A man found with cash after being stopped while driving told Gardaí it was for paying off a drug debt, the District Court heard.
Christian Muresan (25) of 1 Copper Hill, Bunmahon, Waterford, appeared before Judge John Cheatle at a sitting of Waterford District Court in March, where he pleaded guilty to a charge of money laundering, contrary to Section 7 of the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010. This related to an incident that occurred over a year ago, in March 2025.
Sergeant John Phelan told the court that on 12 March 2025, Gardaí stopped and spoke to the accused while he was driving to Tramore. After carrying out a search on him and his car, they found he had €4,300 concealed in his trousers. Sgt Phelan said that the accused initially told Gardaí he was going to the town to pay off a drug debt, but later denied this when he was interviewed about the incident at Waterford Garda Station.
It was noted that he has two previous convictions, which includes a drug driving matter.
Acting for the defendant, solicitor Ken Cunningham highlighted that his client had indicated a guilty plea, and has no relevant previous convictions.
Mr Cunningham told the court that the accused was under ‘significant strain’ and the time of the offence, and was ‘effectively coerced’ into collecting something in Tramore for another person on the day. The solicitor highlighted that the offence was over 12 months ago, and his client is now working full time, having brought his previous lifestyle to a ‘shuddering conclusion’.
After Judge Cheatle made the initial suggestion of putting the matter back for 12 months for a Probation Report to be completed, Mr Cunningham said that he didn’t believe this would be required.
“I’d like to let more time lapse to show he has put it behind him,” the Judge said.
Judge Cheatle decided to put the matter back to 16 March 2027 for a Probation Report to be completed, indicating the accused may be able to avoid a conviction if he is compliant and comes to no adverse attention.
Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme
Robyn Power
