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xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_crime-law"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Courts</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/property" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Property</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_property" aria-label="Show Property sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_property"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/residential" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Residential</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/commercial-property" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Commercial Property</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/interiors" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Interiors</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/food" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Food</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_food" aria-label="Show Food sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_food"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/drink" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Drink</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/recipes" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Recipes</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/restaurants" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Restaurants</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/health" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Health</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_health" aria-label="Show Health sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_health"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-family" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Family</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-fitness" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Fitness</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-wellness" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Wellness</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-fitness/get-running" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Get Running</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Life & Style</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_life-style" aria-label="Show Life & Style sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_life-style"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/fashion" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Fashion</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/tags/beauty/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Beauty</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/fine-art-antiques" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Fine Art & Antiques</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/gardening" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Gardening</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/people" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">People</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/travel" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Travel</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/culture" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Culture</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_culture" aria-label="Show Culture sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_culture"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/art" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Art</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/books" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Books</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/film" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Film</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/music" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Music</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/stage" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Stage</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/culture/tv-radio" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">TV & Radio</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/environment" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Environment</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_environment" aria-label="Show Environment sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_environment"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/environment/climate-crisis" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Climate Crisis</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/technology" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Technology</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_technology" aria-label="Show Technology sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_technology"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/big-tech" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Big Tech</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/consumer-tech" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Consumer Tech</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/data-security" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Data & Security</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/gaming" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Gaming</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/science" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Science</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_science" aria-label="Show Science sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_science"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/science/space" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Space</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/media" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Media</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/abroad" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Abroad</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/obituaries" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Obituaries</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/transport" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Transport</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/motors" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Motors</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_motors" aria-label="Show Motors sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_motors"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/motors/car-reviews/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Car Reviews</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/listen/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Listen</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Podcasts</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_podcasts" aria-label="Show Podcasts sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div 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class="b-section-title__links"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts/">Courts</a></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/><div id="lazy_24148" class="lazy_container"><div class="b-flex-chain"><div class="b-flex-chain__grid-container b-flex-chain__grid-container__444 has-divider gap-divider"><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile c-it-border--tablet"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" 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ad-fluid"></div></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-divider" aria-hidden="true"/><div id="lazy_37417" class="lazy_container"><div class="b-flex-chain"><div class="b-flex-chain__grid-container b-flex-chain__grid-container__12 gap"><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-results-list__wrapper" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/principal-denies-student-teachers-sexual-harassment-allegations-while-cross-examining-her-at-inquiry/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Principal denies student teacher’s sexual harassment allegations while cross-examining her at 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height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/limerick-race-course-rape-trial-adjourned-as-accused-is-treated-in-hospital/">Limerick race course rape trial adjourned as accused is treated in hospital</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/2025/03/26/woman-student-harassed-by-200-young-men-in-whatsapp-group-dail-hears/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="WhatsApp group of 200 young men created to target woman in her student accommodation, Dáil hears " class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/QMEHU4QIMNHR5HEDGUMRYI6T4A.jpg?smart=true&auth=564a261f01dcce6d545854c622f36687890b6ebdbf32eae6ef13fa27ee3846e0&width=500&height=333" 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handwritten note in which writer asked for forgiveness found in victim’s home, court hears</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/2025/03/26/man-loses-part-of-arm-in-tallaght-explosion/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Man loses part of arm in Tallaght explosion" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5B565MW6MFE4QXKPGJDNIKWPIM.jpg?smart=true&auth=418d2f48dfb73b1c139d639aa203f031b78f98ddaf3c221bed385b41eddd0a04&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5B565MW6MFE4QXKPGJDNIKWPIM.jpg?smart=true&auth=418d2f48dfb73b1c139d639aa203f031b78f98ddaf3c221bed385b41eddd0a04&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/5B565MW6MFE4QXKPGJDNIKWPIM.jpg?smart=true&auth=418d2f48dfb73b1c139d639aa203f031b78f98ddaf3c221bed385b41eddd0a04&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/2025/03/26/man-loses-part-of-arm-in-tallaght-explosion/">Man loses part of arm in Tallaght explosion</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/business/2025/03/26/court-grants-freezing-orders-over-claims-canadian-firm-reneged-on-deal-with-dublin-based-oil-company/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Court grants freezing orders over claims Canadian firm reneged on deal with Dublin-based oil company " class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/PKIA3TQAIRECTIWQUL5NIUL3VE.jpg?focal=558%2C449&auth=ded2862d126a7d6865850aa2018b632637d04201d52c9f8cfd1ec0d3a776c22b&width=500&height=333" 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b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/woman-whose-hearing-loss-was-not-diagnosed-until-she-was-10-settles-case-against-hse-for-900000/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Woman whose hearing loss was not diagnosed until she was 10 settles case against HSE for €900,000" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SCIAMQORCZBKJKD3SODWOI5H7M.jpg?focal=786%2C274&auth=2c901a85ffdfbb4f15b59e349f2700a3895dcaaa41af7b78cd774201f459ba99&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SCIAMQORCZBKJKD3SODWOI5H7M.jpg?focal=786%2C274&auth=2c901a85ffdfbb4f15b59e349f2700a3895dcaaa41af7b78cd774201f459ba99&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/SCIAMQORCZBKJKD3SODWOI5H7M.jpg?focal=786%2C274&auth=2c901a85ffdfbb4f15b59e349f2700a3895dcaaa41af7b78cd774201f459ba99&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/woman-whose-hearing-loss-was-not-diagnosed-until-she-was-10-settles-case-against-hse-for-900000/">Woman whose hearing loss was not diagnosed until she was 10 settles case against HSE for €900,000</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/man-who-rented-properties-under-false-pretenses-to-use-as-brothels-jailed-for-nine-years/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Man who rented properties under false pretences to use as brothels jailed for nine years" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/FX7E6LOV5NE6HKSLB3LEHN7AFM.jpg?smart=true&auth=a9de88e727ee47489786d3258aea5ea52f1b939fa648e007304270cb77e4ecdd&width=500&height=333" 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disciplinary process against teacher who denies she is ‘GAA catfish’ </a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/2025/03/26/murders-sex-crimes-drug-importation-increasing-as-other-crimes-drop-in-ireland/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Murders, sex crimes, drug importation increasing as other crimes drop in Ireland" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/ADWQDZTHXBBGVG5XRNE2TGLC3E.JPG?smart=true&auth=4caedc396fd1489deedcfead0a98f5df8b0cab4ab25b4d8f5e732d4494e7615c&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/ADWQDZTHXBBGVG5XRNE2TGLC3E.JPG?smart=true&auth=4caedc396fd1489deedcfead0a98f5df8b0cab4ab25b4d8f5e732d4494e7615c&width=250&height=166 250w, 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src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/TL2NYRAXHHT5R27VLV4UVPO5UY.jpg?focal=1261%2C798&auth=21672ec29cc2ccd39bb12e4e8c9eee97e472afdbe1f45056dd3916b8b3111380&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/TL2NYRAXHHT5R27VLV4UVPO5UY.jpg?focal=1261%2C798&auth=21672ec29cc2ccd39bb12e4e8c9eee97e472afdbe1f45056dd3916b8b3111380&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/TL2NYRAXHHT5R27VLV4UVPO5UY.jpg?focal=1261%2C798&auth=21672ec29cc2ccd39bb12e4e8c9eee97e472afdbe1f45056dd3916b8b3111380&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/business/work/2025/03/26/former-belfast-citibank-employee-settles-sex-discrimination-case-for-257000/">Former Belfast Citibank employee settles sex discrimination case for €257,000</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a 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class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/lisa-thompson-murder-jury-shown-footage-in-trial-of-woman-accused-of-being-getaway-driver/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Lisa Thompson murder: Jury shown footage in trial of woman accused of being getaway driver " class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/K7FOACE6KVAVJJMH47INYTZE3A.jpg?smart=true&auth=c20b84351e3c08d96747400963eec96334b9fae99acc7d6de3ece25d7e8880db&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/K7FOACE6KVAVJJMH47INYTZE3A.jpg?smart=true&auth=c20b84351e3c08d96747400963eec96334b9fae99acc7d6de3ece25d7e8880db&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/K7FOACE6KVAVJJMH47INYTZE3A.jpg?smart=true&auth=c20b84351e3c08d96747400963eec96334b9fae99acc7d6de3ece25d7e8880db&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/lisa-thompson-murder-jury-shown-footage-in-trial-of-woman-accused-of-being-getaway-driver/">Lisa Thompson murder: Jury shown footage in trial of woman accused of being getaway driver </a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/2025/03/25/law-criminalising-buying-of-sexual-services-has-proven-difficult-to-enforce-review-finds/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Law criminalising buying of sexual services has proven difficult to enforce, review finds " class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/7NWNJFAE5BB2RPDSZWHCVBNXHM.jpg?smart=true&auth=225b7d55bfa5e3938cf2b71ce7b76caaafe806e0fd6a5d8eb0c966015b32aa96&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/7NWNJFAE5BB2RPDSZWHCVBNXHM.jpg?smart=true&auth=225b7d55bfa5e3938cf2b71ce7b76caaafe806e0fd6a5d8eb0c966015b32aa96&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/7NWNJFAE5BB2RPDSZWHCVBNXHM.jpg?smart=true&auth=225b7d55bfa5e3938cf2b71ce7b76caaafe806e0fd6a5d8eb0c966015b32aa96&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/2025/03/25/law-criminalising-buying-of-sexual-services-has-proven-difficult-to-enforce-review-finds/">Law criminalising buying of sexual services has proven difficult to enforce, review finds </a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/business/2025/03/25/fresh-row-emerges-over-legal-costs-in-case-over-michael-flatley-mansion/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Fresh row emerges over legal costs in case over Michael Flatley mansion" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/26XPUGB4MDB4YALHGJVDQCX7XU.jpg?smart=true&auth=961d32999c345556012bce271be17684ddcc27145ec16b6e3113a617a1b7776c&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/26XPUGB4MDB4YALHGJVDQCX7XU.jpg?smart=true&auth=961d32999c345556012bce271be17684ddcc27145ec16b6e3113a617a1b7776c&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/26XPUGB4MDB4YALHGJVDQCX7XU.jpg?smart=true&auth=961d32999c345556012bce271be17684ddcc27145ec16b6e3113a617a1b7776c&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/business/2025/03/25/fresh-row-emerges-over-legal-costs-in-case-over-michael-flatley-mansion/">Fresh row emerges over legal costs in case over Michael Flatley mansion</a></h3></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="c-stack 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","type":"text"},{"_id":"GWIGLVJG7REJ7HGZA6NQ2DBUDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Regin Parithapara Rajan (43) is on trial charged with the murder of his wife Deepa Dinamani (38) at their home in Cardinal Court in Wilton in Cork on July 14th, 2023. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TLQCKR45JNAQNAPC4OSTQ2UWQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jurors at the Central Criminal Court in Cork were previously told the couple had travelled from India with their young son so that Ms Dinamani could take up work in Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K36LGMBDM5DKFJ6LL4GR36LEXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The family were living in Cork for around four months when Ms Dinamani was found dead in a blood-soaked bed in a rental property in the city. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7UK62OCIRB27JLMY6UIKMUESM","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Thursday the trial heard evidence from Det Garda Kenneth Lawton, who gave the accused a legal caution at the scene in Cardinal Court in Wilton on July 14th, 2023. He also asked Mr Rajan what had happened at the property. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7IUSNDO3G5HTBKPPDQQAPZCADM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Det Garda Lawton noted the reply from Mr Rajan: “She [Ms Dinamani] was cheating on me. She was having an affair and he lives in London. I just found out today. I saw the messages that were on her phone (details of passwords) and I could not tolerate it. It was very ugly messages.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NEJPQRHJIZAFNC3MNEDPOQPOF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I just stabbed her with a knife in the throat, she was cheating on me, I could not tolerate that. I will take any sentence. I committed a crime. I could not take this. She was the love of my life.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BFRBB2WHZJAL3DMUE6ZKB4UJNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“And this is the second time, sorry to say. I was in depression and family life was not good. I lost 15kg in the last two months. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SIPOL3LFERDWLL2MINEUEVBGRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It was good until two months ago. When I knew she was chatting with someone, that is when I became depression.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJMTEQVMXJHI5M4CTPFJNGL3DI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I did not do it deliberately. After seeing those messages I did that, sorry to say.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUOE65PF3FDWZMTRRKHUZ6UBG4","additional_properties":{},"content":" The trial also heard the mother of one died of a 14cm “single swipe” incised knife cut to her neck.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OPFZF24V2ND2ZJW2CWXWY2WXGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It caused her to not only lose massive amounts of blood but also to “inhale and swallow” the blood from her wound. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TBY4D4ZVHRHHZE76O774IRNGHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Chief State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan said that Ms Dinamani would have lost the ability to speak once the wound was inflicted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UCC6FTYVENC7PIQI5SS26NF3NI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan carried out the postmortem examination on the remains of the deceased on July 15th, 2023. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MDNMLPNV2VBFNMG2XVFH7A7A3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan told the jury of seven women and five men that she detected an incised wound, measuring 14cm in length, on the neck of Ms Dinamani. She said that the wound severed the large strap muscle of the neck. It also severed the thyroid artery and exposed the windpipe.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QEGWIA5CRZGEPGK7H2OFSHHV4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan said there was evidence of aspirated blood in the lungs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MKXPTQPX6BDNBE7NYHTWPJCIZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“She [Ms Dinamani] would have been breathing in blood. There was bloodstained fluid in her airways and windpipe. Her stomach filled with altered blots and clots. 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He got €22 per hour compared with €40 to €50 per hour if he was working at the appropriate level, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FEYYUD4GZNBV5HB5DBYTCE74OI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686276},"content":"Although he was entitled to apply for jobs in any sector once he got his refugee status, he brought High Court proceedings challenging the refusal to allow him to do so while he was an asylum applicant.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KSAXWOB35NDADPWQYAEVRPRYRA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686277},"content":"He sought declarations including that under a 2013 EU directive (directive 2013/33EU) he was entitled to effective access to the labour market. He claimed the prohibition on public sector employers from taking him on amounted to a disproportionate limitation which was without legitimate justification and was unlawful.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NPWUIZUICRHXRNXBYQ6FH6LZNA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686278},"content":"The respondents in the case, the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Enterprise Trade and Employment, and the State, disputed his claims.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BDK3KGEX3FCSVFBZQTSZ56FRGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686279},"content":"Last November, the High Court rejected his claims.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVW3PJ2WSRANZP2LGCDMJXC444","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686280},"content":"He then sought a direct appeal to the Supreme Court on grounds including that his case raised a matter of public importance. He contended it was in the interests of justice that the rights of eligible international protection applicants to labour market access are lawfully determined.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5WN5KKAP6ZG2HMFRL4O3LFYKNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686281},"content":"He claimed the High Court erred on a number of matters including in its interpretation of effective access to the labour market.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7VRPSEO7NVC5LAYKIMB3RDOCZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686282},"content":"The court also erred in accepting, in the absence of evidence, that the reason for the prohibition on access to all public sector employment was that it created a “pull factor” for potential international protection applicants, it was claimed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZAY7UAQZ6JCJZJPQLBRB7WWZAY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686283},"content":"The respondents opposed the application for an appeal. They argued, among other things, that the matters he raised in seeking an appeal did not constitute exceptional grounds to permit a direct appeal to the Supreme Court and could have been dealt with by the Court of Appeal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JMY3Z5KUCBEYTM5PIAFIRR5FZ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686284},"content":"In a written determination, the Supreme Court granted him leave to appeal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PKHLPMM56NHZXKQYAUWMXJJD2E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686285},"content":"It said his asserted grounds of appeal met the constitutional threshold of exceptional circumstances warranting an appeal directly from the High Court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"44V5P7OJSZDRLNP2U7I4IUM66E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686286},"content":"It said the appeal raised issues of law which would be likely to reach the Supreme Court in any event (even if there was first an appeal to the Court of 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title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/director-of-public-prosecutions/\">Director of Public Prosecutions</a> (DPP) has played “a pivotal role” in the State’s criminal justice system over the last five decades and will continue to do so, the Taoiseach has said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BVYV3J4MURC4ZISHZ4HS3LP6SM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Addressing an event in Dublin on Thursday marking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Office of the DPP in 1975, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin\">Micheál Martin</a> said its work was “crucially important” and “central to the health and resilience of our society”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DFMKVJPAQVB23G3AFKICJJ6SGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was “essential for the rule of law and for the safety of our communities” that people could have faith in the administration of justice and confidence “that every criminal complaint will be dealt with fairly, and effectively and independently – without fear of influence or prejudice”, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BUTDVUKIYNBP3NWHJT34ODGTWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin said the Government was committed to prioritising investment across the justice system and to initiatives including a review of the criminal justice system with a view to improving efficiency, removing blockages and cutting waiting times.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RLUYUPUMZRFYLPUJF3MZQX7IYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Among those at the event on Thursday, hosted by the DPP Catherine Pierse, were Minister for Justice <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\">Jim O’Callaghan</a>, Attorney General <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rossa-fanning/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rossa-fanning/\">Rossa Fanning</a>, former DPPs James Hamilton and Claire Loftus, the family of the first DPP, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/first-director-of-public-prosecutions-eamonn-barnes-dies-1.3278270\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/first-director-of-public-prosecutions-eamonn-barnes-dies-1.3278270\">Eamonn Barnes, who died in 2017</a>, and judges and gardaí.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2QUKDYO66JAO5NTNQFCSTHA2AM","additional_properties":{},"content":"During the event, the Taoiseach launched a book by Dr Niamh Howlin, of University College Dublin’s Sutherland school of law, which was commissioned by the Office of the DPP to mark the 50th anniversary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UNLBRCOQO5EV3BRL5K5F6LZPI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Entitled The History of the Office of the DPP: 1975-2025, the book “shines a light on the Office’s many challenges, milestones and ultimately its place at the heart of Ireland’s criminal justice system”, Mr Martin said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LUVUMBRRYNBOLBQ73VKUP3RMGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He paid tribute to all four holders of the position of DPP for their work.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JINT7N52GRFVXG2ZPDR6YGNBUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Pierse’s role in helping to build collaboration with other criminal justice partners over the years has been “hugely influential” in bringing about improvements for users of the criminal justice system, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G6LDSBW2AZFXTOLVSTXO6GXWV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In her address, Ms Pierse said a statement by former deputy DPP Barry Donoghue that “the worst thing you can have in a democracy” is a popular DPP “really resonates with me”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LSMNNV4CYVHHPO6PC5QJ4MESQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The key principle underpinning the office’s work was that prosecutions were brought on behalf of the people of Ireland “and not on behalf of any individual, organisation or government”, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JWGQOGLOONENFFC3XQXO2BGFWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The value of independence of the Irish prosecution service was “deeply embedded in our culture”, but that independence “is not a shield from scrutiny or transparency; nor is it a reason to isolate from the rest of the system”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LJGEJBZ4CNGA5IEYT56HKTXYYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Because of the “enormous significance” of the office’s decisions on people’s lives, there were “checks and balances” in the decision-making system, she said. Decisions to prosecute could be tested in court and victims were entitled to reasons and a review of decisions not to prosecute.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TUJKCXGQYNFLVL2A5TNGMUTXPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The director also said there was a need to review and revisit policies and practices underpinning the approach to disclosure of material for trials, including the fact the defence has no statutory obligation to engage about identifying material that might be relevant to it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B6H4FBMKRNAKTHUAMUB3V76K6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"She welcomed a Supreme Court judgment which disagreed that disclosure of counselling notes in sexual offence cases was required on the basis the material was remotely or potentially relevant.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7OAJXPSBFBUJBYYVE25LDOVHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Pierse said other categories of records could also contain private information such as medical, social work or family law records and mobile phone data. Having systems to support early engagement concerning disclosure was “key”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OHXJJW3XAZBQTDOBKJ7PHB2UR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The director said the review of legal aid led by the Department of Justice was vital in this regard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4DLPDCMZGFD6TJGTJQ7CUJ3EHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said it was “important for the administration of justice” that people were attracted to work in criminal law, that remuneration was “fair” and that defence lawyers and prosecution counsel fees were structured to support early engagement with a case.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mary Carolan"}},"name":"Mary Carolan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Independence of service is embedded in society, but is not a shield from scrutiny, says Director of Public Prosecutions"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T20:54:04.277Z","headlines":{"basic":"Office of DPP has played ‘pivotal role’ in criminal justice system for 50 years - Taoiseach","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"QIHFDE6SWFBZZGP4RJJFEDGIGE","auth":{"1":"c8abda2039147d062b8a963bce673321f8fb0994f20b57204bb0f7989b2cc97d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/QIHFDE6SWFBZZGP4RJJFEDGIGE.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/office-of-dpp-has-played-pivotal-role-in-criminal-justice-system-for-50-years-taoiseach/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"E4A5SXH34BDHBEVCKCWNX27S3I","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":183,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/3848c034-507f-4f94-8564-4b53aa55a547/versions/1743102020/media/55ccf0d589daa842378fabb000c2e1db_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/family-settle-high-court-action-against-hospital-over-death-of-father-during-pandemic/","content_elements":[{"_id":"RK3VUUUJANFJLDNHANVEMK4644","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390763},"content":"The family of a 71-year-old Cork man who died in Mercy University Hospital Cork during the Covid-19 pandemic have settled their High Court action against the hospital.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZCUOOEMPJBWDATKYJ7JOCSNIE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390764},"content":"Shirley Barry, daughter of the late Michael McGowan, told Mr Justice Tony O’Connor on Thursday that her family believed their father was “treated appallingly”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3RU3BQLAO5BURF3CXXTOXMYZPQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390765},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"CEER5X6OPFFKZAE36U5XVS4VSM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390766},"content":"Ms Barry, of Ballycotton, Cork, had on behalf of the extended family sued the hospital over the death in January 2021 of Mr McGowan, of Dublin Hill, Cork city, from heart failure.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2P3BR624EVCGJNTEA4TTFFU5HA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390767},"content":"The settlement against the Mercy University Hospital was without an admission of liability. The court heard a “full and robust” defence had been filed in the case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TXTEDNTTA5C65LI5EDO7DSBJ2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390768},"content":"Mercy University Hospital had said it would be unfair and unjust to impose liability upon the hospital in circumstances when they were administrating the public health system in unprecedented circumstances during the Covid-19 pandemic.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O4C4AS4FUNGERLSQD3ZJKFS3GM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390769},"content":"It was also said the pandemic led to an unprecedented interruption to normal healthcare activities and said outpatient services such as echocardiograms were severely affected and were mainly carried out on inpatients.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ILHLE4KZZCNXBJPG64QWSVAK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390770},"content":"The McGowan side had said the hospital continued to perform echocardiograms on an outpatient basis through the Covid emergency. They said that a freedom of information request showed that 747 echocardiograms were performed on an outpatient basis at the hospital between March 2020 and January 13th, 2021.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CPEW3TSDNC2FGDTGAITPO6CSQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390771},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"QZTMNDXDXFDMLOQL54HERJM23I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390772},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"B2LWXNNIS5EJBDR42TBEAVFPHA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390773},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJO465P4MFFTREC3INUVBQJGYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390774},"content":"At issue in the case was the allegation over the ongoing care of Mr McGowan, who had been diagnosed in 2013 with aortic stenosis, a problem with a valve in the heart. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HP26CABV7RBP7FGNO2JNYR3MNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Elaine Morgan SC, for the family, said such a diagnosis required rigorous follow-up care including echocardiograms, which test the heart.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EJYG34BHFJD5DGJTXYQ7C4CS3U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390775},"content":"She said while Mr McGowan had the echocardiograms up to 2019, there was a “perfect storm” as regards care at the hospital and an alleged failure to follow up with the pensioner on a routine basis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S7EZFF2LMFEILLYBL6W5IKHW4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Morgan said he had his last echocardiogram in 2019 and “tight surveillance with Mr McGowan to be seen every six months“ was recommended.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PGY7TNJAEVAZZG56XPA64SNU7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390777},"content":"“Unfortunately that did not happen. He had no echocardiogram again before his death,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VVEZBUWBJFHU7JZKAA4CR4Y6XQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Morgan said 20 months after his 2019 echocardiogram, Mr McGowan was admitted to the hospital on January 14th, 2021, in relation to blood loss on an unrelated condition. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"G4M7TAMWX5GDJNXMCH5A2XEAU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was their case, she said, this should have been a red flag for somebody with the valve problem. Mr McGowan died seven days later from cardiac arrest.","type":"text"},{"_id":"46ZA6DJXLZDG7I2IASWG5UHIHE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390779},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"4BP57WW2HVBZ3ISLDRJR2FTEZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Morgan told the court the contention by the hospital in relation to the Covid pandemic “does not in our view stack up”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JBY7VHZ2ZRCSBGFJN3FFWEJJ54","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390781},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"RKDZILGYH5A4LFXEBHKJBCJ4X4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390782},"content":"Mr Justice O’Connor noted the settlement.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Pensioner with heart trouble had echocardiogram in 2019, but ‘never got another one afterwards’"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T18:54:33.309Z","headlines":{"basic":"Family settle High Court action against hospital over death of father during pandemic","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BCX3HNMXGJCWNGBJHV7ZYKCPOI","auth":{"1":"a0145d49a9bc8cae5333d91ba629c4e061cb4a59e9b232b5a6fd7965c1abbd31"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BCX3HNMXGJCWNGBJHV7ZYKCPOI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/family-settle-high-court-action-against-hospital-over-death-of-father-during-pandemic/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"SUP5MYDRCJGVNMLXTC2MAMDVPE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":223,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/3cf853d0-d7c7-4909-92d2-840beaa6e08b/versions/1743100279/media/e6797a14a3b63d549ef70413101b2fc7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/judge-order-disciplinary-process-against-probationer-garda-be-stopped/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IQE4MJMXXJGEBMLX24BFNCSY7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"A High Court judge has ordered that a disciplinary process brought against a serving garda be stopped after he found the process to be “tainted” beyond the point of redemption.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIFOYJYUD5H4FCTKEQJ4KPGHVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Caoimhe Busher, a probationer garda member since 2018, has been the subject of a disciplinary investigation concerning how she allegedly investigated and input information into the Garda Pulse system related to a 2019 road traffic incident in South Dublin. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WF572XTXRVDNJJ5HRAHTVAWRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"She denies any wrongdoing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NWFOZI3YKVERHA2TMCEDB6LMZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In her proceedings, brought against the Garda Commissioner last year, Ms Busher said the internal investigation into the alleged disciplinary breach has been ongoing since 2020. Ms Busher also claimed her probation period was extended seven times and that this was a breach of her rights.","type":"text"},{"_id":"COYE2L6SF5G5JKNZ5MKVNNDIFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a judgment delivered on Thursday, Mr Justice David Nolan ruled in favour of Ms Busher, after he found that the disciplinary process taken against her was “tainted”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4VALTJA4RD73OSXIXPSYHC7JM","additional_properties":{},"content":"This ruling arises from a “prejudicial” letter, written by a Garda member investigating Ms Busher’s alleged disciplinary breach, that, “in essence”, made findings of guilt against her, the judge said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N6RVL74AWNED3CGK6KXFGFUG7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The letter, dated November 5th, 2020, was prepared by the investigating garda as a covering document to accompany his file on Ms Busher’s case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LSKRBDVAYRF3NDVID45HF6GZEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is standard practice for a covering document to accompany an investigation file, to assist the Garda Commissioner in deciding whether to establish an internal inquiry board to adjudicate on an alleged disciplinary breach, the judge noted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZCQR5LHTCFHANIMMDY3Q25PNSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The covering letter, however, was furnished, along with other material, to an internal board of inquiry convened to adjudicate on the allegation against Ms Busher. The letter was also furnished to Ms Busher. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZA3EFLX3MNEBNODCHCNH5JSOPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The board was dissolved before hearing the case on account of one of its members retiring.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MGES2442KFH3HAIPRCG5BX54CE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The letter was not furnished to a second inquiry board that was convened, the judge noted. When the second board became aware of the letter while at hearing – it was raised by Ms Busher’s solicitor – they formed the view that they could not continue in their roles and stood down.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M4FBC4VEFVCKHHJAOV7J57IS64","additional_properties":{},"content":"“By allowing the letter to circulate before the board, no matter which board, the view of the investigating officer will be known well before any evidence is given. The concern must be that the guilt of the applicant [Ms Busher] would be determined before the board gets to hear any evidence, thus setting at naught the whole purpose of the board of inquiry,” the judge said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AGKXNMYI2RAXFA5G5TSJVFKBWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"While noting that the investigating officer is entitled to his views, the judge said the first inquiry board should not have been informed of those views or the letter. When they were informed of it, it followed that the letter was given to the applicant.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7M6REDUO4NFD7FP3YJ5HIBCRSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The canary is out of the cage. The respondents can never get it back into the cage,” the judge said. “If the process is not stopped, a third board of inquiry will find itself in exactly the same position, on being informed of [the letter’s] contents.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y467HJSUKNCARMLHAOFPC2BKB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I have concluded that this process is ‘irredeemably wrong’ or damaged and is tainted by the letter of November 5th, 2020. In those circumstances, it would be entirely wrong to allow it to continue,” Mr Justice Nolan said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TKX4HTIXSFF2VEVGHTNIBSX32M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge said he would make an order of prohibition in regard to the disciplinary process brought against Ms Busher.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YLZN4OKECVA2DIX3RSVQ4QFMJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He also said his provisional view is that Ms Busher is entitled to her legal costs. He listed the matter for next month for submissions on the final order and costs.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Fiachra Gallagher"}},"name":"Fiachra Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Caoimhe Busher said the process against her was ongoing since 2020"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T18:25:58.968Z","headlines":{"basic":"Judge order disciplinary process against probationer garda be stopped","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"PKIA3TQAIRECTIWQUL5NIUL3VE","auth":{"1":"ded2862d126a7d6865850aa2018b632637d04201d52c9f8cfd1ec0d3a776c22b"},"focal_point":{"x":558,"y":449},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/PKIA3TQAIRECTIWQUL5NIUL3VE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/judge-order-disciplinary-process-against-probationer-garda-be-stopped/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"OQ44LRSS6RE2VIKYT4WR4XNNYI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":186,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6fb71914-1822-4c18-afcf-a8da9a4892a5/versions/1743104879/media/a93fe32f9aa00ff5a86beeb157c5df0b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/family-gangs-cocaine-smuggling-operation-was-biggest-servicing-irish-market-say-gardai/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"LCJDSD35FZCHJCHKVIJRH6VA2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Irish and Spanish raids targeting <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/the-family\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/the-family\">the Family</a> drugs gang, headquartered in Dublin, have significantly disrupted the biggest supply route of cocaine into the Republic, gardaí believe. Though some of those involved in the drug smuggling network will seek to resume their activities immediately, Garda sources said, they are now in a much weaker position.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QC4FB2F6GZHKZGQWQKNTCSGR3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Senior officers believe the discovery of The Family’s distribution hub in Castellón de la Plana in eastern Spain – where drugs and vehicles were seized by the Guardia Civil this week – represents a big blow to the criminal network. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E5EZQCNMDJGYRL5FD6K5SGOK6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Four trucks and 12 luxury vehicles were seized in Spain, many with secret compartments for smuggling drugs into Ireland. A total of 314kg of cocaine, valued at about €25 million, and 220kg of marijuana was also taken from the gang as part of a transnational investigation that began late last year. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VSLWCD4XRNHPLMMKW2YADZNWVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda sources said, however, while the raids targeting the group’s logistics operation in Spain will significantly disrupt The Family’s activities, they also believe the group would prove resilient. They pointed out some of the older members of the gang – led by brothers from west Dublin – had been involved in the drugs trade for almost three decades.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LAA4PHEKWZG23JO2O5LAUTZZEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Given their experience, the wealth they had already accrued and large network of associates they had built around them in Ireland and Spain, The Family would seek to retain its position as the biggest drugs gang in Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LALIWLP65C2DCSVPARP3VQ6M4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It has emerged as the biggest importer of drugs into the Republic since the demise of Dublin’s “Byrne organised crime group”. The Byrne group effectively ran the Kinahan cartel’s Irish operation before a big Garda clampdown, in response to the Kinahan-Hutch feud, closed it down. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5MZDFBQLSFCNBOB6KILL6RJ3JI","additional_properties":{},"content":"As the Byrne group’s demise was occurring from about 2016 to 2018, The Family became the dominant player on the domestic drug scene, having been a significant player, especially in Dublin, for many years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FTB3S3ZM75GOFDEDILZL46X7WE","additional_properties":{},"content":"As well as the Spanish operation this week targeting the logistics base where drugs were packed and concealed for transport to Ireland, some of the most senior figures in The Family gang, who have remained living in Dublin, were arrested by gardaí on Monday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QYH7ZYIFOZD5ZL3OXZEYI64L2Y","content":"Spanish police say Ireland’s Family drugs gang ‘enjoyed high economic status and influence’","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"VEKRPBY37RC7HOTP3XO2NDOA4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí have been liaising with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) throughout the week with a view to charging the arrested men. Three of the suspects are related to each other and are regarded as comprising most of the top tier leadership that runs the gang. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JA33ZKAMENGILLV7TYGNDTCGCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The other arrested men, of six in total detained in Ireland, fill key roles in areas such as technology and logistics for the gang. Gardaí are hopeful criminal charges will be approved before the men’s periods of detention expire at the weekend and in to next week. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5RGHTXL6WRCXJMJRRFM4GNGAUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A leading figure in the Family gang is already facing criminal charges after a large sum of cash and other assets were seized during a Garda operation some time ago.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Lally"}},"name":"Conor Lally"}]},"description":{"basic":"Senior officers warn while Dublin-headquartered gang now under serious pressure in Ireland and Spain, it is resilient"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T18:21:16.793Z","headlines":{"basic":"The Family gang’s cocaine smuggling operation was biggest servicing Irish market, say gardaí","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5UR6AXFRCNBFVCFKPDWZPOX3KM","auth":{"1":"0971c41019985718b22479f5805bcc6effbb9416b2b41d9ac5e2a3f1b2894c45"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5UR6AXFRCNBFVCFKPDWZPOX3KM.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7","embed_html":"<div class=\"powa\" id=\"powa-f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-org=\"irishtimes\" data-env=\"prod\" data-uuid=\"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.562\" data-api=\"prod\"><script src=\"//irishtimes.video-player.arcpublishing.com/prod/powaBoot.js?org=irishtimes\"><\/script></div>","promo_image":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"},"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"}},"type":"video"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/family-gangs-cocaine-smuggling-operation-was-biggest-servicing-irish-market-say-gardai/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"7AK645BCMFG4ZCZQAZZZUDVZOM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":297,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5e119b38-effe-4cb8-8ca2-5718709d0789/versions/1743099575/media/e6f6bfbb8090477e6d30aeff49aa7674_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/jail-for-man-who-drove-into-anti-immigration-protester-during-dublin-demonstration/","content_elements":[{"_id":"AWONUVU2YRCTLPMRV53YLVCQDI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602374},"content":"A man who lived-streamed himself driving his car into an anti-immigration protester during a demonstration in Dublin has been sentenced to 16 months in prison.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GGNRGERDOJEBNC6PGC47I5ROTU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602375},"content":"Stephen Bedford (38) with an address at Merchants Quay, Dublin, was before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court<b> </b>on Thursday, having pleaded guilty to driving a vehicle through a crowd of people, creating a substantial risk of death or serious harm to others at the Five Lamps junction on February 15th, 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YFRLN5Z4FNGKDBJBJYEECBEBMA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602376},"content":"Garda Eoin Cannon testified that he saw the defendant at an anti-immigration protest in the Amiens Street area that evening.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AMGZYI6XRJA4REPRJSCIFWHN3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602377},"content":"Bedford was conducting a one-man counter protest, and was carrying a large backpack, with a speaker and microphone.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L7XXX36YYVEWPPWACS54WNL5BE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602378},"content":"Other protesters became volatile with Bedford and the gardaí had to intervene. The officers suggested that he leave for his own safety, and he did so.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IUU7BTEJXRFQFHLL36MJQNIE6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602379},"content":"Later, the garda said he saw a car moving through the crowd, hitting one person - the injured party in the case. The vehicle came to a stop and he saw that Bedford was the driver. There were then further confrontations between the defendant and the protesters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MFDG3S7EZNFBZD7XNHSUFUDPCA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602380},"content":"The injured party told gardaí that he was attending the protest with his son, and was listening to someone speaking when he saw a car coming towards him on the wrong side of the road. He said that he told a woman with a buggy to get out of the way and then saw that the driver was using a camera.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4XGTOXRQZHQNCO7XRY7E35IQY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602381},"content":"Activist accused of driving into anti-immigration protesters in Dublin wants to face trial before a jury","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"U3NZN63Y5BHMBCNAHT5EU7SIPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602382},"content":"Garda Cannon explained that Bedford was streaming the events to Facebook.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MZPLGQFZABCL7MNZ2KMMRHZ2SA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602383},"content":"The injured party said that he put his hand on the bonnet out of instinct in order to not go under the car. However, he said that it was going at speed, so he took his hand off and was hurt. He said that he had to attend hospital for medical treatment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2PV7Y5SE5CZDLU7YWGITY27IU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602384},"content":"Footage from Bedford’s own phone was played to the court. It showed him leaving a line of traffic stopped at the blocked junction, crossing onto the other side of the road, and turning into another road on which the injured party was standing. The injured party held his hand on the bonnet before moving out of the way.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IHSJQ4UICZAU3L2HJVB4POR4DU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602385},"content":"Under cross examination by Patrick Jackson BL, defending, Garda Cannon agreed that 150 people had blocked the junction from all directions. However, the garda said that Bedford could easily have made a U-turn.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7IG5WKPFBH7HLF2PWVBVNFFHU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602386},"content":"Garda Cannon agreed that two masked men were seen looking into Bedford’s vehicle before he made the manoeuvre out of the line of traffic. He also accepted that people were striking the vehicle with their hands.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PGX3DFWJK5E2VKSMCU654HYBOQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602387},"content":"The garda agreed that 15 males had surrounded the vehicle when it came to a stop and that gardaí helped his client by getting him out of there.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBLTWX7UDNBT5AASM3RFQCTBSE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602388},"content":"He also agreed that a doctor had noted no visible bruising to the injured party’s foot, toe or leg, and that no treatment was needed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FB76GCQ3Q5AAFALCPIM6OKKLFQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602389},"content":"Garda Cannon accepted that many of Bedford’s previous convictions related to various protests, where he had overstepped the line, and that he had very passionate beliefs about people seeking asylum.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2XCQKWBUZEY7HHANSFWJI2M3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602390},"content":"He said that the guilty plea was of assistance, adding that he ‘wouldn’t disagree’ with Mr Jackson’s assertion that trials involving people on opposite sides of the political spectrum can be difficult for gardaí.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WXEV2GQHXZDO5NPDVZQRCXDKPU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602391},"content":"Mr Jackson handed the court several letters, including one from Bedford’s doctor which said that he had a serious condition ‘at the highest end of the scale’.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZK5ICGFIBFB5DUKMF4LNKYKMQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602392},"content":"Counsel asked that the judge allow him to attend an important medical appointment he has in the coming weeks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYLBX4WOK5BWHGFGGCUZRQQUSM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602393},"content":"He also handed in testimonials from several people who outlined the volunteer work Bedford does with the marginalised, including the homeless and addicts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NI7FZLOLJCSLNWFTLEX2OOAOY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602394},"content":"One professional wrote of him that: “At times he’s not got the balance right between protecting those in need and staying on the right side of the law.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OGOJXWUBIZHI7HBONRWSM4FSTQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602395},"content":"“He has spent his life giving up his own time to help others,” said Mr Jackson.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YEGFA6XPUNHN7NN47AVNTTZFZQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602396},"content":"Counsel submitted that Bedford had driven away from the area because he was in fear of his life.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2XHBGRLYLFDVRAUMKQ7WRBU4OY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602397},"content":"He said that his client was known as a counter protester to the anti-immigration protest and was extremely afraid. He said that, when his vehicle stopped, Bedford was surrounded by people saying they would commit violence against him, and that people had run towards his vehicle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PEZURI2MZFDDHJ6Z2DPNWYAMX4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602398},"content":"“He should have remained stopped. He was very afraid,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZTKJQUZG3ZDTPEYCJ4RX44PJO4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602399},"content":"Judge Martin Nolan noted that the speed was not high, but said that Bedford could have caused injury.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q42SIZSHV5HXVO7UI64P5O65NE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602400},"content":"“I couldn’t be certain that this man will not reoffend,” he said. “I think he’s very righteous in his own cause.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RKJXFNPLIZESJBNXVKMPAR2WE4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602401},"content":"He jailed Bedford for 16 months, and said that: “if the authorities feel it’s in his interest to go to that (medical) appointment, they should bring him.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Natasha Reid"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Claire Henry"}]},"description":{"basic":"Stephen Bedford, who live-streamed incident on Facebook, sentenced to 16 months"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T18:14:27.338Z","headlines":{"basic":"Jail for man who drove into anti-immigration protester during Dublin demonstration","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"YQVFKFOPIRN2GMELHW4CFOU4NI","auth":{"1":"2c2f9db3406f05b0a6ee7d8cc3280b5b36493f1845581477de8d082b0ecb4387"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/YQVFKFOPIRN2GMELHW4CFOU4NI.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/jail-for-man-who-drove-into-anti-immigration-protester-during-dublin-demonstration/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"O3MLR4IXXFGHPBDNH4PPOMNUVE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":165,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/eb20ef3f-adb4-4c7b-b996-a89c0c3c861b/versions/1743098083/media/8c7708b4d03c8c69650530804df3c47d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/conor-mcgregor-told-he-will-not-face-incitement-charges-over-dublin-riots-posts/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IL3HAIGR7FEOBPCZKKU7EJCQLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/director-of-public-prosecutions/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/director-of-public-prosecutions/\">Director of Public Prosecutions</a> (DPP) has determined that former mixed martial arts fighter <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-mcgregor/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-mcgregor/\">Conor McGregor</a> should not face charges for alleged incitement around the time of the November 2023 <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-riots/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-riots/\">Dublin riots</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HIQDT7QUZFH3TJMBVDLS3VXIBQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McGregor, who <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/21/stephen-collins-conor-mcgregors-presidential-hopes-are-a-warning-to-the-government-parties-to-unite-behind-a-strong-candidate/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/21/stephen-collins-conor-mcgregors-presidential-hopes-are-a-warning-to-the-government-parties-to-unite-behind-a-strong-candidate/\">intends to run for the Irish presidency</a> this year on an anti-immigration platform, was informed of the decision by gardaí this week, it is understood.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5VLBOYFF3RGLXI5HDTVETSD7UY","additional_properties":{},"content":"News that the DPP was considering potential charges against Mr McGregor first appeared in the Sunday Independent last week. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LKTYCWBRFFSVDMEMHYOJ2GRQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Shortly after the report was published, the DPP informed gardaí no charges would be directed, Garda sources said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"42H5I4UF7JB5TABQK3PXSWPP2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Garda investigation, which was led by the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, focused on a number of social media posts made by the fighter before and during the violence in Dublin city centre.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GS4SFN77GNCSXGW3HRCVNLC24A","additional_properties":{},"content":"The riots broke out following a knife attack on young schoolchildren which left <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/02/08/parnell-street-stabbing-victim-able-to-stand-for-first-time-parents-say/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/02/08/parnell-street-stabbing-victim-able-to-stand-for-first-time-parents-say/\">one girl with life-changing injuries</a>. An Algerian-born man is awaiting trial charged with the attack.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RR5WXJAK7FHM3HUVXFYCLRAKTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí said the initial violence was fuelled by far-right, anti-immigrant sentiment before developing into widespread looting and arson attacks which caused millions of euro in damage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"33EH4T67QND6FO62RU5A4VBM5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí examined a number of posts by Mr McGregor, including one sent the night before the attacks that stated: “Ireland, we are at war.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"J5OBTSKJQNFNVAJ2UMKDKXDYFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the day of the riots, he posted: “Do not let any Irish property be took over unannounced. Evaporate said property. It’s a war”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XW35K2KYCFEKBNKW2ZPQHX4ZIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"In another post that day, following the start of the riots, he said: “You reap what you sow”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XBH2UCA3U5DFJOM2DDAUNDN3TI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The posts have since been deleted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KLTEOBAERRG2FMEA2Y2OMIXNFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McGregor later said he condemned the violence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UAWLHEIIBJAE3CM2Y5L7VNRJUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin riots in pictures: Vehicles set on fire amid violent clashes with gardaí after stabbing","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"DHXOHZ7ZMJEH7FXQZEJUMZSESA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The DPP considered whether the posts may have met the criminal threshold for incitement before determining they did not.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2AYKA7A2UNBZ3G3IEB5EOYX2IM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The martial artist alluded to the DPP decision in a post on social media on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQ5565GK2BB2BPXUN7G3K4RD3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Ireland will be set free,” he said alongside a screenshot of an email, appearing to be from An Garda Síochána, which stated: “I wish to advise that we have received directions from the Office of the DPP that there is to be no prosecution in this case.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBDPRVQNWZDBBCMJL6FB73XOK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The inside story of how Conor McGregor secured his meeting with Donald Trump in the Oval Office","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"INSUY5OSMZER7G7D7GIYLCIMWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McGregor, who was recently hosted in the White House by US president Donald Trump, was last year found liable by a civil court for the rape of a woman in a Dublin hotel. He is currently appealing that decision.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F4FQGWXJ3REMXP4GSAUUFOI2NI","additional_properties":{},"content":"A legal representative for Mr McGregor has been contacted for comment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C6PU633YQBGQ7GVWWD7PRULJ6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘I know what happened in that room’: the full story of the Conor McGregor case","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"EVPV63WNZJCXJJROJ4TZDAQTDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Former MMA fighter, who plans to run for Irish presidency, informed of decision by gardaí this week"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T17:48:41.399Z","headlines":{"basic":"Conor McGregor told he will not face incitement charges over Dublin riots posts","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"MG22DOVJVM4ZOU5BGX77HBU7NQ","auth":{"1":"f6ceb5689cf72867c6b400bbcf6b4ad2677695f38430cafb6ac9913a954549d5"},"focal_point":{"x":2465,"y":1078},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/MG22DOVJVM4ZOU5BGX77HBU7NQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/conor-mcgregor-told-he-will-not-face-incitement-charges-over-dublin-riots-posts/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"QL374KZTNZBXJIAIX2E625JGEM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":211,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/d00a8612-0463-4b41-a2b4-fd80f2676520/versions/1743095673/media/6a6ad481253e4ee3c9a3ff8a7530ca3f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/irish-young-people-are-second-biggest-users-of-ecstasy-in-the-eu/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IFARUJVNUJCMTP4HGYY4PLTM6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\">Ireland</a>’s young people are the second-biggest users of MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union/\">EU</a>, according to law enforcement study.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HKP5KPFEYBBWDGSNNAQWQGHR3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The study by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/europol/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/europol/\">Europol</a> and the European Union Drugs Agency shows consumption of the drug is rising again across Europe following the Covid-19 pandemic.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LF7RM25NB5FELGRZT5HLHS6ILU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Regarding use of MDMA, Irish young people are second only to drug users in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/netherlands/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/netherlands/\">Netherlands</a>, where much of the world’s supply is manufactured. According to the study, 6.5 per cent of Irish people aged between 15 and 34 had taken the drug in the previous year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CKOQ6ZUX6RFZXFQLAGUY6ZO4F4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The next-biggest consumers in the EU were the Czech Republic (4.7 per cent), Germany (2.7 per cent) and Croatia (2.6 per cent).","type":"text"},{"_id":"7JSUGUJT2VEZHIWHKABYFEZCCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The study found that about 12.3 million Europeans aged between 15 and 64 have used MDMA at least once in their life. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"T36I53NQKVBW5JZTPKVSWRPALY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Europe is the global centre for production of the drug. The EU retail market is worth at least €594 million annually while 72.4 million ecstasy tablets are consumed per year across the 27 member states.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CQUP56OO2NCP7D7CF5EBYNW3LM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This value does not include the considerable additional profits that are generated by the production, trafficking and distribution of MDMA produced in the European Union to external markets,” the report’s authors write.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FFU6YG32TBCNDPFSK46RXPSR2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prices for the drug have remained relatively stable in the past decade. Prices tend to be lower closer to the main centres of production in the Netherlands and Belgium, the report states.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NTFGH4AMOBGYXAFF7WR7DBNY4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin in top 20 cities sampled for levels of cocaine, ketamine and ecstasy found in sewage","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"BGLBEKVFZ5AFLOHM2YVIHZMYLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The consumption of MDMA among young people in Ireland has grown six-fold since 2012 when just 0.9 per cent reported taking it in the previous year. It is now the second-most used illegal drug in Ireland behind cannabis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MQMNAP3WJFGY3GUQGZRV2YFNT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"During the previous decade, the average strength of the drug increased significantly. However, there are signs this trend is reversing. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IYNLTXT6ZFETBACBBY6SPFY42E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The average strength of a ecstasy tablet dropped from 170mg in 2019 to 144mg in 2022, although there are still high-strength tablets available “which poses a high risk to users,” the report states.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HENITAUMXFHPNOPI4DMLJPXQUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The closure of night-time venues during the Covid-19 pandemic saw a significant drop in demand for MDMA, reflected in fewer seizures of the drug and fewer production facilities being dismantled. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"P4S5LN2PDRB5TEN4BCQBMNRXPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"That trend now appears to be reversing, the report states, with MDMA production in the Netherlands returning to pre-pandemic levels.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5L4H5QBBSZEWFDENZPQSWMR64A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Between 2018 and 2022, 43 per cent of MDMA seized globally was found in Europe.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SGRNAXY3XJC3ZBZVTO3UFJCOA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"EU countries are producing MDMA in such quantities that Europol has warned of a “reverse cocaine route”, where large quantities of the drug are shipped to Latin America, which is becoming “an increasingly important market”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ENSUSXN7ZZFOJHZLZZA2INYZRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Germany, Bulgaria and Belgium have been identified as international distribution hubs, with most global smuggling using air or maritime routes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TGMEJRBDBJEJJE345G6SSSTMLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In some cases, criminals based in the EU and Latin America engage in barter deals, where MDMA is exchanged for cocaine, with no monetary exchange,” the report states.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Study found 6.5 per cent of people aged 15 to 34 in Ireland had taken the drug in the previous year"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T17:10:25.113Z","headlines":{"basic":"Irish young people are second-biggest users of ecstasy in the EU","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"H6XKSWPN6JA6PO42AEROAOHYAY","auth":{"1":"e831f23032fd7b7540ec39b9d0fa53faec725992e6935788607bca494ea0d333"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/H6XKSWPN6JA6PO42AEROAOHYAY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/irish-young-people-are-second-biggest-users-of-ecstasy-in-the-eu/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"7SG3OLM7TVE2ZGUM3CO2PMEQLQ","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/dispute-over-moves-to-sell-solicitor-owned-houses-is-settled-court-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DTZWOBXEGNBOFBD4WFDSLT5FBA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762471},"content":"A dispute between a real estate management firm and a company owned by two solicitors over moves by a receiver to sell two properties worth an estimated €1.3 million has been settled, the Commercial Court heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DZG7J6VI5VEVXBKXQNZIAGA33U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762472},"content":"Beechpark Avenue Ltd, owned by Eddie O’Connor and Valerie Buckley, principals in O’Connor Buckley Solicitors, own the two houses at Rathdown Road, Phibsborough, in Dublin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EIOJNPELTJFOFLOBNMAHWWH4FY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762473},"content":"Real estate management firm, Nevada Ltd, which is owned by Phillip and Bridget Dillon, claimed it loaned Beechpark €1 million to refinance Beechpark’s previous borrowings. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4V5YQUKIFB6BLXTSCO5EJ5DJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The loan was made on the basis of a charge over the properties along with a personal guarantee and indemnity from Mr O’Connor, it was also claimed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PJKPIDZKLBHX7CYWGHW455EGLE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762474},"content":"There was an alleged default on repayment and last December Nevada appointed a receiver over the properties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YLEMFFMPDVHFZKTAS4IQKEGGPU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762475},"content":"On February 18th, Beechpark brought High Court injunction proceedings against Nevada and Mr Gaynor seeking to prevent them from taking possession of or selling the properties as well as challenging the appointment of the receiver.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ZWIJY74C5EGNHZA2YOXXGN7AY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762476},"content":"Beechpark claimed Nevada had agreed to extend the period of the loan provided monthly repayments of €12,500 were made. Nevada denied the claim.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSZ7V4UPNFCDRIEKN3SZBUHKHU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762477},"content":"The case was adjourned on the basis of an undertaking from Nevada and the receiver that they would withdraw the properties from auction.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4TZDY4VF65CVVH5HOTIJGXVUEE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762478},"content":"The hearing of the injunction was due to take place before Mr Justice Mark Sanfey on Thursday when Fintan Hurley BL, for Beechpark, said a settlement agreement had been reached and the terms could be handed into court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PW53OYRFZNGWRG72H55WU5VI3U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762479},"content":"The judge noted that part of the settlement provided that there would be co-operation from the plaintiffs in the sale of the properties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JJT2BVKAU5BBBOFMHKUSPQABRA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762480},"content":"Gary McCarthy SC, for the defendants, asked that the settlement would be made part of the court file in the event that the proceedings needed to be re-entered.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4TUMTJY2EVBXPBT2H3KXLLPIWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762481},"content":"The judge struck out the case on consent between the parties with liberty to re-enter for the purpose of enforcing the agreed steps for the sale of the properties.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Mr Justice Mark Sanfey struck out the case on consent between the parties"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T16:20:46.059Z","headlines":{"basic":"Dispute over moves to sell solicitor owned houses is settled, court hears","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JXZ2TPTTZLOAEHMERV45BRYL6I","auth":{"1":"3cf25d9523bdf4c511c190e0acecbdb0ab614b5059e53af67a51d6e08eb581da"},"focal_point":{"x":673,"y":413},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JXZ2TPTTZLOAEHMERV45BRYL6I.