There’s a Garda officer from Dublin who’s due to face trial over allegations of burglary and hindering the course of justice. Investigations into illicit behaviour within a specific Dublin-based Garda squad have been carried out by the Garda’s anti-corruption branch, and have resulted in the suspension and subsequent arrest of four officers. Last Tuesday, 39-year-old Garda Mark Duffy, presented himself at Dublin’s District Court in a beanie and face mask, which he took off upon entering the court. Judge Treasa Kelly presided over the matter.
Duffy has been charged with actions taken between August 28 and December 20, 2021, that intended to obstruct public justice in violation of common law. In addition, the officer, a resident of Dublin 15, has been charged with burglary. It’s alleged he trespassed and entered a man’s flat on Kenilworth Road, Dublin 6, on June 19, 2021, with the intention of committing an arrestable crime. He has so far not entered a plea.
During the brief court proceeding, where he was dressed in a black suit, Duffy remained mute. Det Sgt Paul Dowling stated that he met the accused on March 7 at the Irishtown Garda station for charging “by appointment”. Despite administering warning as per standard practice, Dowling received no reply from the accused. Following his arrest, Duffy was charged with two crimes, cautioned again, and still remained silent. Judge Kelly ascertained he was on bail and inquired if the DPP’s directions had been received, which Dowling confirmed, indicating a “trial on indictment”.
Video conferencing would be used for the trial, giving the court a wider range of sentencing if a conviction is achieved. The prosecution is obliged to draft and serve a book of evidence on Duffy before the District Court can issue a return for trial order. The defence lawyer, Donal Quigley, revealed that the prosecution’s request for a 10-week adjournment. Consequently, Judge Kelly extended the deadline for the prosecution to compile their book of evidence, and continued Duffy’s bail, scheduling his next appearance for May 17th.
His solicitor successfully secured legal aid for him. Mr Quigley conveyed to the court that his client was “a fitting contender” and provided a statement of his income.
– Tune into our Inside Politics Podcast for current discussions and analysis
– Opt-in for notification alerts and get the finest news, analysis, and commentary straight to your mobile
– Get The Irish Times on WhatsApp and keep abreast.