A stable worker, Valentine Jevardat De Fombelle, has won over €4,500 for multiple employment rights breaches against a horse dealer. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) upheld statutory complaints under the National Minimum Wage Act 2000, the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997, and the Payment of Wages Act 1991 against TG Sporthorses Ltd. Jevardat De Fombelle, a French national, worked 60-hour weeks and was regularly required to work over the legal maximum number of hours. She was paid on a monthly basis and was left short by €2,815 in wages. The adjudication officer awarded her €2,815 under the Payment of Wages Act, €500 in compensation for a breach of the National Minimum Wage Act, €750 for excessive working hours, and €500 for the failure to pay a Sunday premium. The total awarded to Jevardat De Fombelle in the case was €4,565.
A Cavan man, Danny Heyneman, must serve a six-year prison sentence for attempting to murder his father before beginning a life sentence for murdering his mother in attacks of extreme violence within the family home. Mr Justice Tony Hunt ruled that the attempted murder of his father was a separate and extremely serious offence, and that the six-year sentence should be served before the life sentence for the murder of his mother. The judge noted that the most aggravating factor in the case was the breach of trust involved, as the victims were attacked in their own home, which should have been a place of safety. The court heard that the defendant had a history of depression, self-harm, and paranoid ideation, but these factors were not sufficient to explain the violence meted out to his parents. The judge acknowledged the defendant's remorse but said it was a very small drop in a very large ocean of damage and destruction. Danny Heyneman pleaded guilty.
The operator of the Generator Hostel in Dublin has been ordered to provide staff training on equality law following a complaint by a guest who alleged she was intimidated by a naked woman in her dorm room. Vanessa Corral claimed she experienced sexual harassment and victimisation in December 2024 and filed a complaint under the Equal Status Act 2000 against Generator Properties Dublin Ltd. She described encountering a fully naked female guest at the hostel in Smithfield, Dublin 7, and said she was shocked and told the woman her behaviour was inappropriate. The woman became angry, and Corral felt intimidated and threatened, leading her to leave. The receptionist dismissed her concerns, calling the behaviour a cultural matter. Corral mentioned making a complaint to the WRC or gardaí, but the receptionist became aggressive and threatened her with removal from the premises. She was moved to another room but not allowed to extend her stay. Corral felt she was effectively banned without justification and claimed she was victimised for reporting the harassment.
Discrimination complaints against the organiser of a Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournament have been dismissed by a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) adjudicator. The claims, brought under the Equal Status Act 2000 by Michail Michailidis, Makarios Michailidis, and Elena Arabova-Michailidis against Grappling Industries Corp, were thrown out after the hearing was disrupted by the claimant. The adjudicator, Michael McEntee, had to leave the room due to the disruptive and loud behaviour of Michail Michailidis, who was representing himself and the other complainants. Despite attempts by the adjudication officer and a representative from the Citizens' Advice Service to proceed, the hearing could not continue. A porter also intervened, asking Michail Michailidis to stop shouting as it was causing disturbance. The adjudicator had previously warned the claimants of potential termination of the case due to the disruptive conduct, but received no response. As a result, the adjudicator concluded that the case was not properly founded and therefore unsuccessful, citing a High Court ruling on the termination of similar cases for disruptive behaviour at hearings.
A man from Tullow has been jailed for 21 months after €5,000 worth of cannabis was found hidden behind a couch in his home. Michal Plecha (50) of Shroughaun Close, Tullow, pleaded guilty at Carlow Circuit Criminal Court to possessing cannabis valued at €5,100 and amphetamine valued at €525 on November 27, 2024. He also admitted to possessing a stolen chainsaw and bicycle. The court heard that a warrant was secured to search his home, where the drugs were found in a sportsbag behind the couch. A digital weighing scale, plastic bags, and €900 in cash were also discovered. Plecha claimed the cash was for buying a car, but gardaí suspect it is from drug trafficking. The stolen items were found in his home, and Plecha said he had bought the chainsaw second-hand and that a friend had left the bike behind. His defence accepted that his engagement with The Probation Service had been inconsistent.
A Carlow man who admitted to storing over €20,000 worth of cannabis in a shed to feed his own addiction has received a three-year suspended sentence. Colm Cody (41) of Augha, Bagenalstown, pleaded guilty at Carlow Circuit Criminal Court to possessing cannabis, MDMA, and cocaine at his home on November 28, 2023. He has no previous convictions. Detective Sergeant Stephen Delaney explained that a warrant was obtained to search Cody's home based on garda intelligence. Cody was not present, but his daughter was, and the gardaí waited for him to return. A small amount of cannabis and MDMA was found in Cody's bedroom, while the larger quantities were discovered in the shed. Cody accepted responsibility at the scene and later told gardaí that the cannabis in his bedroom was for his own use, to help manage stress and depression. He admitted to agreeing to store the cannabis to feed his addiction but denied selling the drugs. His defence argued that he was under threat, with someone warning him that his daughter was at home all day.