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/dispute-over-moves-to-sell-solicitor-owned-houses-is-settled-court-hears/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"PIVK3GKMQVH2BGI2P7RZ32XWNE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":185,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f400304b-743f-47c4-a183-2638deceede7/versions/1743091053/media/9d9ffc7792387748d6e6cc2b9c28353b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/man-jailed-for-making-over-11000-nuisance-calls-to-the-emergency-services/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855384},"content":"A 48-year-old man has been jailed for 16 months for making more than 11,000 nuisance calls to emergency services, jamming emergency telephone lines for nearly 130 hours in 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q47RRVGBYJEADAM67Z6GTSQBZY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855385},"content":"William Greene of Bective Square, Phibsborough, Dublin, was under a suspended sentence at the time for giving false information in a hoax 999 call.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S4SPFGNKNZA2TEVFIGBQIGMIDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855386},"content":"He was before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on Thursday, where he pleaded guilty to two counts of persistently making use of the telecommunications system for the purpose of causing annoyance, interference or needless anxiety to another between March 8th and November 9th, 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P56CQMDYIZCAHHVEIYFKCPSZDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855387},"content":"Detective Garda Jeremy Gibbons said that investigation began in light of the number of consistent calls to the emergency services from two phone numbers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WVVHLOKFWRDQJEBD3QQHF2SX2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855388},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"MKLPMMH66NDJZHO5HYQOSTJ7FU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855389},"content":"He said that on one occasion, a significant number of calls was received by one call taker, who recognised Greene’s voice, manner and phrases. She listened back to playbacks of calls from that number, and the narrative was the same; he hated the guards and told her go screw herself and the Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B3S5MCAKPZFPNLG5PHQOZUQHSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855390},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ORQJPTBWRRBXRKSPKKRLBJWP6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855391},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"3VUEUUAEONEWXM3M4SXHVZSCSI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855392},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"TJ2XMONMGFHFVFEASVZX5IH7RU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855393},"content":"The phone number was linked to him, and his home was searched. A Nokia mobile phone was found with the sim relating to that phone number, and he was arrested in October 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YPNOIZS3JFEETGBZAHQNA6LX3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855394},"content":"Notwithstanding this initial arrest, the calls continued. His house was searched again and a second phone was found.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3W7OSBOMMRBADEW36SFOSIL24I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855395},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q5DQ63YLA5FNJFTXSFYLZTVOUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855396},"content":"Det Gda Gibbons said that, altogether, 11,043 calls had been made, lasting a total of 7,757.6 minutes or 129 hours. He said that the number of genuine calls that were missed because the lines were occupied with these calls could not be quantified.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2P7NR65NI5ASLPXHJ2M64BUVJ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855397},"content":"There were over 100 calls an hour from him on some occasions, causing gridlock and jamming emergency telephone lines in the Laois, Offaly, and Kildare areas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EFMNNYRHGJGU7MYQOGRCB2KPDA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855398},"content":"Greene also placed an inordinate number of silent or ‘hangup’ calls. These led to the call takers having to follow a particular procedure because they must reach out to such callers if they think they need assistance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V3XABADGHFHFVLAIVXHTETXNG4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855399},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"LUWJJ5GMLVEQVAQLWVCLRPVQIE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855400},"content":"The court also heard that Greene was under a suspended sentence at the time due to a conviction for giving false information during a hoax 999 call.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RSLHHGLLCRGVBCUTIGJT6JWUSE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855401},"content":"He also had 20 other previous convictions, which included public order and criminal damage convictions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VH264YAPGNDRLCN22DHQDVFX7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855402},"content":"The garda agreed with defence counsel that Greene had an addiction to alcohol and was heavily intoxicated when making these calls.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2IHCWAGCIBAYNIBEDQ5KDT3DZY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855403},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"6FDRY4ACBJH6XOOGK7NGLB474U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855404},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"T3JFC4YPY5EFHJUQWJWH335BAU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855405},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZHGROBNIHZCG3O5VBE5K6S3XGA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855406},"content":"Counsel for Greene said he was a qualified chef who had worked in the HSE, had pleaded guilty early and had engaged constructively with the criminal justice system.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QYRR5QMG7JBFROQPD3PPVYAFK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855407},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"OGREFQW3KVFWHDHIZIXVTA5SSY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855408},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"NQ34TUC6QNCJLGUINB2PX4A7VA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855409},"content":"Judge Nolan said that this was not an individual incident, 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ago.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CSG46H5DNGGVD6U3P2POBJWXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Anthony Hickey (39), Fabio Vicente (42) and Matin Zolfaghari (34) were convicted following a trial at the Central Criminal Court last month, after pleading not guilty to offences which took place on August 31st, 2019.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F2U4LSVBGBCQJF7Z7Q6OVP436I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Imposing sentence on Thursday, Mr Justice Paul Burns noted “to say the facts of this matter are disturbing is something of an understatement”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LHI3TC6I6FAMHLH6OYZDM5L7OU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the victim was in a vulnerable state, and the three men “acting together” took advantage of her vulnerability in a “cruel, cynical, and depraved manner, devoid of any semblance of human decency”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NB3U7IHD75DVPN4P5VBJWCSR64","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge said they were “mature” men, who subjected the victim to an “abhorrent series of sexual attacks”, which went “far beyond humiliation”, were dehumanising as well as a “total denial of her inherent dignity as a human being”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NTRF36YEJRDUZDKOYKWI7GCVTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the offending must be seen in its “true context” of ”concerted and simultaneous sexual abuse by three men of a vulnerable woman”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S7J7IMQ6KZFJPAMT6NH6SN27PQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge said it was “truly shocking” that such “vile abuse” could happen to a woman on a night out in Dublin in 2019.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4TOMW66ZYFDNDHPF3VJ3YATIGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hickey, of Ballyogan Square, Carrickmines, Dublin 18, was convicted of raping the woman in his then address in Dundrum, and of orally raping and sexually assaulting her in a car.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEQQ4WHOYJHT7BN4OMZGIX2R7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The personal trainer and father of two was handed a sentence of 16 years, with the final year suspended on strict conditions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VZSU5B5XZNAABJCID5QPNOLNG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Vicente, of Little Newtown, Enniskerry, Co Wicklow, was found guilty of raping the woman in the car and raping her in Hickey’s then-home.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MAL3F46TQ5AAFMJDYOGRCNJU5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The part-time stripper and personal trainer also received a sentence of 16 years, with the final year suspended.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MW4RYRK6JNET7E4O775NM6DGRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Zolfaghari (34), of Marley Court, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14, was convicted of the oral rape of the woman in the house. The jury found him not guilty of sexually assaulting the woman in the car.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IHVAMMVLTNEDVNNEGERM353ZQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The father of one and restaurant director was given a sentence of 14 years, with the final year suspended.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QMNT5I2LTRCBPPAQ3VUUAEEEVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court has previously heard the three men do not accept the jury’s verdicts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KCLAFNGFWFFXZJ6LEL2QTPH6WM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hickey has 10 previous convictions, including one for assault causing harm. Vicente has one previous conviction for a road traffic offence, while Zolfaghari has no previous convictions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4RPEBZLNKJHKHNKE4QEFRUTTVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"During a previous sentence hearing, the woman said in her victim impact statement that the three men were “complete strangers” who “took advantage of me and used me and my body as if I was an object that they were entitled to”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SYB4SFOWXBE7ZJIJLJT7TYGFMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She noted that every victim thinks it is their fault at some point, but she said that the fault rested solely with the men ”who waited and preyed and took advantage”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PBMTTDAR4RBVRA7MQQIURTIVRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You not only raped me, I found out during the trial you violated me in another way. You videoed raping me.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDDGTS56IVGIDNSFXCT75JM26A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You sent around these videos and laughed about me saying ‘no’. You laughed because you didn’t care and you have shown no remorse from the second you entered into these courts.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"6MJJFS2CUZF4VLMCMTZ6YWSOGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In his remarks, Mr Justice Burns said the victim was not at fault for what happened, and the blame rested solely with the men.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BNYGSIAB3BDSDJ6YOSOXCTPGJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The woman had been socialising and went to the nightclub with a friend. She gave evidence during the trial that her memory was hazy after her friend left, but recalled dancing and remembered being offered a white powder, but couldn’t say if she took any.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W5RBDEJCDJGSHHEYGVKLMF5MXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"She recalled being in the back of a vehicle, which she believed to be a taxi, with up to four men, where she was raped. The woman also remembered lying in a bed and kicking out while a male was on top of her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YV3OVH53YJDHDC7WHL4NL2RISI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Forensic analysis showed the woman was highly intoxicated.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VUDMR6ASBZE2LJ7HVVFKVPQL7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"CCTV footage was used to identify the men and a Volkswagen Touareg SUV belonging to Vicente.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZCRER3JX5NCB3D3CUAOGEKFQOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"When the men were interviewed, they described engaging in consensual sexual activity with the woman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FBZH5ORHPZBT7HGJFOXGXYUBPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"An analysis of Hickey’s phone identified WhatsApp messages in which he asked Zolfaghari to send him a video. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TZ3C634RCBBQ3DR6FUZX5TJ2XM","additional_properties":{},"content":"After Zolfaghari sent two clips which he had recorded on the night of August 31st, Hickey replied: “Listen to you laughing after she says ‘no’.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OO7HN5O47VFR5OZMEKUX2SC3JY","additional_properties":{},"content":"While nothing is visible in either video, the woman is heard saying ‘no’ several times in a 30-second clip recorded in the car. A second video was recorded in the house. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NE74ZV2PENH2NK3N24HHE6INXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A later analysis of the men’s phones uncovered communication between them, which included a version of the events that night. This version of events was recirculated before their Garda interviews in September 2020.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFLUXTWYZJATNJP2QKL3NWXYQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Justice Burns said in his sentencing remarks that “rather than feeling any sense of remorse”, two of the men found “callous amusement” in these videos.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPLY6UCYQBHYPGKHCOS6UPALCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge noted that Zolfaghari was convicted of only one offence, but this had to be seen in overall context of the night, and that Zolfaghari had recorded the videos. He said it was “difficult to see his behaviour as significantly less culpable” than the other men.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WBR5UNTB3BFPJLOVZKPVWBPKQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Justice Burns directed the three men to place themselves under the supervision of The Probation Services for three years post-release and backdated their sentences to the date they went into custody.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NI7U4EUIWZGU3MQGP5RSRVA3FY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge extended his best wishes to the victim, and said the court hoped that she would make a further recovery, with the support of her family and appropriate services.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5PC5CR3WBEJHFKA4TJFNDDF7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"He also commended the gardaí for their “excellent and painstaking” investigation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VRJUFWTMRFF3TGOLSHPYY3G6RA","additional_properties":{},"content":"After the court rose, a large number of supporters of the men entered the back of the courtroom, some shouting “I love you”, with others giving the thumbs up to the men.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AY65GHEDJRET3C55U6FZOCMYLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"When directed to leave by gardaí, a female voice said “we are all very upset right now, give us a minute”, while another female voice called out “they were over-sentenced, they are all innocent”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Anthony Hickey, Fabio Vicente and Matin Zolfaghari sentenced to between 14 and 16 years"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T12:26:55.35Z","headlines":{"basic":"Three men jailed for ‘cruel, cynical and depraved’ rape and sexual assault of woman they met in Dublin nightclub","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IVGHM663BFGQBLO6NM667GDLGA","auth":{"1":"c9cc8a664ecb1713064dac8848b4b1713998e7e8d728478b0fed35bdc902566c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IVGHM663BFGQBLO6NM667GDLGA.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/three-men-jailed-for-rape-and-sexual-assault-of-a-woman-they-encountered-in-a-dublin-nightclub/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"TRRARRTLXVAXNDBFFVLGAXJ4JA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":214,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/7491ad1d-2bf5-4a46-8027-41df708491b5/versions/1743066741/media/cf43c1b092b975f362858f8fe4f268e7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/ireland/2025/03/27/hope-is-all-we-have-now-shock-in-kenmare-as-search-continues-a-week-on-from-farmers-disappearance/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Shock is the great unifier in Kenmare at the moment. That, and a fondness for Michael Gaine, the local sheep farmer who has been missing for the past week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BDMCCQH7I5BNXLHOJJKJ7NJPLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Walking the streets of the bustling town, it is hard to find a bad word to be said about the 56-year-old. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"X47AFPMMBBEMDE52VFXEZ57ROQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"People in every street, pub and shop knew of him and had plenty of warm words.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K53RLU5U3NFNBNAVDMKWUVLEGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If you were in trouble or if there was an animal or anything in trouble and you phoned Mike he’d be with you in 10 minutes,” said Dan McCarthy, a local councillor and neighbour of Mr Gaine. “He was just that type of person.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"O2X25X34IRAOLLP5YEK5V5GVAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McCarthy said the farmer’s disappearance is “a complete, devastating shock to this part of the community and our locality”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MCCAH7PTP5BDJLBOVQZVQOJNTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He would be well-known as a farmer. The family ... would be farming all their lives,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NPBXX6FT5NF7BATCC5IMSO5NDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McCarthy runs a garage in the town and said Mr Gaine was a regular presence there. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIUSHBJG5ZD65KOT3MZGEX73IE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He was in the shop every morning for a cup of tea and a chat. And he’s like a big brother to my son,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIGBZTJAWZGI3EBOIXGKCO5IJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"RWRAP2A7RAVHDC7XV2XKTD7E2Y","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"RHPFKAP6ZJGHBO5KN76OR6KTSY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gaine visited Kenmare last Thursday and gardaí have released a CCTV image of him buying phone credit in a Centra store at 9.48am. He was seen minutes later in the town, which is seemingly the last confirmed sighting of him. He appears to have driven back to his home outside the town, off the N71 at Carrig East, before disappearing. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PDMJ5YYTSVDFJJQAG5R4OQ6MJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"His car - a bronze Toyota Rav4, registration 152 KY 366 - was left in the yard but despite extensive searches of his farm and nearby lands, no trace of him has been found.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XFWOS26BJ5EM7BOQH6X44AFNMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gaine’s home has been forensically searched and his car has been taken away for examination, an unusual move in a missing person’s inquiry. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H43OM567RFGWHAOTC363QEZWLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, sources said the disappearance is so unusual, out of character and without explanation, that every resource available had been committed to the case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XOJXORQCIZEDVIEIQFCUROFDPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí have not ruled out the possibility that Mr Gaine was the victim of foul play, with sources saying this avenue must be kept open as part of the investigation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2KUQNIDEPBCAHEQGB5IWF2PGT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda checkpoints were mounted on Thursday close to Mr Gaine’s home, with a view to stopping people who might regularly travel past the property at the same time each week in the hope they may have seen the missing man but not reported it to the force.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PAUQ4JWI5NDEDN5YPA6MDAOEOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It is now one week since the last sighting of Michael Gaine,” the Garda said in a fresh appeal for information on Thursday. “Michael’s family have had no contact from him and his family and An Garda Síochána are extremely concerned for his well-being.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OL5IXXXXERASHLNM5C72DZHJLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael Hanley, a neighbour of Mr Gaine’s, said: “Nearly all my life I’ve known Mike, and he’s as neighbourly as they come. All the Gaines are.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHRWXEGG7VBJHJYMYYMATJPQJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the last week has been tough for the community, and everyone is waiting to see the results of the ongoing search operation, which recently expanded when the Garda Water Unit searched a local quarry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RECNQ3YHRZBV5IN65UEGBA3JIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I really hope he’ll be found alive – we all do,” said Mr Hanley. “We all just want an answer at this stage.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"2FKQDTXIP5E6JA3T6XJCT73H7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said Mr Gaine’s mother died in the last few weeks and this may have taken a toll on him. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DHH3E5KRNDRXPTWS6X2BCVX6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You just don’t know what goes on in people’s minds,” he said. “Hope is all we have now.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"L6DIFTNQOVHVHCPA7KLS5QAI6Y","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BBMH6UMWJ5EEHJ5HCPSSXUK3JU","additional_properties":{},"content":"John, another local who knew Mr Gaine, said the whole town is “mystified” by his sudden disappearance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HZKSCWNYDVB5TLAKRI6HLFHUOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Nobody seems to know what is going on with this case,” he said, adding that the circumstances are “bizarre”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCJFN7DKWZBVFCMRVYEUBWCBVU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"U6XUJDGTXRHPFFWOJUWN5IJH3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, he is seeking to remain positive about the prospect that Mr Gaine will be found alive and well. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYXNYTIZGFA3ZDZ75NNY74A2B4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EXUTUP2JNE2JOPZAD2D5T5WX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7R6T3XICWJFHFK4JJ6LDOGW3ZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"2T4KAYCNIJAJPJHJDW5JMYRTB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"QTOA5OLDWZDJBP4MXSIBWPWORA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"XHMYKZT52JBGJIQAA3XHNHZSGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Liam Coates in Kenmare"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Lally"}},"name":"Conor Lally"}]},"description":{"basic":"Gardaí searching for Michael Gaine set up checkpoints around Kerry town"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T12:17:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘Hope is all we have now’: Shock in Kenmare as search for farmer continues a week on from disappearance","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ZTXHFCTDDFDIDGZLTDBT4KVPPE","auth":{"1":"8fe31828bcbe862a7eefd13d59075138420e256c0079cc06000dcce20f8ee416"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ZTXHFCTDDFDIDGZLTDBT4KVPPE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Ireland"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/ireland/2025/03/27/hope-is-all-we-have-now-shock-in-kenmare-as-search-continues-a-week-on-from-farmers-disappearance/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/ireland","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ireland"}}}},{"_id":"7Z4FNKDMA5CJVKZY3TO6R3MJPI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":237,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5f315c3b-434e-4af0-83b7-db439066ceed/versions/1743019504/media/865df6f897ec572a9704a8e628655e5f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/spanish-police-say-irelands-family-drugs-gang-enjoyed-high-economic-status-and-influence/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Irish drugs gang known as The Family had amassed considerable wealth and influence, allowing for its significant expansion, before an Irish-Spanish operation <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/03/27/spanish-police-find-irish-family-drugs-gang-in-three-regions-seize-30m-in-drugs-four-trucks/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/03/27/spanish-police-find-irish-family-drugs-gang-in-three-regions-seize-30m-in-drugs-four-trucks/\">dismantled its large hub in Spain</a> and three of its leading figures were arrested in the Republic.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GAIKRN75Y5BYRL66MF267FGQJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Irish operation – led by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau – took place on Monday and was based mainly in Dublin, though other Irish targets are from the southeast of the country. Six men were arrested by the Garda in recent days, including three leaders of the gang. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LEWVGLFMREJJN3O3P3N5FLAOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"As the Irish component of the investigation was unfolding, police in Spain were also moving in on the Irish gang’s distribution hub in Castellón de la Plana in Valencia. The Family also had branches in Murcia and Málaga, with drugs valued at about €30 million seized this week in Spain in various stages of being readied for smuggling to Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3H734CRDVF2DCVWNOOUAMHK3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This network enjoyed a high economic status, which facilitated the collaboration of other individuals and expanded its geographical sphere of influence,” Spain’s Department of Treasury, which was involved in the operation, said on Wednesday night.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZBCKVFDQIVGTJMGPV3WXFS4NFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It added the group comprised about 20 people, in Ireland and Spain, and had adopted “significant security measures” to avoid detection. “The group hid the drugs in vacuum-sealed containers hidden in the false bottoms of all types of vehicles,” the department said of luxury cars and trucks with semi trailers and Irish registration plates.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NU4RZUGLOVBWJPVVU27Z3PXR2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spanish police find Irish ‘Family’ drugs gang in three regions, seize €30m in drugs, four trucks","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"2QBWU4B4OVGBZCKAVUGGHTPDVE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rise of ‘The Family’: the group that became Ireland’s biggest crime gang without firing a shot","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"VXWKUR3YNNCPVF3IQM62NVXT7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Family has become the biggest drugs gang in the Republic in recent years. Using its hub in Spain, with its own members overseeing a mainly Spanish group, the gang vacuum-packed cocaine and herbal cannabis, which were then hidden in secret compartments in cars and trucks for smuggling to Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MVWM63SJZJGXDLCFCYAQOWJE7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Using information obtained when the Ghost encrypted platform was infiltrated last year, Irish and European investigators, with the support of Europol, have now traced a series of drugs runs from Spain to Ireland that the Family gang was involved in. Each run involved drugs valued at millions of Euro, mostly cocaine.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JKI6QCL6DNFLZK3XIRA74YZRBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two such consignments of cocaine, with a combined value of almost €20 million, have been found in Ireland; one last September when the Australian-run host network was taken down and another more recently. Gardaí believe those drugs consignments, and others that went undetected, had originated from the Spanish distribution operation searched this week, resulting in the seizure of drugs valued at almost €30 million.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YQXGPL3KS5DJJE6HCF4CA2255I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Monday’s Garda operation in Ireland, based mainly in west Dublin, targeted leadership figures in the organisation. The men arrested were still being questioned by detectives on Wednesday night. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YCMBH7BC3RCKTAUHQDZKMDUINA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In an update on Wednesday, Europol described the Dublin-headquartered Family gang as “an Irish high-risk criminal network”. The European agency also confirmed the operations in Ireland and Spain this week resulted directly from the infiltration of the Ghost network, a supposedly secure messaging service run from Sydney for organised crime gangs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTZ4WKKV3NGR7GZTKCT7T7D5HU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The criminals are suspected of involvement in large-scale drug trafficking, mainly by transporting drugs hidden in vehicles from Spain to Ireland,” Europol said of the Family. The criminals involved are now being “haunted by their chats” on Ghost, which they used to co-ordinate their involvement in the drugs trade, “relying on both encryption and multi-platform distribution”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7PATL47TRRFWRKX2VQYCDDPMMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The sophistication of their communications was in stark contrast to the simplicity of their modus operandi. It consisted of smuggling cocaine and marijuana across the Continent in vehicles equipped with custom-made secret compartments and cloned number plates,” Europol said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Lally"}},"name":"Conor Lally"}]},"description":{"basic":"Twelve men linked to Ireland’s biggest drugs gang now held by gardaí and Spanish police"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T06:52:52.434Z","headlines":{"basic":"Spanish police say Ireland’s Family drugs gang ‘enjoyed high economic status and influence’","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IG52Y5WUAJHKJFSYCFQZ7YAUTE","auth":{"1":"5ae12831895a4f3bd24b05cc628eb036ad34102d4751576129bf35cd9d73d909"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IG52Y5WUAJHKJFSYCFQZ7YAUTE.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7","embed_html":"<div class=\"powa\" id=\"powa-f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-org=\"irishtimes\" data-env=\"prod\" data-uuid=\"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.562\" data-api=\"prod\"><script src=\"//irishtimes.video-player.arcpublishing.com/prod/powaBoot.js?org=irishtimes\"><\/script></div>","promo_image":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"},"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"}},"type":"video"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/spanish-police-say-irelands-family-drugs-gang-enjoyed-high-economic-status-and-influence/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"J25YWQOOBFB2VOQJQ5JY2MK2KA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":189,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/8d251456-823e-447f-bc1a-d61b1559c88d/versions/1743017941/media/4e03df159ed17fcce5f92df63450149b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/spanish-police-find-irish-family-drugs-gang-in-three-regions-seize-30m-in-drugs-four-trucks/","content_elements":[{"_id":"S2GXYK4MH5FXFCKMNCOB4SMDEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPHH77MZTRA5BPU4JRP55ZVDQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Spanish-Irish investigation into the Dublin-headquartered drugs gang known as The Family has resulted in the seizure of drugs valued at about €30 million and the arrests of 20 people.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W43IF7CMOBABPKFFAKNRDG7ALE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spanish officers have also recovered a firearm and ammunition, along with seizing 12 luxury cars and four trucks – most with hidden compartments for drug smuggling. The drugs network had bases in three regions in Spain, with Ireland the destination for the cocaine and herbal cannabis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DXYRCWFCAZH4HKF3QSRFL7NPZM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4EGBHOLLBRBKVN6QQR2W5HT2QU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UVWOJTN2BJGGHHZBMPYY7I3XCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trucks and semi trailers, with Irish registration plates, were being used to smuggle the drugs from the gang’s Spanish hub into the Republic, via France.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FIIBAJJMEFB63LIJEIZZUG4FRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A total of 314kg of cocaine, valued at about €25 million, and 220kg of marijuana has been seized in the operation, which has involved <a href=\"\" rel=\"\" title=\"\">An Garda Síochana</a>, Spain’s Guardia Civil and the Italian Antimafia Investigation Directorate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"74BBKUC3FVEIZMMP5OWHX4TGS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The quantity of drugs found during several days of action in Ireland and Spain offers insight into the very large quantities of drugs being smuggled by The Family into Ireland at any one time. The operation has also revealed a very established logistical operation supporting the smuggling of the Irish group’s cocaine and cannabis from Spain to the Republic.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JRH2JXE3PFAYJOEV52UJLZ2WS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spanish police say Ireland’s Family drugs gang ‘enjoyed high economic status and influence’","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"DPGG6KQFTRFDNGK2DRSI6E4524","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rise of ‘The Family’: the group that became Ireland’s biggest crime gang without firing a shot","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"5UR6AXFRCNBFVCFKPDWZPOX3KM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"GW4ASQUJ5ZC6DJ7JWBQVY5MUX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The gang, which is led by a group of Dublin men who are related to each other, has become the largest drugs group in the Republic since the demise of the Kinahan cartel’s Irish operation, the Byrne organised crime group. Of the six men arrested in Ireland since the operation began this week, three are regarded as key figures at the apex of the Irish crime group.","type":"text"},{"_id":"575SVAFRLJFHHORSYOHPPDU35U","additional_properties":{},"content":"This week, more than 100kg of cocaine was found in the gang’s main unit in Castellon de la Plana, in eastern Spain, where the drugs were being vacuum-packed for concealment in the secret compartments in the vehicles.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TJN4RWFVVFFD7KXSBATJE5H6EU","additional_properties":{},"content":"While the Garda and Europol have confirmed the arrests of 12 people this week, six in Ireland and six in Spain, new information emerging from Spain has outlined the scale of the Dublin gang’s Spanish operation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DXY2D7BMOVHYLDJI5JUW45TAZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Department of the Treasury in Spain said the illicit smuggling operation was based in an industrial warehouse in Castellon de la Plana. There was also “another main headquarters in Dublin, serving as the destination” as well as “branches of this network” in Murcia and Málaga.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KSZ5R7RWIBA4LOBWRO4IYKPLQM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí carry out raids on leadership of drugs gang known as The Family","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ZJE4B2TX2RA53IA5DLKSOOLBPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the main unit in Castellon de la Plana, the Department said members of the gang were arrested “red-handed”, including an “Irish representative of the international network”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YDUL7Z5UHVHXNJSUUJGI2WBCAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"A total of four sites were searched in Spain, including three in Castellon de la Plana and one in Orihuela. Between those searches and the operation in Dublin on Monday the number of arrests made has reached 20, including Irish, Spanish and Colombian suspects. Also found was €35,000 in cash, four computers, 35 mobile phones and documents relating to the gang’s activities.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Lally"}},"name":"Conor Lally"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sheer scale of Ireland’s biggest drugs gang emerges as Spanish police raid main distribution hub supplying Irish market"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Spanish police find Irish ‘Family’ drugs gang in three regions, seize €30m in drugs, four trucks","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"DXYRCWFCAZH4HKF3QSRFL7NPZM","auth":{"1":"453b6938aaba37783969a456176d98298f6dd3bff7031960c9ead0122db3bd09"},"focal_point":{"x":453,"y":125},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DXYRCWFCAZH4HKF3QSRFL7NPZM.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7","embed_html":"<div class=\"powa\" id=\"powa-f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-org=\"irishtimes\" data-env=\"prod\" data-uuid=\"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.562\" data-api=\"prod\"><script src=\"//irishtimes.video-player.arcpublishing.com/prod/powaBoot.js?org=irishtimes\"><\/script></div>","promo_image":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"},"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"}},"type":"video"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/spanish-police-find-irish-family-drugs-gang-in-three-regions-seize-30m-in-drugs-four-trucks/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"CULWP2X2D5G5LA2XJKAVZTGDXE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":156,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/0dae1a56-5224-4b7f-a10d-c95a94971960/versions/1743026609/media/d56c24cf246a2a327c898298923cb284_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/principal-denies-student-teachers-sexual-harassment-allegations-while-cross-examining-her-at-inquiry/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"A <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/teaching-council/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/teaching-council/\">Teaching Council</a> fitness-to-teach inquiry into sexual harassment allegations made against a male principal in a secondary school in the west of Ireland has adjourned to consider its findings. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XG7FCBHJHBAQ3MZQDXZZK33474","additional_properties":{},"content":"The inquiry arose from allegations made by a young female student teacher against the principal while on placement in the school in 2017. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FCRKDAMFMNBDZI2RXCU4ISEMEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the second day of the inquiry on Wednesday, the principal, who had no legal representation, cross-examined the young woman on what she said in evidence on Tuesday and on statements she made to the council. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJ4HYLI34RGIFKF7HG3JXAK6RY","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Tuesday, the woman and another witness gave evidence while the principal did not attend. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NAW6XWUDRZDJZOW5OBVKG5BZBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"One of the allegations made by the woman was that at the school, on or around April 20th, 2017, the principal said to her that they finally had the place to themselves. He allegedly locked the side door and another door in advance of bringing the woman to his office. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MAFQGKHBFVEXDLDF5KXZY34RNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The principal, in his cross-examination of the woman, denied that this took place. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VBGQBP6N5RCZDCXZ667NA4M6BM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kate Egan, appearing for the director of the Teaching Council, subsequently cross-examined the principal on this issue. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4LONANVHRDE5JLKSJO4PH452U","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was Ms Egan’s contention that the principal had given three different versions in relation to this - namely, that he did not lock the doors, that he locked them after the students had left and that he locked them after everyone had left. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4YJCI4CGUNEWRCKKFRQWO42YV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The principal said that he locked them after everyone had left, including the woman. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6BFHVBNVSZHD7BHPAFJWMYNTCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The principal also denied the allegation that, after locking the doors he then brought the woman to his office and there made comments including that he could bring her to Dublin, and/or that he could book a hotel room, and/or that they could get to know one another. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QMPHW4MHSVF4LND2M6I74MEC2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The principal also denied saying to the woman that he was the board of management of the school, saying that this was “a stupid statement” and that he had never worked like that. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MR6XVY5QYNDQ5BLHTZ4IRYBULQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He did concede to Ms Egan that he could have used his influence to procure a maternity position at the school for the woman. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3MWNDI67DRGOFCL5UF2RS32TEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The principal also said that of course he has made mistakes but that “this [the woman’s allegations] is entirely different”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KUGX7HIXTREBNH37MZLUC47NHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"He added that offering the woman a teaching practice placement was “arguably” the mistake he made. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ROK65NTOKFAPVJNQ4ZEF7JUK6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4IYGN6DPFB6VMX2X436X33I3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"25R2K427LFBA7BC2OKLACQ66KA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"NYFDPQDUUNE2RHVYZFR2U5OCXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The legal assessor for the inquiry, Frank Beatty SC gave his legal advice to the panel, who then withdrew to deliberate on what their findings may be. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4DQU4QKJO5EORKTDEQPJH3WL54","additional_properties":{},"content":"Chairperson of the panel Paul Moroney said when the panel had reached its findings these would be forwarded to the parties concerned. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Stephen Farrell"}]},"description":{"basic":"Teaching Council fitness-to-teach inquiry adjourns to consider findings"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T21:58:20.912Z","headlines":{"basic":"Principal denies student teacher’s sexual harassment allegations while cross-examining her at inquiry","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JEFEOXFHXFAYXEPYRMQQNXASD4","auth":{"1":"6444abb940d6b3a67ec5f17dba1379d6e508eb06711b2b7406410a7b771e14ff"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JEFEOXFHXFAYXEPYRMQQNXASD4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Ireland"},{"name":"Education"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/principal-denies-student-teachers-sexual-harassment-allegations-while-cross-examining-her-at-inquiry/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"2XY5DBC2F5HG5FWOEYVCSWBFYE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":138,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/e881dee0-97c9-484b-bd74-d5af6d6421ce/versions/1743018445/media/987a19feb17efacffc482d4995efb57d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/limerick-race-course-rape-trial-adjourned-as-accused-is-treated-in-hospital/","content_elements":[{"_id":"L5PZT2XMU5CG5LABGFSTFMIL7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283790},"content":"The trial of a boy who was 13 years old when he allegedly raped a 16-year-old girl has been adjourned for a second consecutive day without the hearing of any evidence as the accused is in hospital.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5GLFRAO5UJALBCQ6CYURS6P6DQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283792},"content":"Two teenagers are on trial at a sitting of the Central Criminal Court in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cork/\" target=\"_blank\">Cork</a> charged with raping a girl in a car at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/limerick/\" target=\"_blank\">Limerick</a> racecourse in Patrickswell on December 26th, 2022. The boys were 13 and 15 at the time of the alleged offence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNYSONBYBZFOFMTE4JJYV3DKA4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283793},"content":"A third teenager, who was also 15 at the time of the alleged offence, is charged with aiding and abetting the two youths and falsely imprisoning the girl.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WEUD3TGCRNAZNLNLE6U7RCF2JI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283794},"content":"Mr Justice Paul McDermott on Wednesday briefly addressed the jury in relation to the illness of one of the accused.","type":"text"},{"_id":"URLQR2UVQ5HGRIUS7GRGUFSP4E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283795},"content":"“The position in relation to (name of teenaged accused) is that he is still under review medically.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JVNFXNBPWZAOHPTVPEVVP5FF54","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283796},"content":"“I am hopeful that this will resolve things tomorrow morning. Obviously, people are taking their time dealing with the matter on the medical front. I have to ask you to come back tomorrow.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LREWBRTF2FGFPIG6UYNKVYVLC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283797},"content":"“I don’t want to interrupt the flow of matters if that can be avoided. I hope we will have more positive news tomorrow.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XBJYOWGJV5BWBGXAQB2NHSGHHU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283798},"content":"Meanwhile, last week the trial was delayed by a day after one juror fainted and another experienced a cardiac event. Dr Aoife Fanning was in the witness box on March 18th last giving evidence of examining the complainant at a Sexual Assault Treatment Unit in Limerick on the evening of December 26th, 2022 when a juror became visibly unwell.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UPXK5DIGHFFTJFR3QBCNWZ65VE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283799},"content":"The court was cleared shortly before noon and Dr Fanning assessed and treated the patient. It was established that the juror had fainted. The case was adjourned until 215pm to see if the juror would be physically able to resume his duties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CK26QTHUU5BPDMR6NTZJBXCC6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283800},"content":"However, when Mr Justice McDermott entered the courtroom that afternoon he was informed that another juror had experienced an emergency cardiac episode over lunchtime. The second juror was also initially assessed at the scene by Dr Fanning. The trial proceeded before a jury of nine women and two men having lost one juror.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BHSBMJUYENEZXCNBLLOO4VEIBM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283801},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Olivia Kelleher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Two teenagers are charged with raping a girl in a car in Patrickswell on December 26th, 2022"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T19:42:16.924Z","headlines":{"basic":"Limerick race course rape trial adjourned as accused is treated in hospital","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"CEXA3GZUEFW7TIXBY74VFPVN6A","auth":{"1":"09919af2c37483541a1c8c5e0561422506f728bebff96aa9f8876a5319854165"},"focal_point":{"x":509,"y":451},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CEXA3GZUEFW7TIXBY74VFPVN6A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/limerick-race-course-rape-trial-adjourned-as-accused-is-treated-in-hospital/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"JN6MCK36KRAZVATVOKH5ANTGS4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":206,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f06b6448-54f9-41cd-8a12-83621df03264/versions/1743017833/media/c9603a4a5fae4c2ace6588420b289976_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/woman-student-harassed-by-200-young-men-in-whatsapp-group-dail-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"5UID46H26BBDVMWJDCFZCXWGSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/whatsapp/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/whatsapp/\">WhatsApp</a> group of 200 young men was created to target a woman in her student accommodation by shouting and chanting outside her window and throwing eggs at her door, the Dáil has heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PIF6E6GUSVBFXCSGMHRI7C2QCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\">Sinn Féin</a> TD Mairéad Farrell said the incidents, including ringing the doorbell in the middle of the night, continued over several nights.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WARZHEK2YJF5HMWFU2HIBWYHEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"When <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/university-of-limerick\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/university-of-limerick\">University of Limerick</a> student Ella Deasy reported the initial shouting and chanting outside her house to the accommodation provider, nothing was done at that point.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YHZCWK4HPVCSPLC2OV327HUD4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Deasy found out that “a young man had created a TikTok account in which he shared his hopes for the year ahead which included throwing eggs” at her house.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KJRRQ5E2RVBZTKEM2EDOZZADH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Higher Education <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/james-lawless/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/james-lawless/\">James Lawless</a> said in response that third-level institutions “must take action when issues of harassment and threats to student welfare are brought to their attention.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JUDKHPJRSVDFTPXOCKGZKAEHVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Adolescence on Netflix wasn’t called that by accident. This is what it means to grow up now","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"5YSA5BMNDNARPMFJX6ZLAN5W2M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There is no place for sexual violence, gender-based violence or harassment in Ireland nor the attitudes underpinning it.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3CZTILWMYJD6PG3BVZ4HOSHYGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Farrell highlighted the case, which had been outlined on social media, as her party colleague Clare TD Donna McGettigan said there were many “shocking stories and harrowing accounts of young female students being attacked, abused, followed and harassed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TUUHKNML2NDO3K3M6HPRQWNBXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms McGettigan said it was a serious and urgent issue because “too many young women live in fear on the streets, in schools, on college campuses and even online. They face catcalling, stalking, spiking and, in the worst cases, assault. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OYJ4RBEQ4JDUHN7EJS4ZKCAUEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It is shameful to think that young women in Ireland, who should be excited to be facing a new chapter in their lives, only find it all goes horribly wrong when they are stalked or assaulted.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVWVHTPCQFARHDL434WK56UEJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Farrell said this story is “deeply concerning” and “there is no other way of putting this other than to say this is an incredibly frightening experience”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W47DKLHPYVEYNNFIWWTVJNKANI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“What really stuck me was the fact that there was a WhatsApp group with over 200 young men discussing viewing or participating in this group. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSKEGTUYYFALTNIXTGCGCIU4U4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“As Ella said herself, just imagine 200 boys against one girl. We need to do better for our young women. And, equally, we need to do better for our young men.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JSC5OVDWHRBZHGICLCPXY4CI5A","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Galway West TD asked the Minister how the colleges could deal with this sort of problem “so that if women receive this type of harassment that they have immediate support from their colleges”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DOW5IJNVFFJ7LORY27XRLE4WY","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-13576","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"I5KD6QSD3JFZTNLRUWFODGWGLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Warning that third-level institutions must take action when such harassment and threats are brought to their attention, Mr Lawless said, “we cannot tolerate, accept, condone or downplay harassment or behaviour of any kind that threatens student wellbeing”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B7QZUFEQ7RDQFENRCWB3HFULDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said he is “on a bit of a road trip in visiting institutions”, adding that he would be engaging on the issue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PJ7KDBV7IFCDZONA6QBXXOZASI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The student experience of being safe from harassment should be the minimum standard expected, in both student accommodation and student life also”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7OEVNBFY5AG7CJC4PCPD5I2GU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Minister said “it is critical higher education institutions – indeed all places of work and study – take proactive steps when issues of concern are brought to their attention”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSTDFWWZWZENHONRXMQHGZQZZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Deputies will be aware that universities are autonomous under our code in Ireland. 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He denies the charge.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K2AN3MJBGNAT3BZFDTUGMHBFFQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533727},"content":"The 38-year-old chartered accountant was found dead by members of the Armed Support Unit (ASU) when they went to her family home in Cardinal Court in Wilton in the city on July 14th, 2023. The couple had moved to Ireland from India with their young son four months earlier.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DHNDNDYARFAAROWZ3HBZFYMRF4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533728},"content":"Crime scene examiner Det Garda John Paul Twomey on Wednesday told the trial that he visited the house in Wilton the day after Ms Dinamani was found dead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HMN7KYEKA5DMBN3WZNF4WWMOKI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533729},"content":"Dt Garda Twomey said that a notebook seized from the property contained a note which read: “I love you so much. Please forgive me for what I did as your mum was having something ... and his name was Jay.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JJY6E4XWURG6XMR2OTSELVPIUE","additional_properties":{"_id":"NQFBGU7FPZBDDHFWIKOFICJQ3M"},"content":"Witness recalls being ‘shocked and shattered’ when murder accused told him he stabbed wife","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"LZJR6BKSIZBA3K7X7QREG2M364","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533730},"content":"Dt Garda Twomey told the jury that the note was difficult to read, and he read out what he could decipher. He stated that he seized and bagged, among other items, a knife, a wedding ring, a broken gold necklace and a bloodied t shirt and shorts. He said that he took various swabs from the body of the deceased.","type":"text"},{"_id":"REEA7OHPAVCAFGDQFIE3GDKSJM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533731},"content":"Meanwhile, CCTV evidence was shown of what Det Garda Dave Hickey described as the buying of the “potential murder weapon” two days before Ms Dinamani was discovered dead in her home.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6MQ5FDXJBBTJOJAOACAMAY7TU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533732},"content":"Det Garda Hickey said that CCTV from Tesco in Wilton Shopping Centre was examined and the accused, Mr Rajan, was captured buying a Go Cook carving knife, a bottle of whiskey and a soft drink. He said that Mr Rajan brought a bag for life to the supermarket on the afternoon of July 12th, 2023, and used a Tesco club card when he was purchasing the items.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FPTJZAFRQ5DGDNUZR4ELN2KDOA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533733},"content":"Derek Foley, call handler at the Garda control room in Anglesea Street in Cork, gave evidence of having received an emergency call at 9.55pm on July 14th, 2023. He said that he asked the caller for his name and Eircode. He said the man identified himself as Regin Rajan and gave an Eircode for a property in Cardinal Court in Wilton in Cork.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R4MXPRKGDJCM3C7SIFB4GXHHYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533734},"content":"Mr Foley told the jury: “He said that he wanted the guards to come around and arrest him as he had killed his wife.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"V4K72ZC5XJAZ7BXBPEPRMQB4CA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533735},"content":"Mr Foley asked the caller if there was anybody else in the property and the man replied that his five-year-old son was at home.","type":"text"},{"_id":"45SBGESG5VAWZHRMKJ3Q6D3NI4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533736},"content":"Mr Foley said that he offered to stay until the line until the gardaí arrived. 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","type":"text"},{"_id":"WRYLU4C66ZCSND2SFVOCIU4C34","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí believe the device, understood to be a pipe bomb, detonated accidently as the man was handling it. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FIBDASICCZFI7NOEJYWAY4SALQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"One line of inquiry is that the man was manufacturing the bomb on behalf of organised criminals, including those involved in drug debt intimidation. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EGB7X3QXJFF7NBBKCXNAAY5NUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí have seized a number of items from the house as part of their investigation. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QFIYCUW52JAEBFJP4IEQQY2IZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The explosion occurred on Wednesday morning in the Killinarden area in Dublin 24. The man, who is aged in his 50s, was rushed to Tallaght University Hospital with serious injuries. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NGKVCKL7TZCBRM43ATUAT34BGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"He underwent emergency surgery in an attempt to save as much of his arm as possible. The injuries are not believed to be life threatening. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3YWFOEE4VFEPVEPEJWZCOUXM5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/army/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/army/\">Army</a> Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit also deployed to the scene along with emergency services to deal with an potentially dangerous unexploded material. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z2TISDTNEZEKRC6FGRVAFAKJQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“A man, aged in his 50s, has been removed from the scene to Tallaght Hospital to be treated for injuries believed to be serious but non-life threatening,” gardaí said in a statement. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LQZTCDZVRJDDZPHZALOEJUIRRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The Army EOD Unit and the Garda Technical Bureau are currently examining the scene.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XAEOQCSLCRCJ7O3KSMT5HKVACQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"THHX4B5T6VA7JJF7KVLJRREJ2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NR7YCQKFOVDNDM5B7E3NCBSIB4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UOLBVOMA4FFFVGNDXHZCVFEUCA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XEVSNWAXTZF6VBNTU5XD355VFY","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HRZCIOEJMFC33ORNOURKDXEG5M","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit and gardaí at the scene in Killinarden area"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T18:25:55.162Z","headlines":{"basic":"Man loses part of arm in Tallaght explosion","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5B565MW6MFE4QXKPGJDNIKWPIM","auth":{"1":"418d2f48dfb73b1c139d639aa203f031b78f98ddaf3c221bed385b41eddd0a04"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5B565MW6MFE4QXKPGJDNIKWPIM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/man-loses-part-of-arm-in-tallaght-explosion/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"VOKNYTAFBFBUPOQASINX7KTQJE","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/business/2025/03/26/court-grants-freezing-orders-over-claims-canadian-firm-reneged-on-deal-with-dublin-based-oil-company/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JIZ23KM3UVB2FEGL4OKT6KJYGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033570},"content":"San Leon, a Dublin-headquartered oil and gas company, has been granted a short-term injunction freezing up to €50 million in assets owned by a Canadian asset management company.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XRRCAKN4VNBZRFOKLTTWEBQAXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033571},"content":"San Leon plc, with offices at Crampton Avenue, Dublin 4, has alleged in the High Court that Ontario-based Tri Ri Asset Management Corp has not honoured two agreements negotiated by the firms since October 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FETEYPUCTBGGXI7PRIBF3SJUKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033572},"content":"The second such alleged deal, in which Tri Ri purportedly agreed to swap shares in US technology firm Palantir worth almost €50 million for shares in San Leon, is the subject of proceedings that came before the court on Wednesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HL2UIRDZCFFJ7BFTYSEOFEBH6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033573},"content":"Gary McCarthy SC, appearing with Declan Harmon BL for San Leon, said he was seeking an order freezing up to €50 million in assets owned by Tri Ri, its director Shan Ahmad Ali, and its chief investment officer Asad Ali. Mr McCarthy also said he was seeking an injunction restraining Tri Ri from selling its 419,000 shares in Palantir.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQDCISOQ5RECHMLNOKVIV7KM7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033574},"content":"Mr Justice Brian Cregan said he would grant the orders on an interim basis. The application was made with only the San Leon side represented.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2QEFWI3AZBB7PD6CYPG4QUZ5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011748063},"content":"Tri Ri, according to San Leon, holds shares worth $850 million (€790.7 million) and has additional assets under its management worth $1.2 billion (€1.1 billion).","type":"text"},{"_id":"FSYGG7W65ZAFJOBYWWDQAV7HDI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033575},"content":"In a sworn statement to the court, San Leon chief executive Oisín Fanning said that for some time, the oil and gas firm had been seeking to raise capital and “progress business opportunities”, in particular oil exploration in Nigeria.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S5BEP553HNEQFMPCOYHDXDESAM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011748065},"content":"On foot of this, and following negotiations in September 2023, Tri Ri agreed to invest up to $187 million (€173 million) in San Leon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZFBKONPVIJCOFLCOUFZFVNRBQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033576},"content":"In a sworn statement to the court, San Leon chief executive Oisín Fanning said that Tri Ri failed to honour this agreement, and no money was transferred to San Leon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"USPOT7A6AJEJLJUUPAIW2WGSKU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033577},"content":"This inflicted “reputational and financial damage” on San Leon, Mr Fanning claims. San Leon intends to initiate separate legal proceedings against Tri Ri arising from this alleged breach of contract, Mr Fanning said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I3MVLSDJNRB6HMNX7FXAK47OLY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033578},"content":"Some time after this, Mr Fanning spoke with Asad Ali, who described himself as Tri Ri’s chief investment officer. Mr Fanning said Mr Ali spoke of wanting to “make amends” for the previous alleged failure to honour the investment agreement. Mr Ali blamed his father, Tri Ri director Shan Ahmad Ali, for the previous issues.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ARTLZ4HFHNATJPFZCUXVW7EM4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033579},"content":"After he consulted with “trusted advisers”, Mr Fanning said he took the view that “everyone is deserving of a second chance”. After “some hesitancy”, he said that the parties agreed to a swap of San Leon shares for a number of “highly liquid public limited stock”. Mr Fanning said San Leon intended to immediately sell the stock to raise capital quickly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PVWQT3VANJEEVNT2LBFGUDRWFQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033580},"content":"On February 14th, 2025, pursuant to the agreement, stockbroker JP Morgan confirmed the purported transfer to San Leon of Tri Ri’s 419,000 shares in Palantir. However, Mr Fanning claims that these shares “remain undelivered” to San Leon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z2A22DOPHZAZ7CXJGJAE2HRZDE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033581},"content":"The shares were worth almost €50 million on February 14th, according to Mr Fanning. The shares have since fallen in value, and are now worth close to €34 million.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QOX5SBZZRAR7DBWU7MHLJ2ENY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033582},"content":"Mr Fanning alleges that both Shan Ahmad Ali and Asad Ali have been “intimately involved in interfering” with the transfer of the Palantir shares to San Leon. “They have also been involved in acts of intimidation, including in making physical threats to my person,” he claimed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NXZSGVOFXFDNPAONFV3Y4PWVWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033583},"content":"This “intimidation” followed correspondence between the parties, in which San Leon set out the alleged breach of contract, and required steps to remedy the breach.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SSH4IYF7FAA5EQZ6UBALGZD6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033584},"content":"Mr Fanning alleges that Asad Ali has threatened to send individuals to his home to “deal” with him, that Asad Ali sent “aggressive and inflammatory” WhatsApp messages to him, and that Asad Ali made a public statement about him on social media aimed at causing “reputational and professional harm”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GJYJP33URJF4FLNQTL4C5Z5LOQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033585},"content":"Explaining the orders sought from the court, Mr Fanning said that the Palantir shares at the centre of the proceedings are “readily tradable” and could be disposed of by Tri Ri at any time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SCXOEF5F3RDBZDZ6DU3R4YB6AU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033586},"content":"Mr Justice Cregan adjourned the case to later in the week.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Fiachra Gallagher"}},"name":"Fiachra Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"San Leon plc has alleged Tri Ri Asset Management Corp has not honoured two agreements negotiated by the firms"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T17:38:56.495Z","headlines":{"basic":"Court grants freezing orders over claims Canadian firm reneged on deal with Dublin-based oil company ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"PKIA3TQAIRECTIWQUL5NIUL3VE","auth":{"1":"ded2862d126a7d6865850aa2018b632637d04201d52c9f8cfd1ec0d3a776c22b"},"focal_point":{"x":558,"y":449},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/PKIA3TQAIRECTIWQUL5NIUL3VE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Crime & Law"},{"name":"Courts"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/business/2025/03/26/court-grants-freezing-orders-over-claims-canadian-firm-reneged-on-deal-with-dublin-based-oil-company/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/business","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Business"}}}},{"_id":"FR5TTFL2KNEXFHAWJD5T2LE5VY","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/murder-accused-assaulted-garda-after-fingerprint-and-dna-samples-taken-trial-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"E6EYSMOWHFBXDDYKBC4LF5XRKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"A garda has given evidence at a murder trial that the accused man assaulted him after detectives tried to take fingerprint and DNA samples as part of their investigation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HROXWKPOZZH6TDEU2HB5SERRFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gda Brendan O’Donnell was the member in charge at Newbridge Garda Station on April 29th, 2020, when Brian Ibe (23) was brought in to be questioned on suspicion of assaulting 65-year-old Peter Kennedy the previous evening. Mr Kennedy suffered stab wounds and died in Beaumont Hospital from his injuries about two weeks later, on May 12th, 2020.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXCIQRJ6YNCLTHDOR7CLMX3PYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gda O’Donnell on Wednesday told prosecution senior counsel Paul Carroll that at 9.20pm, after Mr Ibe’s first interview, he told the accused that his period of detention had been extended by six hours. Three detectives then went to the interview room to take fingerprint and DNA samples from the accused but Gda O’Donnell said he became aware that Mr Ibe had become uncooperative.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RYRIVFDLARGMFIUVIJRWPGBRTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gda O’Donnell went to the interview room where he found Mr Ibe trying to leave, as if he wanted to exit the station. Gda O’Donnell said: “We actually tried to restrain him in order to place him in the cell. He lashed out and I received a punch into the face, just under my left eye and to the side of my nose. I felt immediate pain and bleeding from the nose.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CR32HEQRWRHU3JSNJZCMIQ2SGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The detectives succeeded in getting Mr Ibe to a cell while Gda O’Donnell, who said he was shocked and in pain, was taken to Accident and Emergency at Naas Hospital. He had not suffered any fractures, he said, but had bruises on his nose and under his eye, was in pain for days.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DYOILG46WNGWRGIXR63YJDOKFA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"W2SBQYGYZVHKPDNVW4M5ACYLT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Conor Devally SC, for Mr Ibe, said the defence concedes that the injuries described by the garda are descriptive of harm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NYF6CD7YYVDKDOS7ZMXPNHZ7YA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Ibe, of no fixed abode and formerly of Moore Park, Newbridge, Co Kildare, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of Mr Kennedy between April 28 and May 12, 2020, both dates inclusive, in Newbridge. He also pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to assault causing harm to Garda O’Donnell at Newbridge Garda Station on or about April 29, 2020. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"T4TAL62S75EVXDP3C3HA3SDSM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The prosecution contends that the accused was not “within the ingredients” of the special insanity or diminished responsibility verdicts under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IEGTSWPZA5H6TBQHTSNVEANYTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Outlining the proposed evidence last week, Mr Carroll said it is not contested that Mr Ibe carried out the attack and that Mr Kennedy died as a result.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RUDWOX7VOBGTDODLR5OSKDCNSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said that the deceased man, who had just turned 65 and was retired from the probation services, was “a kind person who would help people”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ETAOQCVLFCXVH5C5NJR5RVIYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The mother of the accused, Martha Ibe, had an issue with homelessness and came to live with Mr Kennedy. Her son moved into the same house around September 2019, when he was 19.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RA3PQ6CCFJGTTNBOPKEZOVGIFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Carroll said that problems arose before Christmas 2019, with disputes between Mr Kennedy and the accused, so Mr Ibe left the house and came to Dublin, where he lived at a hostel run by the Peter McVerry Trust in Walkinstown. Counsel said that on April 28th, 2020, the accused left the hostel and got a taxi to Newbridge, where he entered Mr Kennedy’s house through the rear after smashing a window.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OWUOMP7PYFA3RDRGVKKUVYBRUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Carroll said that Mr Ibe’s mother will give evidence that the accused attacked Mr Kennedy with what she believed was a knife, making “jabbing motions”. She left to get assistance, and when gardaí arrived, they found Mr Kennedy on the floor upstairs with serious head injuries lying in a pool of blood.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3KQ3BKIWYJGUNDSY2BMGFVMAIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Following the assault on Gda O’Donnell, Dr Ashdad Ahmad examined the accused and found that he was not fit for interview. Dr Ahmad told Mr Carroll that Mr Ibe was “very anxious, aggressive and appeared to be in a very agitated state.” The following morning, the doctor found Mr Ibe to be more relaxed and “mentally stable”, so he told gardaí they could continue with the interviews.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYD3P5UPKBGNNMQNCVFRVSSVWQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Det Gda Seamus Doyle told Mr Carroll that during the interviews that followed, Mr Ibe said he was not in Newbridge on the day of the assault on Mr Kennedy. When asked why he had refused to allow gardaí to take his fingerprint and DNA samples, he said he “did not want to have them done” and when told that it is an offence to refuse to give a DNA sample, he replied: “I won’t be doing it.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"46NVI3AGVVASHC4C7MGHCYPP4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí showed him stills from CCTV footage that the prosecution alleges show Mr Ibe arriving in Newbridge before the assault. He said the person in the still “could have been anyone” and “I don’t think that’s me”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FX75ANFAFG25A4APUR7S6REQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí read extracts of Martha Ibe’s statement, in which she said she witnessed her son assaulting Mr Kennedy. He replied: “I’ve made my statement, and that’s all I have to say; it’s my final word.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"3V5JLP545ZD6BD7F5VI6ZCC3JI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial continues on Thursday before Ms Justice Melanie Greally and a jury of six men and six women.