from India since September 2024, violating his contract which required him to be based in Ireland. Asher claimed he could not return to Dublin due to his landlord selling his accommodation, but the company found he had no intention of returning. PwC suspended him for a disciplinary investigation and eventually terminated his employment. The adjudicator ruled that Asher was the author of his own predicament, as he intended to remain in India indefinitely despite the contractual requirement to be in Ireland. The termination was deemed justified due to his refusal to comply with his obligations.
The jury in the trial of a garda accused of raping his former wife and committing child cruelty towards two of his daughters will continue their deliberations tomorrow. The 48-year-old defendant has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including one count of child cruelty against his 17-year-old daughter and two counts of raping his wife on dates in 2009 and 2021. He also denies charges of child cruelty against his 24-year-old daughter and assault causing harm. The alleged offenses took place in the north-west of the country, and the defendant is a serving member of the gardai on suspension. After a second day of deliberations, the judge instructed the jury to suspend their discussions for the evening and resume tomorrow. All parties in the case have a statutory right to anonymity.
John Eghomwanre and Faraj Odukoya were sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for their roles in the St Valentine's Day violence that resulted in the death of Quham Babatunde. Eghomwanre pleaded guilty to two counts of assault causing harm to Mr Babatunde and another man. Odukoya pleaded guilty to three counts of assault causing harm to Mr Babatunde and two other men, one count of violent disorder, and two counts of burglary committed on November 23, 2023. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a five-year prison sentence on both men, backdated to the date they entered custody. The judge noted that both defendants engaged in serious violence and that Odukoya's conduct was more serious, though he acknowledged the younger defendant's age and the opportunistic nature of the burglaries. Earlier this year, co-defendants Rory Carr and Bruno Tache were each sentenced to three years and six months for assault causing harm and violent disorder, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions for two years. Four other men remain before the courts in relation to the incident. The court accepted that neither Eghomwanre nor Odukoya possessed a knife during the attacks.
A convicted killer, currently serving a six-year term for manslaughter, had his prison sentence extended after he rammed his former partner's car with their three children inside and then assaulted his partner's sister in front of her teenage daughter. The man pleaded guilty to assault and criminal damage, and the court considered the breach of a safety order. The judge noted the severity of the accused's actions, including ramming the car with his own children inside, and emphasized the need for control and dominance in his behavior. The sentence was made consecutive to his existing term, with the final two years suspended on strict conditions. The victims' impact statements highlighted the emotional trauma suffered by the family, including the sister who was left with severe facial injuries and the daughter who had to protect her mother. The judge commended the victims for standing their ground and ordered the accused to maintain a ten-year bond to stay away from the complainants.
A man who punched, headbutted, and choked his former partner until she nearly lost consciousness has been sentenced to two years in prison, with the final nine months suspended. The victim suffered severe bruising and experienced long-term mental health issues, including nightmares and insomnia. Jonathan Cooke, 29, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm at the woman's home in June 2024. During the attack, he ignored her pleas to stop and continued the violence. Although he claimed she had struck him first, the victim denied this. Judge Orla Crowe emphasized that the violence was a gross violation of the woman's rights and condemned the actions as unacceptable, regardless of the relationship's context. Cooke was ordered to undergo an intimate partner violence program and probation supervision. The court also noted his difficult background and current efforts to rebuild his life. The victim was given the option to accept a €1,400 token of remorse or have the money donated to a charity.
Seamus O'Hara, a 78-year-old man from Limavady, Derry, was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court to concurrent terms totalling ten years imprisonment. In March, a jury convicted him of one count of rape and 35 counts of indecent assault of a child, who was aged between six and 12, at his former family home in Donegal between 1976 and 1983. Mr Justice Paul Burns described the conduct as a "prolonged and orchestrated campaign of sexual abuse" involving grooming-type behaviour. During the sentencing, O'Hara turned to the victim and said, "shame on you," remarks the judge dismissed, stating O'Hara was the one who should be ashamed. The judge noted the severe, lasting impact on the victim, including isolation and mental health issues, while acknowledging the delay in the proceedings. In mitigation, the court considered O'Hara's age, health, and work history. O'Hara has previous convictions in Ireland and Northern Ireland for offences including assault, drink driving, and possession of a firearm. His defence counsel, James McGowan SC, stated O'Hara does not accept the verdict and requested to serve his sentence closer to Derry. The matter was finalised with the imposition of the ten-year custodial sentence.
A senior lab technician, Edson Simoa De Morais, has lost his challenge to his dismissal after being found asleep in a first aid room and contaminating it with lead dust from his work gear. The Workplace Relations Commission rejected his claim under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, ruling that there were substantial grounds for his dismissal due to his conduct and failure to comply with health and safety protocols. The company's investigation found that he used the first aid room for non-medical purposes, including sleeping, and actively endangered others by wearing lead-contaminated gear. Despite his legal team's arguments about his workload and the company's safety practices, the adjudicator found that his actions warranted dismissal. The court noted that the first aid room had to be decontaminated after the incident, and the disciplinary process was upheld on internal appeal.