Ionel Rostas (20) has been jailed for two years and three months for assaulting his ex-girlfriend outside a nightclub. The incident occurred on April 21, 2025, at the Red Cow Inn, where Rostas was captured on CCTV headbutting and punching the 18-year-old woman. The victim required plastic stitches above her right eyebrow after the attack. Rostas, who has 30 previous convictions, was interviewed by gardai and made no comment during the interview. The victim did not wish to make a statement to the gardaí, and the prosecution relied on CCTV footage. Rostas was on a suspended sentence for a drug offence when he committed the assault. Judge Orla Crowe noted the deplorable violence and the vulnerability of the victim. She imposed a sentence of two years and nine months, suspending the final six months on the condition that Rostas keep the peace and be of good behaviour. She also ordered him to engage with the Probation Service for anger management programmes. Ionel Rostas pleaded guilty.
The High Court has ruled that a District Court judge erred in law when he refused to convict thirty-four drivers caught speeding at Clogheen, Monasterevin in County Kildare. In December 2024, Judge Andrew Cody found the facts proven but declined to record convictions, describing the 60km/h speed zone as unjust and criticising prosecutions as motivated by targets and finance rather than safety. The Director of Public Prosecutions sought judicial review of four lead cases. Mr Justice Cian Ferriter found the judge's approach unlawful, stating a court must record a conviction when facts are proven. The judge's role was to apply existing law, not to question its correctness. Mr Justice Ferriter noted the judge's comments breached fair procedures and could create reasonable apprehension of predetermination. However, none of the thirty-four drivers opposed the DPP's action. The DPP adopted a sensible approach by not requesting remittal to District Court, meaning none will receive convictions or penalty points.
A repeat offender who caused the deaths of a married couple in a hit-and-run was jailed for five years. John Halpin, who had 43 previous convictions, was speeding and ran a red light, killing Anthony and Georgina Hogg Moore. His partner, Nicole Fallon, received a suspended sentence for impeding the investigation by moving the car and hiding evidence. The victims' children gave emotional impact statements, describing the trauma of losing both parents. Halpin claimed he didn't see the red light and was in a state of panic after the collision. The judge sentenced Halpin to five years in prison and disqualified him from driving for 10 years, while imposing a three-year suspended sentence on Fallon, considering the impact on her children. John Halpin pleaded guilty. Nicole Fallon pleaded guilty.
David Smyth (55) has been jailed for four and a half years for distributing and possessing child abuse material. The case came to light through an undercover sting operation by a US special agent who interacted with an alias believed to be used by Smyth on the Kik app. Gardai traced the IP address to Ireland and searched Smyth's home, recovering four images of child sexual abuse material from his phone. Smyth denied any involvement and claimed another person had access to his phone. The court heard that Smyth had a difficult childhood and had worked with various organisations to give back to his community. Judge Jonathan Dunphy noted the seriousness of the charges, the number of files, and the use of an alias to engage with the undercover agent. He imposed concurrent sentences totalling four and a half years, acknowledging Smyth's cooperation with the investigation and his previous good work history. The judge also highlighted the harm caused to the children in the images and the demand created by viewing such material. David Smyth was convicted.
Two brothers, Patrick Pa' Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42), are on trial for attempting to murder two brothers at an unofficial halting site in Co Offaly. The victims, Anthony McDonagh (40) and Michael McDonagh (46), were shot in the chest, neck, and face with pellets from a shotgun. Anthony McDonagh testified that he locked eyes with Patrick Ward before being shot, while Michael McDonagh claimed John Pio Ward shot him. The prosecution, led by Kevin White SC, argued that the recognition evidence given by the McDonagh brothers was crucial, despite the lack of CCTV footage or maps of the incident. The defence, led by Damien Colgan SC, argued that there was no evidence to support the victims' testimony and suggested they were colluding to falsely accuse the accused. The trial continues with the jury considering whether the McDonagh brothers' accounts were truthful or if they were lying. The accused face further charges of possession of firearms and violent disorder. Patrick Pa' Ward pleaded not guilty. John Pio Ward pleaded not guilty.
An 81-year-old former teacher, Barra Connolly, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for 97 sexual offences against four teenage pupils over 20 years ago. The Central Criminal Court in Waterford heard that Connolly was found guilty of 23 counts of rape, 73 counts of sexual assault, and one count of possession of child sexual abuse material. The abuse occurred at his home in Chapel Street, Lismore, Co Waterford, between 1997 and 2006. The victims, aged between 13 and 17 at the time, were given keys to Connolly's house and subjected to various forms of abuse, including touching, oral and anal rape. Gardai discovered 984 items of child sexual abuse material on his devices. The court was told that the victims experienced long-term emotional and psychological trauma, including suicidal ideation and mental health issues. Connolly, who has no previous convictions, does not accept the jury's verdict. The judge noted the grooming of the boys and the prolonged duration of the abuse as aggravating factors.