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Eoin Reynolds "}]},"description":{"basic":"Brian Ibe (23) was brought in to Newbridge Garda Station to be questioned on suspicion of assaulting Peter Kennedy (65), the court heard "},"display_date":"2025-03-26T16:41:12.035Z","headlines":{"basic":"Murder accused assaulted garda after fingerprint and DNA samples taken, trial hears","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RVLI4FOODVB5BDNTIBWYEXJDPE","auth":{"1":"7fc209f90ef3dff7b92dd7f32650b8d2ef7ee409d76c87541be03c5c9b201a08"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RVLI4FOODVB5BDNTIBWYEXJDPE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/murder-accused-assaulted-garda-after-fingerprint-and-dna-samples-taken-trial-hears/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"ZKJWF7WFXZC4FDBD27IOLKPFAE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":256,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f6dd6e17-0ed8-4e36-aa00-50870df88e4a/versions/1743007221/media/d33258014f28d791645c745d14d0b4d5_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/man-jailed-for-posting-online-threats-to-kill-mary-lou-mcdonald-and-garda-commissioner-drew-harris/","content_elements":[{"_id":"BBDIXVCDJ5A4XGJUKHWKK5ISUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A man who posted videos on TikTok in which he made threats to kill or harm Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris has been jailed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTYLTTIJJVEF5FO4K5PQILR2II","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard Richard McGreevy (29) of Whitechurch Place, Rathfarmham, Co Dublin, posted the videos on July 16th last. He pleaded guilty to two counts of making a threat to kill or cause harm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AOKYE5PRX5GOHJSP7QOEGGCCUI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6KLSBPMPERHCZGA7XLTWDYTYN4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QISTM37OGJBUZI552U4PK2THRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The videos were viewed thousands of times, and were also reposted to Facebook and X, formerly Twitter, the court was told. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWZO5UYINVH6ZFKMKTFXFWLTQE","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKFITT7MQVGDRGN35ZZKRMTXAI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7TDJWHS3Q5B2ZHFEJAKE5ZYJBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"James Dwyer SC, defending, said his client is not a “political idealogue”, but rather an isolated, “lonely keyboard warrior” who acted “from impulse, not malice”, and failed to realise the impact of his actions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WZWF7SBZZVHZPDQHDHMJXZX4NY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Sinn Féin leader and the Garda Commissioner were not in court during the sentence hearing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TXQD2ASIRJBBFO2M5OCY2CSLW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a victim impact statement read to the court by Antonia Boyle BL, prosecuting, Ms McDonald said like others in the public eye, she had become accustomed to “routine abuse, aggression and causal threats” on social media.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JYXKZJI7UFDJDFHJFNHFNYKFQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"This was different however, the court heard: “The direct threat to shoot me, to shoot me ‘for free’, the open willingness to harm me himself, and the implicit willingness to harm me on behalf of another.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"7WOZYWVNXJBGPGQLVHJAIVB6DY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said the video presentation was “bizarre, maybe even laughable”, but the threat was “real and chilling”. “I was afraid and angry. My family were enraged and afraid”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HVQGGXZHQFBXDCD6RBBQQ45ZIY","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6GF2BLJTKNFAZCHLVXOMG44RIE","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IGQCA4G4SNHVJE5CCBINXCXEMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said the threat caused her distress, anxiety and anger, but she added “I will not allow any bully to stop me from doing my job”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBB5APXEMRF7RJYAYCWU2YBRZA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTIUZIZ2LJBWVDV5PYJG3P4YE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Commissioner Harris declined to provide a victim impact statement, the court was told, as his view was his statement of complaint captured the impact on him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6Y6DATQIMFFWNJE62JVYM5CE4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The clips on social media were played for Judge Martin Nolan from a laptop.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2QVR6LKQJBVLMRY34JRLX4GZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In them, McGreevy said “Drew Harris, you should be f***ing taken out”, “dragged up to Dolphin’s Barn”, “taken to Dublin Castle” and executed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T6FPIDXE2VANFPUHUWDWMDAKQI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WEX2SKXYKRA4RNDTQ4ZU3RE6BM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FSE5RHGL6VFDFPR46U2XJJX37E","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QOALGK7LEVDD5LXYWQPR4CE22M","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LG5ZBMAAIVFQLA6WZOH626QW3M","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5H2WEAL3VFIFLO4ACOGW6RIFA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SIH7M5ID4BFC7OH5I6XGC3M47Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"McGreevy was arrested and, after caution, he said “this is about those f***ing posts to kill Mary Lou. They were f***ing stupid.”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3M7OTXJWXJCSFCOF4ZYKTHS5EU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He told gardaí he had never had a video that had been viewed so many times, that he didn’t mean for it to go viral and he had taken it down.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RPBTPKCWJZFWTM4GJWMW35SGXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He expressed shame and remorse, saying he didn’t mean for anyone to feel hurt or threatened, but had wanted to rant, before acknowledging he shouldn’t have said those things. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTU2RFC3MZFTXB672HZYBDSMSY","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VW7UDR6FDFE4BLWO72ZFY5WUTI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXHMFKHD5RAQ7K2BIJ7SQGPKCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Dwyer outlined his client’s background, including that McGreevy had been using cannabis since he was a teenager but was drug-free since going into custody. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AUN5LILJ3ZBVFIYCZHHZYYUSRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He noted McGreevy has an acquired brain injury and suffered physical abuse as a child at the hands of a relative.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2S6TL2BYI5FYLOZ2M47ZQ3DG24","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"A4RSF3Q4YRHVRGHNCQPXNWBJ4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Imposing sentence, Judge Nolan said these were “extreme and frightening threats” to two public figures, who were entitled to their peace of mind.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HQU4ZAOYXJHDXOIETAHMHFWA2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the videos would have been “very disturbing” for the injured parties, who would have a “very valid belief that contributions like this poison social discourse and give permission to certain individuals to behave in a certain violent way, particularly to public individuals”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCNLNM2XIRERLLZHASQR55K2Q4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUWFPE5SOBDHDFBS2SHZTJVNEI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZAHSMFT2B5GDPH2GN3IIWNTIBU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6ZWVJCKYPNEDNKSNNF7KEEBLX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge Nolan imposed a three-and-a-half year prison sentence, with the final 15 months suspended on strict conditions. 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","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQNR7DEMSZALDPXWUIYNS4Y5PQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TAQ73LZSIBFKNCZ5VTRABIRJXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda Kurt Fitzgerald gave evidence the women left in a car and Keogh, who was then a partner of one of those women, returned at 9.10am and started fighting with the injured party who was pushing a double buggy and had children with him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A6WZRHKLIJBDTJTTK4JIRDDLAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gda Fitzgerald told Derek Cooney BL, prosecuting, that Keogh shouted “put the baby down” several times at the injured party who then put the child back into the buggy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S6KVDJD56FGRZIXI2NTU5KP5ZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The injured party tried to walk away. Keogh was throwing punches then reached into his waistband, took out a claw hammer and started swinging it towards the injured party’s head. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JGWVIAQJDVACRPLKWVMZSHT7M4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court heard the injured party managed to grab the hammer and Keogh ran away. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6YP6FOIELNC73HTM6YTCHRPN24","additional_properties":{},"content":"The injured party sustained injuries but declined to make a victim impact statement. He sustained cuts to his head, hand and had scratches on his elbow.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDORY3U2RVEXTBRBHCTQ4PB4XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Defence counsel said Keogh’s partner was present in court with his mother. He is working fulltime now. Keogh is now living in Cork where he is working in construction and has a new partner. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HUS55D5U5JBIHEGG2HIMTBY7LA","additional_properties":{},"content":"His defence counsel said he hasn’t come to the attention of gardaí since and adhered to his bail conditions. He has 75 previous convictions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FYRPLEI2GVGFHPFLZSWASHK54M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge Elva Duffy handed down a two-and-a-half year sentence and suspended the final year of it on strict conditions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XY7O57NGJJFGFKROONEBFU3IBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge Duffy said she would have to look at the overall seriousness of the offending. She noted drugs had been taken but she didn’t have up-to-date information on whether Keogh was still using.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2W3CBS7N7ZEAZLISMMNAJOREDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said she did not accept that he just turned up with an implement and said “that is and can never be the way to carry out your business”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DBNM6YVOWJETNH2ZBU7PUMZEOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"She noted Keogh had expressed remorse but said she could not avoid imposing a custodial sentence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEWK6GS67ZENPA3ONGILRVFB3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Keogh’s partner wept as sentence was handed down and embraced him as he was led away into custody to begin his 18-month incarceration.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Niamh O’Donoghue"}]},"description":{"basic":"The court heard there was a row between parents outside the school around 9am that morning"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T16:02:24.105Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘Put the baby down’: Man jailed for assaulting a man with claw hammer in front of children at a school ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"DMEUO7RPAJHQDM67M2XNCBTS7U","auth":{"1":"8ef525af8ceee24703ede4ef899b5e21aa3ca258f70fc3ca47b1e68eb8e39b27"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DMEUO7RPAJHQDM67M2XNCBTS7U.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/put-the-baby-down-man-jailed-for-assaulting-a-man-with-claw-hammer-in-front-of-children-at-a-school/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"G2RDT33EUNHHFKTIYRSGHXFK4A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":147,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/ce9a22ef-5bca-4ea1-8dc3-097b896f3d76/versions/1743016401/media/ae49e3ed840575528884ca1ad7080716_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/woman-whose-hearing-loss-was-not-diagnosed-until-she-was-10-settles-case-against-hse-for-900000/","content_elements":[{"_id":"WIPKZD6WCZBZXETQKJ4COQQQK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743000308463},"content":"A woman whose hearing loss was not diagnosed until she was 10 years old has settled a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\">High Court</a> action against the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/health/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/health/\">Health</a> Service Executive (<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/health-service-executive-hse/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/health-service-executive-hse/\">HSE</a>) for €900,000.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QV6VTBP2L5CANFSWH46MJYY7UI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743000308464},"content":"Caitlin Murray (19), who suffers from disabilities including global developmental delay and poor eyesight, was left unsupported and struggling to hear for most of her junior school years, it was claimed before the High Court. 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They are offences that carry maximum sentences of between five and 14 years, the court heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYEKZ33ZOVD2TKOGMMBBW33N5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"He also pleaded guilty to possession of child sexual abuse material, known in law as child pornography, which was discovered on his phone when he was arrested at Dublin Airport on November 16th, 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PDFQWCQ6G5FKROJKFVGTR7FSAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The offending on the 60-count indictment spanned from 2010 to 2023, the court heard. Ribeiro has been in custody since his arrest.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3BZPURGHDJCQ5DJRVZIFVYHYCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sentencing Ribeiro on Wednesday, Judge Patricia Ryan noted that he has previous convictions for fraud both from France and the UK. She acknowledged that his plea to the charges were valuable to the State.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZCY5QMCE4BDX5EMT6G6655R2CY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge Ryan said that many of the offences involved elaborate planning and pre-meditation and said that “considerable sums of money”, a total of €788,982, were involved in the money laundering offence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KBWUZB7BUBE2VJE2AMHPFNXDOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She accepted that Ribeiro accepted ownership of the accounts connected to the money laundering and that the accounts were held in his own name.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4FWIM4GSBDFBG4DKWAGQHDZWA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In relation to the possession of child abuse material, the judge noted that there was no distribution of the images but said that the images did fall into the most serious form of child abuse material.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WNDKJDUKJ5HSRN5U3GOYVHY7EA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge Ryan imposed a sentence of 10 and half years in prison, which involved consecutive terms. She suspended the final 18 months of the term on strict conditions for three years and backdated the sentence to when Ribeiro first went into custody in November 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3NVUWBUVTBDHREP3KPPMA7J5QI","additional_properties":{},"content":"At an earlier sentence hearing, Detective Garda Vanessa Stafford of the Garda Human Trafficking and Co-ordination Unit told Fiona McGowan BL, prosecuting, that the charges against Ribeiro were part of a wider investigation after two women came forward to gardaí with allegations of trafficking.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4FVAJXNTGBHJJKAAUGXDPL2ZTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"These two women identified some rental properties around rural Ireland which were being used as brothels while others were linked to Ribeiro’s email address and phone number, the court heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WB6R52QMUBG25PD6FJ7IN2FNL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"When investigating gardaí knocked on the doors of some of these properties, the women who answered identified themselves as sex workers, the court heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AZGF5PXWC5GYHGHXP47TSKRDWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí linked 10 rental properties to Ribeiro, who used a different name from a fake Italian passport and fake utility bills to rent out the property from unsuspecting landlords and, in one case, a property agent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N4RKCWS2RZH6TCAJVM2YNM2C3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court heard the landlords told gardaí that they would never have rented the property to Ribeiro if they had known what it would be used for.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V5PDKKXI25CA7CBL2S2U43ZTE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The properties which were used as brothels were located in Longford town, Kildare town, Ballyconnell in Co Cavan, Enniscorthy in Co Wexford, Ballymahon in Co Longford, Ballaghadereen in Co Roscommon, Carrick on Shannon in Co Leitrim, and Tullow, Co Carlow. A further two were located in Roscommon town.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MK4B2NM3XZCEDFOAMKNTNIPEUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The properties were rented out for varying periods of time between 2018 and 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TCMW4YD7JBE65JMP26ARQUWBAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"34XKTNMLRBDA5PN5IRHFHAVFTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"PC65TH65F5H67JSVI2VUUYRJ7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"OKOD5K6KBVG7VOGMZWUNNGMOY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"XG2HQ53C2FF3BOFYTQFEWCXA7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Isabel Hayes"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sonya McLean"}]},"description":{"basic":"Ilamar Rodrigues Ribeiro (54) was sentenced for multiple offences including money laundering and possession of child abuse material"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T13:22:02.57Z","headlines":{"basic":"Man who rented properties under false pretences to use as brothels jailed for nine years","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"FX7E6LOV5NE6HKSLB3LEHN7AFM","auth":{"1":"a9de88e727ee47489786d3258aea5ea52f1b939fa648e007304270cb77e4ecdd"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/FX7E6LOV5NE6HKSLB3LEHN7AFM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/man-who-rented-properties-under-false-pretenses-to-use-as-brothels-jailed-for-nine-years/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"PGQP5VRNPZBXHIHJV6FPQJZR7A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":188,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/89f30d18-41bd-4abb-9a91-09668ff78a5a/versions/1742991267/media/72d74a0964d74d77e224b3e1b97311f3_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/school-gives-undertaking-to-temporarily-restrain-disciplinary-process-against-alleged-gaa-catish/","content_elements":[{"_id":"CEJWJAKNPBBVBLLZAWBZCDOHGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"A south Dublin school has given an undertaking to halt a disciplinary process it initiated against a teacher who claims she was wrongly identified as the so-called “GAA catfish”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T7U373ODEVDSBIJYVIZP6J5LHE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742989974261},"content":"Mr Justice Brian Cregan last week granted Niamh Farrell a short-term injunction restraining Coláiste Éanna from continuing the process, which arises from allegations that she is responsible for “catfishing” various individuals in incidents that were the subject of podcasts by The 2 Johnnies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DHBOMZQSWJFUTI5OK6WOOQV2VI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742989974262},"content":"Catfishing describes the practice of using false online identities to deceive other people, often in an attempt to lure them into a relationship.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PBI5RGTFLFGOPNILEMSD3ZFSLI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742989974263},"content":"Conor Power SC, for Ms Farrell, instructed by Daly Khurshid Solicitors, on Wednesday said in lieu of the interim injunction, Coláiste Éanna was willing to make an undertaking in the same terms of the injunction – including that the school does not take any further steps in the disciplinary process until further order of the court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DEWFOWTR6RDFZA2L2Y5XZ4TZHI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742989974264},"content":"Mr Power asked that the matter be put back for two weeks to allow for the school to file sworn statements in response to his client’s affidavit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFZG4ZJLUVAAXE2T7JPMRRZ2NE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742989974265},"content":"Barra Faughnan BL, instructed by Mason Hayes and Curran, for Coláiste Éanna’s board of management, said the school was making the undertaking. 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work.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WKZXNTZPNBFN3NQCIHWIIPJ5OY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Bradley did not return to work and her employment with Citibank was terminated as part of the settlement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O4A6IBKQSNF2PFZNVEWX66HK6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said: “For me, this experience has been incredibly stressful and disheartening.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6CLJK7BSRFHNXHLZJSKKUZMWBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It came as quite a shock, that the individual hired to cover my role was promoted in my absence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VUHWXK6MQBAH7HS2EXUBXTANPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I felt compelled to challenge this decision, not just for myself, but to ensure that no other woman is penalised for taking time off to have a child.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TFBRXL5LFNDIBHIJUZDSOVYRPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Geraldine McGahey, chief commissioner at the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, said: “Issues 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staff are aware of these obligations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GP63STLXJBGDZPNIXM6NTGURA4","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-19019","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"73H5V3EYNJBCRABDIC7ZXBJHEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The company agreed to liaise with the commission to review its equal opportunities policies, procedures and practices relating to the treatment of employees on maternity leave in Northern Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GJZ5VKVVGFDS7EG7JCAXTW6R34","additional_properties":{},"content":"A spokesperson for Citi said: “We were keen to retain Ms Bradley as an employee at Citi and are disappointed that we were unable to reach an agreement on her return to work.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QDCWE536OBEADCVH4YFT7F2SV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We appreciate the engagement of Ms Bradley and the Equality Commission in resolving this 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She said staff at the bureau do not have advance indications on what they are specifically testing for.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CSCKA2VZ4VCULAQBDUNH6IS5JU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Johnson said Mr Keaveny’s sample arrived at the bureau in a sealed container. The seal was broken to allow for access to the sample, which was found to contain no trace of alcohol when it was first tested on June 16th, 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IVZNCCI6XFGXTH5DAZTGVASG4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Johnson said the blood was then listed for toxicology testing, in line with standard practice. She told the court samples awaiting such analysis were placed in a queue and the test for drugs was carried out sequentially and as soon as practicable.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FMPGFFVEU5GQJIHVYXK4SCTDHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Keaveney’s solicitor, Gearoid Geraghty, asked the witness if the sample had been placed in a sealed container before being stored for further tests.","type":"text"},{"_id":"63GQ5WZISJERBF5IUZMPWVPN5A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Johnson said that while this was not the case, the blood bottle was kept in a locked fridge, in a locked laboratory, to which access was restricted. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KH3TJ2SURVCVHF6DV4UWV46H7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"The case has now been adjourned for the ninth time to the May 10th sitting the court, when a date will be set for hearing.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Declan Tierney"}]},"description":{"basic":"The former Labour TD, who was present in court, has been charged with driving with cocaine in his system"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T21:18:18.881Z","headlines":{"basic":"Colm Keaveney drug driving case hears evidence from a member of the Medical Bureau of Road Safety ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JXNMOMEKP5M5ZKS2ABSIVPVVHM","auth":{"1":"77a070ea2f8c72d625ed28bfcff5ce307b20e2210e9cc66ce61627e4984b9f74"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JXNMOMEKP5M5ZKS2ABSIVPVVHM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/colm-keaveney-drug-driving-case-hears-evidence-from-a-member-of-the-medical-bureau-of-road-safety/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"NRDT5PZOVRFQVGVULGA3W3UKXA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":137,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/3c60afc5-e013-4e8c-980d-87d8eea9d6d8/versions/1742931041/media/4b617cfc5145dc40366be39797509502_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/witness-recalls-being-shocked-and-shattered-when-murder-accused-told-him-he-stabbed-wife/","content_elements":[{"_id":"ZSNJBEKA2RHP5ETA5GLKGABS2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"A murder accused told his friend he had killed his wife and that her body was in their Cork home, the Central Criminal Court has heard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OMQFSWNWDBEEHFGDUD5VS47EYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Regin Parithapara Rajan (43), originally from Kerala in India, denies murdering Deepa Dinami (38) at their home in Wilton in July 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JO63WQAN6ZGK3NAPYAZOC6NTDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mahesh Murali, who first met the accused in India, told the trial on Wednesday that he visited Mr Rajan’s home on the evening of July 14th, 2023 and his friend said he wanted to speak to him in private, so they went outside. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HVHPXGS62BEAXECQ7KXMRPIBSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In our local language he told me ‘I killed my wife and you can call the police and she is on top.’ I understood from this she was on the first floor. I was just shocked and shattered,” Mr Murali said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TV2WPTPWKNA77KLJ2X2C4VNAAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He told the court that Mr Rajan said he had stabbed Ms Dinami with a knife. Mr Murali said he called 999 and the emergency services arrived at the scene soon afterwards.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GWFQBPNWNVALVJN5N6SGV6B5QQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Murali said he worked at the same company in Cork as Mr Rajan and the accused had in the past spoken to him about concerns he had for his marriage. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5HRSDRNKBBBBDLUYXUXLGGOYZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Murali said Mr Rajan claimed his wife was “scolding him for simple things” and was “looking for a divorce”. Mr Murali said he urged his friend to give Ms Dinami time and space.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YHTBT5AUFVB4JGVCHPXO2CGVMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said Mr Rajan at one point sent him a screenshot that he claimed was from his wife’s phone. In it, she allegedly said her status was separated but not divorced and she was “looking for someone I can have good conversation with, to begin with”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YMUIUP4LQZB37NKS2W4BDWHANY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Brian McInerney SC, for Mr Rajan, asked the witness if the defendant was concerned that his wife was in contact with other men. Mr Murali said he believed this was the case. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BV6HJVVNOREFDEEPABXL7ER3VA","additional_properties":{},"content":"When asked if Mr Rajan was “upset” about his marriage, Mr Murali indicated that his friend was “disappointed and depressed” about it and he understood the accused did not want it to end. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"W6GE3MT7YZG6DND2PRXLL74C6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial continues on Wednesday before Ms Justice Siobhán Lankford and a jury of five men and seven women.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Olivia Kelleher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Regin Parithapara Rajan (43) denies murdering Deepa Dinami (38) at their home in Wilton in July 2023"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T19:25:26.892Z","headlines":{"basic":"Witness recalls being ‘shocked and shattered’ when murder accused told him he stabbed wife","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"WDKBMST5FNBWRMPXZCBTE653QY","auth":{"1":"430ecc4f816e34918df0d20f4505609f54651049f66a2dcbca7f32516b4a6aec"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/WDKBMST5FNBWRMPXZCBTE653QY.PNG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/witness-recalls-being-shocked-and-shattered-when-murder-accused-told-him-he-stabbed-wife/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"FNRWTWP2CZGGNCHPPCGTAGDCOY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":216,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/79e98068-e242-4e84-ae28-2498c9775b90/versions/1742925703/media/224eec979ad948039a67ce7be21df96a_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/gardai-search-slurry-pit-as-fears-grow-over-missing-kerry-sheep-farmer/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3W4AYAIDQZHFXCRYPMZE3EX2OA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-garda-siochana/5/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-garda-siochana/5/\">Gardaí </a>investigating the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/24/gardai-keeping-open-mind-over-missing-farmer-in-co-kerry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/24/gardai-keeping-open-mind-over-missing-farmer-in-co-kerry/\">disappearance</a> of sheep farmer Mike Gaine in Co <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/kerry\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/kerry\">Kerry</a> were on Tuesday using plant machinery to empty a slurry pit at his home near Kenmare for fear his remains could be located there. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6JJIT6VL5BR7ERTZYFFRWHEHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Investigators are keeping an open mind as to what has happened to the 56-year-old.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZP2LITN6JGAFJFFLKHQO25SEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda sources said they have not ruled out any scenarios, including that Mr Gaine was the victim of foul play, though they stressed no firm evidence had emerged confirming he had died or that he was attacked in any way.","type":"text"},{"_id":"33O4RKYQY5G2PJTLFBHURYDCDQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí are extremely concerned, as Mr Gaine has not been seen since last Thursday morning, with sources saying the investigation team was now “searching for a body”, even though they could not be certain the missing man was deceased.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K4JBZFVAR5CRTIRREXSTDVUKJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There is no sign of a struggle, no crime scene, nothing like that,” said one source. “But he has not been since for five days now and there is extreme concern.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NCDZOROSYVGP7JE6XIJVVIOMGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Initially, when Mr Gaine went missing there were fears he had gone out to tend his animals somewhere on his farm and had perhaps fallen or otherwise got into difficulty. However, a large of team of volunteers and emergency services workers have carried out extensive searches and no sign of him has been found.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JMEUHSO2E5GUPKRBLGUWR2OVQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gaine’s home and a number of cars have been technically examined by the Garda, for use in the event of the investigation becoming a criminal inquiry. The Garda’s focus in recent days has been on the immediate vicinity of his home, including searching at a slurry pit to determine whether he may have fallen into it into it or whether his remains may be otherwise concealed there.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XBAUVW5U6VBI5HO6QLA5G2XKCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gaine was reported missing from his farm near Kenmare on Friday, a day after the last confirmed sighting of him. Gardaí had no indication he was vulnerable or at risk in any way and his disappearance is regarded as completely out of character.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BP37WO7CORD3XGMWBQ37RWP25U","additional_properties":{},"content":"A very significant search operation was stepped up, including by Kerry Mountain Rescue, over the weekend in a bid to comb lands where Mr Gaine may have fallen and injured himself while tending to his animals. Volunteers also joined the search party – along with Kerry Civil Defence and Kerry Fire Service – swelling to about 250 the number of people looking for the missing man on Sunday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5MOXAAP5ZND6DOCN3F5CK4WIFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The search has focused mainly on the Carraig East area of Kenmare, though no trace of Mr Gaine has been found. The Rescue 115 helicopter was also deployed to conduct aerial searching.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4IPSDCKSVVBLRJOM6Z4NNO2E64","additional_properties":{},"content":"Amid growing concern for Mr Gaine’s welfare, gardaí have released a CCTV still image of him buying mobile phone credit at a Centra store in Kenmare at 9.48am on Thursday. He was seen minutes later in Kenmare, which appears to be the last confirmed sighting of him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MMQZD555EZF27HSMKGFXNPWJOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gaine was described as being about 5ft 10in in height and of stocky build, with brown/grey hair and a “bushy beard”. When last seen, he was wearing an orange woolly hat, black fleece, blue jeans and black boots.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WBKIQUC2ZFA5VPR5W3O7NAHPHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"An appeal for information issued by Garda Headquarters said Mr Gaine’s family, and investigating gardaí, were “extremely concerned” for his safety. They have asked anyone who may have been in contact with him, or seen him, late last week to come forward.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBGM2LKIQFCDFEHL55FNHFQ67I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí in Killarney are especially keen to speak to anyone who may have been driving in the area of Kenmare town and Moll’s Gap last Thursday or Friday and who may have dash cam footage.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Lally"}},"name":"Conor Lally"}]},"description":{"basic":"Mike Gaine seen in Kenmare last Thursday morning, with extensive search since then yielding no clues"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T19:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Gardaí search slurry pit as fears grow over missing Kerry sheep farmer","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"AKEVTCJ3J5A4PDBUNXQN3CEOYI","auth":{"1":"920fdaecb90588175dac6a602b8620d3d0885dc2fe2dca50ed735f5e34ffa497"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/AKEVTCJ3J5A4PDBUNXQN3CEOYI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/gardai-search-slurry-pit-as-fears-grow-over-missing-kerry-sheep-farmer/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"RSIVPM3BZNFNZE3FZ6L5NUNM3E","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":298,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5e943b85-8e4c-41c6-a8a9-65d15d40a6f6/versions/1742929105/media/1283ad08aff08ee618348ebce8ebddaf_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/lisa-thompson-murder-jury-shown-footage-in-trial-of-woman-accused-of-being-getaway-driver/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JNAMQ4CGIBAUNIR7CQPQ7QZOKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The jury in the trial of a 42-year-old woman accused of being the getaway driver for the murderer of Lisa Thompson has begun watching CCTV footage of what the prosecution says are the defendant’s movements in the days before the mother-of-two was found dead at her home. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AAGMAUZV6BHKFFQKUPWDOALDG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Deirdre Arnold, with an address at Briarfield Grove, Kilbarrack, Dublin 5, is charged that on a date between May 9th, 2022, and May 10th, 2022, both dates inclusive, at a location within the State, she did without reasonable excuse an act with intent to impede the apprehension or prosecution of Brian McHugh, a person who had committed an arrestable offence, namely murder, while knowing or believing McHugh to be guilty of the offence or of some other arrestable offence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5SKQR3PKHZDCNEOHKKLUA4LYY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Arnold is also charged that on a date between May 9th, 2022, and May 10th, 2022, both dates inclusive, at a location within the State, she acted or embarked upon a course of conduct which had a tendency to and was intended to pervert the course of public justice.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UALX6XPCDRA4PJZSHHZOSVS6FU","additional_properties":{},"content":"In her opening speech on Monday, counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions Fiona Murphy SC said the jury will hear evidence that the accused drove <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/02/27/man-found-guilty-of-murdering-lisa-thompson-in-her-dublin-home/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/02/27/man-found-guilty-of-murdering-lisa-thompson-in-her-dublin-home/\">murderer Brian McHugh</a> to the deceased’s home, where she waited outside “for well over an hour” before driving him away from the scene and later checking him into a hotel in an effort to help him evade prosecution. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3XMQZ5Q5IRBPBHOYOAS7XNPCSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is also the prosecution’s case that she allowed her vehicle to be used to dispose of evidence taken from the deceased’s home. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZ3I6WYUQFDZ5NPSVZQJ3FT2QE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda Michelle Purcell, from the Divisional Technical Support Unit, on Tuesday began taking Ms Murphy through a montage of CCTV footage showing a woman driving a silver Hyundai Tucson on the evening of May 8th. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"23CNHEJSABBP5CKTCSF3XR7F6Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy said it is the prosecution’s case that this woman is Deirdre Arnold. She said the first piece of footage was taken from an address in Briarfield Grove which the jury has heard is Ms Arnold’s address. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZFL2DL3ICBBQPENWL7XKZSPWV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda Purcell showed footage of the car’s movements, including interactions between a man and woman at various locations, over the next hour and 57 minutes.<b> </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"EUNGWMT52ZCW3ELEKWAJBDP3KY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier, Chief State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan gave evidence to Ms Murphy that she had carried out a postmortem on the deceased on May 11th, 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KYH5NJSHURC75LEPWGEPSKRGRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan said a cord that appeared to be from a blind was around the deceased’s neck and there were multiple stab wounds on the left side of the chest, centred on the area above where the heart is located.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NF5TQ6IGDZHZVBXHU66FBDKYYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Crossing over at the front of the neck was the cord of a window blind with a free end which appeared torn, said Dr Mulligan. The pathologist said there was a thin, pale band with some areas of abrasion which travelled around the back of the neck almost horizontally.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6EQUZJDKVATPPPDL7KBXF4PRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan said on the left side of the front of the chest there was a group of 11 stab wounds covering an area 7cm vertically by 10cm horizontally.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3E5XZCDJRVGHNHR2B3L3PF6YEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said there were six stab wounds to the heart, two of which were through and through injuries, and further stab wounds in the left lung, one of which was also a through and through wound.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DYNRF4LPTZEXVLGYNB2Y2CRBOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The stab wounds had one blunted end and one pointed end and there was no evidence of any serrated abrasions, suggesting the stab wounds were caused by a knife or a knife-shaped object, said the pathologist.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IKENP2IWUBHZ3DW56TIRJZGEDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan said there were also numerous areas of haemorrhage around the neck. She said both the asphyxiation due to strangulation and the multiple stab wounds to the heart and chest were fatal injuries and it was very difficult to say which occurred first.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q3YU4G6T3BFWBOZKN3JZPX5QCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bloods taken for analysis showed evidence of fluoxetine, an antidepressant and a separate, antipsychotic drug. Dr Mulligan said the combination of multiple sedative drugs could have affected Ms Thompson’s actions and reaction, but the deceased may have had some tolerance if she had been taking them regularly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HIWASUCNANBHPNEVT2QEHS25SM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In conclusion, Dr Mulligan said death was caused by a combination of ligature strangulation causing asphyxia and multiple stab wounds to the chest with no contributing factors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VFWA2A3TRRAORJMZKC2HLFOTHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Tuesday morning, John McDonagh told prosecuting counsel he was a born-again Christian who had known Ms Thompson for six or seven years after meeting her through one of her neighbours.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DXBH4EFYAVFCTADBF2UDEXRX6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the last time he had seen Ms Thompson was the Friday before she died, when she called into his home for a “quick visit”. He said he spoke to her on the Sunday evening at about 7pm and said she was in “great form”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6NRP4HNPBRHLXO3MODIEYJM4AU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McDonagh said he was aware that McHugh “had a fling” with Ms Thompson about a year before she died. He confirmed to Ms Murphy that he told gardaí that about two or three weeks prior to her death, McHugh had reappeared and was in contact with Ms Thompson by text.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3UVOQWNI6ZHTTLDTI4NN3GLXNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial continues on Wednesday before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath and a jury of seven men and five women. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Fiona Magennis"}]},"description":{"basic":"Deirdre Arnold of Briarfield Grove, Kilbarrack, charged with acting with intent to impede apprehension or prosecution of Brian McHugh"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T18:53:14.256Z","headlines":{"basic":"Lisa Thompson murder: Jury shown footage in trial of woman accused of being getaway driver ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"K7FOACE6KVAVJJMH47INYTZE3A","auth":{"1":"c20b84351e3c08d96747400963eec96334b9fae99acc7d6de3ece25d7e8880db"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/K7FOACE6KVAVJJMH47INYTZE3A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/lisa-thompson-murder-jury-shown-footage-in-trial-of-woman-accused-of-being-getaway-driver/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"MWITAYLHAZFHFJBI4JKKBPOGJE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":207,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/0ee7106a-e722-4242-bde8-904e975a9039/versions/1742922930/media/31bd583202d26820ad05b3824dbe61bd_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/law-criminalising-buying-of-sexual-services-has-proven-difficult-to-enforce-review-finds/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FU2I7MAUKJGDPJFEGLBEWW3LNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A law criminalising the buying, but not the selling, of sexual services has proven difficult to enforce and has not reduced demand for such services, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/03/24/much-needed-review-of-sex-work-laws-stalled-for-five-years/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/03/24/much-needed-review-of-sex-work-laws-stalled-for-five-years/\">a review has found</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E4JGI42YVVFIDMIJHEOF3DFLGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It noted that gardaí and the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/director-of-public-prosecutions/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/director-of-public-prosecutions/\">Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP)</a> have encountered significant barriers in enforcing the 2017 law, introduced with a view to deterring the demand for commercial sex, which has been linked to exploitation and human trafficking.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MDU23FVP7ZCRFBJVW6N6YFWVOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Annual recorded crime data since the law was introduced showed a total of 280 incidents of “Payment etc for Sexual Activity with a Prostitute”. Of 161 prosecutions directed by the DPP for that offence from January 2017 to last August, Garda Pulse records showed just 15 convictions. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AZWSZ4TR6JBLJL4K3RQ5ECHSIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Justice <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\">Jim O’Callaghan</a> on Tuesday published the 111-page review of the operation of Part 4 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017, which amended section 7 of the Criminal Law Sexual Offences Act 1993.","type":"text"},{"_id":"POEVOZTWC5C2BOCBEPCOKMAAIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Minister said “prostitution is inherently exploitative of vulnerable persons, mainly women and girls”, and that many people “are forced into prostitution, through trafficking, drug addiction, homelessness and poverty”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FAE2Q2F7CZC7FFJBZSLQMJZFOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said his “key focus” was “to seek to reduce demand, protect those involved in the sex trade, and support those who wish to exit”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5XVSU3FD4ZD2NOHGGNKMWNKRXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 2017 law decriminalised the sale of sex, criminalised its purchase, and increased the penalty for brothel-keeping. The aim was to shift the legal burden towards those who buy sex with the intent of protecting those most at risk within the sex industry. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MNQFLBTTR5DYJHLPBHZHWWUSGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The review found that, overall, the Act has made “meaningful progress” towards its objectives, but it identified “key areas” for improvement subject to provision of required policy interventions and support services. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7VOCOAKPYJFJXMKUROP6CMIBSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The ability to successfully support and protect those providing sexual services is hindered by a lack of culturally appropriate support services including healthcare, social welfare, gender-specific housing for women, and clear exit routes, the review found.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MCMQIE2TO5EINIAJJJXVDPCMFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Identified challenges to effective enforcement of the legislation include Garda resources, limited power of arrest for detention and questioning, the requirement of an admission of guilt, and challenges in prosecution due to the necessary “proofs”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYVI4APQ2NHF5F56PEGZZ2WTR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The prevalence of human trafficking among those involved in the sale of sex in Ireland is not fully known, it noted. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BS2OHBLN4NDSNOINJGL65WYFUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Opponents of section 7A, the review said, had claimed its introduction has negatively impacted on the safety and wellbeing of sex workers and is exposing them to more dangerous clients. Supporters of the provision argued that safety issues were ever present.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTNFNM2GP5AANGYNFE5QOFSOJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Various policy developments since 2017 have collectively strengthened the legislative and support structure surrounding section 7A, the report notes, and these have created a “more cohesive and integrated” approach to addressing domestic, sexual and gender-based violence here, it said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"L5BTPXIJ5JFLJEGFPWIVO3AAEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The developments provide “significant opportunities” to overcome some of the identified challenges, it noted. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mary Carolan"}},"name":"Mary Carolan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Just 15 convictions recorded in seven years out of 161 prosecutions directed by the DPP "},"display_date":"2025-03-25T17:14:00.513Z","headlines":{"basic":"Law criminalising buying of sexual services has proven difficult to enforce, review finds ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7NWNJFAE5BB2RPDSZWHCVBNXHM","auth":{"1":"225b7d55bfa5e3938cf2b71ce7b76caaafe806e0fd6a5d8eb0c966015b32aa96"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7NWNJFAE5BB2RPDSZWHCVBNXHM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/law-criminalising-buying-of-sexual-services-has-proven-difficult-to-enforce-review-finds/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"P7RYX3BRJZC77HSPN5BET37X6E","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":188,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/933e8a3b-354e-4375-9975-afa5efaf977e/versions/1742924981/media/0a5fa251a5377b4377ae19fd64d7fc0e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/business/2025/03/25/fresh-row-emerges-over-legal-costs-in-case-over-michael-flatley-mansion/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JK6HKWWTANDFPDBTE7LTDIBOAE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135100},"content":"A new row has erupted over costs arising from the legal battle over a receiver being appointed to Michael Flatley’s Cork mansion, Castlehyde.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5EPNK3FXGRH73JPAL7S3466L5Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135101},"content":"While the Lord of the Dance star this month paid off a €6.9 million loan to keep the receiver from the door of his Fermoy mansion, the Commercial Court on Tuesday heard of a new dispute over legal fees claimed by the other side.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KEXVA5SLTRCBRG4KCD6QIYL5IY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135102},"content":"Ronnie Hudson BL, for Mr Flatley and instructed by solicitor Maxwell Mooney, told the court that his client, who had paid the €1.4 million lodged in court until the final disputed costs bill was decided upon, is “utterly dismayed” at the current position.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IMNR7S2CHBDKRGLDIBWPEX4RFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Counsel said Mr Flatley thought what was being lodged was into court was in relation contractual costs by the other side in relation to the Castlehyde receiver battle. It is claimed that the costs bill includes legal fees in the region of €793,000.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HI4WBV5KWRCENIXLDE2PTCWIMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135104},"content":"In a letter from Mr Flatley’s solicitors to Arthur Cox solicitors for the lender, Mr Flatley seeks the repayment of the €793,000 which has already been lodged in court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TYGBBWSJXBEJTLPRUQNKW42Z6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135105},"content":"The original legal battle related to a loan made to Mr Flatley’s Blackbird Film Productions Ltd by Novellus Finance Ltd, with registered offices at St Stephen’s Green, Dublin in 2023 with repayments of €67,000 per month over two years. Novellus claimed there has been default on repayment, which Mr Flatley denied.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NQ47LFIQ7FB3FKRUNHRXHK5UI4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135106},"content":"Mr Flatley provided a guarantee for the loan on the strength of the value of his Castlehyde mansion. As a result of the alleged default, Novellus appointed a receiver over the property. An interim injunction was granted to the Flatley side to prevent the receiver from taking further measures in relation to Castlehyde and a judge conducted a two-day hearing on the matter.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KCZUFL6UTRGM3JE36ZI5CSHNXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135107},"content":"The Flatley side asked for Mr Justice Mark Sanfey to hold off on giving his judgment on whether to set aside the interim injunction stopping the receiver taking steps or grant an interlocutory injunction to the Flatley side. The €6.9 million loan was later paid off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFKZEDE46JHJDIZ7IFKZ6YVJ3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135108},"content":"In court on Tuesday, counsel for Novellus Eithne Corry BL said the suggestion by Mr Flatley that some money be paid out of court was “pie in the sky”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C56AF37XX5H3HGUUD3ACIDWF6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135109},"content":"She said all allegations made by the Flatley side against her clients had been dropped and what was left was the issue of the disputed costs sum, which could be dealt with by mediation. Counsel said her side did not accept the complaint made by the Flatley side in relation to invoices.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W47UBR4BLBEYZPIQ7XICKW3CIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135110},"content":"Mr Justice Sanfey said the question of what ought to be mediated was a question for the mediator and not the court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M56CYC6G6FFFNKR2BDHWZKUNYA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135111},"content":"Regarding mediation, the judge said he expected the parties “to get on with it” and he said mediation “is the way to go on this.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MRUNVRBJMRED3HJGCOSGBYFJVQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135112},"content":"Mr Justice Sanfey, who will get an update on the mediation proposal in early April, told the sides that “all parties should give mediation a shot”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Mr Flatley earlier this month paid off a €6.9 million loan at the centre of the High Court dispute"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T15:18:26.594Z","headlines":{"basic":"Fresh row emerges over legal costs in case over Michael Flatley mansion","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"26XPUGB4MDB4YALHGJVDQCX7XU","auth":{"1":"961d32999c345556012bce271be17684ddcc27145ec16b6e3113a617a1b7776c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/26XPUGB4MDB4YALHGJVDQCX7XU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Crime & Law"},{"name":"Courts"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/business/2025/03/25/fresh-row-emerges-over-legal-costs-in-case-over-michael-flatley-mansion/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/business","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Business"}}}},{"_id":"C27KIYTBN5AADMZGXB5JLO4IBM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":184,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/e460099a-4256-44fb-a42e-1f29c068c210/versions/1742915418/media/a138b7114fc13daac99b6ec117f05cb1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/minister-signs-order-closing-penalty-points-loophole/","content_elements":[{"_id":"7VUH4XAO2VD5HEDV67ULVCJYGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Minister for Transport signed an order on Tuesday closing a legal loophole under which some drivers got disqualification orders for periods as short as one day and avoided penalty points putting them off the road for up to six months.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XVLUHVTYVVDZJN4UP7BFCHPTME","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-obrien/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-obrien/\">Darragh O’Brien</a> said he was pleased to sign an order to commence section 4 of the Road Traffic Act 2024 with effect from March 31st next.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CYS6BNVCZC3XM5WMPMHM4C6XQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The order means drivers who reach the penalty point threshold for a six-month disqualification “will now always face the appropriate penalty”, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HUSYBVTGPFF3XBBHDLFPZQGS5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This is a positive step towards ensuring fairness and accountability for all road users. Strengthening these measures is crucial to enhancing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/road-safety/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/road-safety/\">road safety</a> and protecting lives.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4QAKWPYGR5EIPJWLNJHF42SHCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is “essential that the consequences associated with reckless and dangerous driving appropriately reflect the seriousness of the issue”, the Minister said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HXYS2KVGAVGOVKMVYLNDG76QLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The order closes a loophole in a 2002 Act, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2023/11/22/legal-loophole-gets-single-day-ban-for-driver-who-passed-checkpoint-without-stopping/#:~:text=Section%202.8%20provides%2C%20where%20a,specify%20the%20period%20of%20disqualification.\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2023/11/22/legal-loophole-gets-single-day-ban-for-driver-who-passed-checkpoint-without-stopping/#:~:text=Section%202.8%20provides%2C%20where%20a,specify%20the%20period%20of%20disqualification.\">highlighted by The Irish Times more than a year ago</a>, where drivers who accumulated penalty points and faced a six-month disqualification could instead receive an “ancillary” disqualification for a shorter time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5INHK6VDTZFG5GWHTI4O6OW5BY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Data released last week by the Courts Service disclosed that a total of 33 ancillary orders were granted in 2023 and 2024, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-court-granted-vast-majority-of-legal-loophole-orders-under-which-drivers-got-24-hour-bans-and-avoided-penalty-points/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-court-granted-vast-majority-of-legal-loophole-orders-under-which-drivers-got-24-hour-bans-and-avoided-penalty-points/\">of which 27 were granted at Naas District Court</a>. Some drivers got more than one such order.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UVIXAW76VVE2ZLWPYWIYI2BEDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement issued on Tuesday, the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/department-of-transport/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/department-of-transport/\">Department of Transport</a> said the Road Traffic Act 2024 was introduced as a response to the rising trend in road traffic collisions and fatalities in recent years and is being commenced in stages.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IIFUQ5XBM5ADZAXYA5L3ADPFCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The main provisions focus on penalty point reform, mandatory drug testing at the scene of serious collisions, and introducing safer default speed limits, but the legislation also includes several technical amendments to existing legislation, such as the section 4 provision, it said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MEAIFPDNTRHUPNFJ67TO2J4XV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Section 4 addresses “an unintended consequence” of the earlier legislation on penalty points and ancillary disqualifications from driving.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4CGLJX4UPZAQFMIIGAAJCMZHYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Penalty points “are meant to act as a deterrent” from illegal driving behaviours because drivers risk being disqualified for six months if they accumulate enough penalty points.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q3QLYKLVVVDURI25Q3LO242UYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"When penalty points were introduced, it was decided that if the court imposed an ancillary disqualification order, no penalty points should be applied following conviction for a relevant offence. This was because there was no reason to give people penalty points that could lead to the risk of disqualification when they were being disqualified anyway.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VDHHL3QR3JE5DG54CTCUIDQ7IE","additional_properties":{},"content":"In some recent court cases, the statement noted, judges imposed ancillary disqualifications of less than six months on drivers who would otherwise be disqualified for six months if penalty points for those same offences were endorsed on their licences.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DSDLY3UXGVBFDH7S3ANVXDL6HU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The amending provisions mean, in future, penalty points will be endorsed where an ancillary disqualification is made for six months or less.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7S5X2O6DVBAHBPXXSDS7ZRSGPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mary Carolan"}},"name":"Mary Carolan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Minister says drivers who reach penalty point threshold will now ‘always face the appropriate penalty’"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T15:05:08.048Z","headlines":{"basic":"Minister signs order closing penalty points loophole","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"W54JQRHBHBGYE6ULB3VUQJTWEE","auth":{"1":"6f3389b2621684e20140bbd88813418f7ec3dc4b9198f65c7113ec9a18a621d8"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/W54JQRHBHBGYE6ULB3VUQJTWEE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/minister-signs-order-closing-penalty-points-loophole/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"5XKH54BMMVE43HUKOEOKRJHW7E","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":238,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5b30967f-081e-49c1-b6c7-412c977ec86b/versions/1742915001/media/d53eb0862d76257f7b42874824455615_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/business/2025/03/25/web-summit-court-case/","content_elements":[{"_id":"NQ6XASW7NJAZTLVEQC7TAF6VPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The civil dispute involving three former <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/web-summit/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/web-summit/\">Web Summit</a> business partners has been adjourned to allow the men consider a direct appeal from the trial judge to pursue a mediated settlement. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7PARRJBHZGR7GW6IYRJS4GHTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former company director <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/daire-hickey/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/daire-hickey/\">Daire Hickey</a> had been due to begin evidence against his one time associate and Web Summit founder <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paddy-cosgrave/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paddy-cosgrave/\">Paddy Cosgrave</a> on Tuesday morning. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MLH2XBLSP5ACHJDCLQ6KKHY524","additional_properties":{},"content":"That case is one of five separate actions being heard simultaneously before the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\">High Court</a> in Dublin, in a protracted and acrimonious legal dispute expected to last into June. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GID4WU3OVVHSPFGMXNY3JEIVFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, at the outset of Tuesday’s proceedings Mr Justice Michael Twomey said he wished to address the litigants directly. He then appealed to the three parties to pursue a mediated resolution outside the courtroom in order to end what could otherwise turn into a lengthy legal case on appeal, potentially reaching as far as the Supreme Court and lasting until 2028. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YYG4LKI7JVHAZNZ3UFV73BXZ2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That is time the parties will never get back,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JV3DC743PNGGTPWJDDPCSIQVLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Until now, the judge said, lawyers for the three former business partners and friends had had the opportunity to set out their clients’ positions in black and white terms, but sworn evidence was only due to begin on Tuesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YGMWVPRHNBA33KOXQMKB7VN364","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UM54SZZ55JGJJBYTURWJT3TA2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Web Summit timeline: From 150 attendees at first event to Lisbon and then High Court","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"4EROCKMNSRBDPISJTR7PHD5V7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That is why the case really only starts today,” he said, describing the legal approach up to that point as having the potential to offer a “reality check” to those involved.","type":"text"},{"_id":"56LDXE5JPBG6FKUCRVWBFKPQMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This dispute, at its heart, is not a larger corporate dispute but a very personal dispute.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"P5YCOV3RGRCP5NO4ILCBE2Y7JA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In setting out his view of the proceedings ahead, Mr Justice Twomey noted the potential personal toll. Quoting the French philosopher Voltaire, he said: “I was never ruined but twice: once when I lost a lawsuit, and once when I won one.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"27F2IFA54RCWPGWCG2SF5WCRIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"After brief consultation among the parties, Bernard Dunleavy, senior counsel for Mr Cosgrave, told the judge his views had been taken on-board and requested further time. Then, just before lunch, Mr Dunleavy informed the court that some progress had been made and a further adjournment was granted until Wednesday morning. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"N22S5I37DFBB7K4ISKIJPW45E4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Now in its fifth day, there had been much anticipation in advance of the first direct evidence in Court No 29. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"24NXLHR6QNCXZGOCEFSW2NPYIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Daire Hickey is alleging his rights as a minority shareholder in Manders Terrace, the trading company behind the tech conference business, were oppressed by Mr Cosgrave. He is also suing Mr Cosgrave for alleged breaches of a profit-sharing agreement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KSGOMAHU55DDFCMNB4LCWKDB2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Another minority shareholder, David Kelly, is also suing Mr Cosgrave. Separately, Mr Cosgrave – vigorously defending himself in both sets of proceedings – is suing Mr Kelly for alleged breaches of duties when he was a company director.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GTPUFHYDI5CBZKDDRWBJIXNUU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Cosgrave owns 81 per cent of the business; Mr Hickey owns 7 per cent; and Mr Kelly, 12 per cent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UYFL5SI5PNGQ7KEUTO5O6DB5EY","additional_properties":{},"content":"All three men were in court on Tuesday where Mr Hickey had been ready to give evidence before Mr Justice Twomey’s early appeal. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GHMNGE4RH5FOFKJ2V6W6UO62SA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court had previously heard that the relationship between Mr Hickey, who joined the business in 2010 and left as an employee in 2017, and Mr Cosgrave had broken down in the years after Mr Hickey moved to the US in 2013. Mr Hickey resigned as a director in 2019.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y7CMAJDL3VDVJDIDGV5RLVXKBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He is alleging that Mr Cosgrave weaponised a 2016 sexual harassment complaint made against him by an employee to force him out of the company. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H356PFGSWJHEVB7IXK2XF4XQCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court heard that Mr Hickey, who vehemently denies the allegation, was not even aware that a formal complaint had been made and was not given any chance to respond to the claims at the time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LUDJIFG6XBG7ZF66VR3SOSWSNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last month the warring parties agreed to attempt a mediation process, and appointed Sue Prevezer KC, a London-based barrister, to facilitate talks before the process ultimately broke down. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hilliard"}},"name":"Mark Hilliard"}]},"description":{"basic":"Five separate cases underway between three Web Summit shareholders in case due to last until June "},"display_date":"2025-03-25T14:58:07.027Z","headlines":{"basic":"Web Summit court case adjourned to allow litigants consider judge’s mediation appeal","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JI2S6QKHYFHBZMPSIEHUK4Y2XM","auth":{"1":"9b12c18880a04c29acad41aecd003b04df36498a4e4002c7a1718446c3bd4473"},"focal_point":{"x":2419,"y":744},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JI2S6QKHYFHBZMPSIEHUK4Y2XM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Crime & Law"},{"name":"Courts"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/business/2025/03/25/web-summit-court-case/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/business","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Business"}}}},{"_id":"EQJLLPQWGBF7VLOJVD2UTMNOBI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":232,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/d7485a2c-d2a1-4afc-aa6f-811b97f7fd1b/versions/1742910124/media/4008080ad0a2f7112a9d46783eb133ad_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/receiver-may-be-allowed-seize-enoch-burkes-other-assets-as-bank-funds-do-not-cover-fines-court-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IRWRC44T2BFD7HK2FRURA6PYUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686268},"content":"A receiver appointed over teacher Enoch Burke’s salary may be allowed to seize his other assets as the funds in his bank account are insufficient to meet the fines imposed on him for breaching court orders, the High Court heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MCFLAJVPKRANZH4ZTYNTCTT57Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686269},"content":"Mr Burke has continued to turn up at Wilson’s Hospital School in Co Westmeath since Christmas following his release after 512 days in prison for defying court orders not to do so.","type":"text"},{"_id":"22PJQKVYRZBU3F3OPIUZPSMEAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686270},"content":"He claims he has been jailed and his salary seized because, in opposing transgenderism in accordance with his Christian beliefs, he has refused to call a 15-year-old student by the “they” pronoun and a new name.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LLOR4H22H5DERMFIH7WK2I3VVI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686271},"content":"Each of his attendances at the school since January 2023 had attracted a High Court imposed daily fine of €700. The daily fine was recently increased to €1,400.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WD7XIGT6W5AN5LCRJYP7SN4GJU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686272},"content":"As an alternative to sending him back to prison, Mr Justice David Nolan ordered last week that steps be taken to ensure he pays the fines and appointed a receiver over his salary and freezing orders on his bank account. He made the move in view of the fact that Mr Burke continues to be paid his teacher’s salary as an appeal over his dismissal has yet to be completed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ID54P3LBG5AHNNCZYVIKEJ5BBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686273},"content":"On Tuesday, instead of going to the school, Mr Burke attended court where the judge said he was giving him an opportunity to argue why an order allowing for the fines to continue to be taken from his bank account should not be made permanent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7IGS6YTSTJDQPF45YBNAFPMDYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686274},"content":"The hearing started out with submissions from Brian Kennedy SC, for the Attorney General, who said his client had considered, in conjunction with the receiver, extending the remit of the receiver to act on Mr Burke’s other assets.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4MWZX7JRFGQXLWUPGNESTB3ZA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686275},"content":"This was because, counsel said, his bank account appeared to have €40,000 in it which was insufficient to meet the €79,100 in fines that had already built up and there could be future fines for Mr Burke continuing to breach the court order.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MEZZBLRGO5HVBPIOWHRJKBOPFM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686276},"content":"In reply, Mr Burke stated the underlying issue in this case – his constitutional right to freedom of religion and expression in relation to his Christian views on transgenderism – had never been addressed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PUYRRXLNVJGXVE5VFIB3QA7I7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686277},"content":"The judge reminded him the only issue he was dealing with was the application to make the order on his salary permanent. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSEZ2WVLFNGLDOJTYS33F64ZP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"When Mr Burke complained that Mr Kennedy had got 20 minutes to put his submission, and he was not getting even five minutes to make his, the judge said he would give him five minutes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AGPXFWTL6VDR5JCOJQIEFH2GGI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686278},"content":"Mr Burke said, among other things, that the Attorney General had admitted what was being done with his salary had never happened before. At one point, as the judge reminded him to stick to the matter before the court, he told the judge to “grow up a little please”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2XUWSMNGJBQFARE73A5A6VPHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686280},"content":"He also told the judge, who had previously quoted scripture in relation to the man who failed to make use of his talents, that the Bible also stated there was only the male and female sex.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJWSVT3TTBEEZHOPZCVLQ3X2OU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686281},"content":"Mr Burke also told Mr Justice Nolan that he, under the preamble to the Constitution, was “accountable to God who you will stand before one day and give an account”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FQOIYAFWMRHWPKGSTH4XOVJC4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the judge was also accountable to the people and to uphold their rights.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TGXAHZNYPJA6PDXN5Q2Z2XWPUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686282},"content":"After listening to him for more than five minutes, the judge told him his time was up and he was once again asking why he should not make the order permanent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O4ZRG6MEXBB5HGZBDXVANTGP6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686283},"content":"Mr Burke continued speaking as the judge then made the order permanent and adjourned the case for two weeks to allow the Attorney General to come back with an application to extend the remit of the receiver.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WH372F5BI5AMLBMY2PRDJFHTSU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686284},"content":"The judge then got up and left the courtroom as Mr Burke continued to speak and an unidentified man at the back of the courtroom called out a number of times “judge” as he held up a piece of paper.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JV4TYT4QVZA3TH7KJMPTNF2FRE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686285},"content":"Mr Burke was accompanied by his mother Martina and siblings Ammi and Isaac.