Accused Garda Claims Allegiance to Superior’s Orders During Trial

A Garda is currently on trial facing serious charges related to the alleged interference in road traffic prosecutions. Garda Colm Geary, stationed at Ennis, claims he acted under the orders of a superior when he reached out to colleagues regarding discretion in pending cases. This assertion is part of a broader investigation conducted by the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (GNBCI).

Background of the Case

The trial involves a total of five accused individuals, including Garda Geary, a retired Superintendent, and three other Gardaí. They face a combined total of 39 charges related to actions that allegedly sought to pervert the course of justice. This legal battle began after the arrests in May 2021, stemming from a GNBCI inquiry into misconduct regarding traffic prosecutions, including speeding, driving without insurance, and mobile phone usage while driving.

Testimony During the Trial

During court proceedings, video footage of Garda Geary’s voluntary interview with the GNBCI was presented. The jury viewed a transcript of text messages exchanged between Garda Geary and retired Superintendent Eamon O’Neill. In these messages, Geary confirmed that he received a summons image from O’Neill regarding a motorist accused of speeding.

Key Text Messages

• Garda Geary: “Rang that lad. He’s away for the week.”
• Supt O’Neill: “Any hope?”
• Garda Geary: “You’re grand, don’t know what happened, he said he would square it.”
• Garda Geary: “Sorted, the summons didn’t go on the system.”

Garda Geary interpreted the implications of O’Neill’s text messages as a request for assistance in handling the case. He admitted to following up with other officers on O’Neill’s behalf. When asked about the nature of the communication, Geary stated he believed his actions were justified and directed by his superior.

Legal Implications

The prosecution maintains that Superintendent O’Neill played a key role in the alleged misconduct. The jury was informed that the central theme of the prosecution’s case is the purported interference led by O’Neill. In addition to Garda Geary, the other accused include Sergeant Anne Marie Hassett, Sergeant Michelle Leahy, and Garda Tom McGlinchey.

The trial is currently ongoing at Limerick Circuit Court, where a jury of eight men and four women continues to deliberate on the complexities of this case.