A tribunal has recommended that a company pay €50,000 in compensation to a senior employee who was sacked six months after relocating to Ireland for a job. The employee complained about her manager's behaviour, only to be terminated immediately without prior warning or any performance review. The adjudicator, Christina Ryan, called the dismissal a serious departure from fair procedures, noting the lack of any process and the abrupt nature of the termination. The employee, who had no prior warning of any issues with her conduct or performance, struggled to find new work and believed her short tenure had damaged her employability. The tribunal recommended the payment of €50,000, reflecting the employer's conduct, the abrupt dismissal, the employee's seniority, and the fact that she had relocated internationally for the job. The company did not attend the tribunal hearing and objected to the proceedings through its solicitors.
Raul Tabares Garcia, a Spanish national accused of conspiring to import drugs, has lost his appeal against a High Court ruling refusing him bail. At the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice Alexander Owens upheld the decision, stating the court saw no error in principle or law. Mr Garcia, of Cadiz, faces a charge of conspiring contrary to section 71 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 to import drugs in excess of €13,000 between February 27 and March 14, 2024. He was one of ten men arrested in March 2024 during operations near Skibbereen, west Cork, where vehicles and nautical equipment were seized. Prosecutors alleged the group was involved in a transnational drug trafficking operation linked to 840kgs of cocaine valued at approximately €60 million. The High Court judge had previously deemed Mr Garcia a serious flight risk due to his foreign nationality and potential resources. Although his counsel argued he had local connections and proposed sureties, the Court of Appeal rejected these arguments, noting his lack of connection to the country. Seven co-accused, including Mario Angel Del Rio Sanz, Anuar Rahui Chairi, Aleksandar Milic, Kiumaars Ghabiri, Pedro Pablo Ojeda Ortega, and Angel Serran Padilla, have already pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges and were sentenced to a combined 70 years in prison last December. The matter was adjourned following the refusal of the bail application.
A Circuit Court Judge has refused to remand a woman on bail for her role in facilitating a criminal organisation, despite noting that there are currently 53 mattresses on the prison floor. Judge Brian O'Callaghan stated that the defendant, Tamara Olaye, has had poor compliance with bail conditions in the past. Olaye, from Galway, pleaded guilty to money laundering offences between 2022 and 2024. Gardai obtained warrants to access her bank accounts and found over €20,000 transferred to a third party. Olaye claimed the money came from her work in beauty and fast food, but gardai linked it to organised crime. The court heard that Olaye had failed to sign on 41 times and was not residing at her address on eight occasions. Her defence counsel requested a Probation Report, which the judge agreed to. Olaye was remanded into custody until July 23, with the judge emphasizing the need to protect the public despite the prison conditions.
Jim McCarthy, 27, formerly of Oughterard, Co Galway, pleaded guilty at Galway Circuit Criminal Court to one count of hijacking a vehicle on Foster Street, Galway, on April 10, 2024, and to burglary, assault, and possession of an article at St Lawarnce Park, Loughrea, on January 23, 2024. Prosecution evidence alleged that McCarthy hijacked a car from a woman using a knife and later assaulted a resident in Loughrea, striking him with a knife and stealing cash. The court heard that McCarthy has 11 previous District Court convictions. Defence counsel noted that McCarthy has addressed addiction issues, completed a 12-week course at Cluine Mhuire, is employed, and has engaged with the Probation Service. Both injured parties declined to provide victim impact statements or participate in a restorative justice programme. Judge Brian O'Callaghan adjourned the case for an updated probation report in January 2027. The matter was adjourned and not concluded.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44, faced a High Court bail hearing in connection with an extradition warrant issued by Northern Irish authorities. He is charged with murder in relation to the death of Robbie Lawlor on 4 April 2020, and with possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol between 2 and 5 April 2020. Both charges carry potential life sentences. The Criminal Assets Bureau has assessed a liability of over €860,000 against Mr Gill, primarily comprising interest on unpaid income tax dating to 2005. Gardaí objected to bail, citing the seriousness of charges, alleged links to organised crime, and concerns regarding access to cash and potential flight risk. Mr Gill's father offered an independent surety of €100,000, which the State accepted as suitable. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath adjourned the bail application to 3 June, pending clarification regarding Mr Gill's tax payments. The extradition hearing is scheduled for the same date.
Derek McGee, 41, of North Circular Road, Phibsborough, had his conviction for obstructing a garda dismissed on appeal. He was originally convicted in the District Court and fined €350 for an incident on July 16, 2021. A garda testified that McGee became aggressive, quoted legislation, and locked himself inside his vehicle after the officer removed the ignition key for safety. McGee contended he had no right to be stopped and was entitled to speak to a supervisor under the Constitution. Judge Ronan Munro, presiding over the appeal, stated that the facts were proven and that McGee had no entitlement to demand a supervisor, noting: "You don't know the law." The judge acknowledged the incident stemmed from a misunderstanding of the law. Although McGee has 14 previous convictions, Judge Munro decided not to impose a conviction. The case was dismissed under section 1(1)(ii) of the Probation of Offenders Act, 1907, with a bond imposed to keep the peace for three years.