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Teacher has run up fines of some €79,000 for breaching court order by attending Wilson’s Hospital School in Co Westmeath"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T13:36:59.725Z","headlines":{"basic":"Insufficient funds in Enoch Burke’s bank account to cover €79,100 fines, court hears ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"LQ5DZKX5UD5T7V2SH7WZ6JE3WQ","auth":{"1":"c2b69b988cb399653bea1fab7eaab1c2cd54ba4623b588498453da24a995462b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/LQ5DZKX5UD5T7V2SH7WZ6JE3WQ.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/receiver-may-be-allowed-seize-enoch-burkes-other-assets-as-bank-funds-do-not-cover-fines-court-hears/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"PYG7JHBEHRGUFBRCWKBDCKJZ5U","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":245,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/7629652c-7fb4-474a-a754-e7e260c423e9/versions/1742903684/media/2a5c3b31a92fe075c9d4d3be26b47876_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/they-may-never-get-closure-annyalla-locals-on-lynskey-familys-search-for-murdered-relative/","content_elements":[{"_id":"CDY63OC5EFBXRNSAEKGJZVXU6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Beside Annyalla cemetery, the Angelus bells of St Michael’s Church rang out on Monday evening. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BJWAVZISVFHQ5PEWYYJ6L67YYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"For the family of Joe Lynskey, the bells will continue to sound without resolution or relief.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZHKWBMBGRJCSHJAN4U2S54PCZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lynskey, a former monk from Belfast who later joined the IRA, was abducted, murdered and secretly buried by the IRA in 1972.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFJNHNQQSJDQBATPQR2EGAZNNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Independent Commission for the Location of Victims’ Remains (ICLVR) on Monday announced that the results of DNA examinations on remains exhumed from a grave in the cemetery had eliminated the possibility of them being those of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/24/doubly-cruel-for-joe-lynskey-family-to-learn-exhumed-remains-are-not-his/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/24/doubly-cruel-for-joe-lynskey-family-to-learn-exhumed-remains-are-not-his/\">Lynskey “or any of the Disappeared”</a> – the collective name for the IRA’s murder victims whose remains were hidden during the Troubles.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZLETZYSURBNRCGGY3YYNDEXME","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"FKMBXXHRQZDQJAHW56MCXEONCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The commission said the remains were not related to the family buried in the grave and remain unidentified.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P4QNYDIBORHNNF5JGO6XMC3HCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The remains were exhumed in November after the commission said it received information related to “suspicious historic activity” during the 1970s at a grave in the cemetery. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V3O6LFBY4FD6NLJIBCK5LOQA5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Five months on, locals in Annyalla, which sits between Castleblayney and Clontibret next to the Border, are absorbing these developments about one of the Disappeared. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VHIWOTAHXVF5JBVBHV3VEWQDMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Across the busy Monaghan Road from St Michael’s lives Gerry McKeown (76). Like many others in the locality, his thoughts were with Lynskey’s family. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WVF6I2KHYNGWLPI73BDWZUGEDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“For the family’s sake, I was hoping that the remains were his; I’m very surprised. I thought when they exhumed the body that it was his,” he says. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYEBYSF6RZAKVDWVSUAFOVQACI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ZADUXEREIVEMXJRLBZEMLPMMMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He was also “shocked” to hear that the exhumed remains do not belong to the family buried in the grave. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JOWU3OTPCBF2BKJM5XQ4WZP7MM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the nearby townland of Cloghan, Gerry Crowley (66), a retired nursing home care attendant, was also mindful of the Lynskey family. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"J4XKT2K7KVCAZJAELL6QRJE5N4","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘Doubly cruel’ for Joe Lynskey family to learn exhumed remains are not his","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"Z2ZHQLUDQZEDFLY2TNUNONTP4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It is very hard on the family – they were probably expecting closure on the situation. They may never get closure. It’s sad and they are broken-hearted,” he says. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OTHSFDTJLBHLVMFL4YERLESHBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Crowley was also disconcerted at the news that the remains exhumed do not belong to the family who are buried in the plot. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3O73FH4XJ5FRPIXCZCDIFIOFK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m sure people of the parish would like to know who it is, they can’t just belong to nobody; they have to belong to someone,” he adds. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"W2MYOPTANVDGXHUQNNX7U3HZXE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ZF2ZNMJTSVB37DL7G3MIOSXBNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Some people approached for comment declined to speak. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7GPNMVRB5ERZMNK7X7DSGS35A","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, some in the locality were not fully aware of the news, including Jason Kelly (43), originally from Carlow, who lives in the nearby Drumakelly estate in Cloghan. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ME55N2AXRNBCREOO3Q32LZWKSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I wouldn’t know anything about it only for TikTok. I wouldn’t know that it was that grave over there. I wouldn’t know much of the history. I do remember the canopies when they were up back in November,” he says. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2BZDU3BT6BEDBBI7KMQRAOM7SM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kelly, who works as a team leader in Americold, a warehouse just outside Castleblayney, is unsure whetherLynskey’s remains will ever be found. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"I5Z2BYPMANEHNG7UJ6P3H5XLGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’d say that it’s very far-fetched that they will; I imagine it will be an unsolved case,” he says. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5OCWUBVIOBB2BCO3JVNFPPAVGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Across from Kelly lives Nuala Witek (44), a housewife who was thinking of the Lynskey family and of the family that owns the grave. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HIL3FZKZDRD5PKOSCXAUC635FI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I heard the news first thing this morning. My thoughts are with the family whose grave it is, that this will bring them one step closer for their ordeal to be over and I also have a lot of sympathy for Mr Lynskey’s family,” she says.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YL4X6T6LGBBVFEVPVOZ36BHFGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I hope there will be closure for all the families of the Disappeared.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OKAMZIGHM5DNFGACCR5LRKUMIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Witek, who originally comes from Keady, Co Armagh, was concerned there is an unidentified body in the grave.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TVENRGD5IVBDPDL5OSXH53JG7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Who is this poor person?” she asks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CENZSXCWENDXJKUF75OQUH4ILI","additional_properties":{},"content":"An Garda Síochána said it has notified the local coroner and that attempts are being made to “determine the correct identification of the remains”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Stephen Farrell in Annyalla"}]},"description":{"basic":"Co Monaghan village residents fear remains of Joe Lynskey, one of the IRA’s Disappeared, may never be found "},"display_date":"2025-03-25T11:49:35.506Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘They may never get closure’: Annyalla locals on Lynskey family’s search for murdered relative","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RC27JLAZJFFCPH7MRVGFSTWX4M","auth":{"1":"c2ee53a74a8c7bd5c82311aa50322ccc998b1b61c2e6c95b9b04ce245d3df342"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RC27JLAZJFFCPH7MRVGFSTWX4M.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/they-may-never-get-closure-annyalla-locals-on-lynskey-familys-search-for-murdered-relative/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"QRJZAAACVNCLHN4ZCKSBIXDMMA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":115,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/3c286c74-6d36-4683-bcc3-b2ca152248ca/versions/1742913321/media/b640c89f7cc1ceb09e7ad9b77384a6f6_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/eighth-man-charged-over-fatal-assault-of-quham-babatunde-in-dublins-city-centre/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"An eighth man has appeared in court in connection with the fatal assault of Quham Babatunde in Dublin’s city centre last February.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B44BF7MV3NFNFIHUBM3V7KOT5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Babatunde (34) was stabbed three times in an attack on Anne Street South at around 3am on February 15th. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NS7KSVCLBVHJXDMXCLULGWJL4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bruno Tache (20), of Trimleston, Balbriggan, faces two charges of assault causing harm, one against Mr Babatunde and another against a friend of his, Angel Eghosa Agharia. He faces a third charge of committing violent disorder with others. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCEJFBI56JBLVASMM7CGSIWRXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Giving evidence at Dublin District Court, Garda Jordan Kennedy said Mr Tache went to the nearby Club 22 nightclub on Valentine’s night with some friends. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TIYZXVNYTJH5BAY7ENILAYJ6BQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Security removed him from the club because he was so intoxicated, the court heard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FYHZ4XB2FH57AEBMNC5RZMWVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda Kennedy said the accused and his associates became involved in an incident afterwards that led to Mr Babatunde’s death. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVUAIKRRS5HA3LL5P6TFBVSTBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The attack was completely “unprovoked” and was fuelled by intoxicants, he told the court. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"S7TGUMCLWVH63PWBRH2NOG6CAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"High-definition CCTV demonstrated that Mr Tache was one of the “primary aggressors” in the incident, the garda submitted. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HT3CFDS5UFB4ZNWLGA7F7VKEFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UQPA6BOUB5FQ7KSWEL575CKGX4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZFRJA663NGDRL4EJ76T5LFYMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Tache was later seen assaulting an unknown male at a bus stop on Dame Street for “no apparent reason”, the court heard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2VH2CPBMANAW3BRN5OL47UBFVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda Kennedy said gardaí identified Mr Tache using from CCTV footage harvested by several cameras. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VVIEOLLUWRAXPKCV6K4DGZGRAQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He was arrested at his home address on Monday and conveyed to Pearse Street Garda station where he was questioned at length and shown CCTV footage of the incident, the court heard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"S4SLCESQXBHBZFJKN6NQ34JGW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge Paula Murphy refused bail and remanded Mr Tache in custody to appear by videolink at Cloverhill District Court on April 1st. She granted him free legal aid. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ACDLKSFEVGOXP4Y537WT55QLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YZQFZNX2YVDGVNNEWANUG4KQ5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ronan McGreevy"}},"name":"Ronan McGreevy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Bruno Tache (20) charged with in connection with stabbing in Anne Street South in February."},"display_date":"2025-03-25T10:01:33.302Z","headlines":{"basic":"Eighth man in court linked to fatal assault of Quham Babatunde in Dublin’s city centre","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"J7MKLPBWU6UUIXCEIC3DP2ZZSU","auth":{"1":"9a607e7d521b5074354f5eaabba7bcf2547e24c616527ee9f84db5113eee8015"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/J7MKLPBWU6UUIXCEIC3DP2ZZSU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/eighth-man-charged-over-fatal-assault-of-quham-babatunde-in-dublins-city-centre/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"PTRIHACH7VFJ7OYMJ66QGXDAEM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":225,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/34382cfa-8481-4c9b-bf88-39a6e7840c7e/versions/1742838884/media/232830079efeca993692167393422a21_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-court-granted-vast-majority-of-legal-loophole-orders-under-which-drivers-got-24-hour-bans-and-avoided-penalty-points/","content_elements":[{"_id":"WXD3OYBQQZBX3BQPOGHKO2WNSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The vast majority of orders under which drivers avoided penalty points by using a legal loophole to get a 24-hour driving disqualification order were granted by Naas District Court, according to Courts Service figures. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNCHGLSYRJBTXLBQ6FIS56VI2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of a total 33 ancillary disqualification orders granted by District Courts nationally in 2023 and 2024, 27 were granted at Naas District Court, data released by the Courts Service show.","type":"text"},{"_id":"STLIZ6KEEBDS3F2KR2O54EJ5GM","additional_properties":{},"content":"All 18 orders made in 2023 were granted by the Naas court. Of the 15 orders made in the State last year, nine were granted by Naas, three by Kilkenny District Court, two by Limerick District Court and one by Dublin District Court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WMDO2YJHPBCIBFRG2FFILRFKR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 33 orders related to 27 drivers, meaning some got more than one 24-hour disqualification. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"B4MOBS5XCVAYXOMNHU6EGBFWJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the three years up to 2023, no ancillary disqualification orders were granted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6X3MDJJS3NAP7KSCGJZ2IC3YUU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KDUEA6FVV5DC7IEAJJ65K6YAWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"After the loophole was highlighted by The Irish Times more than a year ago, an amending provision was included last April in the Road Traffic Act 2024 to close it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6HE726MKDZF75ODS27UGVYOUAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"That provision has yet to be commenced and, in the interim, the loophole has continued to be availed of.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JJXL72PVFFCWZE2JGA7S75VCK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Department of Transport has said it is intended the commencement order will be put before the Minister, Fianna Fáil’s Darragh O’Brien, by the end of this month.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QST7XBDMC5HKXEB64KDUFKJZJU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge at centre of controversy over 24-hour driving disqualification orders is no stranger to making headlines","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"I5S2BPKKYVHQJPKGQ3PLGEZFAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier this month, The Irish Times reported a driver obtained two 24-hour ancillary driving disqualification orders, thus avoiding having penalty points endorsed on her licence, for using a mobile phone while driving and not wearing a seat belt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WLUCBS7K2RAMLIT7EQ5GQJUBFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Both disqualification orders were granted by Judge Desmond Zaidan at Naas District Court, the first last December and the second last month, on foot of applications by the woman’s solicitor, Tim Kennelly, to re-enter proceedings involving his client.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JJOUZG3YAJGSDGWV57KXIDGAFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under the regulations, a driver who reaches 12 penalty points is supposed to be disqualified from driving for six months, but section 2.8 of the Road Traffic Act 2002 has enabled a small number of drivers to avoid that. The section provides, where a person admits, or is convicted of, a penalty points offence, and an ancillary disqualification order is made, those points shall not be endorsed on the person’s licence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CE7YTYY5TFGMDGZNG75SDD26RY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The section does not specify a minimum disqualification period for an ancillary order, which is discretionary, leaving it up to individual judges to decide whether to grant one.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7PYT7BFTH5BYRPLLLQI5B6QYVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Department of Transport said earlier this month that when penalty points are endorsed or a disqualification order made in court, the Courts Service informs the department which applies the sanctions on the National Driver File.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OMXAKMT235C2PCULXGN7TSQX4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since the penalty points system was introduced in 2002, points could be applied or an ancillary disqualification made, but not both simultaneously, said a department spokesman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N2XS4B3Q4NCYJJGM7GFYQOBLFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"For ancillary disqualifications of less than six months, the 2024 Act makes it possible for both sanctions to be applied in respect of one offence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6GEIX63EDFD3HJ66D7YGNEMCDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Given the lack of historical overlap between the two sanctions, the Courts Service has, to date, informed the department about penalty points and disqualifications via separate channels, the spokesman said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQM34PRQ65DOVL7ZUNKHPUZUQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The reason why the amending provision had not yet been commenced was because the department and Courts Service have been engaging on how the new system will work in practice, he said. The commencement order is intended to be put before the Minister for signature by the end of this month, he said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mary Carolan"}},"name":"Mary Carolan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Twenty-seven of 33 one-day disqualification orders granted over two years were by Naas District Court"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T06:07:25.818Z","headlines":{"basic":"Naas court granted vast majority of legal loophole orders under which drivers got 24-hour bans and avoided penalty points ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"UAWO5FBSKDMLWZB6IZG3TTAQYE","auth":{"1":"3c220841026311fb9a9a038d112c57df490b8b8f9cc9609241b637a0fd620140"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/UAWO5FBSKDMLWZB6IZG3TTAQYE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-court-granted-vast-majority-of-legal-loophole-orders-under-which-drivers-got-24-hour-bans-and-avoided-penalty-points/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"DRIYF5IZSRHLXEP5RLCXDPXUOY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":201,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f7f59dad-a096-46e3-9115-4883bfdfa5ba/versions/1742835814/media/e433fa7f45cd80fcc2b8a5a90f1ae44e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-district-court-judge-no-stranger-to-making-headlines/","content_elements":[{"_id":"N2GDFKSEEFCW7L4CEPYTQZ2KFA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017186},"content":"Judge Desmond Zaidan, who is among the more outspoken judges on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/district-court/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/district-court/\">District Court</a> bench, is no stranger to making headlines.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JFQNMRLYNFFERIMPUNPX63ZG6A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017187},"content":"He is now at the centre of a controversy over granting 24-hour disqualification orders for some road traffic offences under a legal loophole, enabling drivers to avoid exceeding the penalty points threshold and being disqualified for up to six months.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCSGE3XNLJGPZIBDCYDO7R6VL4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017188},"content":"Judge Zaidan is understood to have granted most of the 33 orders granted over the past two years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2WVQ63HGVE4RLSFMIOJ72QN3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017189},"content":"In contrast, lawyers describe the judge as very tough when it comes to speeding offences, including imposing custodial sentences.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WMENPA42OBGKPPODIUHEHGKVT4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017190},"content":"He is considered sensitive and empathetic in family law cases and when dealing with offenders with mental health and addiction issues. He is not keen on suspended sentences and is more likely to deal with more minor drug and other offences via fines and donations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BDQ4PT4AMBFJPOBQBOISO3EVN4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017191},"content":"Now aged 62, Zaidan was born to Lebanese parents and his early education was in Lebanon and Sierra Leone before he moved to Ireland. He attended Rockwell College before going to Trinity College Dublin, where he graduated with a BSc and a MA.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IT4GHSTCSRDVNPLUYHDHZGZIFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017192},"content":"Having gone on to study at the King’s Inns, he was called to the Bar in 1990. His practice focused on criminal law and prosecution work.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S2QISHAEJZAKNCSSZ3NYO6DBPM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017193},"content":"He was aged just 43, making him one of the youngest judges in the country, when appointed by the Fianna Fáil/Progressive Democrats government to the District Court bench in late 2006.","type":"text"},{"_id":"27WZKAN67ZF6FHCGM3UUG4NLLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Naas court granted vast majority of legal loophole orders under which drivers got 24-hour bans and avoided penalty points ","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"PPGLSCDH3JHBFLC5GNAS4UZP3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017194},"content":"He spent 16 months in the Donegal district and, on his departure, was praised by a local Garda inspector for helping reduce crime and public order offences in the county. Gardaí believed a major factor in reducing public order offences was the judge’s decision to cut 30 minutes off club late-night drinking extensions from 2.30am to 2am.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KDCWTUYFPVAC7L7KR4U5GHINRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"John McManus: Legislative pantomime to fix penalty points loophole is not as absurd as it seems","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"OAXECZQXFFA7ZJ5MKUAJEU4IK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017195},"content":"After Donegal, Judge Zaidan was appointed to the busy Kildare district and has presided since at Naas and Athy District Courts. He has consistently complained about long court lists and has sought the appointment of another judge to the district.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y66P6CLFFJFEFOKVTCTHBJEILM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017196},"content":"The busy lists have led to him block adjourning cases, resulting in sometimes lengthy delays getting cases on.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JDY6U6YW5NFGPNC4PQ4HXRNMCM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017197},"content":"In 2014, it emerged from media reports based on information released under the Freedom of Information Act that Judge Zaidan had written twice in 2012 to then taoiseach, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/enda-kenny/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/enda-kenny/\">Enda Kenny</a>, expressing interest in a promotion. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VNMDJYH6RFH5DM2YGUCT4GFC7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"His first letter, expressing interest in promotion to the Circuit Court, included 11 newspaper cuttings about cases he had heard in Donegal and Kildare. He claimed to have contributed to a reduction in road fatalities, and to being the first judge to use provisions of the intoxicating liquor acts to assist in reducing public order offences. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4RLHEBGPZJHENP6Z7OEMERLZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"In his second letter, Zaidan said he had recently completed a course in European criminal law and his experience was “more fitting for the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\">High Court</a>”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"32QURVL455BJBI45HE4VIFH7TM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017198},"content":"His decisions have rarely been judicially reviewed but, in 2020, the High Court found objective bias against him over declining to accept a barrister’s word that an offence to which her client had pleaded guilty no longer carried a custodial sentence.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mary Carolan"}},"name":"Mary Carolan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Judge at centre of controversy over 24-hour driving disqualification orders is known for tough treatment of speeding offenders"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Judge at centre of controversy over 24-hour driving disqualification orders is no stranger to making headlines","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"N2WYMJ6QPZADZPGDGR3PEPGEYQ","auth":{"1":"6e7b80e4967e836b74aab805550e9873b8ed814a61c65fba4c06f0ada4e3856f"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/N2WYMJ6QPZADZPGDGR3PEPGEYQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-district-court-judge-no-stranger-to-making-headlines/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"ZXSEHFHMWBGDRP7MLD3HPUUZNI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":424,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/204bed7b-5f3b-471e-b2cc-cfe9c382b524/versions/1742832246/media/8412338f5a9858b7b3c31b9ea5a304d1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/gardai-travel-to-france-to-interview-friend-of-annie-mccarrick-us-woman-who-disappeared-in-1993/","content_elements":[{"_id":"I2N45SHFGNCVXLZA3EIIMNX75U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"CUWQF7QV4RB4FFEWJABQTZAZA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/garda-siochana/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/garda-siochana/\">Gardaí</a> travelled to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france/\">France</a> in February to interview a one-time friend of missing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states/\">American</a> woman <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/annie-mccarrick/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/annie-mccarrick/\">Annie McCarrick</a> who disappeared in 1993.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F3WP37KWM5A2DLVP2GZERBNZ2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The McCarrick case was upgraded to a murder investigation in 2023. Tomorrow marks the 32nd anniversary of the then 27-year-old’s disappearance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYVV53NCBBBBZKJPWXJASAV53I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Detective Inspector Ronan Lafferty, who is leading the cold case team, confirmed earlier this year to Ms McCarrick’s octogenarian mother, Nancy, that they hoped to carry out the interview in consultation with French police.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HQER45MMDFDPPORUGJPUWSDTBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The man interviewed by investigators is originally from Dublin. The Irish Times understands that two interviews were carried out by the Garda team in a hospital as the man has been in long-time ill-health. A Garda spokesman confirmed the developments in the case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XDGNPIAOFJBF3POZH7436HQLPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“While An Garda Síochána does not comment on specific lines of inquiry, as part of ongoing investigations into the disappearance and murder of Annie McCarrick investigators have interviewed a number of witnesses located in other jurisdictions,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XXNVGWC555G7TMMVZYWKTFIMDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The murder inquiry into the 1993 disappearance of Annie McCarrick - is it making progress a year on?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"MHF6SK73DVDLDBZ7ALJQNK7HXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí remain “committed to uncovering the truth” around the case and appealed to anyone with “any information that may shed light on Annie’s disappearance and murder” to come forward,\" he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E4Y5DVDXLRALHO7UJ276YIZWYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Any person who may have interacted with Ms McCarrick on or after March 26th, 1993, is asked to contact their local Garda station or the Garda confidential line.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C75AMMJ7EZC4TOLTPRLHDYCUSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking to The Irish Times from her home on Long Island this week, Ms McCarrick’s aunt, Maureen Covell – Nancy McCarrick’s younger sister – welcomed this development and praised An Garda Síochána for “their forensic diligence and kindness to her sister”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SMMYNE4GKRCL3JOP26BD2XGEGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"With only a nine-year age gap between herself and Ms McCarrick, Ms Covell said they were really “like sisters”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OV3X2IJ45JGLVA7BSOBFW6Y72A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We were very very close and we pretty much went around together all the time and had a lot of fun. We are so delighted that the gardaí are continuing to investigate Annie’s disappearance and we were told at the weekend that they had worked diligently with the French police to interview the man,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VAI2KLVIQVCAHBF42DIFAAEZOY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"LYROFVETB5GFXI64HWB2TU3EL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two years after the case was upgraded to a murder investigation, gardaí have told the family they remain committed to resolving it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOB3TRD4V5F3BBBUNJTQTYTLFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"They have already uncovered a litany of errors in the original investigation. Among them was the revelation last year by The Irish Times that the picture of Ms McCarrick queuing in the Sandymount branch of the AIB bank which was for years widely publicised as the last definitive sighting of her on Friday, March 26th, 1993, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2024/03/23/photo-of-annie-mccarrick-thought-to-be-last-image-of-her-on-day-she-disappeared-in-1993-was-taken-11-days-earlier/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2024/03/23/photo-of-annie-mccarrick-thought-to-be-last-image-of-her-on-day-she-disappeared-in-1993-was-taken-11-days-earlier/\">was in fact captured 11 days earlier</a>, on March 15th of that year. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VUZDFDYT75CEBKLILX5UQMCHK4","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"NAEGYE7Q6JAWVONMIUMBNTT2VA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A fresh forensic examination of the original case has challenged the accepted narrative around her last movements and the investigation into her disappearance is now focusing closer to her then home in Sandymount and no longer on Johnnie Fox’s pub, Glencullen, in the Dublin mountains where it was initially thought she had disappeared from.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4HISEW6QPZAA3BU5AL2LX5RFVE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The gardaí have visited us on two occasions since the case was upgraded and their re-examination of all the details appears to have confirmed that a young woman from Boston who looked like Annie was in Johnnie Fox’s pub with her mother on that night,” said Ms Covell. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LY4HT4RSCVFQJM7JNYZNNCKBUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“When they showed us her photograph, extracted from video footage on the night, we understood how the mistake could have been made, as she had long wavy hair too.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2HLTA32P6L3B5HG6F2FRVR7NY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"TXQ7O5HPNFFOTP6ZP5LPM7XXLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Covell said she believed many errors had been made by gardaí at the outset of the case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XVQOOPTBOVG47DJZG7WXCVSZC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Unlike Nancy, who has remained so graceful and stoic throughout this 32-year ordeal, I’m a strongly opinionated New Yorker and find it very frustrating that all the faxes our family and friends sent to the gardaí after Annie’s disappearance about significant issues in her personal life were ignored,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WMGVYJLOBFAGLAOLDMXEAFTYIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Indeed a member of the original investigating team, who was interviewed for the 2023 RTÉ documentary, Missing: Beyond the Vanishing Triangle, stated they had never seen these faxes and that this line of inquiry was not pursued at the time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XN2QPWD2HJAYXCIIKYPTXW43BQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Enniskerry ‘sightings’ of Annie McCarrick now deemed unreliable with gardaí focused on Dublin 4","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"SY6STA7PM5FSPATAY5JJLLW64U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We were so frustrated and upset about this revelation and also the attitude, at the time, that she was a 27-year-old girl and could be just enjoying life and off having fun somewhere. We had told them in a fax, for example, that days before her disappearance, whilst celebrating after the St Patrick’s Day Parade she had confided to me that ‘she’d messed up' with someone who was causing difficulties in her life.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"KSCEMSWSKNGAFNP4NSWXRAPPLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"HB67R6O45NDBBFHP5UZL6C77YM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Covell stressed that “if there is any important take-away regarding such cases in the future, it is that investigators must heed the families of the victims and not discount their opinions since they know the person best”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43RRQGJNENGY7DCPTPJMT6VXFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But they had no interest in listening to us 32 years ago,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NJHQWADGFAKZDQOYGME52ORRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Ms Covell, Nancy McCarrick and their close-knit family, which has deep roots in Roscommon and Louth, the passage of time leaves them with little hope of a resolution.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DU6JMLZJJDP5PLPSZCHP4LUBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“No matter how many attempts have been made, there are not any conclusive or definitive answers. While there is speculation, there is nothing solid after all these years other than the fact that Annie is gone. That is all we can say,” Ms Covell added.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GVD6B6SVKZC4RFGJYL7ISYQL7U","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"NTGR4EYAZFFI7KT5UCYTMKZU3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"She remembered her niece as “a lot of fun”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"X4OSE3TEIZE6DG3T6GGRCZXJOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“She truly found the best in people and would light up the room. She was beautiful both spiritually and visually,” she said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3THAAOFIGVE43KOWA5RG5ENA5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I would say that what was so refreshing about her was that she had no pretences, she had no agenda, she was simply a very genuinely loving kind person.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"X4U3JXM2HZBYLE7KJSCJ6VTPQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms McCarrick’s best friend from childhood, Linda Ringhouse, has supported the family and campaigned about the case since the start. Speaking to The Irish Times, she reiterated the personal difficulties Ms McCarrick was experiencing at the time of her disappearance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O6CKR3JJGJEAZIJYZSLWVF2ZZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I believe Annie was met either at the door of her apartment or someone pulled up in a car as she came home from her shopping. She dropped everything, thinking she would be home shortly,” said Ms Ringhouse. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LBFFDASLRHMPCR3OGJZP6G6D4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I believe she knew the person responsible for her death. She was in a tumultuous situation with this person at the time.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"HZKW65FTMVCTZIVM4XQGWYIWAI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"MZRPRHXYJVGDFCJEYVE6OVOB5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"It has been widely documented that Ms McCarrick’s shopping, with perishables and a receipt, was left on the table in her home and some of her clothes were soaking in a sink.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2BW752A7IJHTHKA7MD3GB3PZTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Ringhouse said it was ”great news\" that gardaí had travelled to France to interview a man. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BWBQAG5V4NFOVOEKCPCKBTQL6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It is so hard not to get depressed and give up hope when another two years have gone by, since the case was reopened and upgraded, even though we know the detectives are still working on the case,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PXJOYUFYRNF2VI45FBVRN6EUUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Hopefully, the interview in France provided answers to questions we have had for 32 years. So happy to hear the current detectives were able to get it done. They have continued to come through for Mrs McCarrick and for that we are very grateful.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ARCW3Q2J4NB45IBW42OFYUNFHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Áine Ryan"}},"name":"Áine Ryan"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Investigators interviewed man originally from Dublin who knew the 27-year-old American around the time she went missing"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Annie McCarrick’s best friend from childhood: ‘I believe she knew the person responsible for her death’","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"FSTP52ECDJBS7NDY5I6WQXMIT4","auth":{"1":"b334919309059053c1df0aed6d925946d299e4a3db1886ee6d487247413f44da"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/FSTP52ECDJBS7NDY5I6WQXMIT4.jpeg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/gardai-travel-to-france-to-interview-friend-of-annie-mccarrick-us-woman-who-disappeared-in-1993/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"EQM64IPJ3VAXDK76EN45CNXROY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":321,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/322abb03-190d-44d0-9ab5-e865c6d6ae3b/versions/1742848530/media/f0c141326a728177773064e8103fe8f8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/world/europe/2025/03/24/gerard-depardieu-sexual-assault-trial-marks-cultural-reckoning-for-france/","content_elements":[{"_id":"SQ6F3TQUTBA5RFMEERA7VORXHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The French actor <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/gerard-depardieu/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/gerard-depardieu/\">Gérard Depardieu</a> has appeared in court in France on trial for allegedly sexually assaulting two women during a film shoot in 2021.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WK2PQTI2MJGPDJVYUQKIWESBV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu (76), dressed in a black suit and trainers with his grey hair swept back, arrived at the Paris criminal court amid a large police presence. Dozens of protesters had gathered outside the courthouse and shouted: “Victims, we believe you; rapists, we see you.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CBBRX6VYBZAMHDPZQPJ3ODZ47Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"After confirming his date and place of birth, the actor told the panel of three judges that he was prepared to answer the court’s questions. He is expected to testify on Tuesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MBGOKRZYHJA5ZOU2RLLKXRIMJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu – one of France’s most famous actors, who has made more than 200 films and TV series – is the highest-profile figure in the French film industry to face allegations of sexual assault since the #MeToo movement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7T2IQAB4BH5FPUFWVBLRFQ3YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu is charged with the sexual assault of a 54-year-old set dresser and a 34-year-old assistant director during shooting of the feature film Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters) in Paris in 2021. He faces up to five years in prison and a fine of €75,000 if convicted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WID25KPTNFHENILLESHF5DQTF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He is accused of sexually assaulting the set dresser on September 10th, 2021, on the film set, allegedly trapping her between his legs before grabbing her buttocks, pubis and chest. She has said the actor also used obscene language and had to be pulled away by bodyguards. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"USGZLACRXBHVXCYWES62OP3D4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The set dresser’s lawyer told the court that several people had witnessed her being grabbed and “trapped against her will”. The set dresser had immediately spoken to senior colleagues who had suggested at the time that she go to the police. Her lawyer said a production manager recounted receiving a call from Mr Depardieu at the time, saying he was sorry and it was “no longer the era to do that”. Mr Depardieu’s lawyer denied this. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVPVA7EAABF6PMNKBWRHOTDVNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu is also charged with assaulting an assistant director both on set and in the street on August 31st and in September 2021, allegedly grabbing her buttocks and chest. The woman’s lawyer said she had told friends at the time that Mr Depardieu had been touching her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HJNTJIUQZBBHHJX62ZIF5KUTMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu’s lawyer, Jérémie Assous, said the actor denied all charges. He told the panel of three judges: “Truth is on our side.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GYEKCNJ6GVDQHJ735VFORPQY7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judges dismissed demands by Mr Depardieu’s defence that the case should be thrown out. They rejected Mr Depardieu’s lawyer’s argument that the investigation was biased and aimed solely at “bringing Depardieu down”. The state prosecutor and the lawyers for the complainants told the court the investigation into Mr Depardieu was solid and the case must be heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LQLTZRWYRGG7E7SW5LURUQVAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial had been postponed last October after lawyers warned of Mr Depardieu’s ill health, saying he had undergone a quadruple heart bypass and had diabetes that was aggravated by the stress of the trial.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LBEVZWXVFCWJABUXTBCVNQBOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu arrived in the courtroom looking strong and healthy. While waiting for the hearing to begin, he smiled, blew kisses and winked at friends and supporters. He smiled at the French actor Fanny Ardant, who appeared briefly to confirm that she would give evidence later in the trial. Ardant, who acted in The Green Shutters, will speak in favour of Mr Depardieu. Before the trial, she said she supported him because he was a friend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NR3M4ZEYS5DUBF5IICJORQTFDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Medical experts subsequently ruled that Mr Depardieu was well enough to stand trial this month, but with special provisions for his health. His court appearances would be limited to six-hour stints, with a 15-minute pause and snack every three hours. He would be seated but allowed to stand up if needed, must have private access to toilets, must be able to regularly control his blood sugar and eat a sweet snack if necessary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5JWRWEE77YURVWHGLYJVXC47M","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"YE2AXPZ5B5GAJBUZTEQRCP32KE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial is the first case against Mr Depardieu to come to court. Overall, about 20 women have accused him of improper behaviour, but several cases have not been pursued because they exceeded the time limit for bringing a legal complaint.","type":"text"},{"_id":"42N7SN6PZJD7LDQ2APWHOD3ILM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The French actor Charlotte Arnould was the first woman to file a criminal complaint against Mr Depardieu, in 2018, alleging he raped and sexual assaulted her when she was 22 and Mr Depardieu, a friend of her father, was 70. Last August, the Paris prosecutor’s office requested a trial for rape and sexual assault, but a trial date has not yet been set. In an open letter to Le Figaro in 2023, Mr Depardieu denied the allegations, saying any encounter with Ms Arnould had been consensual.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZIRMIZRTCJEJ7IEJDUFGM4D5VI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Arnould watched from the public benches on Monday. Also present among members of the public was actor Anouk Grinberg, who appeared in The Green Shutters. Ms Grinberg told Agence France-Presse before the trial that Mr Depardieu had constantly made “salacious remarks” during shooting, and producers who hired him knew they were “hiring an abuser”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RGJTBILJ7ZHIXOPBHW42C6ATAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial continues. – Guardian","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQIDMBRCFNDPLOOMCOCBETMOP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Angelique Chrisafis in Paris"}]},"description":{"basic":"Prosecutors allege assaults against two women took place during filming in 2021"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T20:35:27.029Z","headlines":{"basic":"Gérard Depardieu appears in court for sexual assault trial","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"DYUSP4ERKJCD2VUQPCAV6IFQTI","auth":{"1":"1dbb77667ce3d4bb8ff3be1d74c7865b2d62cba0f31e585feb1b4b1e94703fb7"},"focal_point":{"x":1939,"y":840},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DYUSP4ERKJCD2VUQPCAV6IFQTI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Europe"},{"name":"Film"},{"name":"World"},{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Culture"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/world/europe/2025/03/24/gerard-depardieu-sexual-assault-trial-marks-cultural-reckoning-for-france/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/world/europe","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Europe"}}}},{"_id":"6NB65NJUWNDYFGJE5WX2AIIVZ4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":349,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/a7c6f906-0dfa-4e6c-acf9-f4f27d6fd6b0/versions/1742847414/media/0fbed3bc93a0f077a42f3a8b84df3b2f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/woman-42-accused-of-being-getaway-driver-in-lisa-thompson-murder-case/","content_elements":[{"_id":"3JAJL36QWFCCJCQNMZXG3MU4VI","additional_properties":{},"content":"A 42-year-old woman has gone on trial at the Central Criminal Court accused of being the getaway driver for the murderer of mother-of-two Lisa Thompson, who was found stabbed to death in her home.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KI6QEIOT2NHNXBYKTBVCTTYBX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was during the opening of the trial of Deirdre Arnold today that counsel for the State said the 12 jurors will hear evidence that the accused drove <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/02/27/man-found-guilty-of-murdering-lisa-thompson-in-her-dublin-home/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/02/27/man-found-guilty-of-murdering-lisa-thompson-in-her-dublin-home/\">murderer Brian McHugh</a> to the deceased’s home, where she waited outside “for well over an hour” before driving him away from the scene and later checking him into a hotel in an effort to help him evade prosecution. It is also the prosecution’s case that she allowed her vehicle to be used to dispose of evidence taken from the deceased’s home. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CISMUTKTJFDI3AXIQTORNORRKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The jury also heard today there will be evidence that fingerprints recovered on a jewellery valuation certificate linked to Ms Thompson and found in Ms Arnold’s car also matched the accused woman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DLLINDNNWJHYRAMRARZO72XERA","additional_properties":{},"content":" Ms Arnold, with an address at Briarfield Grove, Kilbarrack, Dublin 5, is charged that on a date between May 9th, 2022, and May 10th, 2022, both dates inclusive, at a location within the State, she did without reasonable excuse an act with intent to impede the apprehension or prosecution of Brian McHugh, a person who had committed an arrestable offence, namely murder, while knowing or believing Brian McHugh to be guilty of the offence or of some other arrestable offence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XIJJ5S3VZNAHNPUTBQCXWNZQ2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Arnold is also charged that on a date between May 9th, 2022 and May 10th, 2022, both dates inclusive, at a location within the State, she acted or embarked upon a course of conduct which had a tendency to and was intended to pervert the course of public justice.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HVT3KY35YVHJNMBU6Z3XCYLFDM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"3VNNEC52VZAFJAEIAHNY7OZM5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Arnold has pleaded not guilty to the two counts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5IQTNLLDRZERFMU3J3GHNRZUQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Opening the prosecution’s case, Fiona Murphy SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said the law requires that the State prove that Ms Arnold knew or believed Brian McHugh (40) was guilty of the murder of Lisa Thompson (52) or that she knew or believed he was guilty of some similar offence arising from the same set of circumstances.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HZQBL5SMUNH2XCMVKXQODVASTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy said the jury would hear that Ms Arnold drove McHugh to Ms Thompson’s home at Sandyhill Gardens in Ballymun, where she waited for him “for well over an hour” before allowing him to place bags of items taken from the deceased’s home in her car. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVEEIEG3CNC2BBVCPSKANUL3WE","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said the State’s case against Ms Arnold is also that she drove McHugh away afterwards and then assisted him over the next 24 hours, where items taken from Ms Thompson’s home were discarded. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PXOOPOUA45EEFJ4QOO25W4WBVM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EECGD3TOHBB3JFM7I5AULDNJ4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"In relation to the second count against the accused, Ms Murphy said the State only needed to prove that Ms Arnold had “embarked upon a course of conduct” which was intended to pervert the course of justice, “not that it did perverse the course of justice”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DE2NYCIQ6BGJXIBN7UBEIWNBA4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NWOYHPBPPBHF5LU3I3RK5OIIVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Counsel said that witness Damien Geraghty will give evidence that he called to Ms Thompson’s house at 3.15pm, where he found the deceased’s remains inside the rear door of the property and rang 999. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2RSVZJC6FGO7LZUZ6ZRUVL7SQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy said paramedics later discovered Ms Thompson’s remains, where they found numerous puncture wounds to the chest and a window blind cord wrapped around the neck. Ms Thompson was pronounced dead at 4.48pm. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WP2YCQOUJRHAZHXUHOH32E3DEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"There will be evidence, Ms Murphy said, that gardaí had noted Ms Thompson’s rear door was unlocked and the upstairs bedroom ransacked. She said gardaí also found there was no sign of forced entry and that the front door was locked. She said two knives were missing from a block of knives in the kitchen. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2DJ3Q4EUVEXHH4TOF4LAQHBMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy said pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan carried out a postmortem on Ms Thompson and found death had occurred through a combination of ligature strangulation causing asphyxia and multiple stab wounds to the left side of the chest.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPPHHHMGBBGKDG5HN4L5ES6KT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Counsel said it wasn’t released to the media at this stage that strangulation was a cause of death. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JQO3PNA7F5GMVHZFR3WHTGAEPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court heard further evidence will be that Ms Arnold and McHugh had travelled together to Ms Thompson’s house in a Hyundai Tucson and that the accused was the registered owner of that vehicle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YMWQW6NOMJGTXNJJASSH3KYJ2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V5NE4OMBFBBBPCVQZ56CNHK5KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The barrister further stated that McHugh got into the Tucson, which was waiting nearby, and drove away. She said the vehicle was driven to an Applegreen service station on St Margaret’s Road in Swords.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CI75YYCLHRCGRARXDMJBOZ5EFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Counsel said the court will hear that Ms Arnold was identified in the vehicle at the service station with McHugh and that the accused had remained in his company that day and the next. Ms Murphy said CCTV footage will also show Ms Arnold and McHugh getting out of the car at the service station. She said McHugh can be seen showing jewellery to the cashier. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E2HN5BTK2NBG5D3S622WYDHEIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Evidence will be that the Tucson left the service station at 3.21am and returned at 4.04am. She said this was relevant as Ms Thompson’s driving licence was located on a slip road in Finglas on May 10th, 2022. The court will also hear evidence, the lawyer said, that the two people on the CCTV at the service station remained there until 4.49am and are seen moving around the area. Gardaí carried out a search of the area and discovered medication in Ms Thompson’s name and a set of keys used to open the deceased’s front door at Sandyhill Gardens. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QRKXJG4YVFWJBJVACUQ2GGVGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The barrister said the court will hear evidence regarding the Clayton Hotel near Dublin Airport as well as a conversation Ms Arnold had about booking a room and the reason given for that. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"R6USOTMWOBCHZGWCQPNY4E5KOM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YKQOSWMR5ZBIPLIVIAEAN3O7UA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court will also hear evidence, the barrister indicated, of a number of searches carried out at McHugh’s home at Cairn Court in Ballymun, Dublin 11. She said jewellery was found at that address, which the prosecution say is linked to Ms Thompson.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XCCNAREZT5ARDGMWGPCW6SJDM4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"52UHJCXJHRFDXIZE25V3OSGIXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial continues tomorrow before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath and a jury of seven men and five women.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Alison O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Jury will hear evidence that Deirdre Arnold drove murderer Brian McHugh to deceased’s home, where she waited outside ‘for well over an hour’"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T20:16:51.352Z","headlines":{"basic":"Woman (42) accused of being getaway driver in Lisa Thompson murder case","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"NOI7M5PZPUVP4FJ3TNNT6BVZEE","auth":{"1":"a34a35e96fe5da5239f1188dd6fd08c9ce434c37f3bafea367eb212c5219541e"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NOI7M5PZPUVP4FJ3TNNT6BVZEE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/woman-42-accused-of-being-getaway-driver-in-lisa-thompson-murder-case/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"A4DOJUJV4NED5H27E7SL4E7GQI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":149,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/13ab743f-5e22-4eb8-b353-138c84dbfdcb/versions/1742844716/media/7c0738be156d2ef350f77b1061e70118_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/man-42-goes-on-trial-charged-with-murder-of-wife-in-cork-in-2023/","content_elements":[{"_id":"GE4Z625MBBAJ7PX7H2NWPO52PE","additional_properties":{},"content":"A mother of one from India had been in Ireland just three months when she was found dead in a blood stained bedroom of her Co Cork home, having sustained a 14 cm wound to the front of her neck, a trial has heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IMKBRCJ6NVDG5KJFGWTB2BKNE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Regin Parithapara Rajan (43) has gone on trial at the Central Criminal Court in Cork charged with the murder of his wife Deepa Paruthiyezhuth Dinamani at Cardinal Court in Wilton on July 14th, 2023. He denies the charge.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NASYMRHDSVHP5DKT3K3LVZ4RFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"RGBK2WYIDVA7HENAJHZGEZ2VBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"XBY3GNEXP5BURLT6FC5M5CDQL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Outlining the prosecution’s case, Sean Gillane SC told jurors that they would hear evidence that by the summer of 2023 difficulties had developed in the marriage of Ms Dinamani and Mr Rajan. Mr Gillane said that the marriage had “cooled”, that the couple were sleeping in separate bedrooms, and Ms Dinamani was considering divorce.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GK5PVJYXINFDXGPV7I4UZ2ZMLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2LG7RQB4FCKZFMILF55R4Q6HM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Dinamani grew up in Kerala in India where her retired parents still live. Mr Gillane said the 38-year-old chartered accountant was “well regarded” and “well educated”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5IO54ISHJHJVMLYLLKJCAKWQM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YGHONIMPLNETVDGZHFGPXRLIII","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gillane said that Ms Dinamani and Mr Rajan were from the same general area but did not meet until 2015. They married the same year and had a son in 2018. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HP6BZG2D4FFIXOXFQQGNK2GCLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Dinamani started working in a finance company in Cork in the spring of 2023 having secured accommodation for the family in Wilton.","type":"text"},{"_id":"35G5VLJZ5RA6JA3QFILT6FMKKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"One room in the property was sublet to a nurse at the nearby hospital.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7INRH4XH5VAO7KBABEKUBAPHNI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WCH3R6OHDZHYXEKBMOZW2TF5LM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"H6JC5L2WLJEGLM3TA47CSODJKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gillane said on the evening of July 14th, a man who had been asked by Mr Rajan to collect the couple’s son from summer camp allegedly contacted the nurse as he could not reach the boy’s father. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FA27UPIKTFFXRBFBWSETDSBNL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gillane said that the nurse was in her room in the Wilton house and hadn’t noticed “anything untoward”. She said she thought the house was empty. The man told the nurse that he planned to bring the youngster back home. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIOWYIFJA5CQHP2N67TQ6OFUHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"DBKXXITBENBDFDQERTC3SFLSNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EM4MMQHRBFA5GMSYFTLYVCEDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gillane said that the jury will hear Mr Rajan told the man, after his arrival at the property, that “he had killed his wife and that she was inside. He also said he had stabbed her with a knife”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZOYJQ5HWVZG2HJPYONMA4EQCHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"LBBPIHKEGVDDNFC6ILKJYZOTTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"RZ5YLXMV5JAU7OQBUDDWUJV6JU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The State case will be that a palm print of the accused was on a blood stained knife, recovered at the scene, and that the knife had been purchased by Mr Rajan two days prior. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FVZ2QAAVXFHNTNUE5SIRXRCWOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial is expected to last up to three weeks. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JI75UTKFPVFMXFH2T43T2KHJBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YMOPM6ZRWFFABIVIZPF463PLQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"5EXM65DPIBAUDDY3WPPUE3L4UY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"GCWEKCFL4ZFA5PLSRBG7E3JA6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Olivia Kelleher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Regin Parithapara Rajan denies murdering his wife at their home in Wilton, Cork"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T19:26:53.156Z","headlines":{"basic":"Man (42) goes on trial charged with murder of wife in Cork in 2023","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RIX24CLYDRFSNFWAKR3BZZ5SMA","auth":{"1":"ae3830adc171b2c6d0af4b5d54b36a8a6c6d2415aed5a587482ed1e3e63bed46"},"focal_point":{"x":1278,"y":735},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RIX24CLYDRFSNFWAKR3BZZ5SMA.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/man-42-goes-on-trial-charged-with-murder-of-wife-in-cork-in-2023/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"I3DCHW5HMVEUBNAVSPK5KXZI6A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":139,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/09cd7336-5800-4b31-af17-70673adfa159/versions/1742844117/media/e0e3db9da6e3877cde0754ec0351d7de_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/cargo-handling-firm-and-machinery-manufacturer-fined-450000-following-death-of-dublin-port-worker/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"A cargo handling firm and a machinery manufacturer have been fined a total of €450,000 for breaches of Health and Safety Regulations, which came to light after a Dublin father-of-four was run over by a large machine in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-port/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-port/\">Dublin Port</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"775LDAVC45GYZDIEMFSIXBAMLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Nicholas Collier, a 55-year-old haulier, was killed when struck by a container handler, a forklift-type truck used to remove containers, as he worked at the port on August 14th, 2019. The court heard he could not be seen by the driver of the handler due to restricted visibility.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H33J2OL43NEW3C7UMZ4GTETNIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Swedish company Kalmar Solutions AB and Belfast-based Scruttons (NI) Ltd were before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on Monday, where they were each charged with a breach of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ABTTPKR2R5FQRNRSLIQLQROURM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"XKYP4VJUFRGFDIOC7MU4U3QRAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"JBHS4NAGGFEBZD4ECIPAO64CPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FRA656VHYBDN5GM6RJS732SYGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Members of the Collier family, who were in court, left the room before footage of the incident was shown. The footage from a tug parked nearby showed the large vehicle approaching at about 25km per hour, and running over Mr Collier. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6B6W4HL76NGW7PSAOW3XDCFIUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, footage captured from two CCTV cameras on board the handler did not show Mr Collier at all. The court also heard that the driver of the handler, whose cab was three metres high, was unaware that there had been an impact.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVPQ7GOQPND5DJTD3EJ4I7MMYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"JTHD6C7LHNESPFDWHRIMRY7LII","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZ7L73GBG5AQZNRJV43XOT7R6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"T7A3XRHEORHCXAMW6ANS523ZJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"OOXNAALF45A7JHDZUSMMR4AZ4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQODC63ONVDTXNQJJM6DX5KF7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UPNWEHP7GFDX3GIQ4JWHBVDO2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FNON7V3KWZFAXEBH27K6PBR5WM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DUP6XVGK5BKFIKN5QCVVRR54A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pádraig McMahon, a senior inspector with the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) said that, after the incident, control measures were put in place. These included the use of a 4x4 to escort the vehicle across the port, where the drivers of both vehicles would be in radio contact.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XXJMBMPTABBHRAR4HEBILTHZXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"That measure has since been replaced with the incorporation of mirrors onto the machine to allow the driver to see around the mast, and zig-zag driving.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NEA7VKRLJBECRC4JBN3A4I2RJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"BGQT5WHVNFHERBVMT3QQCUQ24A","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"BYAOTRDCR5CZHHJL34SPNZML2M","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"VJSYE46FERDIBM5J2MTYLZPABE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZWEFZJK3W5DPRM652HZXIQ67K4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"SYXDADADVVAKRJAJSR5IMK2GIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VQ5JA33O5HYDPEGKOH6TCNCTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"NTRYJFZ4V5GWFNGZPQ7C7OKZGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJSGZXMZPVBLDE75IL4GOIK7DM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"WLOYXQM4AFGRLORMFANPPQAIEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"S2VAEY47TBG6JBIQZOBF5BLDUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YVE7WGMMJZBPPIQXTDISIZGRFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge Martin Nolan extended the court’s condolences to Mr Collier’s family. He said it was clear that he was much loved and had contributed significantly to his family and community.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GI62ZCP36VG6VA2HLABS6GWIKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"XPX6K2MNXZDB7LDSJDU3SG4IMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"He noted that the maximum fine was €3 million, and imposed a fine of €150,000 on Kalmar Solutions and €300,000 on Scruttons, with six months to pay.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Natasha Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Nicholas Collier (55) was killed when struck by a forklift-type truck while working on August 14th, 2019"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T19:16:47.718Z","headlines":{"basic":"Cargo handling firm and machinery manufacturer fined €450,000 following death of Dublin Port worker","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IS5HDE5YDZONCV7IK5DC5NI2DU","auth":{"1":"50bd690ab3eab6f4def9df980dcbe9ea1c3eb25182bdba30337f52b115069c54"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IS5HDE5YDZONCV7IK5DC5NI2DU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/cargo-handling-firm-and-machinery-manufacturer-fined-450000-following-death-of-dublin-port-worker/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"3QKCJNYLWBFCFE4O3QFAWQKI6U","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":136,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/9be7dd43-edb0-49ef-b724-f5460bf51fcc/versions/1742841088/media/cf7fae61666d6dcbef4f04bf25d89ec4_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/abp-withdraw-appeal-leave-application-in-shannon-lng-case/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UBOZL3IF5JDUBCB2QOXFOOXKPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"CFVCMB74IJBKZJ2LBEE3T3XCLE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777910},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-bord-pleanala/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-bord-pleanala/\">An Bord Pleanála</a> has withdrawn its application seeking permission to appeal a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\">High Court</a> judgment quashing its refusal of planning permission for the proposed Shannon liquefied natural gas (<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/lng/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/lng/\">LNG</a>) terminal in Co Kerry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4JADNSB7RZES3LJ4GDWCBUGO2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"A decision in a judicial review case can only be appealed to the Court of Appeal if so permitted by the High Court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RSA3ENPT55DYXDYYRFZUHIHGVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777911},"content":"The board’s withdrawal came after Mr Justice Richard Humphreys said he would make certain amendments to his September 2024 judgment overturning the planning refusal. 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Mr Justice Humphreys said he suspected his “respite” from dealing with litigation arising from the Shannon LNG project would not last long. “We’ll see what happens,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E5XD4QFQDND6JNGTQVHJRKDT54","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777913},"content":"Last week, Shannon LNG was granted planning permission by An Bord Pleanála <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/03/18/shannon-lng-granted-planning-permission-for-new-kerry-power-plant/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/03/18/shannon-lng-granted-planning-permission-for-new-kerry-power-plant/\">for a proposed power plant with a capacity of 600 megawatts</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"44H53BVIOJDTROGRC4RNUM6TSQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777914},"content":"The proposed power plant, which will be located on a 630-acre site between Tarbert and Ballylongford on the Shannon Estuary, will include an emergency storage facility for natural gas in the event of supplies to Ireland being cut off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MECAOGJQGZFRHM6SQYGX5PCFQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777915},"content":"In October 2023, the board refused Shannon LNG’s application for the development of a terminal pending completion of the Government’s review of the security of energy supply to 2030. It found the proposal was “contrary to Government policy and therefore contrary to the proper planning and development of the area”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FQTJ6PYZPFAT7BC2ZHD5Z33A3E","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-38944","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"GXWV3I5KIVESLOM7UDEUVEUUSY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777916},"content":"The 2020 programme for government stated the government did not believe it “makes sense to develop LNG gas import terminals importing fracked gas”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FGI4TM3QDRFOHLAEFCUQ3EJZTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The debate: Should the State develop a terminal for liquefied natural gas?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"UHHRNWD5NVF5PG2APAU3LMTBPE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777917},"content":"In September 2024, Mr Justice Humphreys overturned the refusal, and proposed to order the board to reconsider the planning application in line with his findings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYRMGRGODJAYREDBXSRNKHV26E","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777918},"content":"Earlier this month, the Government approved a plan to develop a floating State-led LNG terminal. The cost and location of the facility has yet to be determined.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Fiachra Gallagher"}},"name":"Fiachra Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Last week, Shannon LNG was granted planning permission by An Bord Pleanála for a proposed power plant"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T18:31:10.56Z","headlines":{"basic":"An Bord Pleanála withdraws appeal application in Shannon LNG case","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"AWJG2N63Y7I5WYNZUKDEQ2CLVE","auth":{"1":"190bb8e952198848c6883ec593038927e9305b5e9756d499dcabad9408115b0d"},"focal_point":{"x":2348,"y":1965},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/AWJG2N63Y7I5WYNZUKDEQ2CLVE.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Environment"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/abp-withdraw-appeal-leave-application-in-shannon-lng-case/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"6CAPR3URHFEWZKU5YAHMRYFJZ4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":297,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/65e72dd4-f33d-47ec-8d86-f691c1cae3e8/versions/1742851405/media/a3d76a9d0aefa47c24d74b181fa6448f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/i-was-just-a-possession-man-jailed-for-eight-years-for-rape-of-wife-who-wanted-to-separate/","content_elements":[{"_id":"GCTOFZEBFZERNOJUODAFD6OUDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"A man has been jailed for eight years for the rape of his then wife almost five years ago.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EZ7QYGWSVERHNWIXC7KIOA2KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A jury at the Central Criminal Court convicted Riad Hamzi (51) last December of a single count of rape on August 19th, 2020 at a house in Cork. The court heard that his former wife, Elena O’Brien, wished to waive her anonymity to allow Hamzi to be named.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RUQVBE7QM5BI3DW5YE6ZZDOXYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Justice Paul Burns imposed a sentence of nine years on Hamzi of Elmvale Court, Wilton, Cork with the final year suspended for three years on strict conditions. He backdated the sentence to December 20th, when Hamzi went into custody.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ML7FI5Q7JETHNHR3OFAFYZBSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Justice Burns said the aggravating features of the case included the relationship between the parties and the impact on the victim.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JLJH5OULTBFG5EGBHIBIDHX56Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge said the level of violence over and above the rape was also an aggravating factor.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3YEULPTTQZBFLO7IHRPEODENUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Justice Burns said he had taken into account the mitigation including the contents of a medical report, Hamzi’s health issues, work history and that he is an “active member of his religious community” as outlined by two character witnesses called on his behalf.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZKWIP6LK2NGUBP2VKU7OBMSUE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge wished Ms O’Brien well for the future.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZFYERY5YSNGUJFKF6B6BBUOVLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"At a previous sentence hearing, Ms O’Brien said in her victim impact statement that Hamzi was “supposed to be my husband, the one person I could trust most in the world, the person I should feel safest with, who was supposed to love and protect me”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2QJO44DB45ABVEI65U5P3U2ZN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Instead, he broke all trust. He told me he loved me, but his actions showed me that he thought he owned me and saw me as a possession here to serve him.