Derek Boyd, 31, and Chantelle Harcourt, 34, are on trial at the Central Criminal Court, where both have pleaded not guilty to charges arising from an incident at a home in Dublin on June 9, 2024. Mr Boyd faces charges of murdering Mark Carroll, 34, threatening Megan Rock, and assaulting her. Ms Harcourt is accused of impeding the apprehension or prosecution of another person at the scene and later at Blanchardstown Garda Station. The jury heard from Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster that Mr Carroll died from a fatal stab wound to the chest, which penetrated the pericardial sac and right ventricle. She stated the injury was unsurvivable and caused haemorrhage and shock, with no contributory factors from alcohol or cocaine. Minor injuries consistent with a fight were also noted. The prosecution alleges Mr Boyd stabbed Mr Carroll with intent to kill or cause serious harm. The jury was informed that Mr Boyd was on a suspended sentence for previously shooting his sister dead in a tragic accident. The trial continues before Ms Justice Melanie Greally.
Martin Cunningham (31) of Sheephill Green, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, is set to be sentenced later this year at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for making threats and producing a Stanley knife two years ago. Cunningham came forward with signed pleas from the District Court and pleaded guilty today to threatening to kill or cause serious harm to Mark Howard at Lidl, Clonsilla on February 23, 2024. He also admitted to producing a Stanley knife on the same date. Judge Orla Crowe has adjourned the sentencing until October 26, next. The case has drawn attention due to the severity of the alleged threats and the production of a weapon in a public place. Cunningham's guilty pleas have expedited the legal process, allowing the court to focus on determining an appropriate sentence. The adjournment provides time for the court to consider all relevant factors before delivering a verdict. The case highlights the importance of addressing threats and weapons in public spaces to ensure community safety.
Lawyers for a garda accused of raping his former wife and committing child cruelty have told the jury that the prosecution's case is "simply incredible." The defendant, a serving garda on suspension, has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including rape and child cruelty. The prosecution argued that the evidence showed a pattern of behavior that crossed the line from reasonable discipline to abuse. The defense, however, questioned the credibility of the witnesses, pointing out inconsistencies in the allegations and the lack of mention of domestic violence in a letter from the accused's ex-partner. The defense also highlighted that the ex-partner had no concerns about the safety of the children and had communicated with the accused about their care. The trial continues as the jury deliberates on the credibility of the evidence and the validity of the allegations.
Detective Garda John Pirollo described being strangled by John McDonagh during an arrest at a halting site as a "deeply harrowing experience" with lasting emotional and psychological effects. McDonagh, 36, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and was jailed for two and a half years. The court heard that McDonagh had a history of 23 previous convictions, including assault and drug offenses. During the incident, McDonagh drove at the detective, attempted to pin him between his car and a patrol vehicle, and later strangled him during a struggle. The garda suffered injuries, including bruising and difficulty swallowing. McDonagh expressed remorse, wrote a letter of apology, and offered €5,000 as a token of remorse. Judge Martina Baxter noted the seriousness of the incident and the risk to the garda's life, but took mitigating factors into account, including McDonagh's guilty plea and mental health issues. She imposed a headline sentence of four years, reduced to three-and-a-half years with the final 12 months suspended on conditions.
A journalist has accused an animal rescue charity of penalising her for making protected disclosures and has argued that she has either been suspended for the past two years or unfairly dismissed. Alison O'Reilly, a newspaper reporter, broadcaster and author, has filed complaints against Kildare Wildlife Rescue under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, and the Equal Status Act 2000. The details were disclosed at a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) case management hearing on Tuesday. Ms O'Reilly's solicitor, Gerard Cullen, said his client had made protected disclosures and had been victimised and penalised in a very gross fashion. His client had raised concerns with the charity in relation to public health. After a suspension took effect on 1 July 2024, his client was subject to non-engagement from the charity. Mr Cullen characterised Ms O'Reilly's involvement with the charity as an employment relationship for the purposes of the Protected Disclosures Act. Kildare Wildlife Rescue disputes this position.
A man with 82 previous convictions has been jailed for four years after repeatedly kicking his former partner in the head while on bail. Lee Byrne, 28, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The victim described ongoing medical issues, including anxiety, persistent concussion syndrome, and headaches. Byrne was on bail at the time of the incident and was later arrested. Gardai found evidence of injuries on Byrne's hands and blood on his feet. The victim detailed the assault, saying Byrne targeted her head with kicks. She was hospitalised over 20 times and is on medication for seizures and anxiety. She described the trauma and how Byrne's actions changed her life. Judge Elma Sheahan imposed a five-year sentence, with the final year suspended, and ordered Byrne to engage with the Probation Service. The judge noted the assault occurred in an intimate relationship and considered Byrne's guilty plea and remorse. Byrne's defence highlighted his history of drug addiction and psychiatric issues. Gardai confirmed the victim's injuries were severe, with significant damage to her face.
Gerard McCarthy, 64, of Clonlost, Killucan, Co. Westmeath, was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court after pleading guilty to 24 sample counts of rape and 24 sample counts of indecent assault. The offences, which occurred between 1979 and 1985, were committed against his niece, Catriona Mahon, when she was aged between seven and 13. Mr Justice David Keane imposed a sentence of seven years' imprisonment, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions for two years. The judge directed McCarthy to participate in a sexual offender's rehabilitation programme if deemed suitable and imposed a two-year post-release supervision order. Aggravating factors included the high degree of breach of trust, the victim's age and defencelessness, and the persistent nature of the offending. Mitigating factors included McCarthy's early admissions of guilt, his signed guilty pleas at the District Court, and his lack of previous convictions. The court acknowledged the victim's courage in coming forward after four decades of silence. McCarthy's defence counsel highlighted his cooperation, medical issues, and a letter of apology expressing shame. The judge affirmed that the shame lay solely with the convicted man and wished the victim well in her recovery.