Anthony Carroll, who impersonated a garda and stole €3,000 from two pensioners, could not attend his sentencing hearing due to an emergency. Carroll pleaded guilty to burglary and impersonating a garda in January 2024. The victims, both 71-year-olds, were awakened at 4:15 am by Carroll, who was wearing a monkey hat and a crowbar, claiming to be conducting a raid. He stole €3,000 from the victims, who had no connection to drugs. Carroll was arrested in February 2025 and admitted to the crime. He has 31 previous convictions, including robbery and criminal damage. His defense argued that he was under the influence of cocaine and had no prior criminal intent. Judge Martina Baxter noted Carroll's record of duplicity and required him to be drug-free and undergo a community service assessment. However, Carroll did not appear for his sentencing as he claimed there was an emergency, with his solicitor informing the court that someone had fallen down the stairs. The case was adjourned to the next court term in June.
Two British men, Philip Clarke and Adrian Leszczynski, were jailed for six years after being caught with almost €1 million worth of cocaine at Dublin Port. Both pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine for sale or supply in August 2025. Customs officers discovered 13.9 kg of cocaine hidden in the boot of a Ford Focus driven by Leszczynski, who claimed he was delivering a car from Spain to Ireland. A tracking device was found in the car, indicating others were monitoring its movements. Clarke, a passenger, claimed he was on holiday with his friend. Both men had no previous convictions and were arrested upon arrival. Their defense argued that they were used by others in the drugs trade and had no knowledge of the drugs. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the seriousness of the offense and the amount of drugs, but considered their guilty pleas and lack of prior convictions. She imposed a seven-year sentence, suspending the final 12 months on the condition that they leave the jurisdiction within four days of release and not return for ten years.
Sean O'Rourke, an Offaly man, admitted to possessing 17 kg of cocaine worth €1.19 million to repay a €10,000 debt from his cocaine use. He pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to possession of the drugs for sale or supply in November 2024. O'Rourke claimed he was the only person who knew about the drugs and feared for his family's safety if he revealed who gave him the drugs. He had minor previous convictions for road traffic offences. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the serious nature of the offense but considered his early guilty plea and cooperation. She imposed an 11-year headline sentence, reducing it to eight and a half years after taking mitigation into account. The sentence was suspended for 18 months, with conditions that O'Rourke remain under the supervision of the Probation Service and engage in victim awareness and drug counseling. O'Rourke's defense highlighted his addiction, family support, and work history. He apologized for his actions and expressed a desire to turn his life around.
Michael Macken, a serial offender with a deep sexual interest in children, was jailed for seven and a half years after being caught in a Facebook sting operation. In August 2024, Macken engaged in highly sexualised conversations with individuals he believed were young girls, but the accounts were operated by adults pretending to be teens. He was charged with nine counts of communicating with a person to facilitate sexual exploitation of a child and six counts of attempting to send sexually explicit material to a child. He pleaded guilty to sample counts. Judge Orla Crowe noted his previous convictions for sexual assaults on young children and described his actions as serious and deeply concerning. She imposed two concurrent sentences of eight years, suspending the final six months on the condition that Macken remains under the supervision of The Probation Service. Detective Garda Keith Alford explained that a vigilante group confronted Macken with evidence of his online activities.
The High Court has granted a stay on a notice of dismissal against a garda convicted of assaulting his then-wife. Mr Justice Sara Phelan approved the stay, which suspends dismissal proceedings until 14 July. The garda, based in Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court in April 2025 to assault in October 2012 and received a three-month suspended sentence in January 2026. Following conviction, An Garda Síochána Commissioner issued a dismissal notice in February, citing necessity to maintain public confidence. The applicant's legal representatives challenged the dismissal through judicial review, contending the Commissioner acted unlawfully and that the circumstances did not warrant dismissal under the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024. Counsel argued the garda was denied access to comparator cases and that standard disciplinary procedures remained available. The applicant, now a regular garda under suspension, was granted leave to pursue the judicial review challenge.
Gavin Cooke was jailed for eight years for participating in a burglary while on bail, during which a homeowner was threatened with a metal bar and her daughters were in fear of being raped. Cooke pleaded guilty to burglary after the indictment was amended. The court heard that the burglar threatened the woman with a metal bar, demanding cash, and the other two men went upstairs where the woman's daughters were. The woman gave the man €50, but he continued to demand cash. The Audi used in the crime was found on fire nearby, with Cooke's name and prisoner number stitched into the garment. Cooke has 69 previous convictions, including robbery and drugs offences. The judge noted the long-term psychological harm to the woman and her daughters and imposed an eight-year sentence, to be served consecutively to his current sentence.