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AJNL2OILMZBTDDMVIMFBSQ2RVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court previously heard evidence that on the night in question, the victim expressed concerns about difficulties in their marriage and a wish to separate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SDYCSIT2MBC4ZISPJBZ6MKUDRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hamzi told her everything was fine, then became aggressive, punching her twice in the body. He then raped her and put his fist in her mouth, telling her to be quiet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4XB56KHJL5FEXHTYEJWBFYFHQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hamzi denied the allegation of rape and told gardaí it was consensual sex. He has a long work history and is an Algerian national who has been living in Ireland for more than 25 years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HFRHIL4OQVAWHK3I2LQZREIWJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The investigating garda confirmed to Alice Fawsitt SC, defending, that he was aware of Hamzi’s previous cancer diagnosis. A medical report was handed to the court and Ms Fawsitt said a recent scan is clear but her client has ongoing health issues.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3NYSAR3JBZCK3FT3PVCZMDCLXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Reading her impact statement, Ms O’Brien said she had “used his name with love and affection” for many years, but doesn’t say it any more as it is “now the name of the person who crushed me”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FOUTNLAWFJCCZI5G6L5ZUQX7WI","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said she “gave everything” to build their life together, but their marriage was difficult and the decision to leave was not made lightly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MHMUCQW4ZNE73O5RQLXIG5CV2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said Hamzi “chose to rape me, instead of talking to me” and through his actions, “showed me exactly what he thought of me”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZTNMMABWCNDE5I4EAAAUPOYCSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I was just a possession,” she said. Hamzi had no love or respect for her, she said, and instead believed “he owned me and could do what he wanted to me”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"54IXFTE4TFBO3PDMCDAQDJIUUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said she feared for her life in that moment and no longer felt safe. She outlined struggling with sleep, PTSD and nightmares.","type":"text"},{"_id":"63HIZZBBIJH47PQFQQTAIX2B7I","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VSJNTCEHLNHSXMUSVZBC25NSAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said she is “just surviving, not living” and doesn’t yet know the full impact of what happened to her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6OZ5IOBDVGV7OB2B7HB4LBHCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"OIY3EFK6BJGYHFJHAVXBT27O3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Fawsitt asked the court to take into account her client’s cancer diagnosis, the contents of medical reports and his personal circumstances.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VKB7UJPMLVCPPAH2LVGO2GBVWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two character witnesses – a surgeon and a businessman – read testimonials on Hamzi’s behalf at an earlier sentence hearing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JKCIWH4E6NAA5P3XFRNHGN6LIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The surgeon said Hamzi’s conviction “contrasts with the character of the man I’ve known for many years”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C3E7KTPNGVDGPGJBM2DFIM5MU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said he “always found him [Hamzi] to be a gentlemen”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEH5VBVDLRECZJR66HQK3YCDJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"WREZR7AKTBFIXDYGM3R5L6SF7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said he’d “never seen him [Hamzi] engage in conflict with others”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VKGMIAD57BC2JDYVR6OGBRA7UU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5B6YGINCZJB6RFABH6B2SS44TU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The businessman said the news of Hamzi’s conviction had “taken him aback”. He said he’d known Hamzi for many years and knew him to have “never previously been involved in any troubles with others, male or female”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BTTHJ4F72VGQFDUVTONZOAFVEI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"44CISPYVORE2TGCIPRQ6TPBCG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"At a previous sentence hearing, the court heard Ms O’Brien asked to speak to Hamzi the night before as they were having marital difficulties. He left the house, returning at about 1am, then asked her what she wanted to talk about.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GLRVXPLATVFUXPIVTY4CQBQQCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"She was in the sittingroom and initially told him it was too late, then after he insisted, told him about her wish to end their marriage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3R5OIIGXCFCXPOHL2B72OG6WTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He told her everything was fine, then became aggressive, punching her twice and then raping her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BZPED65T5FFBDIWMNDDEDCTF3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7QHWVGKEMFFQ3CNUFCEJQZ3D4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UE3IPJKTPFAEFE6DES573OJO5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"She later emailed her solicitor to tell them what had happenedbefore going to a Garda station to make a complaint.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Eimear Dodd"}]},"description":{"basic":"Level of violence an aggravating factor, judge says"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T18:25:00.884Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘I was just a possession’: Man jailed for eight years for rape of wife who wanted to separate","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"A6SKAXHHABDZHKL2XIY5YMVPNY","auth":{"1":"092ad3247dd7fca8bf43954ed3437b9fd775377a7d6eb24036568edafc3ee1f8"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/A6SKAXHHABDZHKL2XIY5YMVPNY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/i-was-just-a-possession-man-jailed-for-eight-years-for-rape-of-wife-who-wanted-to-separate/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"NOW43TKUM5HZRJKJNVRTE5IKC4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":243,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/4503b4ce-1166-468c-b8d6-a8f30c6350ad/versions/1742838416/media/f304faacae0a59133046cea9f30429fb_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/death-of-boy-who-fell-through-roof-into-pub-smoking-area-a-tragic-accident-inquest-finds/","content_elements":[{"_id":"35PVWAQBENCZ5NE7WXAK7VOJBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The death of an 11-year-old boy who fell through a roof and landed in the smoking area of a pub in Dundalk in September 2022 was a tragic accident, an inquest has ruled.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XV7JM6FBRFGTRIPOUMUETXKKFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Coroner Dr Cróna Gallagher returned a verdict of accidental death after hearing details of the sequence of events that lead to the death of Calvin Curley-Gray.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B4INUSIUKJDODKPRQT5R24UM3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 11-year-old was with a group of friends on Sunday, September 4th, 2022, when they walked down an alleyway in Dundalk town and climbed onto a roof, the inquest heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X62TFGTQYJGUBGR6U3FKORZD6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Children just don’t appreciate danger in the same way that adults do,” Dr Gallagher told the inquest on Monday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RXZVLGSZORDVDIO4ZPV73MWO2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said that, while it is not clear why the boys went onto the roof that day, it was likely due to “a sense of adventure” and “children being children”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VWGWTHCD3ZADNGGOZYI6FGS2AM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Gallagher said it was a “very, very tragic accident”, and expressed her condolences to Calvin’s parents Diane and Francis, his siblings Sophie, Evan and Cruz, and his wider family.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZI7MCDCNZHZFI2MIKNCLBTJCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A statement given to gardaí by one of Calvin’s friends was read out during the inquest. The young boy said he, Calvin and a few friends got the bus into Dundalk on the day in question.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJMH4326XFDDHPUVQI2TC6C2MQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The boys walked down an alley and saw a gate. They went through it and proceeded to climb up a metal staircase and go onto a roof, the boy’s statement noted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RNHXGSV6NNCKJAYEW65DUMVP6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"According to the statement, the boys were on the roof for about five to 10 minutes before Calvin fell. One part of the roof was covered by a black tarpaulin sheet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4JD3LXYHBGLRCWFC2AJZLODRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Calvin jumped on it and he went through it,” the boy said via his statement, “I ran back and told my friends he fell through the roof.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OH2FQC74KRF3NL6UW5KKMP43GI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The rest of the boys came down from the roof and tried to find where Calvin had landed. They walked into the Uisce Beatha Bar, a pub located on Clanbrassil Street.","type":"text"},{"_id":"56NEDOXMBNALXEY6E4MGNIDAFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Around the same time, at some point between 4pm and 4.30pm, Gerard Agnew went into the pub’s smoking area.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GN3SZ2MQVVGEHBWWK6R636JZ2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I went out for a smoke and saw a young lad lying on the ground,” Mr Agnew told the inquest. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"S6IH3EJ7OZG6ZJT2LQZBHGRMVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"He initially thought it was “a joke”, but then noticed the boy’s clothes were wet and “knew something was wrong”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2IPUELCR3FBQVO54ASMM2SA5KI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Agnew said he ran back into the pub to get help. A number of people including Adrianne Callan, who owns the pub, came into the smoking area.<b> </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"TYZJ7CD65JGNLBQZG4APIUP4AI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Callan said she has owned the pub for eight or nine years and, at some point before the Covid-19 pandemic, black plastic sheeting was placed over the Perspex roof which covers the smoking area. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"S3J7VIRDWNG2NPFZWVHRP4KZOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Callan said two other businesses, aside from the pub, have access to the smoking area. She told the inquest she could not remember any other occasion when someone had been on the roof.","type":"text"},{"_id":"77FLB6M2OVC3FJDFVSJSXUYYGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Callan said her memories of the day of the incident are “hazy”, but that she called 999 and “first responders came and did their job”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DRLMPY4L35AEFLV4CNII45YTAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UT5WLYAADNEL7ALZ322JZK5ENQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Calvin was treated at Temple Street Children’s Hospital for about two weeks. He was declared brain dead on September 17th, 2022. He officially died on September 19th, and Dr Gallagher agreed to list the latter date as Calvin’s date of death, as per his family’s wishes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7QB4CSLEHNHUBEZNPJESJNOVEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"A postmortem examination carried out by Dr John O’Neill ruled that Calvin “died from traumatic brain injury due to a fall from a height”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HUMSBPH2UFDMBA2HHTR3E5PF5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking after the verdict of accidental death was delivered, Calvin’s older sister Sophie said her brother is “dearly missed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GWN77DAA2VCURBJDVY7DY7WZ4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He had a bright future ahead of him as he was an unreal boxer and footballer.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5NMCK25CBDTFITD543DRYHFWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sophie, who herself boxes for Ireland, said her mother had just had another baby, a boy called Cruz, when Calvin’s accident happened. She said her mother feels as though “she lost one to gain one”<i>.</i>","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Órla Ryan"}},"name":"Órla Ryan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Inquest into Calvin Curley-Gray’s death in September 2022 delivers verdict of accidental death "},"display_date":"2025-03-24T17:41:14.854Z","headlines":{"basic":"Death of boy who fell through roof into pub smoking area a tragic accident, inquest finds","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7GDC2STJ6GQ7R2VNKQQK2ZSV3E","auth":{"1":"ed13d81da3b019a5c688218c3b03c8011aac4747a34abb002e65925916edec9c"},"focal_point":{"x":1862,"y":1683},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7GDC2STJ6GQ7R2VNKQQK2ZSV3E.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/death-of-boy-who-fell-through-roof-into-pub-smoking-area-a-tragic-accident-inquest-finds/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}}],"count":10000,"_id":"a5f9dd606f4702bcb8f4b2ab9ac875b8a0e0b01f3fd20dd8ea94dd6bb255f279"},"expires":1743146369299,"lastModified":1743146069051},"{\"feedOffset\":0,\"feedSize\":50,\"includeSections\":\"/crime-law\"}":{"data":{"content_elements":[{"_id":"OKAZS6K5GZC3HM4PGXVYTROU4M","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":201,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/b19e4eca-2e96-45cc-82c8-add06c442445/versions/1743113225/media/f479832cce2eea7e9536ff4d45ec7891_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/murder-accused-told-garda-he-stabbed-wife-because-she-was-cheating-court-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IPBGX7DEF5ERVFQ2IPKEHAY7HQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A man accused of murdering his wife told a garda at the scene that he stabbed her in the throat with a knife because she was cheating and he could not “tolerate” such an act. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GWIGLVJG7REJ7HGZA6NQ2DBUDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Regin Parithapara Rajan (43) is on trial charged with the murder of his wife Deepa Dinamani (38) at their home in Cardinal Court in Wilton in Cork on July 14th, 2023. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TLQCKR45JNAQNAPC4OSTQ2UWQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jurors at the Central Criminal Court in Cork were previously told the couple had travelled from India with their young son so that Ms Dinamani could take up work in Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K36LGMBDM5DKFJ6LL4GR36LEXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The family were living in Cork for around four months when Ms Dinamani was found dead in a blood-soaked bed in a rental property in the city. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7UK62OCIRB27JLMY6UIKMUESM","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Thursday the trial heard evidence from Det Garda Kenneth Lawton, who gave the accused a legal caution at the scene in Cardinal Court in Wilton on July 14th, 2023. He also asked Mr Rajan what had happened at the property. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7IUSNDO3G5HTBKPPDQQAPZCADM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Det Garda Lawton noted the reply from Mr Rajan: “She [Ms Dinamani] was cheating on me. She was having an affair and he lives in London. I just found out today. I saw the messages that were on her phone (details of passwords) and I could not tolerate it. It was very ugly messages.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NEJPQRHJIZAFNC3MNEDPOQPOF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I just stabbed her with a knife in the throat, she was cheating on me, I could not tolerate that. I will take any sentence. I committed a crime. I could not take this. She was the love of my life.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BFRBB2WHZJAL3DMUE6ZKB4UJNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“And this is the second time, sorry to say. I was in depression and family life was not good. I lost 15kg in the last two months. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SIPOL3LFERDWLL2MINEUEVBGRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It was good until two months ago. When I knew she was chatting with someone, that is when I became depression.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJMTEQVMXJHI5M4CTPFJNGL3DI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I did not do it deliberately. After seeing those messages I did that, sorry to say.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUOE65PF3FDWZMTRRKHUZ6UBG4","additional_properties":{},"content":" The trial also heard the mother of one died of a 14cm “single swipe” incised knife cut to her neck.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OPFZF24V2ND2ZJW2CWXWY2WXGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It caused her to not only lose massive amounts of blood but also to “inhale and swallow” the blood from her wound. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TBY4D4ZVHRHHZE76O774IRNGHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Chief State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan said that Ms Dinamani would have lost the ability to speak once the wound was inflicted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UCC6FTYVENC7PIQI5SS26NF3NI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan carried out the postmortem examination on the remains of the deceased on July 15th, 2023. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MDNMLPNV2VBFNMG2XVFH7A7A3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan told the jury of seven women and five men that she detected an incised wound, measuring 14cm in length, on the neck of Ms Dinamani. She said that the wound severed the large strap muscle of the neck. It also severed the thyroid artery and exposed the windpipe.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QEGWIA5CRZGEPGK7H2OFSHHV4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan said there was evidence of aspirated blood in the lungs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MKXPTQPX6BDNBE7NYHTWPJCIZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“She [Ms Dinamani] would have been breathing in blood. There was bloodstained fluid in her airways and windpipe. Her stomach filled with altered blots and clots. She inhaled and swallowed blood.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MQFIEOTEEZCITF2BALM66YLVKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial continues on Friday.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Olivia Kelleher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Mother died from ‘single swipe’ knife cut to her neck, Cork court told"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T22:01:55.327Z","headlines":{"basic":"Murder accused told garda he stabbed wife because she was cheating, court hears","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI","auth":{"1":"3e3b0e143f670f284926389330ecd112a1f9b016f3a9293d573e5528da8c83ff"},"focal_point":{"x":1459,"y":704},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/D5AZSVSVNNCZBICABEAQGMWWZI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/murder-accused-told-garda-he-stabbed-wife-because-she-was-cheating-court-hears/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"7Y2G74OGIBHUPNWXUPQQZP2T4Q","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":205,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/e865ac36-50b8-4b3e-86a2-a51025d63446/versions/1743109557/media/5c39a560304fd468574d95f83c5dc4e8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/supreme-court-to-hear-pharmacists-appeal-on-public-sector-work-ban-as-an-asylum-seeker/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UV7O2RJW4VD35F2L4FQ53HENK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686272},"content":"The Supreme Court has agreed to hear a pharmacist’s appeal over the rejection of his challenge to Ireland’s labour market access rules which barred him from seeking employment in the public service when he was an asylum seeker.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FH7GUQZTNABPBEBTMQPIIWRNE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686273},"content":"The man, who worked as a pharmacist in his home country in the Middle East since 2005 specialising in public health sector pharmacy, arrived in Ireland seeking international protection in August 2023 and was granted refugee status the following October.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JETVLKZ5TRGS3NYTQGZQSUXOMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686274},"content":"He had obtained a labour market access permission that permitted him to work while his international protection application was being processed but he says when he sought employment in the public health pharmacy section, employers were prohibited from giving him work.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IGUVTTQHPVE3NLWODTBYQFTJCA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686275},"content":"He was allowed to work in a private pharmacy as a technician but claimed he was being paid less than a person with his experience and qualifications should be paid. He got €22 per hour compared with €40 to €50 per hour if he was working at the appropriate level, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FEYYUD4GZNBV5HB5DBYTCE74OI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686276},"content":"Although he was entitled to apply for jobs in any sector once he got his refugee status, he brought High Court proceedings challenging the refusal to allow him to do so while he was an asylum applicant.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KSAXWOB35NDADPWQYAEVRPRYRA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686277},"content":"He sought declarations including that under a 2013 EU directive (directive 2013/33EU) he was entitled to effective access to the labour market. He claimed the prohibition on public sector employers from taking him on amounted to a disproportionate limitation which was without legitimate justification and was unlawful.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NPWUIZUICRHXRNXBYQ6FH6LZNA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686278},"content":"The respondents in the case, the Minister of Justice, the Minister of Enterprise Trade and Employment, and the State, disputed his claims.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BDK3KGEX3FCSVFBZQTSZ56FRGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686279},"content":"Last November, the High Court rejected his claims.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVW3PJ2WSRANZP2LGCDMJXC444","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686280},"content":"He then sought a direct appeal to the Supreme Court on grounds including that his case raised a matter of public importance. He contended it was in the interests of justice that the rights of eligible international protection applicants to labour market access are lawfully determined.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5WN5KKAP6ZG2HMFRL4O3LFYKNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686281},"content":"He claimed the High Court erred on a number of matters including in its interpretation of effective access to the labour market.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7VRPSEO7NVC5LAYKIMB3RDOCZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686282},"content":"The court also erred in accepting, in the absence of evidence, that the reason for the prohibition on access to all public sector employment was that it created a “pull factor” for potential international protection applicants, it was claimed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZAY7UAQZ6JCJZJPQLBRB7WWZAY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686283},"content":"The respondents opposed the application for an appeal. They argued, among other things, that the matters he raised in seeking an appeal did not constitute exceptional grounds to permit a direct appeal to the Supreme Court and could have been dealt with by the Court of Appeal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JMY3Z5KUCBEYTM5PIAFIRR5FZ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686284},"content":"In a written determination, the Supreme Court granted him leave to appeal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PKHLPMM56NHZXKQYAUWMXJJD2E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686285},"content":"It said his asserted grounds of appeal met the constitutional threshold of exceptional circumstances warranting an appeal directly from the High Court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"44V5P7OJSZDRLNP2U7I4IUM66E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743097686286},"content":"It said the appeal raised issues of law which would be likely to reach the Supreme Court in any event (even if there was first an appeal to the Court of 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Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/supreme-court-to-hear-pharmacists-appeal-on-public-sector-work-ban-as-an-asylum-seeker/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"2G6O6GQBNNG4ZC46WSLCGAER2E","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":247,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/b877ab3d-ab08-4301-b65d-b41882d2a510/versions/1743109159/media/63c2ed87dea20d864cac312291fdbeff_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/office-of-dpp-has-played-pivotal-role-in-criminal-justice-system-for-50-years-taoiseach/","content_elements":[{"_id":"6Y4QXXFO5ZAT5JDYUZM57SHNDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The independent Office of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/director-of-public-prosecutions/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/director-of-public-prosecutions/\">Director of Public Prosecutions</a> (DPP) has played “a pivotal role” in the State’s criminal justice system over the last five decades and will continue to do so, the Taoiseach has said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BVYV3J4MURC4ZISHZ4HS3LP6SM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Addressing an event in Dublin on Thursday marking the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Office of the DPP in 1975, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin\">Micheál Martin</a> said its work was “crucially important” and “central to the health and resilience of our society”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DFMKVJPAQVB23G3AFKICJJ6SGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was “essential for the rule of law and for the safety of our communities” that people could have faith in the administration of justice and confidence “that every criminal complaint will be dealt with fairly, and effectively and independently – without fear of influence or prejudice”, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BUTDVUKIYNBP3NWHJT34ODGTWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Martin said the Government was committed to prioritising investment across the justice system and to initiatives including a review of the criminal justice system with a view to improving efficiency, removing blockages and cutting waiting times.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RLUYUPUMZRFYLPUJF3MZQX7IYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Among those at the event on Thursday, hosted by the DPP Catherine Pierse, were Minister for Justice <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\">Jim O’Callaghan</a>, Attorney General <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rossa-fanning/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rossa-fanning/\">Rossa Fanning</a>, former DPPs James Hamilton and Claire Loftus, the family of the first DPP, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/first-director-of-public-prosecutions-eamonn-barnes-dies-1.3278270\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/first-director-of-public-prosecutions-eamonn-barnes-dies-1.3278270\">Eamonn Barnes, who died in 2017</a>, and judges and gardaí.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2QUKDYO66JAO5NTNQFCSTHA2AM","additional_properties":{},"content":"During the event, the Taoiseach launched a book by Dr Niamh Howlin, of University College Dublin’s Sutherland school of law, which was commissioned by the Office of the DPP to mark the 50th anniversary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UNLBRCOQO5EV3BRL5K5F6LZPI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Entitled The History of the Office of the DPP: 1975-2025, the book “shines a light on the Office’s many challenges, milestones and ultimately its place at the heart of Ireland’s criminal justice system”, Mr Martin said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LUVUMBRRYNBOLBQ73VKUP3RMGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He paid tribute to all four holders of the position of DPP for their work.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JINT7N52GRFVXG2ZPDR6YGNBUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Pierse’s role in helping to build collaboration with other criminal justice partners over the years has been “hugely influential” in bringing about improvements for users of the criminal justice system, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G6LDSBW2AZFXTOLVSTXO6GXWV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In her address, Ms Pierse said a statement by former deputy DPP Barry Donoghue that “the worst thing you can have in a democracy” is a popular DPP “really resonates with me”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LSMNNV4CYVHHPO6PC5QJ4MESQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The key principle underpinning the office’s work was that prosecutions were brought on behalf of the people of Ireland “and not on behalf of any individual, organisation or government”, she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JWGQOGLOONENFFC3XQXO2BGFWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The value of independence of the Irish prosecution service was “deeply embedded in our culture”, but that independence “is not a shield from scrutiny or transparency; nor is it a reason to isolate from the rest of the system”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LJGEJBZ4CNGA5IEYT56HKTXYYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Because of the “enormous significance” of the office’s decisions on people’s lives, there were “checks and balances” in the decision-making system, she said. Decisions to prosecute could be tested in court and victims were entitled to reasons and a review of decisions not to prosecute.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TUJKCXGQYNFLVL2A5TNGMUTXPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The director also said there was a need to review and revisit policies and practices underpinning the approach to disclosure of material for trials, including the fact the defence has no statutory obligation to engage about identifying material that might be relevant to it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B6H4FBMKRNAKTHUAMUB3V76K6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"She welcomed a Supreme Court judgment which disagreed that disclosure of counselling notes in sexual offence cases was required on the basis the material was remotely or potentially relevant.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7OAJXPSBFBUJBYYVE25LDOVHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Pierse said other categories of records could also contain private information such as medical, social work or family law records and mobile phone data. Having systems to support early engagement concerning disclosure was “key”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OHXJJW3XAZBQTDOBKJ7PHB2UR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The director said the review of legal aid led by the Department of Justice was vital in this regard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4DLPDCMZGFD6TJGTJQ7CUJ3EHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said it was “important for the administration of justice” that people were attracted to work in criminal law, that remuneration was “fair” and that defence lawyers and prosecution counsel fees were structured to support early engagement with a case.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mary Carolan"}},"name":"Mary Carolan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Independence of service is embedded in society, but is not a shield from scrutiny, says Director of Public Prosecutions"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T20:54:04.277Z","headlines":{"basic":"Office of DPP has played ‘pivotal role’ in criminal justice system for 50 years - Taoiseach","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"QIHFDE6SWFBZZGP4RJJFEDGIGE","auth":{"1":"c8abda2039147d062b8a963bce673321f8fb0994f20b57204bb0f7989b2cc97d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/QIHFDE6SWFBZZGP4RJJFEDGIGE.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/office-of-dpp-has-played-pivotal-role-in-criminal-justice-system-for-50-years-taoiseach/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"E4A5SXH34BDHBEVCKCWNX27S3I","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":183,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/3848c034-507f-4f94-8564-4b53aa55a547/versions/1743102020/media/55ccf0d589daa842378fabb000c2e1db_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/family-settle-high-court-action-against-hospital-over-death-of-father-during-pandemic/","content_elements":[{"_id":"RK3VUUUJANFJLDNHANVEMK4644","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390763},"content":"The family of a 71-year-old Cork man who died in Mercy University Hospital Cork during the Covid-19 pandemic have settled their High Court action against the hospital.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZCUOOEMPJBWDATKYJ7JOCSNIE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390764},"content":"Shirley Barry, daughter of the late Michael McGowan, told Mr Justice Tony O’Connor on Thursday that her family believed their father was “treated appallingly”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3RU3BQLAO5BURF3CXXTOXMYZPQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390765},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"CEER5X6OPFFKZAE36U5XVS4VSM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390766},"content":"Ms Barry, of Ballycotton, Cork, had on behalf of the extended family sued the hospital over the death in January 2021 of Mr McGowan, of Dublin Hill, Cork city, from heart failure.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2P3BR624EVCGJNTEA4TTFFU5HA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390767},"content":"The settlement against the Mercy University Hospital was without an admission of liability. The court heard a “full and robust” defence had been filed in the case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TXTEDNTTA5C65LI5EDO7DSBJ2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390768},"content":"Mercy University Hospital had said it would be unfair and unjust to impose liability upon the hospital in circumstances when they were administrating the public health system in unprecedented circumstances during the Covid-19 pandemic.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O4C4AS4FUNGERLSQD3ZJKFS3GM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390769},"content":"It was also said the pandemic led to an unprecedented interruption to normal healthcare activities and said outpatient services such as echocardiograms were severely affected and were mainly carried out on inpatients.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ILHLE4KZZCNXBJPG64QWSVAK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390770},"content":"The McGowan side had said the hospital continued to perform echocardiograms on an outpatient basis through the Covid emergency. They said that a freedom of information request showed that 747 echocardiograms were performed on an outpatient basis at the hospital between March 2020 and January 13th, 2021.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CPEW3TSDNC2FGDTGAITPO6CSQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390771},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"QZTMNDXDXFDMLOQL54HERJM23I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390772},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"B2LWXNNIS5EJBDR42TBEAVFPHA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390773},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJO465P4MFFTREC3INUVBQJGYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390774},"content":"At issue in the case was the allegation over the ongoing care of Mr McGowan, who had been diagnosed in 2013 with aortic stenosis, a problem with a valve in the heart. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HP26CABV7RBP7FGNO2JNYR3MNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Elaine Morgan SC, for the family, said such a diagnosis required rigorous follow-up care including echocardiograms, which test the heart.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EJYG34BHFJD5DGJTXYQ7C4CS3U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390775},"content":"She said while Mr McGowan had the echocardiograms up to 2019, there was a “perfect storm” as regards care at the hospital and an alleged failure to follow up with the pensioner on a routine basis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S7EZFF2LMFEILLYBL6W5IKHW4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Morgan said he had his last echocardiogram in 2019 and “tight surveillance with Mr McGowan to be seen every six months“ was recommended.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PGY7TNJAEVAZZG56XPA64SNU7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390777},"content":"“Unfortunately that did not happen. He had no echocardiogram again before his death,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VVEZBUWBJFHU7JZKAA4CR4Y6XQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Morgan said 20 months after his 2019 echocardiogram, Mr McGowan was admitted to the hospital on January 14th, 2021, in relation to blood loss on an unrelated condition. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"G4M7TAMWX5GDJNXMCH5A2XEAU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was their case, she said, this should have been a red flag for somebody with the valve problem. Mr McGowan died seven days later from cardiac arrest.","type":"text"},{"_id":"46ZA6DJXLZDG7I2IASWG5UHIHE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390779},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"4BP57WW2HVBZ3ISLDRJR2FTEZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Morgan told the court the contention by the hospital in relation to the Covid pandemic “does not in our view stack up”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JBY7VHZ2ZRCSBGFJN3FFWEJJ54","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390781},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"RKDZILGYH5A4LFXEBHKJBCJ4X4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743098390782},"content":"Mr Justice O’Connor noted the settlement.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Pensioner with heart trouble had echocardiogram in 2019, but ‘never got another one afterwards’"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T18:54:33.309Z","headlines":{"basic":"Family settle High Court action against hospital over death of father during pandemic","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BCX3HNMXGJCWNGBJHV7ZYKCPOI","auth":{"1":"a0145d49a9bc8cae5333d91ba629c4e061cb4a59e9b232b5a6fd7965c1abbd31"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BCX3HNMXGJCWNGBJHV7ZYKCPOI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/family-settle-high-court-action-against-hospital-over-death-of-father-during-pandemic/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"SUP5MYDRCJGVNMLXTC2MAMDVPE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":223,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/3cf853d0-d7c7-4909-92d2-840beaa6e08b/versions/1743100279/media/e6797a14a3b63d549ef70413101b2fc7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/judge-order-disciplinary-process-against-probationer-garda-be-stopped/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IQE4MJMXXJGEBMLX24BFNCSY7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"A High Court judge has ordered that a disciplinary process brought against a serving garda be stopped after he found the process to be “tainted” beyond the point of redemption.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIFOYJYUD5H4FCTKEQJ4KPGHVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Caoimhe Busher, a probationer garda member since 2018, has been the subject of a disciplinary investigation concerning how she allegedly investigated and input information into the Garda Pulse system related to a 2019 road traffic incident in South Dublin. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WF572XTXRVDNJJ5HRAHTVAWRGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"She denies any wrongdoing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NWFOZI3YKVERHA2TMCEDB6LMZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In her proceedings, brought against the Garda Commissioner last year, Ms Busher said the internal investigation into the alleged disciplinary breach has been ongoing since 2020. Ms Busher also claimed her probation period was extended seven times and that this was a breach of her rights.","type":"text"},{"_id":"COYE2L6SF5G5JKNZ5MKVNNDIFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a judgment delivered on Thursday, Mr Justice David Nolan ruled in favour of Ms Busher, after he found that the disciplinary process taken against her was “tainted”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4VALTJA4RD73OSXIXPSYHC7JM","additional_properties":{},"content":"This ruling arises from a “prejudicial” letter, written by a Garda member investigating Ms Busher’s alleged disciplinary breach, that, “in essence”, made findings of guilt against her, the judge said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N6RVL74AWNED3CGK6KXFGFUG7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The letter, dated November 5th, 2020, was prepared by the investigating garda as a covering document to accompany his file on Ms Busher’s case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LSKRBDVAYRF3NDVID45HF6GZEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is standard practice for a covering document to accompany an investigation file, to assist the Garda Commissioner in deciding whether to establish an internal inquiry board to adjudicate on an alleged disciplinary breach, the judge noted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZCQR5LHTCFHANIMMDY3Q25PNSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The covering letter, however, was furnished, along with other material, to an internal board of inquiry convened to adjudicate on the allegation against Ms Busher. The letter was also furnished to Ms Busher. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZA3EFLX3MNEBNODCHCNH5JSOPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The board was dissolved before hearing the case on account of one of its members retiring.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MGES2442KFH3HAIPRCG5BX54CE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The letter was not furnished to a second inquiry board that was convened, the judge noted. When the second board became aware of the letter while at hearing – it was raised by Ms Busher’s solicitor – they formed the view that they could not continue in their roles and stood down.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M4FBC4VEFVCKHHJAOV7J57IS64","additional_properties":{},"content":"“By allowing the letter to circulate before the board, no matter which board, the view of the investigating officer will be known well before any evidence is given. The concern must be that the guilt of the applicant [Ms Busher] would be determined before the board gets to hear any evidence, thus setting at naught the whole purpose of the board of inquiry,” the judge said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AGKXNMYI2RAXFA5G5TSJVFKBWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"While noting that the investigating officer is entitled to his views, the judge said the first inquiry board should not have been informed of those views or the letter. When they were informed of it, it followed that the letter was given to the applicant.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7M6REDUO4NFD7FP3YJ5HIBCRSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The canary is out of the cage. The respondents can never get it back into the cage,” the judge said. “If the process is not stopped, a third board of inquiry will find itself in exactly the same position, on being informed of [the letter’s] contents.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y467HJSUKNCARMLHAOFPC2BKB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I have concluded that this process is ‘irredeemably wrong’ or damaged and is tainted by the letter of November 5th, 2020. In those circumstances, it would be entirely wrong to allow it to continue,” Mr Justice Nolan said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TKX4HTIXSFF2VEVGHTNIBSX32M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge said he would make an order of prohibition in regard to the disciplinary process brought against Ms Busher.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YLZN4OKECVA2DIX3RSVQ4QFMJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He also said his provisional view is that Ms Busher is entitled to her legal costs. He listed the matter for next month for submissions on the final order and costs.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Fiachra Gallagher"}},"name":"Fiachra Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Caoimhe Busher said the process against her was ongoing since 2020"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T18:25:58.968Z","headlines":{"basic":"Judge order disciplinary process against probationer garda be stopped","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"PKIA3TQAIRECTIWQUL5NIUL3VE","auth":{"1":"ded2862d126a7d6865850aa2018b632637d04201d52c9f8cfd1ec0d3a776c22b"},"focal_point":{"x":558,"y":449},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/PKIA3TQAIRECTIWQUL5NIUL3VE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/judge-order-disciplinary-process-against-probationer-garda-be-stopped/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"OQ44LRSS6RE2VIKYT4WR4XNNYI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":186,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/6fb71914-1822-4c18-afcf-a8da9a4892a5/versions/1743104879/media/a93fe32f9aa00ff5a86beeb157c5df0b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/family-gangs-cocaine-smuggling-operation-was-biggest-servicing-irish-market-say-gardai/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"LCJDSD35FZCHJCHKVIJRH6VA2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Irish and Spanish raids targeting <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/the-family\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/the-family\">the Family</a> drugs gang, headquartered in Dublin, have significantly disrupted the biggest supply route of cocaine into the Republic, gardaí believe. Though some of those involved in the drug smuggling network will seek to resume their activities immediately, Garda sources said, they are now in a much weaker position.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QC4FB2F6GZHKZGQWQKNTCSGR3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Senior officers believe the discovery of The Family’s distribution hub in Castellón de la Plana in eastern Spain – where drugs and vehicles were seized by the Guardia Civil this week – represents a big blow to the criminal network. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E5EZQCNMDJGYRL5FD6K5SGOK6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Four trucks and 12 luxury vehicles were seized in Spain, many with secret compartments for smuggling drugs into Ireland. A total of 314kg of cocaine, valued at about €25 million, and 220kg of marijuana was also taken from the gang as part of a transnational investigation that began late last year. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VSLWCD4XRNHPLMMKW2YADZNWVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda sources said, however, while the raids targeting the group’s logistics operation in Spain will significantly disrupt The Family’s activities, they also believe the group would prove resilient. They pointed out some of the older members of the gang – led by brothers from west Dublin – had been involved in the drugs trade for almost three decades.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LAA4PHEKWZG23JO2O5LAUTZZEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Given their experience, the wealth they had already accrued and large network of associates they had built around them in Ireland and Spain, The Family would seek to retain its position as the biggest drugs gang in Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LALIWLP65C2DCSVPARP3VQ6M4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It has emerged as the biggest importer of drugs into the Republic since the demise of Dublin’s “Byrne organised crime group”. The Byrne group effectively ran the Kinahan cartel’s Irish operation before a big Garda clampdown, in response to the Kinahan-Hutch feud, closed it down. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5MZDFBQLSFCNBOB6KILL6RJ3JI","additional_properties":{},"content":"As the Byrne group’s demise was occurring from about 2016 to 2018, The Family became the dominant player on the domestic drug scene, having been a significant player, especially in Dublin, for many years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FTB3S3ZM75GOFDEDILZL46X7WE","additional_properties":{},"content":"As well as the Spanish operation this week targeting the logistics base where drugs were packed and concealed for transport to Ireland, some of the most senior figures in The Family gang, who have remained living in Dublin, were arrested by gardaí on Monday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QYH7ZYIFOZD5ZL3OXZEYI64L2Y","content":"Spanish police say Ireland’s Family drugs gang ‘enjoyed high economic status and influence’","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"VEKRPBY37RC7HOTP3XO2NDOA4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí have been liaising with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) throughout the week with a view to charging the arrested men. Three of the suspects are related to each other and are regarded as comprising most of the top tier leadership that runs the gang. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JA33ZKAMENGILLV7TYGNDTCGCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The other arrested men, of six in total detained in Ireland, fill key roles in areas such as technology and logistics for the gang. Gardaí are hopeful criminal charges will be approved before the men’s periods of detention expire at the weekend and in to next week. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5RGHTXL6WRCXJMJRRFM4GNGAUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A leading figure in the Family gang is already facing criminal charges after a large sum of cash and other assets were seized during a Garda operation some time ago.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Lally"}},"name":"Conor Lally"}]},"description":{"basic":"Senior officers warn while Dublin-headquartered gang now under serious pressure in Ireland and Spain, it is resilient"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T18:21:16.793Z","headlines":{"basic":"The Family gang’s cocaine smuggling operation was biggest servicing Irish market, say gardaí","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5UR6AXFRCNBFVCFKPDWZPOX3KM","auth":{"1":"0971c41019985718b22479f5805bcc6effbb9416b2b41d9ac5e2a3f1b2894c45"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5UR6AXFRCNBFVCFKPDWZPOX3KM.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7","embed_html":"<div class=\"powa\" id=\"powa-f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-org=\"irishtimes\" data-env=\"prod\" data-uuid=\"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.562\" data-api=\"prod\"><script src=\"//irishtimes.video-player.arcpublishing.com/prod/powaBoot.js?org=irishtimes\"><\/script></div>","promo_image":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"},"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"}},"type":"video"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/family-gangs-cocaine-smuggling-operation-was-biggest-servicing-irish-market-say-gardai/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"7AK645BCMFG4ZCZQAZZZUDVZOM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":297,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5e119b38-effe-4cb8-8ca2-5718709d0789/versions/1743099575/media/e6f6bfbb8090477e6d30aeff49aa7674_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/jail-for-man-who-drove-into-anti-immigration-protester-during-dublin-demonstration/","content_elements":[{"_id":"AWONUVU2YRCTLPMRV53YLVCQDI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602374},"content":"A man who lived-streamed himself driving his car into an anti-immigration protester during a demonstration in Dublin has been sentenced to 16 months in prison.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GGNRGERDOJEBNC6PGC47I5ROTU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602375},"content":"Stephen Bedford (38) with an address at Merchants Quay, Dublin, was before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court<b> </b>on Thursday, having pleaded guilty to driving a vehicle through a crowd of people, creating a substantial risk of death or serious harm to others at the Five Lamps junction on February 15th, 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YFRLN5Z4FNGKDBJBJYEECBEBMA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602376},"content":"Garda Eoin Cannon testified that he saw the defendant at an anti-immigration protest in the Amiens Street area that evening.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AMGZYI6XRJA4REPRJSCIFWHN3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602377},"content":"Bedford was conducting a one-man counter protest, and was carrying a large backpack, with a speaker and microphone.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L7XXX36YYVEWPPWACS54WNL5BE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602378},"content":"Other protesters became volatile with Bedford and the gardaí had to intervene. The officers suggested that he leave for his own safety, and he did so.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IUU7BTEJXRFQFHLL36MJQNIE6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602379},"content":"Later, the garda said he saw a car moving through the crowd, hitting one person - the injured party in the case. The vehicle came to a stop and he saw that Bedford was the driver. There were then further confrontations between the defendant and the protesters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MFDG3S7EZNFBZD7XNHSUFUDPCA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602380},"content":"The injured party told gardaí that he was attending the protest with his son, and was listening to someone speaking when he saw a car coming towards him on the wrong side of the road. He said that he told a woman with a buggy to get out of the way and then saw that the driver was using a camera.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4XGTOXRQZHQNCO7XRY7E35IQY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602381},"content":"Activist accused of driving into anti-immigration protesters in Dublin wants to face trial before a jury","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"U3NZN63Y5BHMBCNAHT5EU7SIPA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602382},"content":"Garda Cannon explained that Bedford was streaming the events to Facebook.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MZPLGQFZABCL7MNZ2KMMRHZ2SA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602383},"content":"The injured party said that he put his hand on the bonnet out of instinct in order to not go under the car. However, he said that it was going at speed, so he took his hand off and was hurt. He said that he had to attend hospital for medical treatment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2PV7Y5SE5CZDLU7YWGITY27IU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602384},"content":"Footage from Bedford’s own phone was played to the court. It showed him leaving a line of traffic stopped at the blocked junction, crossing onto the other side of the road, and turning into another road on which the injured party was standing. The injured party held his hand on the bonnet before moving out of the way.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IHSJQ4UICZAU3L2HJVB4POR4DU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602385},"content":"Under cross examination by Patrick Jackson BL, defending, Garda Cannon agreed that 150 people had blocked the junction from all directions. However, the garda said that Bedford could easily have made a U-turn.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7IG5WKPFBH7HLF2PWVBVNFFHU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602386},"content":"Garda Cannon agreed that two masked men were seen looking into Bedford’s vehicle before he made the manoeuvre out of the line of traffic. He also accepted that people were striking the vehicle with their hands.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PGX3DFWJK5E2VKSMCU654HYBOQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602387},"content":"The garda agreed that 15 males had surrounded the vehicle when it came to a stop and that gardaí helped his client by getting him out of there.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBLTWX7UDNBT5AASM3RFQCTBSE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602388},"content":"He also agreed that a doctor had noted no visible bruising to the injured party’s foot, toe or leg, and that no treatment was needed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FB76GCQ3Q5AAFALCPIM6OKKLFQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602389},"content":"Garda Cannon accepted that many of Bedford’s previous convictions related to various protests, where he had overstepped the line, and that he had very passionate beliefs about people seeking asylum.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2XCQKWBUZEY7HHANSFWJI2M3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602390},"content":"He said that the guilty plea was of assistance, adding that he ‘wouldn’t disagree’ with Mr Jackson’s assertion that trials involving people on opposite sides of the political spectrum can be difficult for gardaí.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WXEV2GQHXZDO5NPDVZQRCXDKPU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602391},"content":"Mr Jackson handed the court several letters, including one from Bedford’s doctor which said that he had a serious condition ‘at the highest end of the scale’.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZK5ICGFIBFB5DUKMF4LNKYKMQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602392},"content":"Counsel asked that the judge allow him to attend an important medical appointment he has in the coming weeks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYLBX4WOK5BWHGFGGCUZRQQUSM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602393},"content":"He also handed in testimonials from several people who outlined the volunteer work Bedford does with the marginalised, including the homeless and addicts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NI7FZLOLJCSLNWFTLEX2OOAOY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602394},"content":"One professional wrote of him that: “At times he’s not got the balance right between protecting those in need and staying on the right side of the law.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OGOJXWUBIZHI7HBONRWSM4FSTQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602395},"content":"“He has spent his life giving up his own time to help others,” said Mr Jackson.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YEGFA6XPUNHN7NN47AVNTTZFZQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602396},"content":"Counsel submitted that Bedford had driven away from the area because he was in fear of his life.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2XHBGRLYLFDVRAUMKQ7WRBU4OY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602397},"content":"He said that his client was known as a counter protester to the anti-immigration protest and was extremely afraid. He said that, when his vehicle stopped, Bedford was surrounded by people saying they would commit violence against him, and that people had run towards his vehicle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PEZURI2MZFDDHJ6Z2DPNWYAMX4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602398},"content":"“He should have remained stopped. He was very afraid,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZTKJQUZG3ZDTPEYCJ4RX44PJO4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602399},"content":"Judge Martin Nolan noted that the speed was not high, but said that Bedford could have caused injury.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q42SIZSHV5HXVO7UI64P5O65NE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602400},"content":"“I couldn’t be certain that this man will not reoffend,” he said. “I think he’s very righteous in his own cause.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RKJXFNPLIZESJBNXVKMPAR2WE4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743099602401},"content":"He jailed Bedford for 16 months, and said that: “if the authorities feel it’s in his interest to go to that (medical) appointment, they should bring him.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Natasha Reid"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Claire Henry"}]},"description":{"basic":"Stephen Bedford, who live-streamed incident on Facebook, sentenced to 16 months"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T18:14:27.338Z","headlines":{"basic":"Jail for man who drove into anti-immigration protester during Dublin demonstration","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"YQVFKFOPIRN2GMELHW4CFOU4NI","auth":{"1":"2c2f9db3406f05b0a6ee7d8cc3280b5b36493f1845581477de8d082b0ecb4387"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/YQVFKFOPIRN2GMELHW4CFOU4NI.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/jail-for-man-who-drove-into-anti-immigration-protester-during-dublin-demonstration/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"O3MLR4IXXFGHPBDNH4PPOMNUVE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":165,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/eb20ef3f-adb4-4c7b-b996-a89c0c3c861b/versions/1743098083/media/8c7708b4d03c8c69650530804df3c47d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/conor-mcgregor-told-he-will-not-face-incitement-charges-over-dublin-riots-posts/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IL3HAIGR7FEOBPCZKKU7EJCQLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/director-of-public-prosecutions/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/director-of-public-prosecutions/\">Director of Public Prosecutions</a> (DPP) has determined that former mixed martial arts fighter <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-mcgregor/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-mcgregor/\">Conor McGregor</a> should not face charges for alleged incitement around the time of the November 2023 <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-riots/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-riots/\">Dublin riots</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HIQDT7QUZFH3TJMBVDLS3VXIBQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McGregor, who <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/21/stephen-collins-conor-mcgregors-presidential-hopes-are-a-warning-to-the-government-parties-to-unite-behind-a-strong-candidate/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/03/21/stephen-collins-conor-mcgregors-presidential-hopes-are-a-warning-to-the-government-parties-to-unite-behind-a-strong-candidate/\">intends to run for the Irish presidency</a> this year on an anti-immigration platform, was informed of the decision by gardaí this week, it is understood.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5VLBOYFF3RGLXI5HDTVETSD7UY","additional_properties":{},"content":"News that the DPP was considering potential charges against Mr McGregor first appeared in the Sunday Independent last week. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LKTYCWBRFFSVDMEMHYOJ2GRQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Shortly after the report was published, the DPP informed gardaí no charges would be directed, Garda sources said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"42H5I4UF7JB5TABQK3PXSWPP2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Garda investigation, which was led by the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, focused on a number of social media posts made by the fighter before and during the violence in Dublin city centre.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GS4SFN77GNCSXGW3HRCVNLC24A","additional_properties":{},"content":"The riots broke out following a knife attack on young schoolchildren which left <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/02/08/parnell-street-stabbing-victim-able-to-stand-for-first-time-parents-say/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/02/08/parnell-street-stabbing-victim-able-to-stand-for-first-time-parents-say/\">one girl with life-changing injuries</a>. An Algerian-born man is awaiting trial charged with the attack.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RR5WXJAK7FHM3HUVXFYCLRAKTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí said the initial violence was fuelled by far-right, anti-immigrant sentiment before developing into widespread looting and arson attacks which caused millions of euro in damage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"33EH4T67QND6FO62RU5A4VBM5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí examined a number of posts by Mr McGregor, including one sent the night before the attacks that stated: “Ireland, we are at war.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"J5OBTSKJQNFNVAJ2UMKDKXDYFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the day of the riots, he posted: “Do not let any Irish property be took over unannounced. Evaporate said property. It’s a war”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XW35K2KYCFEKBNKW2ZPQHX4ZIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"In another post that day, following the start of the riots, he said: “You reap what you sow”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XBH2UCA3U5DFJOM2DDAUNDN3TI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The posts have since been deleted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KLTEOBAERRG2FMEA2Y2OMIXNFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McGregor later said he condemned the violence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UAWLHEIIBJAE3CM2Y5L7VNRJUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin riots in pictures: Vehicles set on fire amid violent clashes with gardaí after stabbing","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"DHXOHZ7ZMJEH7FXQZEJUMZSESA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The DPP considered whether the posts may have met the criminal threshold for incitement before determining they did not.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2AYKA7A2UNBZ3G3IEB5EOYX2IM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The martial artist alluded to the DPP decision in a post on social media on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQ5565GK2BB2BPXUN7G3K4RD3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Ireland will be set free,” he said alongside a screenshot of an email, appearing to be from An Garda Síochána, which stated: “I wish to advise that we have received directions from the Office of the DPP that there is to be no prosecution in this case.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBDPRVQNWZDBBCMJL6FB73XOK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The inside story of how Conor McGregor secured his meeting with Donald Trump in the Oval Office","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"INSUY5OSMZER7G7D7GIYLCIMWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McGregor, who was recently hosted in the White House by US president Donald Trump, was last year found liable by a civil court for the rape of a woman in a Dublin hotel. He is currently appealing that decision.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F4FQGWXJ3REMXP4GSAUUFOI2NI","additional_properties":{},"content":"A legal representative for Mr McGregor has been contacted for comment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C6PU633YQBGQ7GVWWD7PRULJ6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘I know what happened in that room’: the full story of the Conor McGregor case","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"EVPV63WNZJCXJJROJ4TZDAQTDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Former MMA fighter, who plans to run for Irish presidency, informed of decision by gardaí this week"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T17:48:41.399Z","headlines":{"basic":"Conor McGregor told he will not face incitement charges over Dublin riots posts","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"MG22DOVJVM4ZOU5BGX77HBU7NQ","auth":{"1":"f6ceb5689cf72867c6b400bbcf6b4ad2677695f38430cafb6ac9913a954549d5"},"focal_point":{"x":2465,"y":1078},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/MG22DOVJVM4ZOU5BGX77HBU7NQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/conor-mcgregor-told-he-will-not-face-incitement-charges-over-dublin-riots-posts/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"QL374KZTNZBXJIAIX2E625JGEM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":211,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/d00a8612-0463-4b41-a2b4-fd80f2676520/versions/1743095673/media/6a6ad481253e4ee3c9a3ff8a7530ca3f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/irish-young-people-are-second-biggest-users-of-ecstasy-in-the-eu/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IFARUJVNUJCMTP4HGYY4PLTM6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\">Ireland</a>’s young people are the second-biggest users of MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union/\">EU</a>, according to law enforcement study.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HKP5KPFEYBBWDGSNNAQWQGHR3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The study by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/europol/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/europol/\">Europol</a> and the European Union Drugs Agency shows consumption of the drug is rising again across Europe following the Covid-19 pandemic.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LF7RM25NB5FELGRZT5HLHS6ILU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Regarding use of MDMA, Irish young people are second only to drug users in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/netherlands/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/netherlands/\">Netherlands</a>, where much of the world’s supply is manufactured. According to the study, 6.5 per cent of Irish people aged between 15 and 34 had taken the drug in the previous year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CKOQ6ZUX6RFZXFQLAGUY6ZO4F4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The next-biggest consumers in the EU were the Czech Republic (4.7 per cent), Germany (2.7 per cent) and Croatia (2.6 per cent).","type":"text"},{"_id":"7JSUGUJT2VEZHIWHKABYFEZCCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The study found that about 12.3 million Europeans aged between 15 and 64 have used MDMA at least once in their life. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"T36I53NQKVBW5JZTPKVSWRPALY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Europe is the global centre for production of the drug. The EU retail market is worth at least €594 million annually while 72.4 million ecstasy tablets are consumed per year across the 27 member states.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CQUP56OO2NCP7D7CF5EBYNW3LM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This value does not include the considerable additional profits that are generated by the production, trafficking and distribution of MDMA produced in the European Union to external markets,” the report’s authors write.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FFU6YG32TBCNDPFSK46RXPSR2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prices for the drug have remained relatively stable in the past decade. Prices tend to be lower closer to the main centres of production in the Netherlands and Belgium, the report states.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NTFGH4AMOBGYXAFF7WR7DBNY4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin in top 20 cities sampled for levels of cocaine, ketamine and ecstasy found in sewage","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"BGLBEKVFZ5AFLOHM2YVIHZMYLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The consumption of MDMA among young people in Ireland has grown six-fold since 2012 when just 0.9 per cent reported taking it in the previous year. It is now the second-most used illegal drug in Ireland behind cannabis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MQMNAP3WJFGY3GUQGZRV2YFNT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"During the previous decade, the average strength of the drug increased significantly. However, there are signs this trend is reversing. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IYNLTXT6ZFETBACBBY6SPFY42E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The average strength of a ecstasy tablet dropped from 170mg in 2019 to 144mg in 2022, although there are still high-strength tablets available “which poses a high risk to users,” the report states.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HENITAUMXFHPNOPI4DMLJPXQUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The closure of night-time venues during the Covid-19 pandemic saw a significant drop in demand for MDMA, reflected in fewer seizures of the drug and fewer production facilities being dismantled. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"P4S5LN2PDRB5TEN4BCQBMNRXPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"That trend now appears to be reversing, the report states, with MDMA production in the Netherlands returning to pre-pandemic levels.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5L4H5QBBSZEWFDENZPQSWMR64A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Between 2018 and 2022, 43 per cent of MDMA seized globally was found in Europe.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SGRNAXY3XJC3ZBZVTO3UFJCOA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"EU countries are producing MDMA in such quantities that Europol has warned of a “reverse cocaine route”, where large quantities of the drug are shipped to Latin America, which is becoming “an increasingly important market”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ENSUSXN7ZZFOJHZLZZA2INYZRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Germany, Bulgaria and Belgium have been identified as international distribution hubs, with most global smuggling using air or maritime routes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TGMEJRBDBJEJJE345G6SSSTMLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In some cases, criminals based in the EU and Latin America engage in barter deals, where MDMA is exchanged for cocaine, with no monetary exchange,” the report states.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Study found 6.5 per cent of people aged 15 to 34 in Ireland had taken the drug in the previous year"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T17:10:25.113Z","headlines":{"basic":"Irish young people are second-biggest users of ecstasy in the EU","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"H6XKSWPN6JA6PO42AEROAOHYAY","auth":{"1":"e831f23032fd7b7540ec39b9d0fa53faec725992e6935788607bca494ea0d333"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/H6XKSWPN6JA6PO42AEROAOHYAY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/irish-young-people-are-second-biggest-users-of-ecstasy-in-the-eu/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"7SG3OLM7TVE2ZGUM3CO2PMEQLQ","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/dispute-over-moves-to-sell-solicitor-owned-houses-is-settled-court-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DTZWOBXEGNBOFBD4WFDSLT5FBA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762471},"content":"A dispute between a real estate management firm and a company owned by two solicitors over moves by a receiver to sell two properties worth an estimated €1.3 million has been settled, the Commercial Court heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DZG7J6VI5VEVXBKXQNZIAGA33U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762472},"content":"Beechpark Avenue Ltd, owned by Eddie O’Connor and Valerie Buckley, principals in O’Connor Buckley Solicitors, own the two houses at Rathdown Road, Phibsborough, in Dublin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EIOJNPELTJFOFLOBNMAHWWH4FY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762473},"content":"Real estate management firm, Nevada Ltd, which is owned by Phillip and Bridget Dillon, claimed it loaned Beechpark €1 million to refinance Beechpark’s previous borrowings. 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Nevada denied the claim.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSZ7V4UPNFCDRIEKN3SZBUHKHU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762477},"content":"The case was adjourned on the basis of an undertaking from Nevada and the receiver that they would withdraw the properties from auction.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4TZDY4VF65CVVH5HOTIJGXVUEE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762478},"content":"The hearing of the injunction was due to take place before Mr Justice Mark Sanfey on Thursday when Fintan Hurley BL, for Beechpark, said a settlement agreement had been reached and the terms could be handed into court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PW53OYRFZNGWRG72H55WU5VI3U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762479},"content":"The judge noted that part of the settlement provided that there would be co-operation from the plaintiffs in the sale of the properties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JJT2BVKAU5BBBOFMHKUSPQABRA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762480},"content":"Gary McCarthy SC, for the defendants, asked that the settlement would be made part of the court file in the event that the proceedings needed to be re-entered.