Judge deems jail time certain for DJ Carey as former Kilkenny hurler held in custody until Monday
A Dublin court has determined that DJ Carey, a former Kilkenny hurler, will serve time in custody pending a sentencing hearing. The decision follows Carey’s admission of multiple deception charges, wherein he falsely claimed to have cancer to solicit funds from various victims. The case highlights the extent of his fraudulent activities, which took place over several years.
Case Overview
Carey, hailing from County Kilkenny but residing in Maynooth, Co Kildare, pleaded guilty to ten counts of deception after deceiving 13 individuals. His fraud scheme reportedly extended from 2014 to 2022, affecting victims across the state.
Method of Deception
In a deceitful ploy, Carey fabricated a cancer diagnosis claiming he required urgent funds for treatment. He targeted several acquaintances, including businessman Denis O’Brien, who lent him €125,182 under the pretense of awaiting a medical payout from a fictitious claim.
Investigative Findings
- The scheme was uncovered after a financial institution raised concerns about unusual transfers from a senior customer to Carey.
- Detective Sergeant Mick Bourke testified to an initial complaint from a victim who believed they were conned by Carey.
- Financial records indicated a series of fraudulent transactions linked to Carey, leading authorities to investigate further.
Particular Victims
Among the numerous victims were notable individuals such as:
- Owen and Ann Conway
- Mark and Sharon Kelly
- Aidan Mulligan
- Christy Browne
- Thomas Butler
- Jeffrey Howes
- Noel Tynan
- Aonghus Leydon
- Edwin Carey
Carey’s deceptive practice also reached Aidan Mulligan, who provided funds after Carey offered his condolences for his late wife. In total, Mulligan transferred €8,500 to Carey.
Legal Proceedings
The investigation culminated in a police search of Carey’s hotel room in Kilkenny, revealing inconsistencies in his claims about treatment and finances. Authorities discovered text messages where Carey sought monetary assistance, misleading his victims about his cancer condition.
Carey openly confessed to fabricating the story of his illness, citing financial difficulties linked to substantial debts. He denied any recent travels to the United States, contradicting his claims regarding cancer treatment there.
Next Steps
The court proceedings are ongoing, presided over by Judge Martin Nolan. Carey remains in custody until the next hearing, where his sentencing will be determined.