The trial of Patrick Pa' Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42), both of Kilcruttin, Tullamore, Co Offaly, continued at the Central Criminal Court before Mr Justice Paul McDermott. The accused, who have pleaded not guilty to all charges, face allegations of attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh (40) and Michael McDonagh (46) at an unofficial halting site on March 21, 2025. They also face charges of possession of firearms and violent disorder. Defence witness Eileen McDonagh, the sisters of the alleged victims and partner of Patrick Ward, testified that she did not believe Patrick committed the shootings. She stated she was with him that night and denied lying to the jury. An unnamed alibi witness for John Ward testified to hearing loud bangs near the site around 10:05 pm and seeing John Ward outside. Another unnamed witness claimed to have been in John Ward's yard around 9:40 pm when he heard two bangs. The prosecution case has concluded, and the defence is currently presenting its evidence. The matter was adjourned and the trial continues tomorrow.
A Teagasc adviser, Mary Roache, has filed a claim of gender discrimination against the farm development agency, alleging that her expenses for attending the National Ploughing Championships in 2024 were not covered, unlike those of a male colleague. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) heard her case under the Employment Equality Act 1998, and she also withdrew a separate complaint about whistleblower penalisation. Her legal team argued that the non-payment of her expenses was discriminatory and that she was entitled to a determination of both complaints. The adjudicator noted that the protected disclosures matter was unclear, and Roache confirmed the withdrawal of that complaint, leaving only the equality matter live. The hearing was adjourned pending further legal submissions from the complainant side.
A judge has given a 21-year-old man a second chance after he led gardai on a high-speed chase through Dublin with juveniles in his car. Judge Sinéad Ni Chúlacháin imposed a three-year sentence on Craig McKeon, with the final 18 months suspended on the condition that he complies with strict rehabilitation measures. The judge acknowledged McKeon's efforts to address his issues and noted that he has a supportive family and girlfriend. McKeon pleaded guilty to two counts of endangerment after a chase that involved driving on the wrong side of the M50, through red lights, and at excessive speeds. During the chase, other vehicles had to take evasive action, and gardai deployed a stinger to stop him. McKeon avoided the device by driving onto a curb and making a U-turn before continuing towards Ballymun. He was not insured and did not have a driving licence. The judge said McKeon's actions placed his passengers, the gardai, and the public at risk. She noted that McKeon had previous convictions for dangerous driving and that his evasive actions were impulsive.
A café manager, Vedrana Miskic, has won €3,500 in compensation after her former employer, Aspenvale Ltd, was found to have engaged in discriminatory harassment. The incident occurred at The Cake Café in Dublin 8, where Miskic claimed her boss, Giulio Takacs, belittled her accent by referring to her as 'Sofía Vergara,' a Colombian-born actress. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) upheld two employment rights breaches against Aspenvale Ltd. Miskic alleged that Takacs made racist and sexist remarks and created an uncomfortable work environment. She also claimed that Takacs accused her of failing to inform a former employee about payroll changes. Takacs denied making discriminatory comments but admitted to using the nickname. Adjudication officer Catherine Byrne found that Miskic was credible and that Takacs had manipulated WhatsApp messages. The harassment was deemed a breach of the Employment Equality Act 1998, and Miskic was awarded four weeks' wages in compensation. Additionally, Aspenvale Ltd was found to have breached the Terms of Employment (Information) Act 1994 by not providing a written statement of job conditions. The total compensation awarded was €7,524.
A company, Brendan Vacations Ireland Ltd, has been ordered to pay €40,789 to a former employee, Shulammite Awotundun, after she was unfairly made redundant and later lost another job due to the company's failure to complete a reference questionnaire. Awotundun was let go from her position as a travel consultant on Christmas Eve 2024, despite having a job offer by February 2025. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) found the redundancy was unfair, citing a lack of genuine grounds and procedural flaws. After being made redundant, Awotundun was unable to secure a new job because Brendan Vacations did not complete the reference questionnaire requested by her new employer. The company's failure to communicate its policy of only providing a statement of service led the new employer to draw adverse inferences, resulting in Awotundun losing the job. The WRC adjudicator, Breiffni O'Neill, ruled that the company's actions were a direct cause of Awotundun's financial losses.
Luke Gilligan was jailed for eight and a half years for participating in a feud-related attack that resulted in a 14-year-old boy being stabbed in the chest with a 'Rambo First Blood II zombie' knife. The attack was part of a tit-for-tat feud that has not yet abated. The victim suffered a collapsed lung but has since made a full recovery, though he still suffers from ongoing psychological problems. Gilligan pleaded guilty to aggravated burglary, and the court heard that the feud involved shootings, IUDs on doorsteps, and attempts at arson. The judge considered the serious nature of the weapons used and the impact on the victim, but also took into account Gilligan's age and his own history of being attacked as part of the feud. She imposed a nine-year sentence, with the final six months suspended on conditions.
A woman who was subjected to an extreme campaign of harassment by her garda partner has said she was "profoundly let down" after making a complaint about him to the ombudsman, which was "met with silence". Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Paul Moody (46) sent the victim thousands of messages while she was in hospital pregnant and threatened to send intimate images to her employer. Moody, formerly of St Rapheal's Manor, Celbridge, Kildare, pleaded guilty to harassment and coercive control on dates between March 2016 and November 2017. The court heard how Moody's offending continued while the woman was in hospital pregnant and after the birth of their child. Their relationship ended in early 2017. The defendant was previously jailed in 2022 for engaging in a four-year campaign of harassment, threats, assaults and coercive control of Nicola Hanney. He had pleaded guilty to a charge of coercion. The victim said she felt "profound anger" that Moody continued to serve – "wearing the uniform of protection" – but was an abuser behind closed doors.