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4TUMTJY2EVBXPBT2H3KXLLPIWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743085762481},"content":"The judge struck out the case on consent between the parties with liberty to re-enter for the purpose of enforcing the agreed steps for the sale of the properties.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Mr Justice Mark Sanfey struck out the case on consent between the parties"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T16:20:46.059Z","headlines":{"basic":"Dispute over moves to sell solicitor owned houses is settled, court hears","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JXZ2TPTTZLOAEHMERV45BRYL6I","auth":{"1":"3cf25d9523bdf4c511c190e0acecbdb0ab614b5059e53af67a51d6e08eb581da"},"focal_point":{"x":673,"y":413},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JXZ2TPTTZLOAEHMERV45BRYL6I.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/dispute-over-moves-to-sell-solicitor-owned-houses-is-settled-court-hears/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"PIVK3GKMQVH2BGI2P7RZ32XWNE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":185,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f400304b-743f-47c4-a183-2638deceede7/versions/1743091053/media/9d9ffc7792387748d6e6cc2b9c28353b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/man-jailed-for-making-over-11000-nuisance-calls-to-the-emergency-services/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855384},"content":"A 48-year-old man has been jailed for 16 months for making more than 11,000 nuisance calls to emergency services, jamming emergency telephone lines for nearly 130 hours in 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q47RRVGBYJEADAM67Z6GTSQBZY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855385},"content":"William Greene of Bective Square, Phibsborough, Dublin, was under a suspended sentence at the time for giving false information in a hoax 999 call.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S4SPFGNKNZA2TEVFIGBQIGMIDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855386},"content":"He was before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on Thursday, where he pleaded guilty to two counts of persistently making use of the telecommunications system for the purpose of causing annoyance, interference or needless anxiety to another between March 8th and November 9th, 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P56CQMDYIZCAHHVEIYFKCPSZDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855387},"content":"Detective Garda Jeremy Gibbons said that investigation began in light of the number of consistent calls to the emergency services from two phone numbers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WVVHLOKFWRDQJEBD3QQHF2SX2U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855388},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"MKLPMMH66NDJZHO5HYQOSTJ7FU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855389},"content":"He said that on one occasion, a significant number of calls was received by one call taker, who recognised Greene’s voice, manner and phrases. She listened back to playbacks of calls from that number, and the narrative was the same; he hated the guards and told her go screw herself and the Government.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B3S5MCAKPZFPNLG5PHQOZUQHSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855390},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ORQJPTBWRRBXRKSPKKRLBJWP6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855391},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"3VUEUUAEONEWXM3M4SXHVZSCSI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855392},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"TJ2XMONMGFHFVFEASVZX5IH7RU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855393},"content":"The phone number was linked to him, and his home was searched. A Nokia mobile phone was found with the sim relating to that phone number, and he was arrested in October 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YPNOIZS3JFEETGBZAHQNA6LX3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855394},"content":"Notwithstanding this initial arrest, the calls continued. His house was searched again and a second phone was found.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3W7OSBOMMRBADEW36SFOSIL24I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855395},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q5DQ63YLA5FNJFTXSFYLZTVOUU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855396},"content":"Det Gda Gibbons said that, altogether, 11,043 calls had been made, lasting a total of 7,757.6 minutes or 129 hours. He said that the number of genuine calls that were missed because the lines were occupied with these calls could not be quantified.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2P7NR65NI5ASLPXHJ2M64BUVJ4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855397},"content":"There were over 100 calls an hour from him on some occasions, causing gridlock and jamming emergency telephone lines in the Laois, Offaly, and Kildare areas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EFMNNYRHGJGU7MYQOGRCB2KPDA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855398},"content":"Greene also placed an inordinate number of silent or ‘hangup’ calls. These led to the call takers having to follow a particular procedure because they must reach out to such callers if they think they need assistance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V3XABADGHFHFVLAIVXHTETXNG4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855399},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"LUWJJ5GMLVEQVAQLWVCLRPVQIE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855400},"content":"The court also heard that Greene was under a suspended sentence at the time due to a conviction for giving false information during a hoax 999 call.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RSLHHGLLCRGVBCUTIGJT6JWUSE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855401},"content":"He also had 20 other previous convictions, which included public order and criminal damage convictions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VH264YAPGNDRLCN22DHQDVFX7M","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855402},"content":"The garda agreed with defence counsel that Greene had an addiction to alcohol and was heavily intoxicated when making these calls.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2IHCWAGCIBAYNIBEDQ5KDT3DZY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855403},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"6FDRY4ACBJH6XOOGK7NGLB474U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855404},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"T3JFC4YPY5EFHJUQWJWH335BAU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855405},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZHGROBNIHZCG3O5VBE5K6S3XGA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855406},"content":"Counsel for Greene said he was a qualified chef who had worked in the HSE, had pleaded guilty early and had engaged constructively with the criminal justice system.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QYRR5QMG7JBFROQPD3PPVYAFK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855407},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"OGREFQW3KVFWHDHIZIXVTA5SSY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855408},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"NQ34TUC6QNCJLGUINB2PX4A7VA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743092855409},"content":"Judge Nolan said that this was not an individual incident, 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“abhorrent series of sexual attacks”, which went “far beyond humiliation”, were dehumanising as well as a “total denial of her inherent dignity as a human being”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NTRF36YEJRDUZDKOYKWI7GCVTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the offending must be seen in its “true context” of ”concerted and simultaneous sexual abuse by three men of a vulnerable woman”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S7J7IMQ6KZFJPAMT6NH6SN27PQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge said it was “truly shocking” that such “vile abuse” could happen to a woman on a night out in Dublin in 2019.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4TOMW66ZYFDNDHPF3VJ3YATIGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hickey, of Ballyogan Square, Carrickmines, Dublin 18, was convicted of raping the woman in his then address in Dundrum, and of orally raping and sexually assaulting her in a car.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEQQ4WHOYJHT7BN4OMZGIX2R7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The personal trainer and father of two was handed a sentence of 16 years, with the final year suspended on strict conditions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VZSU5B5XZNAABJCID5QPNOLNG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Vicente, of Little Newtown, Enniskerry, Co Wicklow, was found guilty of raping the woman in the car and raping her in Hickey’s then-home.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MAL3F46TQ5AAFMJDYOGRCNJU5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The part-time stripper and personal trainer also received a sentence of 16 years, with the final year suspended.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MW4RYRK6JNET7E4O775NM6DGRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Zolfaghari (34), of Marley Court, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14, was convicted of the oral rape of the woman in the house. The jury found him not guilty of sexually assaulting the woman in the car.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IHVAMMVLTNEDVNNEGERM353ZQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The father of one and restaurant director was given a sentence of 14 years, with the final year suspended.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QMNT5I2LTRCBPPAQ3VUUAEEEVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court has previously heard the three men do not accept the jury’s verdicts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KCLAFNGFWFFXZJ6LEL2QTPH6WM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hickey has 10 previous convictions, including one for assault causing harm. Vicente has one previous conviction for a road traffic offence, while Zolfaghari has no previous convictions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4RPEBZLNKJHKHNKE4QEFRUTTVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"During a previous sentence hearing, the woman said in her victim impact statement that the three men were “complete strangers” who “took advantage of me and used me and my body as if I was an object that they were entitled to”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SYB4SFOWXBE7ZJIJLJT7TYGFMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"She noted that every victim thinks it is their fault at some point, but she said that the fault rested solely with the men ”who waited and preyed and took advantage”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PBMTTDAR4RBVRA7MQQIURTIVRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You not only raped me, I found out during the trial you violated me in another way. You videoed raping me.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDDGTS56IVGIDNSFXCT75JM26A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You sent around these videos and laughed about me saying ‘no’. You laughed because you didn’t care and you have shown no remorse from the second you entered into these courts.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"6MJJFS2CUZF4VLMCMTZ6YWSOGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In his remarks, Mr Justice Burns said the victim was not at fault for what happened, and the blame rested solely with the men.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BNYGSIAB3BDSDJ6YOSOXCTPGJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The woman had been socialising and went to the nightclub with a friend. She gave evidence during the trial that her memory was hazy after her friend left, but recalled dancing and remembered being offered a white powder, but couldn’t say if she took any.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W5RBDEJCDJGSHHEYGVKLMF5MXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"She recalled being in the back of a vehicle, which she believed to be a taxi, with up to four men, where she was raped. The woman also remembered lying in a bed and kicking out while a male was on top of her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YV3OVH53YJDHDC7WHL4NL2RISI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Forensic analysis showed the woman was highly intoxicated.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VUDMR6ASBZE2LJ7HVVFKVPQL7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"CCTV footage was used to identify the men and a Volkswagen Touareg SUV belonging to Vicente.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZCRER3JX5NCB3D3CUAOGEKFQOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"When the men were interviewed, they described engaging in consensual sexual activity with the woman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FBZH5ORHPZBT7HGJFOXGXYUBPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"An analysis of Hickey’s phone identified WhatsApp messages in which he asked Zolfaghari to send him a video. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TZ3C634RCBBQ3DR6FUZX5TJ2XM","additional_properties":{},"content":"After Zolfaghari sent two clips which he had recorded on the night of August 31st, Hickey replied: “Listen to you laughing after she says ‘no’.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OO7HN5O47VFR5OZMEKUX2SC3JY","additional_properties":{},"content":"While nothing is visible in either video, the woman is heard saying ‘no’ several times in a 30-second clip recorded in the car. A second video was recorded in the house. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NE74ZV2PENH2NK3N24HHE6INXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A later analysis of the men’s phones uncovered communication between them, which included a version of the events that night. This version of events was recirculated before their Garda interviews in September 2020.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFLUXTWYZJATNJP2QKL3NWXYQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Justice Burns said in his sentencing remarks that “rather than feeling any sense of remorse”, two of the men found “callous amusement” in these videos.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPLY6UCYQBHYPGKHCOS6UPALCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge noted that Zolfaghari was convicted of only one offence, but this had to be seen in overall context of the night, and that Zolfaghari had recorded the videos. He said it was “difficult to see his behaviour as significantly less culpable” than the other men.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WBR5UNTB3BFPJLOVZKPVWBPKQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Justice Burns directed the three men to place themselves under the supervision of The Probation Services for three years post-release and backdated their sentences to the date they went into custody.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NI7U4EUIWZGU3MQGP5RSRVA3FY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge extended his best wishes to the victim, and said the court hoped that she would make a further recovery, with the support of her family and appropriate services.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5PC5CR3WBEJHFKA4TJFNDDF7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"He also commended the gardaí for their “excellent and painstaking” investigation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VRJUFWTMRFF3TGOLSHPYY3G6RA","additional_properties":{},"content":"After the court rose, a large number of supporters of the men entered the back of the courtroom, some shouting “I love you”, with others giving the thumbs up to the men.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AY65GHEDJRET3C55U6FZOCMYLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"When directed to leave by gardaí, a female voice said “we are all very upset right now, give us a minute”, while another female voice called out “they were over-sentenced, they are all innocent”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Anthony Hickey, Fabio Vicente and Matin Zolfaghari sentenced to between 14 and 16 years"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T12:26:55.35Z","headlines":{"basic":"Three men jailed for ‘cruel, cynical and depraved’ rape and sexual assault of woman they met in Dublin nightclub","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IVGHM663BFGQBLO6NM667GDLGA","auth":{"1":"c9cc8a664ecb1713064dac8848b4b1713998e7e8d728478b0fed35bdc902566c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IVGHM663BFGQBLO6NM667GDLGA.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/27/three-men-jailed-for-rape-and-sexual-assault-of-a-woman-they-encountered-in-a-dublin-nightclub/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"TRRARRTLXVAXNDBFFVLGAXJ4JA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":214,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/7491ad1d-2bf5-4a46-8027-41df708491b5/versions/1743066741/media/cf43c1b092b975f362858f8fe4f268e7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/ireland/2025/03/27/hope-is-all-we-have-now-shock-in-kenmare-as-search-continues-a-week-on-from-farmers-disappearance/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Shock is the great unifier in Kenmare at the moment. That, and a fondness for Michael Gaine, the local sheep farmer who has been missing for the past week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BDMCCQH7I5BNXLHOJJKJ7NJPLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Walking the streets of the bustling town, it is hard to find a bad word to be said about the 56-year-old. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"X47AFPMMBBEMDE52VFXEZ57ROQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"People in every street, pub and shop knew of him and had plenty of warm words.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K53RLU5U3NFNBNAVDMKWUVLEGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If you were in trouble or if there was an animal or anything in trouble and you phoned Mike he’d be with you in 10 minutes,” said Dan McCarthy, a local councillor and neighbour of Mr Gaine. “He was just that type of person.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"O2X25X34IRAOLLP5YEK5V5GVAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McCarthy said the farmer’s disappearance is “a complete, devastating shock to this part of the community and our locality”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MCCAH7PTP5BDJLBOVQZVQOJNTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He would be well-known as a farmer. The family ... would be farming all their lives,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NPBXX6FT5NF7BATCC5IMSO5NDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McCarthy runs a garage in the town and said Mr Gaine was a regular presence there. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIUSHBJG5ZD65KOT3MZGEX73IE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He was in the shop every morning for a cup of tea and a chat. And he’s like a big brother to my son,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIGBZTJAWZGI3EBOIXGKCO5IJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"RWRAP2A7RAVHDC7XV2XKTD7E2Y","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"RHPFKAP6ZJGHBO5KN76OR6KTSY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gaine visited Kenmare last Thursday and gardaí have released a CCTV image of him buying phone credit in a Centra store at 9.48am. He was seen minutes later in the town, which is seemingly the last confirmed sighting of him. He appears to have driven back to his home outside the town, off the N71 at Carrig East, before disappearing. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PDMJ5YYTSVDFJJQAG5R4OQ6MJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"His car - a bronze Toyota Rav4, registration 152 KY 366 - was left in the yard but despite extensive searches of his farm and nearby lands, no trace of him has been found.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XFWOS26BJ5EM7BOQH6X44AFNMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gaine’s home has been forensically searched and his car has been taken away for examination, an unusual move in a missing person’s inquiry. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H43OM567RFGWHAOTC363QEZWLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, sources said the disappearance is so unusual, out of character and without explanation, that every resource available had been committed to the case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XOJXORQCIZEDVIEIQFCUROFDPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí have not ruled out the possibility that Mr Gaine was the victim of foul play, with sources saying this avenue must be kept open as part of the investigation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2KUQNIDEPBCAHEQGB5IWF2PGT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda checkpoints were mounted on Thursday close to Mr Gaine’s home, with a view to stopping people who might regularly travel past the property at the same time each week in the hope they may have seen the missing man but not reported it to the force.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PAUQ4JWI5NDEDN5YPA6MDAOEOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It is now one week since the last sighting of Michael Gaine,” the Garda said in a fresh appeal for information on Thursday. “Michael’s family have had no contact from him and his family and An Garda Síochána are extremely concerned for his well-being.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OL5IXXXXERASHLNM5C72DZHJLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael Hanley, a neighbour of Mr Gaine’s, said: “Nearly all my life I’ve known Mike, and he’s as neighbourly as they come. All the Gaines are.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHRWXEGG7VBJHJYMYYMATJPQJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the last week has been tough for the community, and everyone is waiting to see the results of the ongoing search operation, which recently expanded when the Garda Water Unit searched a local quarry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RECNQ3YHRZBV5IN65UEGBA3JIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I really hope he’ll be found alive – we all do,” said Mr Hanley. “We all just want an answer at this stage.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"2FKQDTXIP5E6JA3T6XJCT73H7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said Mr Gaine’s mother died in the last few weeks and this may have taken a toll on him. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DHH3E5KRNDRXPTWS6X2BCVX6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You just don’t know what goes on in people’s minds,” he said. “Hope is all we have now.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"L6DIFTNQOVHVHCPA7KLS5QAI6Y","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BBMH6UMWJ5EEHJ5HCPSSXUK3JU","additional_properties":{},"content":"John, another local who knew Mr Gaine, said the whole town is “mystified” by his sudden disappearance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HZKSCWNYDVB5TLAKRI6HLFHUOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Nobody seems to know what is going on with this case,” he said, adding that the circumstances are “bizarre”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCJFN7DKWZBVFCMRVYEUBWCBVU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"U6XUJDGTXRHPFFWOJUWN5IJH3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, he is seeking to remain positive about the prospect that Mr Gaine will be found alive and well. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYXNYTIZGFA3ZDZ75NNY74A2B4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EXUTUP2JNE2JOPZAD2D5T5WX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7R6T3XICWJFHFK4JJ6LDOGW3ZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"2T4KAYCNIJAJPJHJDW5JMYRTB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"QTOA5OLDWZDJBP4MXSIBWPWORA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"XHMYKZT52JBGJIQAA3XHNHZSGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Liam Coates in Kenmare"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Lally"}},"name":"Conor Lally"}]},"description":{"basic":"Gardaí searching for Michael Gaine set up checkpoints around Kerry town"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T12:17:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘Hope is all we have now’: Shock in Kenmare as search for farmer continues a week on from disappearance","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"ZTXHFCTDDFDIDGZLTDBT4KVPPE","auth":{"1":"8fe31828bcbe862a7eefd13d59075138420e256c0079cc06000dcce20f8ee416"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/ZTXHFCTDDFDIDGZLTDBT4KVPPE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Ireland"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/ireland/2025/03/27/hope-is-all-we-have-now-shock-in-kenmare-as-search-continues-a-week-on-from-farmers-disappearance/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/ireland","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ireland"}}}},{"_id":"7Z4FNKDMA5CJVKZY3TO6R3MJPI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":237,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5f315c3b-434e-4af0-83b7-db439066ceed/versions/1743019504/media/865df6f897ec572a9704a8e628655e5f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/spanish-police-say-irelands-family-drugs-gang-enjoyed-high-economic-status-and-influence/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Irish drugs gang known as The Family had amassed considerable wealth and influence, allowing for its significant expansion, before an Irish-Spanish operation <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/03/27/spanish-police-find-irish-family-drugs-gang-in-three-regions-seize-30m-in-drugs-four-trucks/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/03/27/spanish-police-find-irish-family-drugs-gang-in-three-regions-seize-30m-in-drugs-four-trucks/\">dismantled its large hub in Spain</a> and three of its leading figures were arrested in the Republic.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GAIKRN75Y5BYRL66MF267FGQJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Irish operation – led by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau – took place on Monday and was based mainly in Dublin, though other Irish targets are from the southeast of the country. Six men were arrested by the Garda in recent days, including three leaders of the gang. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LEWVGLFMREJJN3O3P3N5FLAOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"As the Irish component of the investigation was unfolding, police in Spain were also moving in on the Irish gang’s distribution hub in Castellón de la Plana in Valencia. The Family also had branches in Murcia and Málaga, with drugs valued at about €30 million seized this week in Spain in various stages of being readied for smuggling to Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3H734CRDVF2DCVWNOOUAMHK3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This network enjoyed a high economic status, which facilitated the collaboration of other individuals and expanded its geographical sphere of influence,” Spain’s Department of Treasury, which was involved in the operation, said on Wednesday night.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZBCKVFDQIVGTJMGPV3WXFS4NFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It added the group comprised about 20 people, in Ireland and Spain, and had adopted “significant security measures” to avoid detection. “The group hid the drugs in vacuum-sealed containers hidden in the false bottoms of all types of vehicles,” the department said of luxury cars and trucks with semi trailers and Irish registration plates.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NU4RZUGLOVBWJPVVU27Z3PXR2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spanish police find Irish ‘Family’ drugs gang in three regions, seize €30m in drugs, four trucks","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"2QBWU4B4OVGBZCKAVUGGHTPDVE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rise of ‘The Family’: the group that became Ireland’s biggest crime gang without firing a shot","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"VXWKUR3YNNCPVF3IQM62NVXT7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Family has become the biggest drugs gang in the Republic in recent years. Using its hub in Spain, with its own members overseeing a mainly Spanish group, the gang vacuum-packed cocaine and herbal cannabis, which were then hidden in secret compartments in cars and trucks for smuggling to Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MVWM63SJZJGXDLCFCYAQOWJE7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Using information obtained when the Ghost encrypted platform was infiltrated last year, Irish and European investigators, with the support of Europol, have now traced a series of drugs runs from Spain to Ireland that the Family gang was involved in. Each run involved drugs valued at millions of Euro, mostly cocaine.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JKI6QCL6DNFLZK3XIRA74YZRBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two such consignments of cocaine, with a combined value of almost €20 million, have been found in Ireland; one last September when the Australian-run host network was taken down and another more recently. Gardaí believe those drugs consignments, and others that went undetected, had originated from the Spanish distribution operation searched this week, resulting in the seizure of drugs valued at almost €30 million.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YQXGPL3KS5DJJE6HCF4CA2255I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Monday’s Garda operation in Ireland, based mainly in west Dublin, targeted leadership figures in the organisation. The men arrested were still being questioned by detectives on Wednesday night. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YCMBH7BC3RCKTAUHQDZKMDUINA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In an update on Wednesday, Europol described the Dublin-headquartered Family gang as “an Irish high-risk criminal network”. The European agency also confirmed the operations in Ireland and Spain this week resulted directly from the infiltration of the Ghost network, a supposedly secure messaging service run from Sydney for organised crime gangs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTZ4WKKV3NGR7GZTKCT7T7D5HU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The criminals are suspected of involvement in large-scale drug trafficking, mainly by transporting drugs hidden in vehicles from Spain to Ireland,” Europol said of the Family. The criminals involved are now being “haunted by their chats” on Ghost, which they used to co-ordinate their involvement in the drugs trade, “relying on both encryption and multi-platform distribution”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7PATL47TRRFWRKX2VQYCDDPMMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The sophistication of their communications was in stark contrast to the simplicity of their modus operandi. It consisted of smuggling cocaine and marijuana across the Continent in vehicles equipped with custom-made secret compartments and cloned number plates,” Europol said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Lally"}},"name":"Conor Lally"}]},"description":{"basic":"Twelve men linked to Ireland’s biggest drugs gang now held by gardaí and Spanish police"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T06:52:52.434Z","headlines":{"basic":"Spanish police say Ireland’s Family drugs gang ‘enjoyed high economic status and influence’","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IG52Y5WUAJHKJFSYCFQZ7YAUTE","auth":{"1":"5ae12831895a4f3bd24b05cc628eb036ad34102d4751576129bf35cd9d73d909"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IG52Y5WUAJHKJFSYCFQZ7YAUTE.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7","embed_html":"<div class=\"powa\" id=\"powa-f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-org=\"irishtimes\" data-env=\"prod\" data-uuid=\"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.562\" data-api=\"prod\"><script src=\"//irishtimes.video-player.arcpublishing.com/prod/powaBoot.js?org=irishtimes\"><\/script></div>","promo_image":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"},"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"}},"type":"video"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/spanish-police-say-irelands-family-drugs-gang-enjoyed-high-economic-status-and-influence/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"J25YWQOOBFB2VOQJQ5JY2MK2KA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":189,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/8d251456-823e-447f-bc1a-d61b1559c88d/versions/1743017941/media/4e03df159ed17fcce5f92df63450149b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/spanish-police-find-irish-family-drugs-gang-in-three-regions-seize-30m-in-drugs-four-trucks/","content_elements":[{"_id":"S2GXYK4MH5FXFCKMNCOB4SMDEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPHH77MZTRA5BPU4JRP55ZVDQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Spanish-Irish investigation into the Dublin-headquartered drugs gang known as The Family has resulted in the seizure of drugs valued at about €30 million and the arrests of 20 people.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W43IF7CMOBABPKFFAKNRDG7ALE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spanish officers have also recovered a firearm and ammunition, along with seizing 12 luxury cars and four trucks – most with hidden compartments for drug smuggling. The drugs network had bases in three regions in Spain, with Ireland the destination for the cocaine and herbal cannabis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DXYRCWFCAZH4HKF3QSRFL7NPZM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4EGBHOLLBRBKVN6QQR2W5HT2QU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UVWOJTN2BJGGHHZBMPYY7I3XCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trucks and semi trailers, with Irish registration plates, were being used to smuggle the drugs from the gang’s Spanish hub into the Republic, via France.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FIIBAJJMEFB63LIJEIZZUG4FRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A total of 314kg of cocaine, valued at about €25 million, and 220kg of marijuana has been seized in the operation, which has involved <a href=\"\" rel=\"\" title=\"\">An Garda Síochana</a>, Spain’s Guardia Civil and the Italian Antimafia Investigation Directorate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"74BBKUC3FVEIZMMP5OWHX4TGS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The quantity of drugs found during several days of action in Ireland and Spain offers insight into the very large quantities of drugs being smuggled by The Family into Ireland at any one time. The operation has also revealed a very established logistical operation supporting the smuggling of the Irish group’s cocaine and cannabis from Spain to the Republic.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JRH2JXE3PFAYJOEV52UJLZ2WS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Spanish police say Ireland’s Family drugs gang ‘enjoyed high economic status and influence’","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"DPGG6KQFTRFDNGK2DRSI6E4524","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rise of ‘The Family’: the group that became Ireland’s biggest crime gang without firing a shot","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"5UR6AXFRCNBFVCFKPDWZPOX3KM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"GW4ASQUJ5ZC6DJ7JWBQVY5MUX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The gang, which is led by a group of Dublin men who are related to each other, has become the largest drugs group in the Republic since the demise of the Kinahan cartel’s Irish operation, the Byrne organised crime group. Of the six men arrested in Ireland since the operation began this week, three are regarded as key figures at the apex of the Irish crime group.","type":"text"},{"_id":"575SVAFRLJFHHORSYOHPPDU35U","additional_properties":{},"content":"This week, more than 100kg of cocaine was found in the gang’s main unit in Castellon de la Plana, in eastern Spain, where the drugs were being vacuum-packed for concealment in the secret compartments in the vehicles.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TJN4RWFVVFFD7KXSBATJE5H6EU","additional_properties":{},"content":"While the Garda and Europol have confirmed the arrests of 12 people this week, six in Ireland and six in Spain, new information emerging from Spain has outlined the scale of the Dublin gang’s Spanish operation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DXY2D7BMOVHYLDJI5JUW45TAZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Department of the Treasury in Spain said the illicit smuggling operation was based in an industrial warehouse in Castellon de la Plana. There was also “another main headquarters in Dublin, serving as the destination” as well as “branches of this network” in Murcia and Málaga.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KSZ5R7RWIBA4LOBWRO4IYKPLQM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí carry out raids on leadership of drugs gang known as The Family","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ZJE4B2TX2RA53IA5DLKSOOLBPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the main unit in Castellon de la Plana, the Department said members of the gang were arrested “red-handed”, including an “Irish representative of the international network”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YDUL7Z5UHVHXNJSUUJGI2WBCAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"A total of four sites were searched in Spain, including three in Castellon de la Plana and one in Orihuela. Between those searches and the operation in Dublin on Monday the number of arrests made has reached 20, including Irish, Spanish and Colombian suspects. Also found was €35,000 in cash, four computers, 35 mobile phones and documents relating to the gang’s activities.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Lally"}},"name":"Conor Lally"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sheer scale of Ireland’s biggest drugs gang emerges as Spanish police raid main distribution hub supplying Irish market"},"display_date":"2025-03-27T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Spanish police find Irish ‘Family’ drugs gang in three regions, seize €30m in drugs, four trucks","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"DXYRCWFCAZH4HKF3QSRFL7NPZM","auth":{"1":"453b6938aaba37783969a456176d98298f6dd3bff7031960c9ead0122db3bd09"},"focal_point":{"x":453,"y":125},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DXYRCWFCAZH4HKF3QSRFL7NPZM.jpg"},"lead_art":{"_id":"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7","embed_html":"<div class=\"powa\" id=\"powa-f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-org=\"irishtimes\" data-env=\"prod\" data-uuid=\"f4ff29dc-f125-48d5-9e2d-0f00f225e5f7\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.562\" data-api=\"prod\"><script src=\"//irishtimes.video-player.arcpublishing.com/prod/powaBoot.js?org=irishtimes\"><\/script></div>","promo_image":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"},"promo_items":{"basic":{"auth":{"1":"80c3cbfe0e3bffe4c79aed10bc9444a6a5cc23d22ae41fd199b46a4d97de65ae"},"type":"image","url":"https://d2j5ip5u6h2g6o.cloudfront.net/03-26-2025/t_778488057c19429ea6ef9cc68fd9cca6_name_XX33.jpg"}},"type":"video"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/27/spanish-police-find-irish-family-drugs-gang-in-three-regions-seize-30m-in-drugs-four-trucks/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"CULWP2X2D5G5LA2XJKAVZTGDXE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":156,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/0dae1a56-5224-4b7f-a10d-c95a94971960/versions/1743026609/media/d56c24cf246a2a327c898298923cb284_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/principal-denies-student-teachers-sexual-harassment-allegations-while-cross-examining-her-at-inquiry/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"A <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/teaching-council/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/teaching-council/\">Teaching Council</a> fitness-to-teach inquiry into sexual harassment allegations made against a male principal in a secondary school in the west of Ireland has adjourned to consider its findings. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XG7FCBHJHBAQ3MZQDXZZK33474","additional_properties":{},"content":"The inquiry arose from allegations made by a young female student teacher against the principal while on placement in the school in 2017. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FCRKDAMFMNBDZI2RXCU4ISEMEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the second day of the inquiry on Wednesday, the principal, who had no legal representation, cross-examined the young woman on what she said in evidence on Tuesday and on statements she made to the council. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJ4HYLI34RGIFKF7HG3JXAK6RY","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Tuesday, the woman and another witness gave evidence while the principal did not attend. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NAW6XWUDRZDJZOW5OBVKG5BZBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"One of the allegations made by the woman was that at the school, on or around April 20th, 2017, the principal said to her that they finally had the place to themselves. He allegedly locked the side door and another door in advance of bringing the woman to his office. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MAFQGKHBFVEXDLDF5KXZY34RNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The principal, in his cross-examination of the woman, denied that this took place. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VBGQBP6N5RCZDCXZ667NA4M6BM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kate Egan, appearing for the director of the Teaching Council, subsequently cross-examined the principal on this issue. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4LONANVHRDE5JLKSJO4PH452U","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was Ms Egan’s contention that the principal had given three different versions in relation to this - namely, that he did not lock the doors, that he locked them after the students had left and that he locked them after everyone had left. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4YJCI4CGUNEWRCKKFRQWO42YV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The principal said that he locked them after everyone had left, including the woman. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6BFHVBNVSZHD7BHPAFJWMYNTCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The principal also denied the allegation that, after locking the doors he then brought the woman to his office and there made comments including that he could bring her to Dublin, and/or that he could book a hotel room, and/or that they could get to know one another. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QMPHW4MHSVF4LND2M6I74MEC2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The principal also denied saying to the woman that he was the board of management of the school, saying that this was “a stupid statement” and that he had never worked like that. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MR6XVY5QYNDQ5BLHTZ4IRYBULQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He did concede to Ms Egan that he could have used his influence to procure a maternity position at the school for the woman. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3MWNDI67DRGOFCL5UF2RS32TEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The principal also said that of course he has made mistakes but that “this [the woman’s allegations] is entirely different”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KUGX7HIXTREBNH37MZLUC47NHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"He added that offering the woman a teaching practice placement was “arguably” the mistake he made. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ROK65NTOKFAPVJNQ4ZEF7JUK6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4IYGN6DPFB6VMX2X436X33I3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"25R2K427LFBA7BC2OKLACQ66KA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"NYFDPQDUUNE2RHVYZFR2U5OCXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The legal assessor for the inquiry, Frank Beatty SC gave his legal advice to the panel, who then withdrew to deliberate on what their findings may be. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4DQU4QKJO5EORKTDEQPJH3WL54","additional_properties":{},"content":"Chairperson of the panel Paul Moroney said when the panel had reached its findings these would be forwarded to the parties concerned. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Stephen Farrell"}]},"description":{"basic":"Teaching Council fitness-to-teach inquiry adjourns to consider findings"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T21:58:20.912Z","headlines":{"basic":"Principal denies student teacher’s sexual harassment allegations while cross-examining her at inquiry","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JEFEOXFHXFAYXEPYRMQQNXASD4","auth":{"1":"6444abb940d6b3a67ec5f17dba1379d6e508eb06711b2b7406410a7b771e14ff"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JEFEOXFHXFAYXEPYRMQQNXASD4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Ireland"},{"name":"Education"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/principal-denies-student-teachers-sexual-harassment-allegations-while-cross-examining-her-at-inquiry/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"2XY5DBC2F5HG5FWOEYVCSWBFYE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":138,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/e881dee0-97c9-484b-bd74-d5af6d6421ce/versions/1743018445/media/987a19feb17efacffc482d4995efb57d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/limerick-race-course-rape-trial-adjourned-as-accused-is-treated-in-hospital/","content_elements":[{"_id":"L5PZT2XMU5CG5LABGFSTFMIL7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283790},"content":"The trial of a boy who was 13 years old when he allegedly raped a 16-year-old girl has been adjourned for a second consecutive day without the hearing of any evidence as the accused is in hospital.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5GLFRAO5UJALBCQ6CYURS6P6DQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283792},"content":"Two teenagers are on trial at a sitting of the Central Criminal Court in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cork/\" target=\"_blank\">Cork</a> charged with raping a girl in a car at <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/limerick/\" target=\"_blank\">Limerick</a> racecourse in Patrickswell on December 26th, 2022. The boys were 13 and 15 at the time of the alleged offence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNYSONBYBZFOFMTE4JJYV3DKA4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283793},"content":"A third teenager, who was also 15 at the time of the alleged offence, is charged with aiding and abetting the two youths and falsely imprisoning the girl.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WEUD3TGCRNAZNLNLE6U7RCF2JI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283794},"content":"Mr Justice Paul McDermott on Wednesday briefly addressed the jury in relation to the illness of one of the accused.","type":"text"},{"_id":"URLQR2UVQ5HGRIUS7GRGUFSP4E","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283795},"content":"“The position in relation to (name of teenaged accused) is that he is still under review medically.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JVNFXNBPWZAOHPTVPEVVP5FF54","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283796},"content":"“I am hopeful that this will resolve things tomorrow morning. Obviously, people are taking their time dealing with the matter on the medical front. I have to ask you to come back tomorrow.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LREWBRTF2FGFPIG6UYNKVYVLC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283797},"content":"“I don’t want to interrupt the flow of matters if that can be avoided. I hope we will have more positive news tomorrow.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XBJYOWGJV5BWBGXAQB2NHSGHHU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283798},"content":"Meanwhile, last week the trial was delayed by a day after one juror fainted and another experienced a cardiac event. Dr Aoife Fanning was in the witness box on March 18th last giving evidence of examining the complainant at a Sexual Assault Treatment Unit in Limerick on the evening of December 26th, 2022 when a juror became visibly unwell.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UPXK5DIGHFFTJFR3QBCNWZ65VE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283799},"content":"The court was cleared shortly before noon and Dr Fanning assessed and treated the patient. It was established that the juror had fainted. The case was adjourned until 215pm to see if the juror would be physically able to resume his duties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CK26QTHUU5BPDMR6NTZJBXCC6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283800},"content":"However, when Mr Justice McDermott entered the courtroom that afternoon he was informed that another juror had experienced an emergency cardiac episode over lunchtime. The second juror was also initially assessed at the scene by Dr Fanning. The trial proceeded before a jury of nine women and two men having lost one juror.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BHSBMJUYENEZXCNBLLOO4VEIBM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743017283801},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Olivia Kelleher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Two teenagers are charged with raping a girl in a car in Patrickswell on December 26th, 2022"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T19:42:16.924Z","headlines":{"basic":"Limerick race course rape trial adjourned as accused is treated in hospital","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"CEXA3GZUEFW7TIXBY74VFPVN6A","auth":{"1":"09919af2c37483541a1c8c5e0561422506f728bebff96aa9f8876a5319854165"},"focal_point":{"x":509,"y":451},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CEXA3GZUEFW7TIXBY74VFPVN6A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/limerick-race-course-rape-trial-adjourned-as-accused-is-treated-in-hospital/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"JN6MCK36KRAZVATVOKH5ANTGS4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":206,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f06b6448-54f9-41cd-8a12-83621df03264/versions/1743017833/media/c9603a4a5fae4c2ace6588420b289976_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/woman-student-harassed-by-200-young-men-in-whatsapp-group-dail-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"5UID46H26BBDVMWJDCFZCXWGSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/whatsapp/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/whatsapp/\">WhatsApp</a> group of 200 young men was created to target a woman in her student accommodation by shouting and chanting outside her window and throwing eggs at her door, the Dáil has heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PIF6E6GUSVBFXCSGMHRI7C2QCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sinn-fein\">Sinn Féin</a> TD Mairéad Farrell said the incidents, including ringing the doorbell in the middle of the night, continued over several nights.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WARZHEK2YJF5HMWFU2HIBWYHEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"When <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/university-of-limerick\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/university-of-limerick\">University of Limerick</a> student Ella Deasy reported the initial shouting and chanting outside her house to the accommodation provider, nothing was done at that point.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YHZCWK4HPVCSPLC2OV327HUD4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Deasy found out that “a young man had created a TikTok account in which he shared his hopes for the year ahead which included throwing eggs” at her house.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KJRRQ5E2RVBZTKEM2EDOZZADH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Higher Education <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/james-lawless/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/james-lawless/\">James Lawless</a> said in response that third-level institutions “must take action when issues of harassment and threats to student welfare are brought to their attention.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JUDKHPJRSVDFTPXOCKGZKAEHVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Adolescence on Netflix wasn’t called that by accident. This is what it means to grow up now","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"5YSA5BMNDNARPMFJX6ZLAN5W2M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There is no place for sexual violence, gender-based violence or harassment in Ireland nor the attitudes underpinning it.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3CZTILWMYJD6PG3BVZ4HOSHYGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Farrell highlighted the case, which had been outlined on social media, as her party colleague Clare TD Donna McGettigan said there were many “shocking stories and harrowing accounts of young female students being attacked, abused, followed and harassed”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TUUHKNML2NDO3K3M6HPRQWNBXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms McGettigan said it was a serious and urgent issue because “too many young women live in fear on the streets, in schools, on college campuses and even online. They face catcalling, stalking, spiking and, in the worst cases, assault. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OYJ4RBEQ4JDUHN7EJS4ZKCAUEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It is shameful to think that young women in Ireland, who should be excited to be facing a new chapter in their lives, only find it all goes horribly wrong when they are stalked or assaulted.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVWVHTPCQFARHDL434WK56UEJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Farrell said this story is “deeply concerning” and “there is no other way of putting this other than to say this is an incredibly frightening experience”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W47DKLHPYVEYNNFIWWTVJNKANI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“What really stuck me was the fact that there was a WhatsApp group with over 200 young men discussing viewing or participating in this group. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSKEGTUYYFALTNIXTGCGCIU4U4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“As Ella said herself, just imagine 200 boys against one girl. We need to do better for our young women. And, equally, we need to do better for our young men.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JSC5OVDWHRBZHGICLCPXY4CI5A","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Galway West TD asked the Minister how the colleges could deal with this sort of problem “so that if women receive this type of harassment that they have immediate support from their colleges”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DOW5IJNVFFJ7LORY27XRLE4WY","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-13576","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"I5KD6QSD3JFZTNLRUWFODGWGLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Warning that third-level institutions must take action when such harassment and threats are brought to their attention, Mr Lawless said, “we cannot tolerate, accept, condone or downplay harassment or behaviour of any kind that threatens student wellbeing”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B7QZUFEQ7RDQFENRCWB3HFULDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said he is “on a bit of a road trip in visiting institutions”, adding that he would be engaging on the issue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PJ7KDBV7IFCDZONA6QBXXOZASI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The student experience of being safe from harassment should be the minimum standard expected, in both student accommodation and student life also”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7OEVNBFY5AG7CJC4PCPD5I2GU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Minister said “it is critical higher education institutions – indeed all places of work and study – take proactive steps when issues of concern are brought to their attention”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSTDFWWZWZENHONRXMQHGZQZZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Deputies will be aware that universities are autonomous under our code in Ireland. But I state very clearly on the record of the Dáil that there is an expectation they would take proactive steps.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DSZRHYJVYBEQJCGIKYQJCROT6Q","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BIIIC4SJTVAQNDNEVP5GN2WRGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Marie O'Halloran"}},"name":"Marie O'Halloran"}]},"description":{"basic":"University of Limerick student alleges shouting and bullying behaviour with no remedial action taken by accommodation provider when first contacted"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T19:32:07.402Z","headlines":{"basic":"WhatsApp group of 200 young men created to target woman in her student accommodation, Dáil hears ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"QMEHU4QIMNHR5HEDGUMRYI6T4A","auth":{"1":"564a261f01dcce6d545854c622f36687890b6ebdbf32eae6ef13fa27ee3846e0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/QMEHU4QIMNHR5HEDGUMRYI6T4A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"},{"name":"Politics"},{"name":"Oireachtas"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/woman-student-harassed-by-200-young-men-in-whatsapp-group-dail-hears/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"EKJDUFZSABH2HGRMS4XD7VOV64","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":186,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/b3e5c55d-2757-42d0-885e-4ce069e08cc5/versions/1743017549/media/8445e62747621c1970af4bd0109d29db_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/deepa-dinamani-trial-handwritten-note-in-which-writer-asked-for-forgiveness-found-in-victims-home/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533725},"content":"A handwritten note in which the writer asked for forgiveness for what he had done was found in a bedroom of a home in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cork/\" target=\"_blank\">Cork</a> where a mother of one was discovered “cold and stiff to the touch” in a “blood soaked bed,” a murder trial has heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MLI6AMDQZFBLDORJMZIS3OU2IE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533726},"content":"Regin Parithapara Rajan (43) of Kerala in India is on trial at the Central Criminal Court in Cork charged with the murder of his wife Deepa Dinamani. He denies the charge.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K2AN3MJBGNAT3BZFDTUGMHBFFQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533727},"content":"The 38-year-old chartered accountant was found dead by members of the Armed Support Unit (ASU) when they went to her family home in Cardinal Court in Wilton in the city on July 14th, 2023. The couple had moved to Ireland from India with their young son four months earlier.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DHNDNDYARFAAROWZ3HBZFYMRF4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533728},"content":"Crime scene examiner Det Garda John Paul Twomey on Wednesday told the trial that he visited the house in Wilton the day after Ms Dinamani was found dead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HMN7KYEKA5DMBN3WZNF4WWMOKI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533729},"content":"Dt Garda Twomey said that a notebook seized from the property contained a note which read: “I love you so much. Please forgive me for what I did as your mum was having something ... and his name was Jay.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JJY6E4XWURG6XMR2OTSELVPIUE","additional_properties":{"_id":"NQFBGU7FPZBDDHFWIKOFICJQ3M"},"content":"Witness recalls being ‘shocked and shattered’ when murder accused told him he stabbed wife","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"LZJR6BKSIZBA3K7X7QREG2M364","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533730},"content":"Dt Garda Twomey told the jury that the note was difficult to read, and he read out what he could decipher. He stated that he seized and bagged, among other items, a knife, a wedding ring, a broken gold necklace and a bloodied t shirt and shorts. He said that he took various swabs from the body of the deceased.","type":"text"},{"_id":"REEA7OHPAVCAFGDQFIE3GDKSJM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533731},"content":"Meanwhile, CCTV evidence was shown of what Det Garda Dave Hickey described as the buying of the “potential murder weapon” two days before Ms Dinamani was discovered dead in her home.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6MQ5FDXJBBTJOJAOACAMAY7TU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533732},"content":"Det Garda Hickey said that CCTV from Tesco in Wilton Shopping Centre was examined and the accused, Mr Rajan, was captured buying a Go Cook carving knife, a bottle of whiskey and a soft drink. He said that Mr Rajan brought a bag for life to the supermarket on the afternoon of July 12th, 2023, and used a Tesco club card when he was purchasing the items.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FPTJZAFRQ5DGDNUZR4ELN2KDOA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533733},"content":"Derek Foley, call handler at the Garda control room in Anglesea Street in Cork, gave evidence of having received an emergency call at 9.55pm on July 14th, 2023. He said that he asked the caller for his name and Eircode. He said the man identified himself as Regin Rajan and gave an Eircode for a property in Cardinal Court in Wilton in Cork.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R4MXPRKGDJCM3C7SIFB4GXHHYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533734},"content":"Mr Foley told the jury: “He said that he wanted the guards to come around and arrest him as he had killed his wife.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"V4K72ZC5XJAZ7BXBPEPRMQB4CA","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533735},"content":"Mr Foley asked the caller if there was anybody else in the property and the man replied that his five-year-old son was at home.","type":"text"},{"_id":"45SBGESG5VAWZHRMKJ3Q6D3NI4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533736},"content":"Mr Foley said that he offered to stay until the line until the gardaí arrived. However, the caller opted not to stay on the line.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEUQKQG67JH5DAHGHIRABFNOVI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533737},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"VEPUJ5VMNZCNRDTTHWJZCAFCMM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533738},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"AXJCPD5KVBG4DC5N4VZHOCUMAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533739},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEP42AA5MRH5PG2IX4ZUXJPTMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533740},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"C6J5OTCVUVAIRLXZJO5NWQBXO4","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533741},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FGQFEHXVVD7FDEC2KDFHDT3NQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533742},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"G6KARNZJRFCRJAOAKUC47B2JCM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743016533743},"content":"The trial will continue on Thursday before Ms Justice Siobhán Lankford and a jury of five men and seven women.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Olivia Kelleher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Regin Parithapara Rajan (43) denies murdering wife (38) at their home in Wilton, Cork in July 2023"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T19:27:19.056Z","headlines":{"basic":"Deepa Dinamani murder trial: handwritten note in which writer asked for forgiveness found in victim’s home, court hears","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"CEXA3GZUEFW7TIXBY74VFPVN6A","auth":{"1":"09919af2c37483541a1c8c5e0561422506f728bebff96aa9f8876a5319854165"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CEXA3GZUEFW7TIXBY74VFPVN6A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/deepa-dinamani-trial-handwritten-note-in-which-writer-asked-for-forgiveness-found-in-victims-home/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"APFVYGIDC5BORLK63JGDXCUZXA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":41,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/bbfbb10a-92e1-4e3e-ab90-92570ed7f6c3/versions/1743007277/media/8e18ff36b7c99bdcdd25ac2872602c04_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/man-loses-part-of-arm-in-tallaght-explosion/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"A <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin\">Dublin</a> man has lost much of his arm after an improvised explosive device denotated inside a house in Tallaght. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WRYLU4C66ZCSND2SFVOCIU4C34","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí believe the device, understood to be a pipe bomb, detonated accidently as the man was handling it. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FIBDASICCZFI7NOEJYWAY4SALQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"One line of inquiry is that the man was manufacturing the bomb on behalf of organised criminals, including those involved in drug debt intimidation. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EGB7X3QXJFF7NBBKCXNAAY5NUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí have seized a number of items from the house as part of their investigation. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QFIYCUW52JAEBFJP4IEQQY2IZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The explosion occurred on Wednesday morning in the Killinarden area in Dublin 24. The man, who is aged in his 50s, was rushed to Tallaght University Hospital with serious injuries. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NGKVCKL7TZCBRM43ATUAT34BGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"He underwent emergency surgery in an attempt to save as much of his arm as possible. The injuries are not believed to be life threatening. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3YWFOEE4VFEPVEPEJWZCOUXM5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/army/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/army/\">Army</a> Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit also deployed to the scene along with emergency services to deal with an potentially dangerous unexploded material. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z2TISDTNEZEKRC6FGRVAFAKJQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“A man, aged in his 50s, has been removed from the scene to Tallaght Hospital to be treated for injuries believed to be serious but non-life threatening,” gardaí said in a statement. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LQZTCDZVRJDDZPHZALOEJUIRRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The Army EOD Unit and the Garda Technical Bureau are currently examining the scene.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XAEOQCSLCRCJ7O3KSMT5HKVACQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"THHX4B5T6VA7JJF7KVLJRREJ2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NR7YCQKFOVDNDM5B7E3NCBSIB4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UOLBVOMA4FFFVGNDXHZCVFEUCA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XEVSNWAXTZF6VBNTU5XD355VFY","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HRZCIOEJMFC33ORNOURKDXEG5M","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit and gardaí at the scene in Killinarden area"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T18:25:55.162Z","headlines":{"basic":"Man loses part of arm in Tallaght explosion","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5B565MW6MFE4QXKPGJDNIKWPIM","auth":{"1":"418d2f48dfb73b1c139d639aa203f031b78f98ddaf3c221bed385b41eddd0a04"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5B565MW6MFE4QXKPGJDNIKWPIM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/26/man-loses-part-of-arm-in-tallaght-explosion/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"VOKNYTAFBFBUPOQASINX7KTQJE","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/business/2025/03/26/court-grants-freezing-orders-over-claims-canadian-firm-reneged-on-deal-with-dublin-based-oil-company/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JIZ23KM3UVB2FEGL4OKT6KJYGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033570},"content":"San Leon, a Dublin-headquartered oil and gas company, has been granted a short-term injunction freezing up to €50 million in assets owned by a Canadian asset management company.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XRRCAKN4VNBZRFOKLTTWEBQAXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033571},"content":"San Leon plc, with offices at Crampton Avenue, Dublin 4, has alleged in the High Court that Ontario-based Tri Ri Asset Management Corp has not honoured two agreements negotiated by the firms since October 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FETEYPUCTBGGXI7PRIBF3SJUKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033572},"content":"The second such alleged deal, in which Tri Ri purportedly agreed to swap shares in US technology firm Palantir worth almost €50 million for shares in San Leon, is the subject of proceedings that came before the court on Wednesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HL2UIRDZCFFJ7BFTYSEOFEBH6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033573},"content":"Gary McCarthy SC, appearing with Declan Harmon BL for San Leon, said he was seeking an order freezing up to €50 million in assets owned by Tri Ri, its director Shan Ahmad Ali, and its chief investment officer Asad Ali. Mr McCarthy also said he was seeking an injunction restraining Tri Ri from selling its 419,000 shares in Palantir.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQDCISOQ5RECHMLNOKVIV7KM7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033574},"content":"Mr Justice Brian Cregan said he would grant the orders on an interim basis. The application was made with only the San Leon side represented.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2QEFWI3AZBB7PD6CYPG4QUZ5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011748063},"content":"Tri Ri, according to San Leon, holds shares worth $850 million (€790.7 million) and has additional assets under its management worth $1.2 billion (€1.1 billion).","type":"text"},{"_id":"FSYGG7W65ZAFJOBYWWDQAV7HDI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033575},"content":"In a sworn statement to the court, San Leon chief executive Oisín Fanning said that for some time, the oil and gas firm had been seeking to raise capital and “progress business opportunities”, in particular oil exploration in Nigeria.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S5BEP553HNEQFMPCOYHDXDESAM","additional_properties":{"_id":1743011748065},"content":"On foot of this, and following negotiations in September 2023, Tri Ri agreed to invest up to $187 million (€173 million) in San Leon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZFBKONPVIJCOFLCOUFZFVNRBQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033576},"content":"In a sworn statement to the court, San Leon chief executive Oisín Fanning said that Tri Ri failed to honour this agreement, and no money was transferred to San Leon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"USPOT7A6AJEJLJUUPAIW2WGSKU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033577},"content":"This inflicted “reputational and financial damage” on San Leon, Mr Fanning claims. San Leon intends to initiate separate legal proceedings against Tri Ri arising from this alleged breach of contract, Mr Fanning said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I3MVLSDJNRB6HMNX7FXAK47OLY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033578},"content":"Some time after this, Mr Fanning spoke with Asad Ali, who described himself as Tri Ri’s chief investment officer. Mr Fanning said Mr Ali spoke of wanting to “make amends” for the previous alleged failure to honour the investment agreement. Mr Ali blamed his father, Tri Ri director Shan Ahmad Ali, for the previous issues.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ARTLZ4HFHNATJPFZCUXVW7EM4Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033579},"content":"After he consulted with “trusted advisers”, Mr Fanning said he took the view that “everyone is deserving of a second chance”. After “some hesitancy”, he said that the parties agreed to a swap of San Leon shares for a number of “highly liquid public limited stock”. Mr Fanning said San Leon intended to immediately sell the stock to raise capital quickly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PVWQT3VANJEEVNT2LBFGUDRWFQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033580},"content":"On February 14th, 2025, pursuant to the agreement, stockbroker JP Morgan confirmed the purported transfer to San Leon of Tri Ri’s 419,000 shares in Palantir. However, Mr Fanning claims that these shares “remain undelivered” to San Leon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z2A22DOPHZAZ7CXJGJAE2HRZDE","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033581},"content":"The shares were worth almost €50 million on February 14th, according to Mr Fanning. The shares have since fallen in value, and are now worth close to €34 million.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QOX5SBZZRAR7DBWU7MHLJ2ENY","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033582},"content":"Mr Fanning alleges that both Shan Ahmad Ali and Asad Ali have been “intimately involved in interfering” with the transfer of the Palantir shares to San Leon. “They have also been involved in acts of intimidation, including in making physical threats to my person,” he claimed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NXZSGVOFXFDNPAONFV3Y4PWVWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033583},"content":"This “intimidation” followed correspondence between the parties, in which San Leon set out the alleged breach of contract, and required steps to remedy the breach.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SSH4IYF7FAA5EQZ6UBALGZD6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033584},"content":"Mr Fanning alleges that Asad Ali has threatened to send individuals to his home to “deal” with him, that Asad Ali sent “aggressive and inflammatory” WhatsApp messages to him, and that Asad Ali made a public statement about him on social media aimed at causing “reputational and professional harm”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GJYJP33URJF4FLNQTL4C5Z5LOQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033585},"content":"Explaining the orders sought from the court, Mr Fanning said that the Palantir shares at the centre of the proceedings are “readily tradable” and could be disposed of by Tri Ri at any time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SCXOEF5F3RDBZDZ6DU3R4YB6AU","additional_properties":{"_id":1743009033586},"content":"Mr Justice Cregan adjourned the case to later in the week.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Fiachra Gallagher"}},"name":"Fiachra Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"San Leon plc has alleged Tri Ri Asset Management Corp has not honoured two agreements negotiated by the firms"},"display_date":"2025-03-26T17:38:56.495Z","headlines":{"basic":"Court grants freezing orders over claims Canadian firm reneged on deal with Dublin-based oil company ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"PKIA3TQAIRECTIWQUL5NIUL3VE","auth":{"1":"ded2862d126a7d6865850aa2018b632637d04201d52c9f8cfd1ec0d3a776c22b"},"focal_point":{"x":558,"y":449},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/PKIA3TQAIRECTIWQUL5NIUL3VE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Crime & Law"},{"name":"Courts"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/business/2025/03/26/court-grants-freezing-orders-over-claims-canadian-firm-reneged-on-deal-with-dublin-based-oil-company/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/business","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Business"}}}},{"_id":"FR5TTFL2KNEXFHAWJD5T2LE5VY","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/murder-accused-assaulted-garda-after-fingerprint-and-dna-samples-taken-trial-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"E6EYSMOWHFBXDDYKBC4LF5XRKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"A garda has given evidence at a murder trial that the accused man assaulted him after detectives tried to take fingerprint and DNA samples as part of their investigation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HROXWKPOZZH6TDEU2HB5SERRFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gda Brendan O’Donnell was the member in charge at Newbridge Garda Station on April 29th, 2020, when Brian Ibe (23) was brought in to be questioned on suspicion of assaulting 65-year-old Peter Kennedy the previous evening. Mr Kennedy suffered stab wounds and died in Beaumont Hospital from his injuries about two weeks later, on May 12th, 2020.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXCIQRJ6YNCLTHDOR7CLMX3PYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gda O’Donnell on Wednesday told prosecution senior counsel Paul Carroll that at 9.20pm, after Mr Ibe’s first interview, he told the accused that his period of detention had been extended by six hours. Three detectives then went to the interview room to take fingerprint and DNA samples from the accused but Gda O’Donnell said he became aware that Mr Ibe had become uncooperative.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RYRIVFDLARGMFIUVIJRWPGBRTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gda O’Donnell went to the interview room where he found Mr Ibe trying to leave, as if he wanted to exit the station. Gda O’Donnell said: “We actually tried to restrain him in order to place him in the cell. He lashed out and I received a punch into the face, just under my left eye and to the side of my nose. I felt immediate pain and bleeding from the nose.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CR32HEQRWRHU3JSNJZCMIQ2SGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The detectives succeeded in getting Mr Ibe to a cell while Gda O’Donnell, who said he was shocked and in pain, was taken to Accident and Emergency at Naas Hospital. He had not suffered any fractures, he said, but had bruises on his nose and under his eye, was in pain for days.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DYOILG46WNGWRGIXR63YJDOKFA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"W2SBQYGYZVHKPDNVW4M5ACYLT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Conor Devally SC, for Mr Ibe, said the defence concedes that the injuries described by the garda are descriptive of harm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NYF6CD7YYVDKDOS7ZMXPNHZ7YA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Ibe, of no fixed abode and formerly of Moore Park, Newbridge, Co Kildare, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of Mr Kennedy between April 28 and May 12, 2020, both dates inclusive, in Newbridge. He also pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to assault causing harm to Garda O’Donnell at Newbridge Garda Station on or about April 29, 2020. