In a significant development related to the violent unrest that erupted in Dublin last November, five men have been formally charged in connection with the rioting and associated criminal activities. This detailed account explores the charges against each individual, the nature of their alleged offenses, and the broader context of the unrest that led to these legal proceedings.
Charges Against the Accused
Thomas Fox
Thomas Fox, a 21-year-old resident of Kinlay House on Lord Edward Street, faces multiple serious charges. These include:
- Violent Disorder: Fox is accused of engaging in violent disorder on Burgh Quay, a key location in the city center during the riots.
- Burglary: He is charged with the burglary of Footlocker, a popular sportswear store.
- Criminal Damage: Fox is alleged to have damaged a Dublin Bus, adding to the extensive property damage reported during the riots.
- Drug Offenses: Additional charges include unlawful possession of cocaine and cannabis with intent to sell or supply. These charges stem from a search of his hostel room at the time of his arrest.
Fox’s legal team made a bail objection, arguing against his release pending trial. The court will consider the nature of his alleged offenses and the evidence presented before making a decision on his bail status.
Corey Gaynor
Corey Gaynor, aged 23 and residing on Margaret Kennedy Road, faces an array of charges linked to the rioting:
- Rioting: Gaynor is charged with rioting on O’Connell Street Upper, a major thoroughfare in Dublin.
- Burglary: He is accused of burglarizing several locations, including Spar O’Connell Street, Arnotts department store, and Guud Day Café.
- Possession of Stolen Property: Gaynor is charged with possessing stolen property acquired during the unrest.
Due to the seriousness of the charges, Gaynor was remanded in custody. He will remain in detention until his case proceeds to court, where he will face the full extent of the legal process.
Gavin Murphy
Gavin Murphy, a 48-year-old from Oriel Hall, faces charges related to his alleged criminal activities during the riots:
- Burglary: Murphy is charged with the burglary of Footlocker on O’Connell Street.
Murphy made no verbal response to the charge during the court appearance and was released on bail. His bail conditions include reporting to Store Street Garda Station three times a week and a restriction to stay away from O’Connell Street.
Gavin Hudson
Gavin Hudson, 27, residing at Summerhill Place, faces charges including:
- Burglary: Hudson is accused of burglarizing Footlocker on Mary Street and Lifestyle on Mary Street.
- Theft: He allegedly stole various items, including a Totto backpack worth €30, headphones, a kettle valued at €100, a selection of cosmetics worth €100, and an electric bike battery priced at €150.
Hudson expressed remorse by stating he was “sorry” when charged. His health condition, including advanced stages of HIV and a lack of access to medication for two days, influenced the court’s decision to grant him bail. He is required to sign in at Store Street Garda Station and is prohibited from entering Henry Street and Mary Street.
Jamie Robinson
Jamie Robinson, a 24-year-old from Windmill Avenue, Crumlin, faces charges related to:
- Burglary: Robinson is accused of burglarizing Gala Shop on Lower Abbey Street.
- Theft: He allegedly stole a Puma hoodie, socks, and eight boxes of cigarettes.
Robinson’s bail conditions include a restriction to stay away from O’Connell Street and Abbey Street, with a curfew enforced from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM. His responsibilities as a parent of a three-month-old child were considered in determining his bail terms.
Context of the Rioting
The Incident
The rioting in Dublin broke out following a violent incident on November 23, where a stabbing attack on three young children and a woman in Parnell Square triggered widespread disorder. The violent response from crowds resulted in substantial damage and chaos across the city.
Damage and Destruction
During the unrest, the violence led to the destruction of up to seven vehicles. This included:
- Three Buses: Public transportation was severely impacted as buses were set alight.
- Three Garda Cars: Vehicles used by the police were targeted and destroyed.
- A Luas Tram: Part of the city’s light rail system was also set on fire.
The extensive property damage contributed to the heightened security measures and the subsequent investigation into the rioting.
Ongoing Investigation and Appeals
The Gardaí (Irish police) have continued their efforts to investigate the causes and participants of the riots. They have issued appeals for information regarding the disorder and are working to identify any additional individuals involved.
Conclusion
The legal proceedings against the five men charged in connection with the Dublin rioting highlight the serious nature of the crimes committed during the unrest. As the cases move forward, the court will examine the evidence and the individuals’ roles in the violent incidents that shook Dublin. The ongoing investigation reflects the city’s commitment to addressing public disorder and ensuring accountability for those involved.
