A young man charged with a money laundering offence from three years ago recently had his case struck out.
The man, now aged 21, cannot be named for legal reasons. He appeared before Judge Kevin Staunton at Waterford District Court this month, charged with money laundering, contrary to Section 7 of the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Act) 2010.
Acting for the defendant, solicitor Hilary Delahunty outlined that the alleged offence occurred in 2023 during a “troublesome time” for his client, but emphasised that he is now doing better. The solicitor highlighted the three year delay in the case being brought to court, and said the amount involved was €240, but the accused had ‘no clue’ how his account would have been used.
Sergeant Alan Hayes said that the Garda involved in the investigation has since transferred to another division and Gardaí in Waterford had not received any information about the case. Sgt Hayes asked if the state could have more time to source this from the Garda member, but acknowledged this would cause a further delay.
Judge Staunton decided to strike out the case.
Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme Robyn Power