Mary Hand (49), mother of murdered gunman Tristan Sherry, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and possession of an article in the course of a dispute on February 3, 2024. She received a three-and-a-half year suspended sentence, conditional on engaging with the Probation Service for 18 months. The incident occurred weeks after her son's funeral, following his murder in a Dublin steakhouse. During the incident, Hand was involved in a dispute with a bar manager at a pub on Fleet Street. The manager asked the intoxicated Hand and another woman to leave, leading to an altercation. Hand lunged at the manager, who ducked and felt something on his torso. A knife was later found on the ground, and the manager sustained cuts to his abdomen and chest. Hand was arrested and initially claimed she had no memory of the incident, attributing it to alcohol abuse. She has a history of previous convictions, including threats to kill and public order offences. The court heard that Hand had made genuine efforts at rehabilitation, including staying away from alcohol.
A 55-year-old man is appealing his combined 15-year prison sentence at the Court of Appeal. He pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to one count of rape and one count of sexual assault against his niece, occurring between 2012 and 2018. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor sentenced him to 11 years, with the final 15 months suspended, on October 31, 2023. This sentence is to be served consecutively to a six-year term imposed by Judge Eugene Kelly at Waterford Circuit Court on October 26, 2023, for four counts of sexual assault against the niece's sister. The man's counsel, Colman Cody SC, argued the sentences were excessive and that a greater portion should have been suspended to incentivize rehabilitation, citing mitigating factors including his guilty plea, cooperation, and personal circumstances. The Director of Public Prosecutions, represented by Vincent Heneghan SC, contended the sentences were appropriate and within judicial discretion, noting the violence of the offenses. The court reserved judgment on the appeal.
A burglar who was spotted by gardai on the roof of a cafe on St Stephen's Green and had to be assisted down by the fire brigade has had his six-month jail term replaced with a suspended sentence on appeal. Judge Ronan Munro said that Enda Murray (44) seemed like he had been a "successful" burglar and thief who "ran out of road". Murray, with an address at Deansgrange Road, Dun Laoghaire, was convicted in the District Court of burglary and was sentenced to six months imprisonment, consecutive to another three years in custody for another matter. He was also convicted of entering the curtilage of a building as a trespasser, which was taken into consideration by the judge, and possession of stolen property, for which he got a six-month suspended sentence. He later lodged an appeal against the severity of his sentence. Sergeant Stephen Walsh told the District Court Appeals Court that on February 6, 2025 at Insomnia on St Stephen's Green, a trespasser was spotted on the roof of the building by gardai.
Driver John Wrafter, 34, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for careless driving causing serious bodily harm. He pleaded guilty to one count of causing serious bodily harm to Francine Winters at Davin Road, Drimnagh, on October 9, 2024. The court heard that Wrafter drove through a red light, striking Ms Winters on a pedestrian crossing. She suffered multiple fractures to her spine, ribs, pelvis, skull, and eye socket, along with a brain bleed, and woke from a coma five days later in Beaumont Hospital with no memory of the incident. Judge Elma Sheahan set a headline sentence of 16 months, reflecting the devastating physical and psychological impact on the victim, who described losing her independence and enduring chronic pain. Acknowledging Wrafter's genuine remorse, early guilty plea, and lack of previous convictions, the judge reduced the sentence to 12 months. This sentence was suspended on a number of conditions. Additionally, Wrafter was disqualified from driving for four years. The judge noted that while no sentence could restore Ms Winters' health, the disposal reflected the gravity of the offence and the defendant's contrition.
The Court of Appeal upheld a six-and-a-half-year jail sentence for Declan Donaghey, who set a garda car alight and damaged a migrant centre during a riot described as one of the gravest examples of public disorder in the State's history. Donaghey had pleaded guilty to arson, violent disorder, and criminal damage. The court heard that his actions were part of a targeted attack on gardaí who were investigating a serious criminal offence earlier that day. CCTV footage showed Donaghey igniting a garda car and damaging another, as well as throwing objects at a migrant centre. The sentencing judge had imposed a seven-and-a-half-year sentence, with the final year suspended. Donaghey appealed, arguing the headline sentence was too high and that mitigating factors were not adequately considered. The Court of Appeal rejected the appeal, noting that the arson was the first act of the night and significantly escalated the situation. The court emphasized that an attack on gardaí is an attack on society and that the headline sentence was appropriate given the unprecedented nature of the event.