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"T4TAL62S75EVXDP3C3HA3SDSM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The prosecution contends that the accused was not “within the ingredients” of the special insanity or diminished responsibility verdicts under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IEGTSWPZA5H6TBQHTSNVEANYTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Outlining the proposed evidence last week, Mr Carroll said it is not contested that Mr Ibe carried out the attack and that Mr Kennedy died as a result.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RUDWOX7VOBGTDODLR5OSKDCNSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said that the deceased man, who had just turned 65 and was retired from the probation services, was “a kind person who would help people”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ETAOQCVLFCXVH5C5NJR5RVIYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The mother of the accused, Martha Ibe, had an issue with homelessness and came to live with Mr Kennedy. Her son moved into the same house around September 2019, when he was 19.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RA3PQ6CCFJGTTNBOPKEZOVGIFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Carroll said that problems arose before Christmas 2019, with disputes between Mr Kennedy and the accused, so Mr Ibe left the house and came to Dublin, where he lived at a hostel run by the Peter McVerry Trust in Walkinstown. Counsel said that on April 28th, 2020, the accused left the hostel and got a taxi to Newbridge, where he entered Mr Kennedy’s house through the rear after smashing a window.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OWUOMP7PYFA3RDRGVKKUVYBRUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Carroll said that Mr Ibe’s mother will give evidence that the accused attacked Mr Kennedy with what she believed was a knife, making “jabbing motions”. She left to get assistance, and when gardaí arrived, they found Mr Kennedy on the floor upstairs with serious head injuries lying in a pool of blood.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3KQ3BKIWYJGUNDSY2BMGFVMAIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Following the assault on Gda O’Donnell, Dr Ashdad Ahmad examined the accused and found that he was not fit for interview. Dr Ahmad told Mr Carroll that Mr Ibe was “very anxious, aggressive and appeared to be in a very agitated state.” The following morning, the doctor found Mr Ibe to be more relaxed and “mentally stable”, so he told gardaí they could continue with the interviews.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYD3P5UPKBGNNMQNCVFRVSSVWQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Det Gda Seamus Doyle told Mr Carroll that during the interviews that followed, Mr Ibe said he was not in Newbridge on the day of the assault on Mr Kennedy. When asked why he had refused to allow gardaí to take his fingerprint and DNA samples, he said he “did not want to have them done” and when told that it is an offence to refuse to give a DNA sample, he replied: “I won’t be doing it.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"46NVI3AGVVASHC4C7MGHCYPP4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí showed him stills from CCTV footage that the prosecution alleges show Mr Ibe arriving in Newbridge before the assault. He said the person in the still “could have been anyone” and “I don’t think that’s me”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FX75ANFAFG25A4APUR7S6REQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí read extracts of Martha Ibe’s statement, in which she said she witnessed her son assaulting Mr Kennedy. He replied: “I’ve made my statement, and that’s all I have to say; it’s my final word.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"3V5JLP545ZD6BD7F5VI6ZCC3JI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial continues on Thursday before Ms Justice Melanie Greally and a jury of six men and six women.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Eoin Reynolds "}]},"description":{"basic":"Brian Ibe (23) was brought in to Newbridge Garda Station to be questioned on suspicion of assaulting Peter Kennedy (65), the court heard "},"display_date":"2025-03-26T16:41:12.035Z","headlines":{"basic":"Murder accused assaulted garda after fingerprint and DNA samples taken, trial hears","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RVLI4FOODVB5BDNTIBWYEXJDPE","auth":{"1":"7fc209f90ef3dff7b92dd7f32650b8d2ef7ee409d76c87541be03c5c9b201a08"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RVLI4FOODVB5BDNTIBWYEXJDPE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/murder-accused-assaulted-garda-after-fingerprint-and-dna-samples-taken-trial-hears/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"ZKJWF7WFXZC4FDBD27IOLKPFAE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":256,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f6dd6e17-0ed8-4e36-aa00-50870df88e4a/versions/1743007221/media/d33258014f28d791645c745d14d0b4d5_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/26/man-jailed-for-posting-online-threats-to-kill-mary-lou-mcdonald-and-garda-commissioner-drew-harris/","content_elements":[{"_id":"BBDIXVCDJ5A4XGJUKHWKK5ISUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A man who posted videos on TikTok in which he made threats to kill or harm Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris has been jailed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTYLTTIJJVEF5FO4K5PQILR2II","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard Richard McGreevy (29) of Whitechurch Place, Rathfarmham, Co Dublin, posted the videos on July 16th last. He pleaded guilty to two counts of making a threat to kill or cause harm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AOKYE5PRX5GOHJSP7QOEGGCCUI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6KLSBPMPERHCZGA7XLTWDYTYN4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QISTM37OGJBUZI552U4PK2THRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The videos were viewed thousands of times, and were also reposted to Facebook and X, formerly Twitter, the court was told. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWZO5UYINVH6ZFKMKTFXFWLTQE","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKFITT7MQVGDRGN35ZZKRMTXAI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7TDJWHS3Q5B2ZHFEJAKE5ZYJBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"James Dwyer SC, defending, said his client is not a “political idealogue”, but rather an isolated, “lonely keyboard warrior” who acted “from impulse, not malice”, and failed to realise the impact of his actions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WZWF7SBZZVHZPDQHDHMJXZX4NY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Sinn Féin leader and the Garda Commissioner were not in court during the sentence hearing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TXQD2ASIRJBBFO2M5OCY2CSLW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a victim impact statement read to the court by Antonia Boyle BL, prosecuting, Ms McDonald said like others in the public eye, she had become accustomed to “routine abuse, aggression and causal threats” on social media.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JYXKZJI7UFDJDFHJFNHFNYKFQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"This was different however, the court heard: “The direct threat to shoot me, to shoot me ‘for free’, the open willingness to harm me himself, and the implicit willingness to harm me on behalf of another.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"7WOZYWVNXJBGPGQLVHJAIVB6DY","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said the video presentation was “bizarre, maybe even laughable”, but the threat was “real and chilling”. “I was afraid and angry. My family were enraged and afraid”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HVQGGXZHQFBXDCD6RBBQQ45ZIY","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6GF2BLJTKNFAZCHLVXOMG44RIE","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IGQCA4G4SNHVJE5CCBINXCXEMA","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said the threat caused her distress, anxiety and anger, but she added “I will not allow any bully to stop me from doing my job”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBB5APXEMRF7RJYAYCWU2YBRZA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTIUZIZ2LJBWVDV5PYJG3P4YE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Commissioner Harris declined to provide a victim impact statement, the court was told, as his view was his statement of complaint captured the impact on him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6Y6DATQIMFFWNJE62JVYM5CE4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The clips on social media were played for Judge Martin Nolan from a laptop.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2QVR6LKQJBVLMRY34JRLX4GZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In them, McGreevy said “Drew Harris, you should be f***ing taken out”, “dragged up to Dolphin’s Barn”, “taken to Dublin Castle” and executed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T6FPIDXE2VANFPUHUWDWMDAKQI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WEX2SKXYKRA4RNDTQ4ZU3RE6BM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FSE5RHGL6VFDFPR46U2XJJX37E","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QOALGK7LEVDD5LXYWQPR4CE22M","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LG5ZBMAAIVFQLA6WZOH626QW3M","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5H2WEAL3VFIFLO4ACOGW6RIFA","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SIH7M5ID4BFC7OH5I6XGC3M47Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"McGreevy was arrested and, after caution, he said “this is about those f***ing posts to kill Mary Lou. They were f***ing stupid.”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3M7OTXJWXJCSFCOF4ZYKTHS5EU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He told gardaí he had never had a video that had been viewed so many times, that he didn’t mean for it to go viral and he had taken it down.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RPBTPKCWJZFWTM4GJWMW35SGXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He expressed shame and remorse, saying he didn’t mean for anyone to feel hurt or threatened, but had wanted to rant, before acknowledging he shouldn’t have said those things. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTU2RFC3MZFTXB672HZYBDSMSY","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VW7UDR6FDFE4BLWO72ZFY5WUTI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXHMFKHD5RAQ7K2BIJ7SQGPKCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Dwyer outlined his client’s background, including that McGreevy had been using cannabis since he was a teenager but was drug-free since going into custody. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AUN5LILJ3ZBVFIYCZHHZYYUSRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He noted McGreevy has an acquired brain injury and suffered physical abuse as a child at the hands of a relative.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2S6TL2BYI5FYLOZ2M47ZQ3DG24","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"A4RSF3Q4YRHVRGHNCQPXNWBJ4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Imposing sentence, Judge Nolan said these were “extreme and frightening threats” to two public figures, who were entitled to their peace of mind.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HQU4ZAOYXJHDXOIETAHMHFWA2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the videos would have been “very disturbing” for the injured parties, who would have a “very valid belief that contributions like this poison social discourse and give permission to certain individuals to behave in a certain violent way, particularly to public individuals”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCNLNM2XIRERLLZHASQR55K2Q4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUWFPE5SOBDHDFBS2SHZTJVNEI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZAHSMFT2B5GDPH2GN3IIWNTIBU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6ZWVJCKYPNEDNKSNNF7KEEBLX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge Nolan imposed a three-and-a-half year prison sentence, with the final 15 months suspended on strict conditions. 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","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQNR7DEMSZALDPXWUIYNS4Y5PQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TAQ73LZSIBFKNCZ5VTRABIRJXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda Kurt Fitzgerald gave evidence the women left in a car and Keogh, who was then a partner of one of those women, returned at 9.10am and started fighting with the injured party who was pushing a double buggy and had children with him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A6WZRHKLIJBDTJTTK4JIRDDLAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gda Fitzgerald told Derek Cooney BL, prosecuting, that Keogh shouted “put the baby down” several times at the injured party who then put the child back into the buggy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S6KVDJD56FGRZIXI2NTU5KP5ZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The injured party tried to walk away. Keogh was throwing punches then reached into his waistband, took out a claw hammer and started swinging it towards the injured party’s head. 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work.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WKZXNTZPNBFN3NQCIHWIIPJ5OY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Bradley did not return to work and her employment with Citibank was terminated as part of the settlement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O4A6IBKQSNF2PFZNVEWX66HK6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said: “For me, this experience has been incredibly stressful and disheartening.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6CLJK7BSRFHNXHLZJSKKUZMWBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It came as quite a shock, that the individual hired to cover my role was promoted in my absence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VUHWXK6MQBAH7HS2EXUBXTANPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I felt compelled to challenge this decision, not just for myself, but to ensure that no other woman is penalised for taking time off to have a child.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TFBRXL5LFNDIBHIJUZDSOVYRPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Geraldine McGahey, chief commissioner at the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, said: “Issues around pregnancy and maternity in the workplace continue to be the most common complaints of sex discrimination made to the commission.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ILZFAQZ4JEUDFXDCYPFXFVYAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The laws protecting women from sex discrimination were introduced almost 50 years ago to ensure women can return to and remain in the workforce and not be disadvantaged because of pregnancy or family responsibilities.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2YB7BJ3Y55ACDAXUWS7SH5SATA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Maeve should have been considered for the promotion.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DNBY6NHDFVG45AA4G4S5LAXFCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"In settling the case, Citibank affirmed its commitment to equality of opportunity in employment and to ensuring that its policies, procedures and practices comply in all respects with its obligations under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 and the Sex Discrimination Northern Ireland Order 1976, and to ensure that staff are aware of these obligations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GP63STLXJBGDZPNIXM6NTGURA4","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-19019","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"73H5V3EYNJBCRABDIC7ZXBJHEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The company agreed to liaise with the commission to review its equal opportunities policies, procedures and practices relating to the treatment of employees on maternity leave in Northern Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GJZ5VKVVGFDS7EG7JCAXTW6R34","additional_properties":{},"content":"A spokesperson for Citi said: “We were keen to retain Ms Bradley as an employee at Citi and are disappointed that we were unable to reach an agreement on her return to work.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QDCWE536OBEADCVH4YFT7F2SV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We appreciate the engagement of Ms Bradley and the Equality Commission in resolving this 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Keaveney, who is accused of drug driving in Co Galway, has been further adjourned pending legal submissions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DEJVMCQRANDZHKMG4HRVWO7SGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Keaveney (54), of Milltown Road, Tuam, has been charged with driving with cocaine in his system, contrary to the Road Traffic Act. He was arrested at Cummer, Tuam on June 12th, 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6QEVELEWHVBERBTMJZIMQGHDAQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tuam District Court on Tuesday heard evidence from a member of the Medical Bureau of Road Safety regarding the procedure of testing the sample taken from the accused. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4SDCIWIFA5HHVB6TLMI5KA2DOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is the defence’s contention that the sample taken from Mr Keaveney was initially tested for alcohol. It is argued there was a delay of three months between the time the sample was tested for alcohol and drugs, and that it was not in a sealed container during this period.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XA7R2CS6FFFE5C447SMV67VPIE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4663ZCJFCNGYJMI5A7IHHCBFMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The bureua’s Olivia Johnson told Judge James Faughnan she was familiar with the analysis carried out on the sample in question. She said staff at the bureau do not have advance indications on what they are specifically testing for.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CSCKA2VZ4VCULAQBDUNH6IS5JU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Johnson said Mr Keaveny’s sample arrived at the bureau in a sealed container. The seal was broken to allow for access to the sample, which was found to contain no trace of alcohol when it was first tested on June 16th, 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IVZNCCI6XFGXTH5DAZTGVASG4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Johnson said the blood was then listed for toxicology testing, in line with standard practice. She told the court samples awaiting such analysis were placed in a queue and the test for drugs was carried out sequentially and as soon as practicable.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FMPGFFVEU5GQJIHVYXK4SCTDHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Keaveney’s solicitor, Gearoid Geraghty, asked the witness if the sample had been placed in a sealed container before being stored for further tests.","type":"text"},{"_id":"63GQ5WZISJERBF5IUZMPWVPN5A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Johnson said that while this was not the case, the blood bottle was kept in a locked fridge, in a locked laboratory, to which access was restricted. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KH3TJ2SURVCVHF6DV4UWV46H7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"The case has now been adjourned for the ninth time to the May 10th sitting the court, when a date will be set for hearing.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Declan Tierney"}]},"description":{"basic":"The former Labour TD, who was present in court, has been charged with driving with cocaine in his system"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T21:18:18.881Z","headlines":{"basic":"Colm Keaveney drug driving case hears evidence from a member of the Medical Bureau of Road Safety ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JXNMOMEKP5M5ZKS2ABSIVPVVHM","auth":{"1":"77a070ea2f8c72d625ed28bfcff5ce307b20e2210e9cc66ce61627e4984b9f74"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JXNMOMEKP5M5ZKS2ABSIVPVVHM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/colm-keaveney-drug-driving-case-hears-evidence-from-a-member-of-the-medical-bureau-of-road-safety/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"NRDT5PZOVRFQVGVULGA3W3UKXA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":137,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/3c60afc5-e013-4e8c-980d-87d8eea9d6d8/versions/1742931041/media/4b617cfc5145dc40366be39797509502_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/witness-recalls-being-shocked-and-shattered-when-murder-accused-told-him-he-stabbed-wife/","content_elements":[{"_id":"ZSNJBEKA2RHP5ETA5GLKGABS2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"A murder accused told his friend he had killed his wife and that her body was in their Cork home, the Central Criminal Court has heard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OMQFSWNWDBEEHFGDUD5VS47EYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Regin Parithapara Rajan (43), originally from Kerala in India, denies murdering Deepa Dinami (38) at their home in Wilton in July 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JO63WQAN6ZGK3NAPYAZOC6NTDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mahesh Murali, who first met the accused in India, told the trial on Wednesday that he visited Mr Rajan’s home on the evening of July 14th, 2023 and his friend said he wanted to speak to him in private, so they went outside. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HVHPXGS62BEAXECQ7KXMRPIBSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In our local language he told me ‘I killed my wife and you can call the police and she is on top.’ I understood from this she was on the first floor. I was just shocked and shattered,” Mr Murali said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TV2WPTPWKNA77KLJ2X2C4VNAAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He told the court that Mr Rajan said he had stabbed Ms Dinami with a knife. Mr Murali said he called 999 and the emergency services arrived at the scene soon afterwards.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GWFQBPNWNVALVJN5N6SGV6B5QQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Murali said he worked at the same company in Cork as Mr Rajan and the accused had in the past spoken to him about concerns he had for his marriage. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5HRSDRNKBBBBDLUYXUXLGGOYZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Murali said Mr Rajan claimed his wife was “scolding him for simple things” and was “looking for a divorce”. Mr Murali said he urged his friend to give Ms Dinami time and space.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YHTBT5AUFVB4JGVCHPXO2CGVMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said Mr Rajan at one point sent him a screenshot that he claimed was from his wife’s phone. In it, she allegedly said her status was separated but not divorced and she was “looking for someone I can have good conversation with, to begin with”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YMUIUP4LQZB37NKS2W4BDWHANY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Brian McInerney SC, for Mr Rajan, asked the witness if the defendant was concerned that his wife was in contact with other men. Mr Murali said he believed this was the case. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BV6HJVVNOREFDEEPABXL7ER3VA","additional_properties":{},"content":"When asked if Mr Rajan was “upset” about his marriage, Mr Murali indicated that his friend was “disappointed and depressed” about it and he understood the accused did not want it to end. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"W6GE3MT7YZG6DND2PRXLL74C6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial continues on Wednesday before Ms Justice Siobhán Lankford and a jury of five men and seven women.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Olivia Kelleher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Regin Parithapara Rajan (43) denies murdering Deepa Dinami (38) at their home in Wilton in July 2023"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T19:25:26.892Z","headlines":{"basic":"Witness recalls being ‘shocked and shattered’ when murder accused told him he stabbed wife","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"WDKBMST5FNBWRMPXZCBTE653QY","auth":{"1":"430ecc4f816e34918df0d20f4505609f54651049f66a2dcbca7f32516b4a6aec"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/WDKBMST5FNBWRMPXZCBTE653QY.PNG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/witness-recalls-being-shocked-and-shattered-when-murder-accused-told-him-he-stabbed-wife/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"FNRWTWP2CZGGNCHPPCGTAGDCOY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":216,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/79e98068-e242-4e84-ae28-2498c9775b90/versions/1742925703/media/224eec979ad948039a67ce7be21df96a_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/gardai-search-slurry-pit-as-fears-grow-over-missing-kerry-sheep-farmer/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3W4AYAIDQZHFXCRYPMZE3EX2OA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-garda-siochana/5/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-garda-siochana/5/\">Gardaí </a>investigating the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/24/gardai-keeping-open-mind-over-missing-farmer-in-co-kerry/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/24/gardai-keeping-open-mind-over-missing-farmer-in-co-kerry/\">disappearance</a> of sheep farmer Mike Gaine in Co <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/kerry\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/kerry\">Kerry</a> were on Tuesday using plant machinery to empty a slurry pit at his home near Kenmare for fear his remains could be located there. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6JJIT6VL5BR7ERTZYFFRWHEHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Investigators are keeping an open mind as to what has happened to the 56-year-old.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZP2LITN6JGAFJFFLKHQO25SEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda sources said they have not ruled out any scenarios, including that Mr Gaine was the victim of foul play, though they stressed no firm evidence had emerged confirming he had died or that he was attacked in any way.","type":"text"},{"_id":"33O4RKYQY5G2PJTLFBHURYDCDQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí are extremely concerned, as Mr Gaine has not been seen since last Thursday morning, with sources saying the investigation team was now “searching for a body”, even though they could not be certain the missing man was deceased.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K4JBZFVAR5CRTIRREXSTDVUKJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There is no sign of a struggle, no crime scene, nothing like that,” said one source. “But he has not been since for five days now and there is extreme concern.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NCDZOROSYVGP7JE6XIJVVIOMGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Initially, when Mr Gaine went missing there were fears he had gone out to tend his animals somewhere on his farm and had perhaps fallen or otherwise got into difficulty. However, a large of team of volunteers and emergency services workers have carried out extensive searches and no sign of him has been found.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JMEUHSO2E5GUPKRBLGUWR2OVQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gaine’s home and a number of cars have been technically examined by the Garda, for use in the event of the investigation becoming a criminal inquiry. The Garda’s focus in recent days has been on the immediate vicinity of his home, including searching at a slurry pit to determine whether he may have fallen into it into it or whether his remains may be otherwise concealed there.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XBAUVW5U6VBI5HO6QLA5G2XKCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gaine was reported missing from his farm near Kenmare on Friday, a day after the last confirmed sighting of him. Gardaí had no indication he was vulnerable or at risk in any way and his disappearance is regarded as completely out of character.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BP37WO7CORD3XGMWBQ37RWP25U","additional_properties":{},"content":"A very significant search operation was stepped up, including by Kerry Mountain Rescue, over the weekend in a bid to comb lands where Mr Gaine may have fallen and injured himself while tending to his animals. Volunteers also joined the search party – along with Kerry Civil Defence and Kerry Fire Service – swelling to about 250 the number of people looking for the missing man on Sunday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5MOXAAP5ZND6DOCN3F5CK4WIFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The search has focused mainly on the Carraig East area of Kenmare, though no trace of Mr Gaine has been found. The Rescue 115 helicopter was also deployed to conduct aerial searching.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4IPSDCKSVVBLRJOM6Z4NNO2E64","additional_properties":{},"content":"Amid growing concern for Mr Gaine’s welfare, gardaí have released a CCTV still image of him buying mobile phone credit at a Centra store in Kenmare at 9.48am on Thursday. He was seen minutes later in Kenmare, which appears to be the last confirmed sighting of him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MMQZD555EZF27HSMKGFXNPWJOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gaine was described as being about 5ft 10in in height and of stocky build, with brown/grey hair and a “bushy beard”. When last seen, he was wearing an orange woolly hat, black fleece, blue jeans and black boots.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WBKIQUC2ZFA5VPR5W3O7NAHPHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"An appeal for information issued by Garda Headquarters said Mr Gaine’s family, and investigating gardaí, were “extremely concerned” for his safety. They have asked anyone who may have been in contact with him, or seen him, late last week to come forward.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBGM2LKIQFCDFEHL55FNHFQ67I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí in Killarney are especially keen to speak to anyone who may have been driving in the area of Kenmare town and Moll’s Gap last Thursday or Friday and who may have dash cam footage.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Lally"}},"name":"Conor Lally"}]},"description":{"basic":"Mike Gaine seen in Kenmare last Thursday morning, with extensive search since then yielding no clues"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T19:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Gardaí search slurry pit as fears grow over missing Kerry sheep farmer","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"AKEVTCJ3J5A4PDBUNXQN3CEOYI","auth":{"1":"920fdaecb90588175dac6a602b8620d3d0885dc2fe2dca50ed735f5e34ffa497"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/AKEVTCJ3J5A4PDBUNXQN3CEOYI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/gardai-search-slurry-pit-as-fears-grow-over-missing-kerry-sheep-farmer/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"RSIVPM3BZNFNZE3FZ6L5NUNM3E","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":298,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5e943b85-8e4c-41c6-a8a9-65d15d40a6f6/versions/1742929105/media/1283ad08aff08ee618348ebce8ebddaf_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/lisa-thompson-murder-jury-shown-footage-in-trial-of-woman-accused-of-being-getaway-driver/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JNAMQ4CGIBAUNIR7CQPQ7QZOKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The jury in the trial of a 42-year-old woman accused of being the getaway driver for the murderer of Lisa Thompson has begun watching CCTV footage of what the prosecution says are the defendant’s movements in the days before the mother-of-two was found dead at her home. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AAGMAUZV6BHKFFQKUPWDOALDG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Deirdre Arnold, with an address at Briarfield Grove, Kilbarrack, Dublin 5, is charged that on a date between May 9th, 2022, and May 10th, 2022, both dates inclusive, at a location within the State, she did without reasonable excuse an act with intent to impede the apprehension or prosecution of Brian McHugh, a person who had committed an arrestable offence, namely murder, while knowing or believing McHugh to be guilty of the offence or of some other arrestable offence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5SKQR3PKHZDCNEOHKKLUA4LYY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Arnold is also charged that on a date between May 9th, 2022, and May 10th, 2022, both dates inclusive, at a location within the State, she acted or embarked upon a course of conduct which had a tendency to and was intended to pervert the course of public justice.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UALX6XPCDRA4PJZSHHZOSVS6FU","additional_properties":{},"content":"In her opening speech on Monday, counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions Fiona Murphy SC said the jury will hear evidence that the accused drove <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/02/27/man-found-guilty-of-murdering-lisa-thompson-in-her-dublin-home/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/02/27/man-found-guilty-of-murdering-lisa-thompson-in-her-dublin-home/\">murderer Brian McHugh</a> to the deceased’s home, where she waited outside “for well over an hour” before driving him away from the scene and later checking him into a hotel in an effort to help him evade prosecution. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3XMQZ5Q5IRBPBHOYOAS7XNPCSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is also the prosecution’s case that she allowed her vehicle to be used to dispose of evidence taken from the deceased’s home. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZ3I6WYUQFDZ5NPSVZQJ3FT2QE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda Michelle Purcell, from the Divisional Technical Support Unit, on Tuesday began taking Ms Murphy through a montage of CCTV footage showing a woman driving a silver Hyundai Tucson on the evening of May 8th. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"23CNHEJSABBP5CKTCSF3XR7F6Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy said it is the prosecution’s case that this woman is Deirdre Arnold. She said the first piece of footage was taken from an address in Briarfield Grove which the jury has heard is Ms Arnold’s address. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZFL2DL3ICBBQPENWL7XKZSPWV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda Purcell showed footage of the car’s movements, including interactions between a man and woman at various locations, over the next hour and 57 minutes.<b> </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"EUNGWMT52ZCW3ELEKWAJBDP3KY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier, Chief State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan gave evidence to Ms Murphy that she had carried out a postmortem on the deceased on May 11th, 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KYH5NJSHURC75LEPWGEPSKRGRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan said a cord that appeared to be from a blind was around the deceased’s neck and there were multiple stab wounds on the left side of the chest, centred on the area above where the heart is located.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NF5TQ6IGDZHZVBXHU66FBDKYYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Crossing over at the front of the neck was the cord of a window blind with a free end which appeared torn, said Dr Mulligan. The pathologist said there was a thin, pale band with some areas of abrasion which travelled around the back of the neck almost horizontally.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6EQUZJDKVATPPPDL7KBXF4PRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan said on the left side of the front of the chest there was a group of 11 stab wounds covering an area 7cm vertically by 10cm horizontally.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3E5XZCDJRVGHNHR2B3L3PF6YEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said there were six stab wounds to the heart, two of which were through and through injuries, and further stab wounds in the left lung, one of which was also a through and through wound.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DYNRF4LPTZEXVLGYNB2Y2CRBOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The stab wounds had one blunted end and one pointed end and there was no evidence of any serrated abrasions, suggesting the stab wounds were caused by a knife or a knife-shaped object, said the pathologist.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IKENP2IWUBHZ3DW56TIRJZGEDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dr Mulligan said there were also numerous areas of haemorrhage around the neck. She said both the asphyxiation due to strangulation and the multiple stab wounds to the heart and chest were fatal injuries and it was very difficult to say which occurred first.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q3YU4G6T3BFWBOZKN3JZPX5QCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bloods taken for analysis showed evidence of fluoxetine, an antidepressant and a separate, antipsychotic drug. Dr Mulligan said the combination of multiple sedative drugs could have affected Ms Thompson’s actions and reaction, but the deceased may have had some tolerance if she had been taking them regularly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HIWASUCNANBHPNEVT2QEHS25SM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In conclusion, Dr Mulligan said death was caused by a combination of ligature strangulation causing asphyxia and multiple stab wounds to the chest with no contributing factors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VFWA2A3TRRAORJMZKC2HLFOTHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Tuesday morning, John McDonagh told prosecuting counsel he was a born-again Christian who had known Ms Thompson for six or seven years after meeting her through one of her neighbours.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DXBH4EFYAVFCTADBF2UDEXRX6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the last time he had seen Ms Thompson was the Friday before she died, when she called into his home for a “quick visit”. He said he spoke to her on the Sunday evening at about 7pm and said she was in “great form”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6NRP4HNPBRHLXO3MODIEYJM4AU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr McDonagh said he was aware that McHugh “had a fling” with Ms Thompson about a year before she died. He confirmed to Ms Murphy that he told gardaí that about two or three weeks prior to her death, McHugh had reappeared and was in contact with Ms Thompson by text.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3UVOQWNI6ZHTTLDTI4NN3GLXNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial continues on Wednesday before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath and a jury of seven men and five women. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Fiona Magennis"}]},"description":{"basic":"Deirdre Arnold of Briarfield Grove, Kilbarrack, charged with acting with intent to impede apprehension or prosecution of Brian McHugh"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T18:53:14.256Z","headlines":{"basic":"Lisa Thompson murder: Jury shown footage in trial of woman accused of being getaway driver ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"K7FOACE6KVAVJJMH47INYTZE3A","auth":{"1":"c20b84351e3c08d96747400963eec96334b9fae99acc7d6de3ece25d7e8880db"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/K7FOACE6KVAVJJMH47INYTZE3A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/lisa-thompson-murder-jury-shown-footage-in-trial-of-woman-accused-of-being-getaway-driver/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"MWITAYLHAZFHFJBI4JKKBPOGJE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":207,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/0ee7106a-e722-4242-bde8-904e975a9039/versions/1742922930/media/31bd583202d26820ad05b3824dbe61bd_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/law-criminalising-buying-of-sexual-services-has-proven-difficult-to-enforce-review-finds/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FU2I7MAUKJGDPJFEGLBEWW3LNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A law criminalising the buying, but not the selling, of sexual services has proven difficult to enforce and has not reduced demand for such services, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/03/24/much-needed-review-of-sex-work-laws-stalled-for-five-years/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/03/24/much-needed-review-of-sex-work-laws-stalled-for-five-years/\">a review has found</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E4JGI42YVVFIDMIJHEOF3DFLGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It noted that gardaí and the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/director-of-public-prosecutions/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/director-of-public-prosecutions/\">Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP)</a> have encountered significant barriers in enforcing the 2017 law, introduced with a view to deterring the demand for commercial sex, which has been linked to exploitation and human trafficking.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MDU23FVP7ZCRFBJVW6N6YFWVOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Annual recorded crime data since the law was introduced showed a total of 280 incidents of “Payment etc for Sexual Activity with a Prostitute”. Of 161 prosecutions directed by the DPP for that offence from January 2017 to last August, Garda Pulse records showed just 15 convictions. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AZWSZ4TR6JBLJL4K3RQ5ECHSIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister for Justice <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-ocallaghan/\">Jim O’Callaghan</a> on Tuesday published the 111-page review of the operation of Part 4 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017, which amended section 7 of the Criminal Law Sexual Offences Act 1993.","type":"text"},{"_id":"POEVOZTWC5C2BOCBEPCOKMAAIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Minister said “prostitution is inherently exploitative of vulnerable persons, mainly women and girls”, and that many people “are forced into prostitution, through trafficking, drug addiction, homelessness and poverty”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FAE2Q2F7CZC7FFJBZSLQMJZFOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said his “key focus” was “to seek to reduce demand, protect those involved in the sex trade, and support those who wish to exit”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5XVSU3FD4ZD2NOHGGNKMWNKRXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 2017 law decriminalised the sale of sex, criminalised its purchase, and increased the penalty for brothel-keeping. The aim was to shift the legal burden towards those who buy sex with the intent of protecting those most at risk within the sex industry. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MNQFLBTTR5DYJHLPBHZHWWUSGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The review found that, overall, the Act has made “meaningful progress” towards its objectives, but it identified “key areas” for improvement subject to provision of required policy interventions and support services. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7VOCOAKPYJFJXMKUROP6CMIBSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The ability to successfully support and protect those providing sexual services is hindered by a lack of culturally appropriate support services including healthcare, social welfare, gender-specific housing for women, and clear exit routes, the review found.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MCMQIE2TO5EINIAJJJXVDPCMFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Identified challenges to effective enforcement of the legislation include Garda resources, limited power of arrest for detention and questioning, the requirement of an admission of guilt, and challenges in prosecution due to the necessary “proofs”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYVI4APQ2NHF5F56PEGZZ2WTR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The prevalence of human trafficking among those involved in the sale of sex in Ireland is not fully known, it noted. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BS2OHBLN4NDSNOINJGL65WYFUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Opponents of section 7A, the review said, had claimed its introduction has negatively impacted on the safety and wellbeing of sex workers and is exposing them to more dangerous clients. Supporters of the provision argued that safety issues were ever present.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTNFNM2GP5AANGYNFE5QOFSOJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Various policy developments since 2017 have collectively strengthened the legislative and support structure surrounding section 7A, the report notes, and these have created a “more cohesive and integrated” approach to addressing domestic, sexual and gender-based violence here, it said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"L5BTPXIJ5JFLJEGFPWIVO3AAEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The developments provide “significant opportunities” to overcome some of the identified challenges, it noted. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mary Carolan"}},"name":"Mary Carolan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Just 15 convictions recorded in seven years out of 161 prosecutions directed by the DPP "},"display_date":"2025-03-25T17:14:00.513Z","headlines":{"basic":"Law criminalising buying of sexual services has proven difficult to enforce, review finds ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7NWNJFAE5BB2RPDSZWHCVBNXHM","auth":{"1":"225b7d55bfa5e3938cf2b71ce7b76caaafe806e0fd6a5d8eb0c966015b32aa96"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7NWNJFAE5BB2RPDSZWHCVBNXHM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/law-criminalising-buying-of-sexual-services-has-proven-difficult-to-enforce-review-finds/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"P7RYX3BRJZC77HSPN5BET37X6E","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":188,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/933e8a3b-354e-4375-9975-afa5efaf977e/versions/1742924981/media/0a5fa251a5377b4377ae19fd64d7fc0e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/business/2025/03/25/fresh-row-emerges-over-legal-costs-in-case-over-michael-flatley-mansion/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JK6HKWWTANDFPDBTE7LTDIBOAE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135100},"content":"A new row has erupted over costs arising from the legal battle over a receiver being appointed to Michael Flatley’s Cork mansion, Castlehyde.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5EPNK3FXGRH73JPAL7S3466L5Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135101},"content":"While the Lord of the Dance star this month paid off a €6.9 million loan to keep the receiver from the door of his Fermoy mansion, the Commercial Court on Tuesday heard of a new dispute over legal fees claimed by the other side.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KEXVA5SLTRCBRG4KCD6QIYL5IY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135102},"content":"Ronnie Hudson BL, for Mr Flatley and instructed by solicitor Maxwell Mooney, told the court that his client, who had paid the €1.4 million lodged in court until the final disputed costs bill was decided upon, is “utterly dismayed” at the current position.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IMNR7S2CHBDKRGLDIBWPEX4RFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Counsel said Mr Flatley thought what was being lodged was into court was in relation contractual costs by the other side in relation to the Castlehyde receiver battle. It is claimed that the costs bill includes legal fees in the region of €793,000.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HI4WBV5KWRCENIXLDE2PTCWIMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135104},"content":"In a letter from Mr Flatley’s solicitors to Arthur Cox solicitors for the lender, Mr Flatley seeks the repayment of the €793,000 which has already been lodged in court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TYGBBWSJXBEJTLPRUQNKW42Z6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135105},"content":"The original legal battle related to a loan made to Mr Flatley’s Blackbird Film Productions Ltd by Novellus Finance Ltd, with registered offices at St Stephen’s Green, Dublin in 2023 with repayments of €67,000 per month over two years. Novellus claimed there has been default on repayment, which Mr Flatley denied.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NQ47LFIQ7FB3FKRUNHRXHK5UI4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135106},"content":"Mr Flatley provided a guarantee for the loan on the strength of the value of his Castlehyde mansion. As a result of the alleged default, Novellus appointed a receiver over the property. An interim injunction was granted to the Flatley side to prevent the receiver from taking further measures in relation to Castlehyde and a judge conducted a two-day hearing on the matter.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KCZUFL6UTRGM3JE36ZI5CSHNXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135107},"content":"The Flatley side asked for Mr Justice Mark Sanfey to hold off on giving his judgment on whether to set aside the interim injunction stopping the receiver taking steps or grant an interlocutory injunction to the Flatley side. The €6.9 million loan was later paid off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFKZEDE46JHJDIZ7IFKZ6YVJ3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135108},"content":"In court on Tuesday, counsel for Novellus Eithne Corry BL said the suggestion by Mr Flatley that some money be paid out of court was “pie in the sky”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C56AF37XX5H3HGUUD3ACIDWF6U","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135109},"content":"She said all allegations made by the Flatley side against her clients had been dropped and what was left was the issue of the disputed costs sum, which could be dealt with by mediation. Counsel said her side did not accept the complaint made by the Flatley side in relation to invoices.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W47UBR4BLBEYZPIQ7XICKW3CIY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135110},"content":"Mr Justice Sanfey said the question of what ought to be mediated was a question for the mediator and not the court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M56CYC6G6FFFNKR2BDHWZKUNYA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135111},"content":"Regarding mediation, the judge said he expected the parties “to get on with it” and he said mediation “is the way to go on this.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MRUNVRBJMRED3HJGCOSGBYFJVQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742913135112},"content":"Mr Justice Sanfey, who will get an update on the mediation proposal in early April, told the sides that “all parties should give mediation a shot”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Mr Flatley earlier this month paid off a €6.9 million loan at the centre of the High Court dispute"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T15:18:26.594Z","headlines":{"basic":"Fresh row emerges over legal costs in case over Michael Flatley mansion","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"26XPUGB4MDB4YALHGJVDQCX7XU","auth":{"1":"961d32999c345556012bce271be17684ddcc27145ec16b6e3113a617a1b7776c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/26XPUGB4MDB4YALHGJVDQCX7XU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Crime & Law"},{"name":"Courts"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/business/2025/03/25/fresh-row-emerges-over-legal-costs-in-case-over-michael-flatley-mansion/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/business","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Business"}}}},{"_id":"C27KIYTBN5AADMZGXB5JLO4IBM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":184,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/e460099a-4256-44fb-a42e-1f29c068c210/versions/1742915418/media/a138b7114fc13daac99b6ec117f05cb1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/minister-signs-order-closing-penalty-points-loophole/","content_elements":[{"_id":"7VUH4XAO2VD5HEDV67ULVCJYGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Minister for Transport signed an order on Tuesday closing a legal loophole under which some drivers got disqualification orders for periods as short as one day and avoided penalty points putting them off the road for up to six months.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XVLUHVTYVVDZJN4UP7BFCHPTME","additional_properties":{},"content":"Minister <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-obrien/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-obrien/\">Darragh O’Brien</a> said he was pleased to sign an order to commence section 4 of the Road Traffic Act 2024 with effect from March 31st next.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CYS6BNVCZC3XM5WMPMHM4C6XQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The order means drivers who reach the penalty point threshold for a six-month disqualification “will now always face the appropriate penalty”, he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HUSYBVTGPFF3XBBHDLFPZQGS5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This is a positive step towards ensuring fairness and accountability for all road users. Strengthening these measures is crucial to enhancing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/road-safety/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/road-safety/\">road safety</a> and protecting lives.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4QAKWPYGR5EIPJWLNJHF42SHCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is “essential that the consequences associated with reckless and dangerous driving appropriately reflect the seriousness of the issue”, the Minister said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HXYS2KVGAVGOVKMVYLNDG76QLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The order closes a loophole in a 2002 Act, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2023/11/22/legal-loophole-gets-single-day-ban-for-driver-who-passed-checkpoint-without-stopping/#:~:text=Section%202.8%20provides%2C%20where%20a,specify%20the%20period%20of%20disqualification.\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2023/11/22/legal-loophole-gets-single-day-ban-for-driver-who-passed-checkpoint-without-stopping/#:~:text=Section%202.8%20provides%2C%20where%20a,specify%20the%20period%20of%20disqualification.\">highlighted by The Irish Times more than a year ago</a>, where drivers who accumulated penalty points and faced a six-month disqualification could instead receive an “ancillary” disqualification for a shorter time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5INHK6VDTZFG5GWHTI4O6OW5BY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Data released last week by the Courts Service disclosed that a total of 33 ancillary orders were granted in 2023 and 2024, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-court-granted-vast-majority-of-legal-loophole-orders-under-which-drivers-got-24-hour-bans-and-avoided-penalty-points/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-court-granted-vast-majority-of-legal-loophole-orders-under-which-drivers-got-24-hour-bans-and-avoided-penalty-points/\">of which 27 were granted at Naas District Court</a>. Some drivers got more than one such order.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UVIXAW76VVE2ZLWPYWIYI2BEDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement issued on Tuesday, the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/department-of-transport/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/department-of-transport/\">Department of Transport</a> said the Road Traffic Act 2024 was introduced as a response to the rising trend in road traffic collisions and fatalities in recent years and is being commenced in stages.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IIFUQ5XBM5ADZAXYA5L3ADPFCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The main provisions focus on penalty point reform, mandatory drug testing at the scene of serious collisions, and introducing safer default speed limits, but the legislation also includes several technical amendments to existing legislation, such as the section 4 provision, it said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MEAIFPDNTRHUPNFJ67TO2J4XV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Section 4 addresses “an unintended consequence” of the earlier legislation on penalty points and ancillary disqualifications from driving.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4CGLJX4UPZAQFMIIGAAJCMZHYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Penalty points “are meant to act as a deterrent” from illegal driving behaviours because drivers risk being disqualified for six months if they accumulate enough penalty points.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q3QLYKLVVVDURI25Q3LO242UYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"When penalty points were introduced, it was decided that if the court imposed an ancillary disqualification order, no penalty points should be applied following conviction for a relevant offence. This was because there was no reason to give people penalty points that could lead to the risk of disqualification when they were being disqualified anyway.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VDHHL3QR3JE5DG54CTCUIDQ7IE","additional_properties":{},"content":"In some recent court cases, the statement noted, judges imposed ancillary disqualifications of less than six months on drivers who would otherwise be disqualified for six months if penalty points for those same offences were endorsed on their licences.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DSDLY3UXGVBFDH7S3ANVXDL6HU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The amending provisions mean, in future, penalty points will be endorsed where an ancillary disqualification is made for six months or less.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7S5X2O6DVBAHBPXXSDS7ZRSGPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mary Carolan"}},"name":"Mary Carolan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Minister says drivers who reach penalty point threshold will now ‘always face the appropriate penalty’"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T15:05:08.048Z","headlines":{"basic":"Minister signs order closing penalty points loophole","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"W54JQRHBHBGYE6ULB3VUQJTWEE","auth":{"1":"6f3389b2621684e20140bbd88813418f7ec3dc4b9198f65c7113ec9a18a621d8"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/W54JQRHBHBGYE6ULB3VUQJTWEE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/minister-signs-order-closing-penalty-points-loophole/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"5XKH54BMMVE43HUKOEOKRJHW7E","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":238,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/5b30967f-081e-49c1-b6c7-412c977ec86b/versions/1742915001/media/d53eb0862d76257f7b42874824455615_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/business/2025/03/25/web-summit-court-case/","content_elements":[{"_id":"NQ6XASW7NJAZTLVEQC7TAF6VPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The civil dispute involving three former <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/web-summit/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/web-summit/\">Web Summit</a> business partners has been adjourned to allow the men consider a direct appeal from the trial judge to pursue a mediated settlement. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7PARRJBHZGR7GW6IYRJS4GHTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former company director <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/daire-hickey/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/daire-hickey/\">Daire Hickey</a> had been due to begin evidence against his one time associate and Web Summit founder <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paddy-cosgrave/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paddy-cosgrave/\">Paddy Cosgrave</a> on Tuesday morning. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MLH2XBLSP5ACHJDCLQ6KKHY524","additional_properties":{},"content":"That case is one of five separate actions being heard simultaneously before the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\">High Court</a> in Dublin, in a protracted and acrimonious legal dispute expected to last into June. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GID4WU3OVVHSPFGMXNY3JEIVFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, at the outset of Tuesday’s proceedings Mr Justice Michael Twomey said he wished to address the litigants directly. He then appealed to the three parties to pursue a mediated resolution outside the courtroom in order to end what could otherwise turn into a lengthy legal case on appeal, potentially reaching as far as the Supreme Court and lasting until 2028. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YYG4LKI7JVHAZNZ3UFV73BXZ2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That is time the parties will never get back,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JV3DC743PNGGTPWJDDPCSIQVLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Until now, the judge said, lawyers for the three former business partners and friends had had the opportunity to set out their clients’ positions in black and white terms, but sworn evidence was only due to begin on Tuesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YGMWVPRHNBA33KOXQMKB7VN364","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UM54SZZ55JGJJBYTURWJT3TA2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Web Summit timeline: From 150 attendees at first event to Lisbon and then High Court","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"4EROCKMNSRBDPISJTR7PHD5V7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That is why the case really only starts today,” he said, describing the legal approach up to that point as having the potential to offer a “reality check” to those involved.","type":"text"},{"_id":"56LDXE5JPBG6FKUCRVWBFKPQMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This dispute, at its heart, is not a larger corporate dispute but a very personal dispute.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"P5YCOV3RGRCP5NO4ILCBE2Y7JA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In setting out his view of the proceedings ahead, Mr Justice Twomey noted the potential personal toll. Quoting the French philosopher Voltaire, he said: “I was never ruined but twice: once when I lost a lawsuit, and once when I won one.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"27F2IFA54RCWPGWCG2SF5WCRIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"After brief consultation among the parties, Bernard Dunleavy, senior counsel for Mr Cosgrave, told the judge his views had been taken on-board and requested further time. Then, just before lunch, Mr Dunleavy informed the court that some progress had been made and a further adjournment was granted until Wednesday morning. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"N22S5I37DFBB7K4ISKIJPW45E4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Now in its fifth day, there had been much anticipation in advance of the first direct evidence in Court No 29. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"24NXLHR6QNCXZGOCEFSW2NPYIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Daire Hickey is alleging his rights as a minority shareholder in Manders Terrace, the trading company behind the tech conference business, were oppressed by Mr Cosgrave. He is also suing Mr Cosgrave for alleged breaches of a profit-sharing agreement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KSGOMAHU55DDFCMNB4LCWKDB2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Another minority shareholder, David Kelly, is also suing Mr Cosgrave. Separately, Mr Cosgrave – vigorously defending himself in both sets of proceedings – is suing Mr Kelly for alleged breaches of duties when he was a company director.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GTPUFHYDI5CBZKDDRWBJIXNUU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Cosgrave owns 81 per cent of the business; Mr Hickey owns 7 per cent; and Mr Kelly, 12 per cent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UYFL5SI5PNGQ7KEUTO5O6DB5EY","additional_properties":{},"content":"All three men were in court on Tuesday where Mr Hickey had been ready to give evidence before Mr Justice Twomey’s early appeal. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GHMNGE4RH5FOFKJ2V6W6UO62SA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court had previously heard that the relationship between Mr Hickey, who joined the business in 2010 and left as an employee in 2017, and Mr Cosgrave had broken down in the years after Mr Hickey moved to the US in 2013. Mr Hickey resigned as a director in 2019.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y7CMAJDL3VDVJDIDGV5RLVXKBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He is alleging that Mr Cosgrave weaponised a 2016 sexual harassment complaint made against him by an employee to force him out of the company. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H356PFGSWJHEVB7IXK2XF4XQCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court heard that Mr Hickey, who vehemently denies the allegation, was not even aware that a formal complaint had been made and was not given any chance to respond to the claims at the time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LUDJIFG6XBG7ZF66VR3SOSWSNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last month the warring parties agreed to attempt a mediation process, and appointed Sue Prevezer KC, a London-based barrister, to facilitate talks before the process ultimately broke down. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mark Hilliard"}},"name":"Mark Hilliard"}]},"description":{"basic":"Five separate cases underway between three Web Summit shareholders in case due to last until June "},"display_date":"2025-03-25T14:58:07.027Z","headlines":{"basic":"Web Summit court case adjourned to allow litigants consider judge’s mediation appeal","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JI2S6QKHYFHBZMPSIEHUK4Y2XM","auth":{"1":"9b12c18880a04c29acad41aecd003b04df36498a4e4002c7a1718446c3bd4473"},"focal_point":{"x":2419,"y":744},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JI2S6QKHYFHBZMPSIEHUK4Y2XM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Crime & Law"},{"name":"Courts"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/business/2025/03/25/web-summit-court-case/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/business","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Business"}}}},{"_id":"EQJLLPQWGBF7VLOJVD2UTMNOBI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":232,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/d7485a2c-d2a1-4afc-aa6f-811b97f7fd1b/versions/1742910124/media/4008080ad0a2f7112a9d46783eb133ad_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/receiver-may-be-allowed-seize-enoch-burkes-other-assets-as-bank-funds-do-not-cover-fines-court-hears/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IRWRC44T2BFD7HK2FRURA6PYUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686268},"content":"A receiver appointed over teacher Enoch Burke’s salary may be allowed to seize his other assets as the funds in his bank account are insufficient to meet the fines imposed on him for breaching court orders, the High Court heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MCFLAJVPKRANZH4ZTYNTCTT57Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686269},"content":"Mr Burke has continued to turn up at Wilson’s Hospital School in Co Westmeath since Christmas following his release after 512 days in prison for defying court orders not to do so.","type":"text"},{"_id":"22PJQKVYRZBU3F3OPIUZPSMEAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686270},"content":"He claims he has been jailed and his salary seized because, in opposing transgenderism in accordance with his Christian beliefs, he has refused to call a 15-year-old student by the “they” pronoun and a new name.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LLOR4H22H5DERMFIH7WK2I3VVI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686271},"content":"Each of his attendances at the school since January 2023 had attracted a High Court imposed daily fine of €700. The daily fine was recently increased to €1,400.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WD7XIGT6W5AN5LCRJYP7SN4GJU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686272},"content":"As an alternative to sending him back to prison, Mr Justice David Nolan ordered last week that steps be taken to ensure he pays the fines and appointed a receiver over his salary and freezing orders on his bank account. He made the move in view of the fact that Mr Burke continues to be paid his teacher’s salary as an appeal over his dismissal has yet to be completed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ID54P3LBG5AHNNCZYVIKEJ5BBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686273},"content":"On Tuesday, instead of going to the school, Mr Burke attended court where the judge said he was giving him an opportunity to argue why an order allowing for the fines to continue to be taken from his bank account should not be made permanent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7IGS6YTSTJDQPF45YBNAFPMDYU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686274},"content":"The hearing started out with submissions from Brian Kennedy SC, for the Attorney General, who said his client had considered, in conjunction with the receiver, extending the remit of the receiver to act on Mr Burke’s other assets.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4MWZX7JRFGQXLWUPGNESTB3ZA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686275},"content":"This was because, counsel said, his bank account appeared to have €40,000 in it which was insufficient to meet the €79,100 in fines that had already built up and there could be future fines for Mr Burke continuing to breach the court order.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MEZZBLRGO5HVBPIOWHRJKBOPFM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686276},"content":"In reply, Mr Burke stated the underlying issue in this case – his constitutional right to freedom of religion and expression in relation to his Christian views on transgenderism – had never been addressed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PUYRRXLNVJGXVE5VFIB3QA7I7I","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686277},"content":"The judge reminded him the only issue he was dealing with was the application to make the order on his salary permanent. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSEZ2WVLFNGLDOJTYS33F64ZP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"When Mr Burke complained that Mr Kennedy had got 20 minutes to put his submission, and he was not getting even five minutes to make his, the judge said he would give him five minutes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AGPXFWTL6VDR5JCOJQIEFH2GGI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686278},"content":"Mr Burke said, among other things, that the Attorney General had admitted what was being done with his salary had never happened before. At one point, as the judge reminded him to stick to the matter before the court, he told the judge to “grow up a little please”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2XUWSMNGJBQFARE73A5A6VPHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686280},"content":"He also told the judge, who had previously quoted scripture in relation to the man who failed to make use of his talents, that the Bible also stated there was only the male and female sex.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJWSVT3TTBEEZHOPZCVLQ3X2OU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686281},"content":"Mr Burke also told Mr Justice Nolan that he, under the preamble to the Constitution, was “accountable to God who you will stand before one day and give an account”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FQOIYAFWMRHWPKGSTH4XOVJC4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said the judge was also accountable to the people and to uphold their rights.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TGXAHZNYPJA6PDXN5Q2Z2XWPUQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686282},"content":"After listening to him for more than five minutes, the judge told him his time was up and he was once again asking why he should not make the order permanent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O4ZRG6MEXBB5HGZBDXVANTGP6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686283},"content":"Mr Burke continued speaking as the judge then made the order permanent and adjourned the case for two weeks to allow the Attorney General to come back with an application to extend the remit of the receiver.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WH372F5BI5AMLBMY2PRDJFHTSU","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686284},"content":"The judge then got up and left the courtroom as Mr Burke continued to speak and an unidentified man at the back of the courtroom called out a number of times “judge” as he held up a piece of paper.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JV4TYT4QVZA3TH7KJMPTNF2FRE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742908686285},"content":"Mr Burke was accompanied by his mother Martina and siblings Ammi and Isaac.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Teacher has run up fines of some €79,000 for breaching court order by attending Wilson’s Hospital School in Co Westmeath"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T13:36:59.725Z","headlines":{"basic":"Insufficient funds in Enoch Burke’s bank account to cover €79,100 fines, court hears ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"LQ5DZKX5UD5T7V2SH7WZ6JE3WQ","auth":{"1":"c2b69b988cb399653bea1fab7eaab1c2cd54ba4623b588498453da24a995462b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/LQ5DZKX5UD5T7V2SH7WZ6JE3WQ.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/receiver-may-be-allowed-seize-enoch-burkes-other-assets-as-bank-funds-do-not-cover-fines-court-hears/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"PYG7JHBEHRGUFBRCWKBDCKJZ5U","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":245,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/7629652c-7fb4-474a-a754-e7e260c423e9/versions/1742903684/media/2a5c3b31a92fe075c9d4d3be26b47876_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/they-may-never-get-closure-annyalla-locals-on-lynskey-familys-search-for-murdered-relative/","content_elements":[{"_id":"CDY63OC5EFBXRNSAEKGJZVXU6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Beside Annyalla cemetery, the Angelus bells of St Michael’s Church rang out on Monday evening. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BJWAVZISVFHQ5PEWYYJ6L67YYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"For the family of Joe Lynskey, the bells will continue to sound without resolution or relief.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZHKWBMBGRJCSHJAN4U2S54PCZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lynskey, a former monk from Belfast who later joined the IRA, was abducted, murdered and secretly buried by the IRA in 1972.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFJNHNQQSJDQBATPQR2EGAZNNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Independent Commission for the Location of Victims’ Remains (ICLVR) on Monday announced that the results of DNA examinations on remains exhumed from a grave in the cemetery had eliminated the possibility of them being those of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/24/doubly-cruel-for-joe-lynskey-family-to-learn-exhumed-remains-are-not-his/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/03/24/doubly-cruel-for-joe-lynskey-family-to-learn-exhumed-remains-are-not-his/\">Lynskey “or any of the Disappeared”</a> – the collective name for the IRA’s murder victims whose remains were hidden during the Troubles.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZLETZYSURBNRCGGY3YYNDEXME","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"FKMBXXHRQZDQJAHW56MCXEONCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The commission said the remains were not related to the family buried in the grave and remain unidentified.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P4QNYDIBORHNNF5JGO6XMC3HCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The remains were exhumed in November after the commission said it received information related to “suspicious historic activity” during the 1970s at a grave in the cemetery. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V3O6LFBY4FD6NLJIBCK5LOQA5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Five months on, locals in Annyalla, which sits between Castleblayney and Clontibret next to the Border, are absorbing these developments about one of the Disappeared. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VHIWOTAHXVF5JBVBHV3VEWQDMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Across the busy Monaghan Road from St Michael’s lives Gerry McKeown (76). Like many others in the locality, his thoughts were with Lynskey’s family. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WVF6I2KHYNGWLPI73BDWZUGEDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“For the family’s sake, I was hoping that the remains were his; I’m very surprised. I thought when they exhumed the body that it was his,” he says. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYEBYSF6RZAKVDWVSUAFOVQACI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ZADUXEREIVEMXJRLBZEMLPMMMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He was also “shocked” to hear that the exhumed remains do not belong to the family buried in the grave. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JOWU3OTPCBF2BKJM5XQ4WZP7MM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the nearby townland of Cloghan, Gerry Crowley (66), a retired nursing home care attendant, was also mindful of the Lynskey family. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"J4XKT2K7KVCAZJAELL6QRJE5N4","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘Doubly cruel’ for Joe Lynskey family to learn exhumed remains are not his","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"Z2ZHQLUDQZEDFLY2TNUNONTP4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It is very hard on the family – they were probably expecting closure on the situation. They may never get closure. It’s sad and they are broken-hearted,” he says. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OTHSFDTJLBHLVMFL4YERLESHBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Crowley was also disconcerted at the news that the remains exhumed do not belong to the family who are buried in the plot. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3O73FH4XJ5FRPIXCZCDIFIOFK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m sure people of the parish would like to know who it is, they can’t just belong to nobody; they have to belong to someone,” he adds. