Kilkenny Hurler DJ Carey Received Over €125000 from Businessman Denis O’Brien Court Reveals
Former Kilkenny hurling star DJ Carey is facing sentencing for fraudulently obtaining funds under false pretenses. Carey, who admitted to deceiving 13 individuals, including prominent businessman Denis O’Brien, accrued more than €125,000 to finance fictitious cancer treatment. The Dublin Circuit Criminal Court revealed these details during a recent sentencing hearing.
Details of the Fraud Case
The sentencing hearing began at 12 pm and resumed later in the afternoon. Carey’s fraudulent activities took place between 2014 and 2022. He misled numerous individuals, claiming he needed financial aid for cancer treatment in Seattle. In several instances, he indicated he was expecting compensation from medical negligence cases, which were untrue.
Individuals Involved
- Denis O’Brien – Businessman who contributed over €125,000.
- Owen and Ann Conway – Dates of deception: March 25, 2021 – November 3, 2022.
- Mark and Sharon Kelly – Dates: May 26, 2021 – December 10, 2022.
- Aidan Mulligan – Dates: June 1, 2022 – September 22, 2022.
- Edwin Carey – Dates: December 21, 2021 – November 12, 2022.
- Tony Griffin and Christy Browne – Dates: September 1, 2022 – October 26, 2022.
- Thomas Butler – Dates: October 1, 2019 – November 11, 2022.
- Jeffrey Howes – Dates: February 1, 2022 – August 8, 2022.
- Noel Tynan – Dates: January 1, 2017 – October 12, 2022.
- Aonghus Leydon – Dates: March 14, 2022 – March 21, 2022.
Health and Legal Context
Carey, 54, had previously claimed he suffered from a virus around his heart wall in 2012. It was during this time that he concocted the cancer story to postpone his financial obligations to Allied Irish Bank. A Garda investigation commenced when financial transactions raised suspicions.
During the proceedings, it was noted that while Carey does not have cancer, he experiences significant health issues, including a heart condition that necessitated surgery last year.
Legal Consequences
The charges against Carey are categorized under sections six and 26 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001. Each section carries substantial penalties:
| Offense Type | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Section 6: Gain or loss by deception | Fine and/or up to 5 years imprisonment |
| Section 26: Using a false instrument | Fine and/or up to 10 years imprisonment |
Carey pleaded guilty to 10 of the 21 charges against him, with the prosecution agreeing to drop one charge in exchange for the consideration of others. The court is expected to hear impact statements and arguments from both the prosecution and defense in the upcoming sessions.
Legacy of DJ Carey
Once hailed as one of the greatest hurlers, Carey led Kilkenny to victory in multiple All-Ireland finals and won nine All-Star awards. He also managed the Kilkenny U21 hurling team and served as a selector for the senior team. His legacy has been tarnished by this scandal, marking a dramatic fall from grace for the renowned athlete.