Danny Heyneman, 33, pleaded guilty to murdering his mother, Annie Heyneman, and attempting to murder his father, Henk Heyneman, at their Ballyconnell home on January 11, 2025. The court heard that Annie was stabbed at least 14 times, while Henk sustained 26 sharp force wounds. Mr Justice Tony Hunt stated he would consider imposing consecutive sentences given the vicious and prolonged nature of the attacks. Defence counsel Keith Spencer BL asked the court not to impose consecutive sentences, arguing the offences arose from a single incident underpinned by mental impairment. Heyneman, who has features of depression and a history of substance abuse but no severe mental disorder, read an apology expressing deep regret. The matter was adjourned, with sentencing scheduled for June 2.
A 29-year-old man, Tomasz Rozpeda, was sentenced for manslaughter after his friend, Maciej Nowak, died from blunt force trauma during an incident on St Stephen's Day in 2023. Rozpeda had initially been charged with murder but later pleaded guilty to manslaughter. The court heard that Nowak had consumed excessive amounts of amphetamines and alcohol, but the cause of death was determined to be the result of the trauma, not the drugs. Rozpeda claimed that Nowak had become violent and self-harming, but the pathologist's report indicated that the injuries were not self-inflicted. Rozpeda had no prior convictions in Ireland, though he had three in Poland. The court heard victim impact statements from Nowak's sister and fiancée, who described the emotional devastation caused by his death. The judge noted that Rozpeda accepted responsibility and that the case fell in the medium range of culpability, with a headline sentence of between four and ten years. Rozpeda was remanded in custody until his sentencing in July.
Youssef Shehata, 23, was jailed for four years after being convicted of raping a Spanish national in her Dublin apartment in 2022. The victim, who had a medical condition requiring her to avoid vaginal sex, had consensual sex with Shehata but was in pain afterward. Shehata then proceeded to have sex with her despite her objections, leading to her reporting the incident to gardaí. The victim's impact statement described the emotional and psychological trauma she endured, including anxiety attacks, nightmares, and a loss of self-identity. Shehata's defense argued that he was a good young man with a supportive family and that the offense was an aberration. The judge acknowledged Shehata's immaturity and the support he had from his family but noted the severity of the crime. A headline sentence of seven years was considered, but the judge suspended the final year on strict conditions, including probation supervision. The judge expressed sympathy for the victim and hoped she would recover through therapy.
Jason Whelan and Vivian Hanley, a couple with drug habits, were sentenced to four years in prison for possessing over €230,000 worth of drugs at their home in 2022. The court heard that the couple had accumulated debts and were under threat, leading them to store the drugs. Both pleaded guilty and cooperated with the investigation. The judge acknowledged their vulnerability and the duress they were under but emphasized the significant role they played in the drugs trade. The court considered their personal circumstances and the efforts they had made toward rehabilitation, resulting in a suspended sentence for the final two years. Hanley was allowed to defer her sentence to make arrangements for a relative in poor health, while Whelan was required to start his sentence immediately. The garda agreed that the couple were preyed upon by others in the drug world and that they were not the primary organizers of the drug trade.
Ben Whelan, a 26-year-old diabetic man, was acquitted of public order charges after being found slumped over a railing in Ballsbridge. The court heard conflicting accounts from gardaí and the defense about whether Whelan was suffering a medical emergency or acting aggressively drunk. Whelan claimed he was in need of insulin and repeatedly told gardaí he required medical help. His girlfriend testified that he was unwell due to a lack of insulin and that she informed the gardaí of his condition. Judge Anne Watkin dismissed the charges, noting the lack of detailed notes and the possibility that Whelan was experiencing a medical episode rather than being intoxicated. The judge acknowledged that Whelan had admitted to being aggressive but questioned whether his actions met the legal threshold for a public order offense. The court ruled that there was enough doubt to dismiss both charges, considering the possibility that Whelan was in need of medical assistance rather than being drunk. Ben Whelan pleaded not guilty.
A 41-year-old manager at a multinational company was given a community service order after assaulting his teenage au pair in a moment of insanity. The man pleaded guilty to assault and had previously been ordered to pay €9,000 for sexual harassment. The court heard that the victim was evicted from the home and faced significant distress. The victim forgave the man, describing the incident as a mistake. The court noted the age disparity and the breach of trust. The judge imposed a headline sentence of five months, reduced to four months, with 80 hours of community service. The man expressed remorse and acknowledged his inappropriate behavior. The court emphasized the need for accountability and the impact on the victim.
A Salvadoran man, Dennis Mendoza, has been jailed for 30 months after sexually assaulting a sleeping tourist in an unregistered hostel in Dublin. Mendoza, who had no previous convictions, was found guilty by a jury of the assault, which occurred in September 2021. The victim was staying in a shared room at what he believed to be a legitimate hostel when he was sexually assaulted by Mendoza. The victim awoke to find Mendoza groping him, and a second unknown male fled the scene. A substance found in the room was identified as semen, but DNA did not match the victim or Mendoza. Mendoza claimed he was in the room to close a window. His defense highlighted his difficult background and mental health issues, but the court noted his brazen lying and the lack of consent. Judge Martina Baxter imposed a 40-month sentence, with the final ten months suspended, including probation and mental health support.