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"W2MYOPTANVDGXHUQNNX7U3HZXE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ZF2ZNMJTSVB37DL7G3MIOSXBNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Some people approached for comment declined to speak. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7GPNMVRB5ERZMNK7X7DSGS35A","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, some in the locality were not fully aware of the news, including Jason Kelly (43), originally from Carlow, who lives in the nearby Drumakelly estate in Cloghan. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ME55N2AXRNBCREOO3Q32LZWKSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I wouldn’t know anything about it only for TikTok. I wouldn’t know that it was that grave over there. I wouldn’t know much of the history. I do remember the canopies when they were up back in November,” he says. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2BZDU3BT6BEDBBI7KMQRAOM7SM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kelly, who works as a team leader in Americold, a warehouse just outside Castleblayney, is unsure whetherLynskey’s remains will ever be found. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"I5Z2BYPMANEHNG7UJ6P3H5XLGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’d say that it’s very far-fetched that they will; I imagine it will be an unsolved case,” he says. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5OCWUBVIOBB2BCO3JVNFPPAVGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Across from Kelly lives Nuala Witek (44), a housewife who was thinking of the Lynskey family and of the family that owns the grave. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HIL3FZKZDRD5PKOSCXAUC635FI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I heard the news first thing this morning. My thoughts are with the family whose grave it is, that this will bring them one step closer for their ordeal to be over and I also have a lot of sympathy for Mr Lynskey’s family,” she says.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YL4X6T6LGBBVFEVPVOZ36BHFGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I hope there will be closure for all the families of the Disappeared.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OKAMZIGHM5DNFGACCR5LRKUMIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Witek, who originally comes from Keady, Co Armagh, was concerned there is an unidentified body in the grave.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TVENRGD5IVBDPDL5OSXH53JG7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Who is this poor person?” she asks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CENZSXCWENDXJKUF75OQUH4ILI","additional_properties":{},"content":"An Garda Síochána said it has notified the local coroner and that attempts are being made to “determine the correct identification of the remains”.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Stephen Farrell in Annyalla"}]},"description":{"basic":"Co Monaghan village residents fear remains of Joe Lynskey, one of the IRA’s Disappeared, may never be found "},"display_date":"2025-03-25T11:49:35.506Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘They may never get closure’: Annyalla locals on Lynskey family’s search for murdered relative","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RC27JLAZJFFCPH7MRVGFSTWX4M","auth":{"1":"c2ee53a74a8c7bd5c82311aa50322ccc998b1b61c2e6c95b9b04ce245d3df342"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RC27JLAZJFFCPH7MRVGFSTWX4M.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/they-may-never-get-closure-annyalla-locals-on-lynskey-familys-search-for-murdered-relative/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"QRJZAAACVNCLHN4ZCKSBIXDMMA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":115,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/3c286c74-6d36-4683-bcc3-b2ca152248ca/versions/1742913321/media/b640c89f7cc1ceb09e7ad9b77384a6f6_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/eighth-man-charged-over-fatal-assault-of-quham-babatunde-in-dublins-city-centre/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"An eighth man has appeared in court in connection with the fatal assault of Quham Babatunde in Dublin’s city centre last February.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B44BF7MV3NFNFIHUBM3V7KOT5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Babatunde (34) was stabbed three times in an attack on Anne Street South at around 3am on February 15th. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NS7KSVCLBVHJXDMXCLULGWJL4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bruno Tache (20), of Trimleston, Balbriggan, faces two charges of assault causing harm, one against Mr Babatunde and another against a friend of his, Angel Eghosa Agharia. He faces a third charge of committing violent disorder with others. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCEJFBI56JBLVASMM7CGSIWRXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Giving evidence at Dublin District Court, Garda Jordan Kennedy said Mr Tache went to the nearby Club 22 nightclub on Valentine’s night with some friends. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TIYZXVNYTJH5BAY7ENILAYJ6BQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Security removed him from the club because he was so intoxicated, the court heard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FYHZ4XB2FH57AEBMNC5RZMWVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda Kennedy said the accused and his associates became involved in an incident afterwards that led to Mr Babatunde’s death. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVUAIKRRS5HA3LL5P6TFBVSTBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The attack was completely “unprovoked” and was fuelled by intoxicants, he told the court. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"S7TGUMCLWVH63PWBRH2NOG6CAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"High-definition CCTV demonstrated that Mr Tache was one of the “primary aggressors” in the incident, the garda submitted. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HT3CFDS5UFB4ZNWLGA7F7VKEFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UQPA6BOUB5FQ7KSWEL575CKGX4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZFRJA663NGDRL4EJ76T5LFYMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Tache was later seen assaulting an unknown male at a bus stop on Dame Street for “no apparent reason”, the court heard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2VH2CPBMANAW3BRN5OL47UBFVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Garda Kennedy said gardaí identified Mr Tache using from CCTV footage harvested by several cameras. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VVIEOLLUWRAXPKCV6K4DGZGRAQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He was arrested at his home address on Monday and conveyed to Pearse Street Garda station where he was questioned at length and shown CCTV footage of the incident, the court heard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"S4SLCESQXBHBZFJKN6NQ34JGW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge Paula Murphy refused bail and remanded Mr Tache in custody to appear by videolink at Cloverhill District Court on April 1st. She granted him free legal aid. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ACDLKSFEVGOXP4Y537WT55QLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YZQFZNX2YVDGVNNEWANUG4KQ5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ronan McGreevy"}},"name":"Ronan McGreevy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Bruno Tache (20) charged with in connection with stabbing in Anne Street South in February."},"display_date":"2025-03-25T10:01:33.302Z","headlines":{"basic":"Eighth man in court linked to fatal assault of Quham Babatunde in Dublin’s city centre","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"J7MKLPBWU6UUIXCEIC3DP2ZZSU","auth":{"1":"9a607e7d521b5074354f5eaabba7bcf2547e24c616527ee9f84db5113eee8015"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/J7MKLPBWU6UUIXCEIC3DP2ZZSU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/eighth-man-charged-over-fatal-assault-of-quham-babatunde-in-dublins-city-centre/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"PTRIHACH7VFJ7OYMJ66QGXDAEM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":225,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/34382cfa-8481-4c9b-bf88-39a6e7840c7e/versions/1742838884/media/232830079efeca993692167393422a21_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-court-granted-vast-majority-of-legal-loophole-orders-under-which-drivers-got-24-hour-bans-and-avoided-penalty-points/","content_elements":[{"_id":"WXD3OYBQQZBX3BQPOGHKO2WNSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The vast majority of orders under which drivers avoided penalty points by using a legal loophole to get a 24-hour driving disqualification order were granted by Naas District Court, according to Courts Service figures. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNCHGLSYRJBTXLBQ6FIS56VI2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of a total 33 ancillary disqualification orders granted by District Courts nationally in 2023 and 2024, 27 were granted at Naas District Court, data released by the Courts Service show.","type":"text"},{"_id":"STLIZ6KEEBDS3F2KR2O54EJ5GM","additional_properties":{},"content":"All 18 orders made in 2023 were granted by the Naas court. Of the 15 orders made in the State last year, nine were granted by Naas, three by Kilkenny District Court, two by Limerick District Court and one by Dublin District Court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WMDO2YJHPBCIBFRG2FFILRFKR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 33 orders related to 27 drivers, meaning some got more than one 24-hour disqualification. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"B4MOBS5XCVAYXOMNHU6EGBFWJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the three years up to 2023, no ancillary disqualification orders were granted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6X3MDJJS3NAP7KSCGJZ2IC3YUU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KDUEA6FVV5DC7IEAJJ65K6YAWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"After the loophole was highlighted by The Irish Times more than a year ago, an amending provision was included last April in the Road Traffic Act 2024 to close it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6HE726MKDZF75ODS27UGVYOUAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"That provision has yet to be commenced and, in the interim, the loophole has continued to be availed of.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JJXL72PVFFCWZE2JGA7S75VCK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Department of Transport has said it is intended the commencement order will be put before the Minister, Fianna Fáil’s Darragh O’Brien, by the end of this month.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QST7XBDMC5HKXEB64KDUFKJZJU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge at centre of controversy over 24-hour driving disqualification orders is no stranger to making headlines","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"I5S2BPKKYVHQJPKGQ3PLGEZFAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier this month, The Irish Times reported a driver obtained two 24-hour ancillary driving disqualification orders, thus avoiding having penalty points endorsed on her licence, for using a mobile phone while driving and not wearing a seat belt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WLUCBS7K2RAMLIT7EQ5GQJUBFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Both disqualification orders were granted by Judge Desmond Zaidan at Naas District Court, the first last December and the second last month, on foot of applications by the woman’s solicitor, Tim Kennelly, to re-enter proceedings involving his client.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JJOUZG3YAJGSDGWV57KXIDGAFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under the regulations, a driver who reaches 12 penalty points is supposed to be disqualified from driving for six months, but section 2.8 of the Road Traffic Act 2002 has enabled a small number of drivers to avoid that. The section provides, where a person admits, or is convicted of, a penalty points offence, and an ancillary disqualification order is made, those points shall not be endorsed on the person’s licence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CE7YTYY5TFGMDGZNG75SDD26RY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The section does not specify a minimum disqualification period for an ancillary order, which is discretionary, leaving it up to individual judges to decide whether to grant one.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7PYT7BFTH5BYRPLLLQI5B6QYVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Department of Transport said earlier this month that when penalty points are endorsed or a disqualification order made in court, the Courts Service informs the department which applies the sanctions on the National Driver File.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OMXAKMT235C2PCULXGN7TSQX4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since the penalty points system was introduced in 2002, points could be applied or an ancillary disqualification made, but not both simultaneously, said a department spokesman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N2XS4B3Q4NCYJJGM7GFYQOBLFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"For ancillary disqualifications of less than six months, the 2024 Act makes it possible for both sanctions to be applied in respect of one offence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6GEIX63EDFD3HJ66D7YGNEMCDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Given the lack of historical overlap between the two sanctions, the Courts Service has, to date, informed the department about penalty points and disqualifications via separate channels, the spokesman said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQM34PRQ65DOVL7ZUNKHPUZUQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The reason why the amending provision had not yet been commenced was because the department and Courts Service have been engaging on how the new system will work in practice, he said. The commencement order is intended to be put before the Minister for signature by the end of this month, he said.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mary Carolan"}},"name":"Mary Carolan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Twenty-seven of 33 one-day disqualification orders granted over two years were by Naas District Court"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T06:07:25.818Z","headlines":{"basic":"Naas court granted vast majority of legal loophole orders under which drivers got 24-hour bans and avoided penalty points ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"UAWO5FBSKDMLWZB6IZG3TTAQYE","auth":{"1":"3c220841026311fb9a9a038d112c57df490b8b8f9cc9609241b637a0fd620140"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/UAWO5FBSKDMLWZB6IZG3TTAQYE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-court-granted-vast-majority-of-legal-loophole-orders-under-which-drivers-got-24-hour-bans-and-avoided-penalty-points/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"DRIYF5IZSRHLXEP5RLCXDPXUOY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":201,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f7f59dad-a096-46e3-9115-4883bfdfa5ba/versions/1742835814/media/e433fa7f45cd80fcc2b8a5a90f1ae44e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-district-court-judge-no-stranger-to-making-headlines/","content_elements":[{"_id":"N2GDFKSEEFCW7L4CEPYTQZ2KFA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017186},"content":"Judge Desmond Zaidan, who is among the more outspoken judges on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/district-court/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/district-court/\">District Court</a> bench, is no stranger to making headlines.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JFQNMRLYNFFERIMPUNPX63ZG6A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017187},"content":"He is now at the centre of a controversy over granting 24-hour disqualification orders for some road traffic offences under a legal loophole, enabling drivers to avoid exceeding the penalty points threshold and being disqualified for up to six months.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCSGE3XNLJGPZIBDCYDO7R6VL4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017188},"content":"Judge Zaidan is understood to have granted most of the 33 orders granted over the past two years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2WVQ63HGVE4RLSFMIOJ72QN3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017189},"content":"In contrast, lawyers describe the judge as very tough when it comes to speeding offences, including imposing custodial sentences.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WMENPA42OBGKPPODIUHEHGKVT4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017190},"content":"He is considered sensitive and empathetic in family law cases and when dealing with offenders with mental health and addiction issues. He is not keen on suspended sentences and is more likely to deal with more minor drug and other offences via fines and donations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BDQ4PT4AMBFJPOBQBOISO3EVN4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017191},"content":"Now aged 62, Zaidan was born to Lebanese parents and his early education was in Lebanon and Sierra Leone before he moved to Ireland. He attended Rockwell College before going to Trinity College Dublin, where he graduated with a BSc and a MA.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IT4GHSTCSRDVNPLUYHDHZGZIFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017192},"content":"Having gone on to study at the King’s Inns, he was called to the Bar in 1990. His practice focused on criminal law and prosecution work.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S2QISHAEJZAKNCSSZ3NYO6DBPM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017193},"content":"He was aged just 43, making him one of the youngest judges in the country, when appointed by the Fianna Fáil/Progressive Democrats government to the District Court bench in late 2006.","type":"text"},{"_id":"27WZKAN67ZF6FHCGM3UUG4NLLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Naas court granted vast majority of legal loophole orders under which drivers got 24-hour bans and avoided penalty points ","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"PPGLSCDH3JHBFLC5GNAS4UZP3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017194},"content":"He spent 16 months in the Donegal district and, on his departure, was praised by a local Garda inspector for helping reduce crime and public order offences in the county. Gardaí believed a major factor in reducing public order offences was the judge’s decision to cut 30 minutes off club late-night drinking extensions from 2.30am to 2am.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KDCWTUYFPVAC7L7KR4U5GHINRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"John McManus: Legislative pantomime to fix penalty points loophole is not as absurd as it seems","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"OAXECZQXFFA7ZJ5MKUAJEU4IK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017195},"content":"After Donegal, Judge Zaidan was appointed to the busy Kildare district and has presided since at Naas and Athy District Courts. He has consistently complained about long court lists and has sought the appointment of another judge to the district.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y66P6CLFFJFEFOKVTCTHBJEILM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017196},"content":"The busy lists have led to him block adjourning cases, resulting in sometimes lengthy delays getting cases on.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JDY6U6YW5NFGPNC4PQ4HXRNMCM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017197},"content":"In 2014, it emerged from media reports based on information released under the Freedom of Information Act that Judge Zaidan had written twice in 2012 to then taoiseach, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/enda-kenny/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/enda-kenny/\">Enda Kenny</a>, expressing interest in a promotion. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VNMDJYH6RFH5DM2YGUCT4GFC7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"His first letter, expressing interest in promotion to the Circuit Court, included 11 newspaper cuttings about cases he had heard in Donegal and Kildare. He claimed to have contributed to a reduction in road fatalities, and to being the first judge to use provisions of the intoxicating liquor acts to assist in reducing public order offences. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4RLHEBGPZJHENP6Z7OEMERLZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"In his second letter, Zaidan said he had recently completed a course in European criminal law and his experience was “more fitting for the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\">High Court</a>”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"32QURVL455BJBI45HE4VIFH7TM","additional_properties":{"_id":1742832017198},"content":"His decisions have rarely been judicially reviewed but, in 2020, the High Court found objective bias against him over declining to accept a barrister’s word that an offence to which her client had pleaded guilty no longer carried a custodial sentence.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Mary Carolan"}},"name":"Mary Carolan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Judge at centre of controversy over 24-hour driving disqualification orders is known for tough treatment of speeding offenders"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Judge at centre of controversy over 24-hour driving disqualification orders is no stranger to making headlines","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"N2WYMJ6QPZADZPGDGR3PEPGEYQ","auth":{"1":"6e7b80e4967e836b74aab805550e9873b8ed814a61c65fba4c06f0ada4e3856f"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/N2WYMJ6QPZADZPGDGR3PEPGEYQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/25/naas-district-court-judge-no-stranger-to-making-headlines/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"ZXSEHFHMWBGDRP7MLD3HPUUZNI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":424,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/204bed7b-5f3b-471e-b2cc-cfe9c382b524/versions/1742832246/media/8412338f5a9858b7b3c31b9ea5a304d1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/gardai-travel-to-france-to-interview-friend-of-annie-mccarrick-us-woman-who-disappeared-in-1993/","content_elements":[{"_id":"I2N45SHFGNCVXLZA3EIIMNX75U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"CUWQF7QV4RB4FFEWJABQTZAZA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/garda-siochana/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/garda-siochana/\">Gardaí</a> travelled to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france/\">France</a> in February to interview a one-time friend of missing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/united-states/\">American</a> woman <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/annie-mccarrick/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/annie-mccarrick/\">Annie McCarrick</a> who disappeared in 1993.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F3WP37KWM5A2DLVP2GZERBNZ2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The McCarrick case was upgraded to a murder investigation in 2023. Tomorrow marks the 32nd anniversary of the then 27-year-old’s disappearance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYVV53NCBBBBZKJPWXJASAV53I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Detective Inspector Ronan Lafferty, who is leading the cold case team, confirmed earlier this year to Ms McCarrick’s octogenarian mother, Nancy, that they hoped to carry out the interview in consultation with French police.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HQER45MMDFDPPORUGJPUWSDTBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The man interviewed by investigators is originally from Dublin. The Irish Times understands that two interviews were carried out by the Garda team in a hospital as the man has been in long-time ill-health. A Garda spokesman confirmed the developments in the case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XDGNPIAOFJBF3POZH7436HQLPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“While An Garda Síochána does not comment on specific lines of inquiry, as part of ongoing investigations into the disappearance and murder of Annie McCarrick investigators have interviewed a number of witnesses located in other jurisdictions,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XXNVGWC555G7TMMVZYWKTFIMDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The murder inquiry into the 1993 disappearance of Annie McCarrick - is it making progress a year on?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"MHF6SK73DVDLDBZ7ALJQNK7HXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardaí remain “committed to uncovering the truth” around the case and appealed to anyone with “any information that may shed light on Annie’s disappearance and murder” to come forward,\" he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E4Y5DVDXLRALHO7UJ276YIZWYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Any person who may have interacted with Ms McCarrick on or after March 26th, 1993, is asked to contact their local Garda station or the Garda confidential line.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C75AMMJ7EZC4TOLTPRLHDYCUSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking to The Irish Times from her home on Long Island this week, Ms McCarrick’s aunt, Maureen Covell – Nancy McCarrick’s younger sister – welcomed this development and praised An Garda Síochána for “their forensic diligence and kindness to her sister”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SMMYNE4GKRCL3JOP26BD2XGEGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"With only a nine-year age gap between herself and Ms McCarrick, Ms Covell said they were really “like sisters”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OV3X2IJ45JGLVA7BSOBFW6Y72A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We were very very close and we pretty much went around together all the time and had a lot of fun. We are so delighted that the gardaí are continuing to investigate Annie’s disappearance and we were told at the weekend that they had worked diligently with the French police to interview the man,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VAI2KLVIQVCAHBF42DIFAAEZOY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"LYROFVETB5GFXI64HWB2TU3EL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two years after the case was upgraded to a murder investigation, gardaí have told the family they remain committed to resolving it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOB3TRD4V5F3BBBUNJTQTYTLFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"They have already uncovered a litany of errors in the original investigation. Among them was the revelation last year by The Irish Times that the picture of Ms McCarrick queuing in the Sandymount branch of the AIB bank which was for years widely publicised as the last definitive sighting of her on Friday, March 26th, 1993, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2024/03/23/photo-of-annie-mccarrick-thought-to-be-last-image-of-her-on-day-she-disappeared-in-1993-was-taken-11-days-earlier/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2024/03/23/photo-of-annie-mccarrick-thought-to-be-last-image-of-her-on-day-she-disappeared-in-1993-was-taken-11-days-earlier/\">was in fact captured 11 days earlier</a>, on March 15th of that year. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VUZDFDYT75CEBKLILX5UQMCHK4","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"NAEGYE7Q6JAWVONMIUMBNTT2VA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A fresh forensic examination of the original case has challenged the accepted narrative around her last movements and the investigation into her disappearance is now focusing closer to her then home in Sandymount and no longer on Johnnie Fox’s pub, Glencullen, in the Dublin mountains where it was initially thought she had disappeared from.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4HISEW6QPZAA3BU5AL2LX5RFVE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The gardaí have visited us on two occasions since the case was upgraded and their re-examination of all the details appears to have confirmed that a young woman from Boston who looked like Annie was in Johnnie Fox’s pub with her mother on that night,” said Ms Covell. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LY4HT4RSCVFQJM7JNYZNNCKBUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“When they showed us her photograph, extracted from video footage on the night, we understood how the mistake could have been made, as she had long wavy hair too.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H2HLTA32P6L3B5HG6F2FRVR7NY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"TXQ7O5HPNFFOTP6ZP5LPM7XXLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Covell said she believed many errors had been made by gardaí at the outset of the case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XVQOOPTBOVG47DJZG7WXCVSZC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Unlike Nancy, who has remained so graceful and stoic throughout this 32-year ordeal, I’m a strongly opinionated New Yorker and find it very frustrating that all the faxes our family and friends sent to the gardaí after Annie’s disappearance about significant issues in her personal life were ignored,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WMGVYJLOBFAGLAOLDMXEAFTYIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Indeed a member of the original investigating team, who was interviewed for the 2023 RTÉ documentary, Missing: Beyond the Vanishing Triangle, stated they had never seen these faxes and that this line of inquiry was not pursued at the time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XN2QPWD2HJAYXCIIKYPTXW43BQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Enniskerry ‘sightings’ of Annie McCarrick now deemed unreliable with gardaí focused on Dublin 4","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"SY6STA7PM5FSPATAY5JJLLW64U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We were so frustrated and upset about this revelation and also the attitude, at the time, that she was a 27-year-old girl and could be just enjoying life and off having fun somewhere. We had told them in a fax, for example, that days before her disappearance, whilst celebrating after the St Patrick’s Day Parade she had confided to me that ‘she’d messed up' with someone who was causing difficulties in her life.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"KSCEMSWSKNGAFNP4NSWXRAPPLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"HB67R6O45NDBBFHP5UZL6C77YM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Covell stressed that “if there is any important take-away regarding such cases in the future, it is that investigators must heed the families of the victims and not discount their opinions since they know the person best”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43RRQGJNENGY7DCPTPJMT6VXFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But they had no interest in listening to us 32 years ago,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NJHQWADGFAKZDQOYGME52ORRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Ms Covell, Nancy McCarrick and their close-knit family, which has deep roots in Roscommon and Louth, the passage of time leaves them with little hope of a resolution.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DU6JMLZJJDP5PLPSZCHP4LUBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“No matter how many attempts have been made, there are not any conclusive or definitive answers. While there is speculation, there is nothing solid after all these years other than the fact that Annie is gone. That is all we can say,” Ms Covell added.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GVD6B6SVKZC4RFGJYL7ISYQL7U","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"NTGR4EYAZFFI7KT5UCYTMKZU3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"She remembered her niece as “a lot of fun”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"X4OSE3TEIZE6DG3T6GGRCZXJOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“She truly found the best in people and would light up the room. She was beautiful both spiritually and visually,” she said. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3THAAOFIGVE43KOWA5RG5ENA5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I would say that what was so refreshing about her was that she had no pretences, she had no agenda, she was simply a very genuinely loving kind person.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"X4U3JXM2HZBYLE7KJSCJ6VTPQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms McCarrick’s best friend from childhood, Linda Ringhouse, has supported the family and campaigned about the case since the start. Speaking to The Irish Times, she reiterated the personal difficulties Ms McCarrick was experiencing at the time of her disappearance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O6CKR3JJGJEAZIJYZSLWVF2ZZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I believe Annie was met either at the door of her apartment or someone pulled up in a car as she came home from her shopping. She dropped everything, thinking she would be home shortly,” said Ms Ringhouse. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LBFFDASLRHMPCR3OGJZP6G6D4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I believe she knew the person responsible for her death. She was in a tumultuous situation with this person at the time.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"HZKW65FTMVCTZIVM4XQGWYIWAI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"MZRPRHXYJVGDFCJEYVE6OVOB5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"It has been widely documented that Ms McCarrick’s shopping, with perishables and a receipt, was left on the table in her home and some of her clothes were soaking in a sink.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2BW752A7IJHTHKA7MD3GB3PZTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Ringhouse said it was ”great news\" that gardaí had travelled to France to interview a man. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BWBQAG5V4NFOVOEKCPCKBTQL6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It is so hard not to get depressed and give up hope when another two years have gone by, since the case was reopened and upgraded, even though we know the detectives are still working on the case,” she said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PXJOYUFYRNF2VI45FBVRN6EUUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Hopefully, the interview in France provided answers to questions we have had for 32 years. So happy to hear the current detectives were able to get it done. They have continued to come through for Mrs McCarrick and for that we are very grateful.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ARCW3Q2J4NB45IBW42OFYUNFHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Áine Ryan"}},"name":"Áine Ryan"},{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Conor Gallagher"}},"name":"Conor Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Investigators interviewed man originally from Dublin who knew the 27-year-old American around the time she went missing"},"display_date":"2025-03-25T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Annie McCarrick’s best friend from childhood: ‘I believe she knew the person responsible for her death’","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"FSTP52ECDJBS7NDY5I6WQXMIT4","auth":{"1":"b334919309059053c1df0aed6d925946d299e4a3db1886ee6d487247413f44da"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/FSTP52ECDJBS7NDY5I6WQXMIT4.jpeg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/2025/03/25/gardai-travel-to-france-to-interview-friend-of-annie-mccarrick-us-woman-who-disappeared-in-1993/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Crime & Law"}}}},{"_id":"EQM64IPJ3VAXDK76EN45CNXROY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":321,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/322abb03-190d-44d0-9ab5-e865c6d6ae3b/versions/1742848530/media/f0c141326a728177773064e8103fe8f8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/world/europe/2025/03/24/gerard-depardieu-sexual-assault-trial-marks-cultural-reckoning-for-france/","content_elements":[{"_id":"SQ6F3TQUTBA5RFMEERA7VORXHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The French actor <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/gerard-depardieu/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/gerard-depardieu/\">Gérard Depardieu</a> has appeared in court in France on trial for allegedly sexually assaulting two women during a film shoot in 2021.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WK2PQTI2MJGPDJVYUQKIWESBV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu (76), dressed in a black suit and trainers with his grey hair swept back, arrived at the Paris criminal court amid a large police presence. Dozens of protesters had gathered outside the courthouse and shouted: “Victims, we believe you; rapists, we see you.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CBBRX6VYBZAMHDPZQPJ3ODZ47Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"After confirming his date and place of birth, the actor told the panel of three judges that he was prepared to answer the court’s questions. He is expected to testify on Tuesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MBGOKRZYHJA5ZOU2RLLKXRIMJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu – one of France’s most famous actors, who has made more than 200 films and TV series – is the highest-profile figure in the French film industry to face allegations of sexual assault since the #MeToo movement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7T2IQAB4BH5FPUFWVBLRFQ3YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu is charged with the sexual assault of a 54-year-old set dresser and a 34-year-old assistant director during shooting of the feature film Les Volets Verts (The Green Shutters) in Paris in 2021. He faces up to five years in prison and a fine of €75,000 if convicted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WID25KPTNFHENILLESHF5DQTF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He is accused of sexually assaulting the set dresser on September 10th, 2021, on the film set, allegedly trapping her between his legs before grabbing her buttocks, pubis and chest. She has said the actor also used obscene language and had to be pulled away by bodyguards. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"USGZLACRXBHVXCYWES62OP3D4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The set dresser’s lawyer told the court that several people had witnessed her being grabbed and “trapped against her will”. The set dresser had immediately spoken to senior colleagues who had suggested at the time that she go to the police. Her lawyer said a production manager recounted receiving a call from Mr Depardieu at the time, saying he was sorry and it was “no longer the era to do that”. Mr Depardieu’s lawyer denied this. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVPVA7EAABF6PMNKBWRHOTDVNE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu is also charged with assaulting an assistant director both on set and in the street on August 31st and in September 2021, allegedly grabbing her buttocks and chest. The woman’s lawyer said she had told friends at the time that Mr Depardieu had been touching her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HJNTJIUQZBBHHJX62ZIF5KUTMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu’s lawyer, Jérémie Assous, said the actor denied all charges. He told the panel of three judges: “Truth is on our side.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GYEKCNJ6GVDQHJ735VFORPQY7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judges dismissed demands by Mr Depardieu’s defence that the case should be thrown out. They rejected Mr Depardieu’s lawyer’s argument that the investigation was biased and aimed solely at “bringing Depardieu down”. The state prosecutor and the lawyers for the complainants told the court the investigation into Mr Depardieu was solid and the case must be heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LQLTZRWYRGG7E7SW5LURUQVAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial had been postponed last October after lawyers warned of Mr Depardieu’s ill health, saying he had undergone a quadruple heart bypass and had diabetes that was aggravated by the stress of the trial.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LBEVZWXVFCWJABUXTBCVNQBOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Depardieu arrived in the courtroom looking strong and healthy. While waiting for the hearing to begin, he smiled, blew kisses and winked at friends and supporters. He smiled at the French actor Fanny Ardant, who appeared briefly to confirm that she would give evidence later in the trial. Ardant, who acted in The Green Shutters, will speak in favour of Mr Depardieu. Before the trial, she said she supported him because he was a friend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NR3M4ZEYS5DUBF5IICJORQTFDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Medical experts subsequently ruled that Mr Depardieu was well enough to stand trial this month, but with special provisions for his health. His court appearances would be limited to six-hour stints, with a 15-minute pause and snack every three hours. He would be seated but allowed to stand up if needed, must have private access to toilets, must be able to regularly control his blood sugar and eat a sweet snack if necessary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5JWRWEE77YURVWHGLYJVXC47M","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"YE2AXPZ5B5GAJBUZTEQRCP32KE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial is the first case against Mr Depardieu to come to court. Overall, about 20 women have accused him of improper behaviour, but several cases have not been pursued because they exceeded the time limit for bringing a legal complaint.","type":"text"},{"_id":"42N7SN6PZJD7LDQ2APWHOD3ILM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The French actor Charlotte Arnould was the first woman to file a criminal complaint against Mr Depardieu, in 2018, alleging he raped and sexual assaulted her when she was 22 and Mr Depardieu, a friend of her father, was 70. Last August, the Paris prosecutor’s office requested a trial for rape and sexual assault, but a trial date has not yet been set. In an open letter to Le Figaro in 2023, Mr Depardieu denied the allegations, saying any encounter with Ms Arnould had been consensual.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZIRMIZRTCJEJ7IEJDUFGM4D5VI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Arnould watched from the public benches on Monday. Also present among members of the public was actor Anouk Grinberg, who appeared in The Green Shutters. Ms Grinberg told Agence France-Presse before the trial that Mr Depardieu had constantly made “salacious remarks” during shooting, and producers who hired him knew they were “hiring an abuser”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RGJTBILJ7ZHIXOPBHW42C6ATAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial continues. – Guardian","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQIDMBRCFNDPLOOMCOCBETMOP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Angelique Chrisafis in Paris"}]},"description":{"basic":"Prosecutors allege assaults against two women took place during filming in 2021"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T20:35:27.029Z","headlines":{"basic":"Gérard Depardieu appears in court for sexual assault trial","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"DYUSP4ERKJCD2VUQPCAV6IFQTI","auth":{"1":"1dbb77667ce3d4bb8ff3be1d74c7865b2d62cba0f31e585feb1b4b1e94703fb7"},"focal_point":{"x":1939,"y":840},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/DYUSP4ERKJCD2VUQPCAV6IFQTI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Europe"},{"name":"Film"},{"name":"World"},{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Culture"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/world/europe/2025/03/24/gerard-depardieu-sexual-assault-trial-marks-cultural-reckoning-for-france/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/world/europe","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Europe"}}}},{"_id":"6NB65NJUWNDYFGJE5WX2AIIVZ4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":349,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/a7c6f906-0dfa-4e6c-acf9-f4f27d6fd6b0/versions/1742847414/media/0fbed3bc93a0f077a42f3a8b84df3b2f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/woman-42-accused-of-being-getaway-driver-in-lisa-thompson-murder-case/","content_elements":[{"_id":"3JAJL36QWFCCJCQNMZXG3MU4VI","additional_properties":{},"content":"A 42-year-old woman has gone on trial at the Central Criminal Court accused of being the getaway driver for the murderer of mother-of-two Lisa Thompson, who was found stabbed to death in her home.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KI6QEIOT2NHNXBYKTBVCTTYBX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was during the opening of the trial of Deirdre Arnold today that counsel for the State said the 12 jurors will hear evidence that the accused drove <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/02/27/man-found-guilty-of-murdering-lisa-thompson-in-her-dublin-home/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/02/27/man-found-guilty-of-murdering-lisa-thompson-in-her-dublin-home/\">murderer Brian McHugh</a> to the deceased’s home, where she waited outside “for well over an hour” before driving him away from the scene and later checking him into a hotel in an effort to help him evade prosecution. It is also the prosecution’s case that she allowed her vehicle to be used to dispose of evidence taken from the deceased’s home. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CISMUTKTJFDI3AXIQTORNORRKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The jury also heard today there will be evidence that fingerprints recovered on a jewellery valuation certificate linked to Ms Thompson and found in Ms Arnold’s car also matched the accused woman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DLLINDNNWJHYRAMRARZO72XERA","additional_properties":{},"content":" Ms Arnold, with an address at Briarfield Grove, Kilbarrack, Dublin 5, is charged that on a date between May 9th, 2022, and May 10th, 2022, both dates inclusive, at a location within the State, she did without reasonable excuse an act with intent to impede the apprehension or prosecution of Brian McHugh, a person who had committed an arrestable offence, namely murder, while knowing or believing Brian McHugh to be guilty of the offence or of some other arrestable offence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XIJJ5S3VZNAHNPUTBQCXWNZQ2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Arnold is also charged that on a date between May 9th, 2022 and May 10th, 2022, both dates inclusive, at a location within the State, she acted or embarked upon a course of conduct which had a tendency to and was intended to pervert the course of public justice.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HVT3KY35YVHJNMBU6Z3XCYLFDM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"3VNNEC52VZAFJAEIAHNY7OZM5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Arnold has pleaded not guilty to the two counts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5IQTNLLDRZERFMU3J3GHNRZUQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Opening the prosecution’s case, Fiona Murphy SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said the law requires that the State prove that Ms Arnold knew or believed Brian McHugh (40) was guilty of the murder of Lisa Thompson (52) or that she knew or believed he was guilty of some similar offence arising from the same set of circumstances.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HZQBL5SMUNH2XCMVKXQODVASTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy said the jury would hear that Ms Arnold drove McHugh to Ms Thompson’s home at Sandyhill Gardens in Ballymun, where she waited for him “for well over an hour” before allowing him to place bags of items taken from the deceased’s home in her car. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVEEIEG3CNC2BBVCPSKANUL3WE","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said the State’s case against Ms Arnold is also that she drove McHugh away afterwards and then assisted him over the next 24 hours, where items taken from Ms Thompson’s home were discarded. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PXOOPOUA45EEFJ4QOO25W4WBVM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EECGD3TOHBB3JFM7I5AULDNJ4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"In relation to the second count against the accused, Ms Murphy said the State only needed to prove that Ms Arnold had “embarked upon a course of conduct” which was intended to pervert the course of justice, “not that it did perverse the course of justice”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DE2NYCIQ6BGJXIBN7UBEIWNBA4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NWOYHPBPPBHF5LU3I3RK5OIIVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Counsel said that witness Damien Geraghty will give evidence that he called to Ms Thompson’s house at 3.15pm, where he found the deceased’s remains inside the rear door of the property and rang 999. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2RSVZJC6FGO7LZUZ6ZRUVL7SQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy said paramedics later discovered Ms Thompson’s remains, where they found numerous puncture wounds to the chest and a window blind cord wrapped around the neck. Ms Thompson was pronounced dead at 4.48pm. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WP2YCQOUJRHAZHXUHOH32E3DEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"There will be evidence, Ms Murphy said, that gardaí had noted Ms Thompson’s rear door was unlocked and the upstairs bedroom ransacked. She said gardaí also found there was no sign of forced entry and that the front door was locked. She said two knives were missing from a block of knives in the kitchen. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2DJ3Q4EUVEXHH4TOF4LAQHBMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Murphy said pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan carried out a postmortem on Ms Thompson and found death had occurred through a combination of ligature strangulation causing asphyxia and multiple stab wounds to the left side of the chest.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPPHHHMGBBGKDG5HN4L5ES6KT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Counsel said it wasn’t released to the media at this stage that strangulation was a cause of death. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JQO3PNA7F5GMVHZFR3WHTGAEPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court heard further evidence will be that Ms Arnold and McHugh had travelled together to Ms Thompson’s house in a Hyundai Tucson and that the accused was the registered owner of that vehicle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YMWQW6NOMJGTXNJJASSH3KYJ2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V5NE4OMBFBBBPCVQZ56CNHK5KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The barrister further stated that McHugh got into the Tucson, which was waiting nearby, and drove away. She said the vehicle was driven to an Applegreen service station on St Margaret’s Road in Swords.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CI75YYCLHRCGRARXDMJBOZ5EFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Counsel said the court will hear that Ms Arnold was identified in the vehicle at the service station with McHugh and that the accused had remained in his company that day and the next. Ms Murphy said CCTV footage will also show Ms Arnold and McHugh getting out of the car at the service station. She said McHugh can be seen showing jewellery to the cashier. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E2HN5BTK2NBG5D3S622WYDHEIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Evidence will be that the Tucson left the service station at 3.21am and returned at 4.04am. She said this was relevant as Ms Thompson’s driving licence was located on a slip road in Finglas on May 10th, 2022. The court will also hear evidence, the lawyer said, that the two people on the CCTV at the service station remained there until 4.49am and are seen moving around the area. Gardaí carried out a search of the area and discovered medication in Ms Thompson’s name and a set of keys used to open the deceased’s front door at Sandyhill Gardens. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QRKXJG4YVFWJBJVACUQ2GGVGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The barrister said the court will hear evidence regarding the Clayton Hotel near Dublin Airport as well as a conversation Ms Arnold had about booking a room and the reason given for that. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"R6USOTMWOBCHZGWCQPNY4E5KOM","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YKQOSWMR5ZBIPLIVIAEAN3O7UA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court will also hear evidence, the barrister indicated, of a number of searches carried out at McHugh’s home at Cairn Court in Ballymun, Dublin 11. She said jewellery was found at that address, which the prosecution say is linked to Ms Thompson.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XCCNAREZT5ARDGMWGPCW6SJDM4","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"52UHJCXJHRFDXIZE25V3OSGIXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial continues tomorrow before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath and a jury of seven men and five women.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Alison O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Jury will hear evidence that Deirdre Arnold drove murderer Brian McHugh to deceased’s home, where she waited outside ‘for well over an hour’"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T20:16:51.352Z","headlines":{"basic":"Woman (42) accused of being getaway driver in Lisa Thompson murder case","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"NOI7M5PZPUVP4FJ3TNNT6BVZEE","auth":{"1":"a34a35e96fe5da5239f1188dd6fd08c9ce434c37f3bafea367eb212c5219541e"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/NOI7M5PZPUVP4FJ3TNNT6BVZEE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/woman-42-accused-of-being-getaway-driver-in-lisa-thompson-murder-case/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"A4DOJUJV4NED5H27E7SL4E7GQI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":149,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/13ab743f-5e22-4eb8-b353-138c84dbfdcb/versions/1742844716/media/7c0738be156d2ef350f77b1061e70118_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/man-42-goes-on-trial-charged-with-murder-of-wife-in-cork-in-2023/","content_elements":[{"_id":"GE4Z625MBBAJ7PX7H2NWPO52PE","additional_properties":{},"content":"A mother of one from India had been in Ireland just three months when she was found dead in a blood stained bedroom of her Co Cork home, having sustained a 14 cm wound to the front of her neck, a trial has heard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IMKBRCJ6NVDG5KJFGWTB2BKNE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Regin Parithapara Rajan (43) has gone on trial at the Central Criminal Court in Cork charged with the murder of his wife Deepa Paruthiyezhuth Dinamani at Cardinal Court in Wilton on July 14th, 2023. He denies the charge.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NASYMRHDSVHP5DKT3K3LVZ4RFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"RGBK2WYIDVA7HENAJHZGEZ2VBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"XBY3GNEXP5BURLT6FC5M5CDQL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Outlining the prosecution’s case, Sean Gillane SC told jurors that they would hear evidence that by the summer of 2023 difficulties had developed in the marriage of Ms Dinamani and Mr Rajan. Mr Gillane said that the marriage had “cooled”, that the couple were sleeping in separate bedrooms, and Ms Dinamani was considering divorce.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GK5PVJYXINFDXGPV7I4UZ2ZMLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"I2LG7RQB4FCKZFMILF55R4Q6HM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Dinamani grew up in Kerala in India where her retired parents still live. Mr Gillane said the 38-year-old chartered accountant was “well regarded” and “well educated”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5IO54ISHJHJVMLYLLKJCAKWQM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YGHONIMPLNETVDGZHFGPXRLIII","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gillane said that Ms Dinamani and Mr Rajan were from the same general area but did not meet until 2015. They married the same year and had a son in 2018. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HP6BZG2D4FFIXOXFQQGNK2GCLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Dinamani started working in a finance company in Cork in the spring of 2023 having secured accommodation for the family in Wilton.","type":"text"},{"_id":"35G5VLJZ5RA6JA3QFILT6FMKKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"One room in the property was sublet to a nurse at the nearby hospital.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7INRH4XH5VAO7KBABEKUBAPHNI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WCH3R6OHDZHYXEKBMOZW2TF5LM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"H6JC5L2WLJEGLM3TA47CSODJKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gillane said on the evening of July 14th, a man who had been asked by Mr Rajan to collect the couple’s son from summer camp allegedly contacted the nurse as he could not reach the boy’s father. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FA27UPIKTFFXRBFBWSETDSBNL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gillane said that the nurse was in her room in the Wilton house and hadn’t noticed “anything untoward”. She said she thought the house was empty. The man told the nurse that he planned to bring the youngster back home. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIOWYIFJA5CQHP2N67TQ6OFUHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"DBKXXITBENBDFDQERTC3SFLSNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EM4MMQHRBFA5GMSYFTLYVCEDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Gillane said that the jury will hear Mr Rajan told the man, after his arrival at the property, that “he had killed his wife and that she was inside. He also said he had stabbed her with a knife”. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZOYJQ5HWVZG2HJPYONMA4EQCHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"LBBPIHKEGVDDNFC6ILKJYZOTTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"RZ5YLXMV5JAU7OQBUDDWUJV6JU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The State case will be that a palm print of the accused was on a blood stained knife, recovered at the scene, and that the knife had been purchased by Mr Rajan two days prior. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FVZ2QAAVXFHNTNUE5SIRXRCWOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trial is expected to last up to three weeks. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JI75UTKFPVFMXFH2T43T2KHJBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YMOPM6ZRWFFABIVIZPF463PLQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"5EXM65DPIBAUDDY3WPPUE3L4UY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"GCWEKCFL4ZFA5PLSRBG7E3JA6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Olivia Kelleher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Regin Parithapara Rajan denies murdering his wife at their home in Wilton, Cork"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T19:26:53.156Z","headlines":{"basic":"Man (42) goes on trial charged with murder of wife in Cork in 2023","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RIX24CLYDRFSNFWAKR3BZZ5SMA","auth":{"1":"ae3830adc171b2c6d0af4b5d54b36a8a6c6d2415aed5a587482ed1e3e63bed46"},"focal_point":{"x":1278,"y":735},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RIX24CLYDRFSNFWAKR3BZZ5SMA.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/man-42-goes-on-trial-charged-with-murder-of-wife-in-cork-in-2023/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"I3DCHW5HMVEUBNAVSPK5KXZI6A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":139,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/09cd7336-5800-4b31-af17-70673adfa159/versions/1742844117/media/e0e3db9da6e3877cde0754ec0351d7de_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/cargo-handling-firm-and-machinery-manufacturer-fined-450000-following-death-of-dublin-port-worker/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"A cargo handling firm and a machinery manufacturer have been fined a total of €450,000 for breaches of Health and Safety Regulations, which came to light after a Dublin father-of-four was run over by a large machine in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-port/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-port/\">Dublin Port</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"775LDAVC45GYZDIEMFSIXBAMLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Nicholas Collier, a 55-year-old haulier, was killed when struck by a container handler, a forklift-type truck used to remove containers, as he worked at the port on August 14th, 2019. The court heard he could not be seen by the driver of the handler due to restricted visibility.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H33J2OL43NEW3C7UMZ4GTETNIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Swedish company Kalmar Solutions AB and Belfast-based Scruttons (NI) Ltd were before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on Monday, where they were each charged with a breach of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ABTTPKR2R5FQRNRSLIQLQROURM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"XKYP4VJUFRGFDIOC7MU4U3QRAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"JBHS4NAGGFEBZD4ECIPAO64CPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FRA656VHYBDN5GM6RJS732SYGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Members of the Collier family, who were in court, left the room before footage of the incident was shown. The footage from a tug parked nearby showed the large vehicle approaching at about 25km per hour, and running over Mr Collier. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6B6W4HL76NGW7PSAOW3XDCFIUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, footage captured from two CCTV cameras on board the handler did not show Mr Collier at all. The court also heard that the driver of the handler, whose cab was three metres high, was unaware that there had been an impact.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVPQ7GOQPND5DJTD3EJ4I7MMYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"JTHD6C7LHNESPFDWHRIMRY7LII","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZ7L73GBG5AQZNRJV43XOT7R6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"T7A3XRHEORHCXAMW6ANS523ZJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"OOXNAALF45A7JHDZUSMMR4AZ4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQODC63ONVDTXNQJJM6DX5KF7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"UPNWEHP7GFDX3GIQ4JWHBVDO2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FNON7V3KWZFAXEBH27K6PBR5WM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DUP6XVGK5BKFIKN5QCVVRR54A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pádraig McMahon, a senior inspector with the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) said that, after the incident, control measures were put in place. These included the use of a 4x4 to escort the vehicle across the port, where the drivers of both vehicles would be in radio contact.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XXJMBMPTABBHRAR4HEBILTHZXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"That measure has since been replaced with the incorporation of mirrors onto the machine to allow the driver to see around the mast, and zig-zag driving.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NEA7VKRLJBECRC4JBN3A4I2RJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"BGQT5WHVNFHERBVMT3QQCUQ24A","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"BYAOTRDCR5CZHHJL34SPNZML2M","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"VJSYE46FERDIBM5J2MTYLZPABE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZWEFZJK3W5DPRM652HZXIQ67K4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"SYXDADADVVAKRJAJSR5IMK2GIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VQ5JA33O5HYDPEGKOH6TCNCTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"NTRYJFZ4V5GWFNGZPQ7C7OKZGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJSGZXMZPVBLDE75IL4GOIK7DM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"WLOYXQM4AFGRLORMFANPPQAIEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"S2VAEY47TBG6JBIQZOBF5BLDUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YVE7WGMMJZBPPIQXTDISIZGRFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge Martin Nolan extended the court’s condolences to Mr Collier’s family. He said it was clear that he was much loved and had contributed significantly to his family and community.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GI62ZCP36VG6VA2HLABS6GWIKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"XPX6K2MNXZDB7LDSJDU3SG4IMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"He noted that the maximum fine was €3 million, and imposed a fine of €150,000 on Kalmar Solutions and €300,000 on Scruttons, with six months to pay.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Natasha Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Nicholas Collier (55) was killed when struck by a forklift-type truck while working on August 14th, 2019"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T19:16:47.718Z","headlines":{"basic":"Cargo handling firm and machinery manufacturer fined €450,000 following death of Dublin Port worker","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IS5HDE5YDZONCV7IK5DC5NI2DU","auth":{"1":"50bd690ab3eab6f4def9df980dcbe9ea1c3eb25182bdba30337f52b115069c54"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IS5HDE5YDZONCV7IK5DC5NI2DU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/cargo-handling-firm-and-machinery-manufacturer-fined-450000-following-death-of-dublin-port-worker/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"3QKCJNYLWBFCFE4O3QFAWQKI6U","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":136,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/9be7dd43-edb0-49ef-b724-f5460bf51fcc/versions/1742841088/media/cf7fae61666d6dcbef4f04bf25d89ec4_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/abp-withdraw-appeal-leave-application-in-shannon-lng-case/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UBOZL3IF5JDUBCB2QOXFOOXKPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"CFVCMB74IJBKZJ2LBEE3T3XCLE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777910},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-bord-pleanala/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/an-bord-pleanala/\">An Bord Pleanála</a> has withdrawn its application seeking permission to appeal a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/high-court/\">High Court</a> judgment quashing its refusal of planning permission for the proposed Shannon liquefied natural gas (<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/lng/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/lng/\">LNG</a>) terminal in Co Kerry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4JADNSB7RZES3LJ4GDWCBUGO2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"A decision in a judicial review case can only be appealed to the Court of Appeal if so permitted by the High Court.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RSA3ENPT55DYXDYYRFZUHIHGVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777911},"content":"The board’s withdrawal came after Mr Justice Richard Humphreys said he would make certain amendments to his September 2024 judgment overturning the planning refusal. 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Mr Justice Humphreys said he suspected his “respite” from dealing with litigation arising from the Shannon LNG project would not last long. “We’ll see what happens,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E5XD4QFQDND6JNGTQVHJRKDT54","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777913},"content":"Last week, Shannon LNG was granted planning permission by An Bord Pleanála <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/03/18/shannon-lng-granted-planning-permission-for-new-kerry-power-plant/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/03/18/shannon-lng-granted-planning-permission-for-new-kerry-power-plant/\">for a proposed power plant with a capacity of 600 megawatts</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"44H53BVIOJDTROGRC4RNUM6TSQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777914},"content":"The proposed power plant, which will be located on a 630-acre site between Tarbert and Ballylongford on the Shannon Estuary, will include an emergency storage facility for natural gas in the event of supplies to Ireland being cut off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MECAOGJQGZFRHM6SQYGX5PCFQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777915},"content":"In October 2023, the board refused Shannon LNG’s application for the development of a terminal pending completion of the Government’s review of the security of energy supply to 2030. It found the proposal was “contrary to Government policy and therefore contrary to the proper planning and development of the area”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FQTJ6PYZPFAT7BC2ZHD5Z33A3E","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-38944","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"GXWV3I5KIVESLOM7UDEUVEUUSY","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777916},"content":"The 2020 programme for government stated the government did not believe it “makes sense to develop LNG gas import terminals importing fracked gas”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FGI4TM3QDRFOHLAEFCUQ3EJZTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The debate: Should the State develop a terminal for liquefied natural gas?","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"UHHRNWD5NVF5PG2APAU3LMTBPE","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777917},"content":"In September 2024, Mr Justice Humphreys overturned the refusal, and proposed to order the board to reconsider the planning application in line with his findings.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LYRMGRGODJAYREDBXSRNKHV26E","additional_properties":{"_id":1742837777918},"content":"Earlier this month, the Government approved a plan to develop a floating State-led LNG terminal. The cost and location of the facility has yet to be determined.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Fiachra Gallagher"}},"name":"Fiachra Gallagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"Last week, Shannon LNG was granted planning permission by An Bord Pleanála for a proposed power plant"},"display_date":"2025-03-24T18:31:10.56Z","headlines":{"basic":"An Bord Pleanála withdraws appeal application in Shannon LNG case","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"AWJG2N63Y7I5WYNZUKDEQ2CLVE","auth":{"1":"190bb8e952198848c6883ec593038927e9305b5e9756d499dcabad9408115b0d"},"focal_point":{"x":2348,"y":1965},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/AWJG2N63Y7I5WYNZUKDEQ2CLVE.JPG"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Courts"},{"name":"Business"},{"name":"Environment"},{"name":"Crime & Law"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/abp-withdraw-appeal-leave-application-in-shannon-lng-case/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/crime-law/courts","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Courts"}}}},{"_id":"6CAPR3URHFEWZKU5YAHMRYFJZ4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":297,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/65e72dd4-f33d-47ec-8d86-f691c1cae3e8/versions/1742851405/media/a3d76a9d0aefa47c24d74b181fa6448f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/crime-law/courts/2025/03/24/i-was-just-a-possession-man-jailed-for-eight-years-for-rape-of-wife-who-wanted-to-separate/","content_elements":[{"_id":"GCTOFZEBFZERNOJUODAFD6OUDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"A man has been jailed for eight years for the rape of his then wife almost five years ago.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7EZ7QYGWSVERHNWIXC7KIOA2KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A jury at the Central Criminal Court convicted Riad Hamzi (51) last December of a single count of rape on August 19th, 2020 at a house in Cork. The court heard that his former wife, Elena O’Brien, wished to waive her anonymity to allow Hamzi to be named.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RUQVBE7QM5BI3DW5YE6ZZDOXYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Justice Paul Burns imposed a sentence of nine years on Hamzi of Elmvale Court, Wilton, Cork with the final year suspended for three years on strict conditions. He backdated the sentence to December 20th, when Hamzi went into custody.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ML7FI5Q7JETHNHR3OFAFYZBSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Justice Burns said the aggravating features of the case included the relationship between the parties and the impact on the victim.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JLJH5OULTBFG5EGBHIBIDHX56Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge said the level of violence over and above the rape was also an aggravating factor.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3YEULPTTQZBFLO7IHRPEODENUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Justice Burns said he had taken into account the mitigation including the contents of a medical report, Hamzi’s health issues, work history and that he is an “active member of his religious community” as outlined by two character witnesses called on his behalf.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZKWIP6LK2NGUBP2VKU7OBMSUE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The judge wished Ms O’Brien well for the future.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZFYERY5YSNGUJFKF6B6BBUOVLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"At a previous sentence hearing, Ms O’Brien said in her victim impact statement that Hamzi was “supposed to be my husband, the one person I could trust most in the world, the person I should feel safest with, who was supposed to love and protect me”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2QJO44DB45ABVEI65U5P3U2ZN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Instead, he broke all trust. He told me he loved me, but his actions showed me that he thought he owned me and saw me as a possession here to serve him.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AJNL2OILMZBTDDMVIMFBSQ2RVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The court previously heard evidence that on the night in question, the victim expressed concerns about difficulties in their marriage and a wish to separate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SDYCSIT2MBC4ZISPJBZ6MKUDRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hamzi told her everything was fine, then became aggressive, punching her twice in the body. He then raped her and put his fist in her mouth, telling her to be quiet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4XB56KHJL5FEXHTYEJWBFYFHQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hamzi denied the allegation of rape and told gardaí it was consensual sex. He has a long work history and is an Algerian national who has been living in Ireland for more than 25 years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HFRHIL4OQVAWHK3I2LQZREIWJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The investigating garda confirmed to Alice Fawsitt SC, defending, that he was aware of Hamzi’s previous cancer diagnosis. A medical report was handed to the court and Ms Fawsitt said a recent scan is clear but her client has ongoing health issues.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3NYSAR3JBZCK3FT3PVCZMDCLXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Reading her impact statement, Ms O’Brien said she had “used his name with love and affection” for many years, but doesn’t say it any more as it is “now the name of the person who crushed me”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FOUTNLAWFJCCZI5G6L5ZUQX7WI","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said she “gave everything” to build their life together, but their marriage was difficult and the decision to leave was not made lightly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MHMUCQW4ZNE73O5RQLXIG5CV2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said Hamzi “chose to rape me, instead of talking to me” and through his actions, “showed me exactly what he thought of me”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZTNMMABWCNDE5I4EAAAUPOYCSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I was just a possession,” she said. Hamzi had no love or respect for her, she said, and instead believed “he owned me and could do what he wanted to me”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"54IXFTE4TFBO3PDMCDAQDJIUUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said she feared for her life in that moment and no longer felt safe. She outlined struggling with sleep, PTSD and nightmares.","type":"text"},{"_id":"63HIZZBBIJH47PQFQQTAIX2B7I","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VSJNTCEHLNHSXMUSVZBC25NSAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"She said she is “just surviving, not living” and doesn’t yet know the full impact of what happened to her.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6OZ5IOBDVGV7OB2B7HB4LBHCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"OIY3EFK6BJGYHFJHAVXBT27O3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ms Fawsitt asked the court to take into account her client’s cancer diagnosis, the contents of medical reports and his personal circumstances.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VKB7UJPMLVCPPAH2LVGO2GBVWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Two character witnesses – a surgeon and a businessman – read testimonials on Hamzi’s behalf at an earlier sentence hearing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JKCIWH4E6NAA5P3XFRNHGN6LIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The surgeon said Hamzi’s conviction “contrasts with the character of the man I’ve known for many years”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C3E7KTPNGVDGPGJBM2DFIM5MU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said he “always found him [Hamzi] to be a gentlemen”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEH5VBVDLRECZJR66HQK3YCDJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"WREZR7AKTBFIXDYGM3R5L6SF7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"He said he’d “never seen him [Hamzi] engage in conflict with others”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VKGMIAD57BC2JDYVR6OGBRA7UU","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5B6YGINCZJB6RFABH6B2SS44TU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The businessman said the news of Hamzi’s conviction had “taken him aback”. He said he’d known Hamzi for many years and knew him to have “never previously been involved in any troubles with others, male or female”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BTTHJ4F72VGQFDUVTONZOAFVEI","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"44CISPYVORE2TGCIPRQ6TPBCG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"At a previous sentence hearing, the court heard Ms O’Brien asked to speak to Hamzi the night before as they were having marital difficulties. 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