A Polish man who caused mayhem at Dublin Airport and threatened the garda who arrested him has had his jail term halved on appeal. Robert Filipuk (44), who resides in Newry, Co Down, was originally sentenced to five months in jail with one month suspended for obstructing a garda, intoxication in a public place, and using threatening or abusive language. He later appealed the severity of the sentence. During the appeal, a garda testified that Filipuk was drunk, resisted arrest, and threatened to fight him and 'kick the f**k out of him' while being transported from the airport. He also used a Polish slur against the garda. Filipuk is currently serving a separate sentence from the Circuit Court, with a release date in 2027. His defence counsel, Caroline O'Connell BL, stated that Filipuk is due to be deported and has offered an apology for his actions. Judge Ronan Munro acknowledged the gravity of threatening gardai but reduced Filipuk's sentence to two months, to be served consecutive to his current term. Robert Filipuk was convicted.
A man charged with murder at a Wicklow playground has pleaded guilty to violent disorder and producing a knife during a fight. Patrick Fitzpatrick admitted to using unlawful violence and producing a knife in the course of a fight at Ballywaltrim playground in Bray. He had also been charged with the murder of William Moorehouse, but the trial for that charge has been vacated. Fitzpatrick will appear again in July for a sentencing hearing. The court heard that the incident involved multiple individuals and that Fitzpatrick's actions were part of a broader altercation. His guilty plea to the lesser charges has led to the dismissal of the murder charge for now, with the focus shifting to sentencing for the violent disorder and weapon-related offense.
A 21-year-old man, who was convicted of oral rape, attempted rape, and sexual assault when he was 17, has appealed his conviction, arguing that the victim did not clearly express a lack of consent. The appeal claims that the victim's statement about not having sex without a condom suggests she may have consented if one had been used. The victim had kissed the appellant before the incident, and the case hinges on the interpretation of consent. The trial judge had emphasized that consent must be active and that silence does not imply consent. The appeal also challenges the admissibility of a statement the appellant made during a garda interview and the lack of CCTV footage. The court has reserved judgment on the appeal, with the case awaiting a decision from the Court of Appeal.
Twin brothers Eric and Sean Farrell were found guilty of manslaughter after killing their mother's partner, Nicolae Diaconu, following allegations of abuse. The court heard that the twins stabbed Diaconu eight times and struck him with a blunt object. Both pleaded guilty, and the Director of Public Prosecutions accepted their pleas. The court was told that Diaconu had been abusive towards their mother, prompting her to seek refuge. The twins went to his home to confront him, and a violent altercation ensued. Diaconu was found with multiple stab wounds and a blunt force injury. The court acknowledged the twins' actions were in self-defense but noted the excessive violence used. Both were sentenced to a headline term of ten to 15 years, with the court considering their close relationship and the circumstances of the incident.
Patrick Pa' Ward (38) and John Pio Ward (42) are on trial at the Central Criminal Court for attempting to murder the McDonagh brothers at an unofficial halting site in Co Offaly on 21 March 2025. Patrick Ward is charged with attempting to murder Anthony McDonagh (40) and John Ward with attempting to murder Michael McDonagh (46). Both men denied the allegations, describing the accusations as "lies 100 percent" and claiming they were shocked to be named. They said they had no contact with the McDonaghs and had never left their own yards that night. Garda investigations found small black guns in Patrick Ward's shed and in John Ward's caravan, which the accused said were air guns or BB guns belonging to their children. Both accused pleaded not guilty to all charges, including possession of firearms and violent disorder, and the trial continues tomorrow before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of seven men and five women.
Stephen Barrett, a 23-year-old with 44 previous convictions, has been jailed for three and a half years for beating a 13-year-old boy with a metal pole in a 'vicious and disturbing' attack at Connolly Station. Barrett attacked the boy after allegedly being insulted by some youths, though the victim was not involved. The assault left the boy with a deep scalp laceration and caused significant psychological trauma. The court heard that Barrett's actions were unprovoked and targeted an innocent victim. Judge Martina Baxter imposed a five-year sentence, with the final 18 months suspended, and ordered probation and rehabilitation programs. Barrett expressed remorse and acknowledged his actions were unacceptable. His defense highlighted his troubled background and drug addiction, but the court emphasized the severity of the attack and its impact on the victim and his family. Stephen Barrett pleaded guilty.
A 52-year-old man from Galway was sentenced to 13 and a half years in prison for raping and sexually abusing his two younger sisters over a period spanning several decades. The man had denied the charges but was found guilty by a Central Criminal Court jury. He was convicted on multiple counts of rape, indecent assault, and sexual abuse against both sisters, with the abuse beginning when the older sister was as young as 11 and the younger sister as young as eight. The older sister delivered a victim impact statement, detailing the profound and lasting effects of the abuse on her life, including struggles with alcohol, mental health, and her relationship with her children. She credited the Irish justice system for allowing her to speak out and begin the healing process. The younger sister also shared her experience of living with shame, guilt, and mental health issues, expressing relief at finally being able to move forward.