Businesswoman and former Ireland hockey international Catriona Carey has been sent forward for trial on money laundering charges, alongside two co-defendants. The case follows an extensive fraud investigation by the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB), which led to multiple charges under Ireland’s Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010.

Case Overview: The Charges Against Carey and Her Associates

Catriona Carey, a 46-year-old financial advisor from Kilkenny with an address in Graigecullen, Co Carlow, is facing three charges relating to alleged money laundering offences spanning 2019 to 2021.

She appeared before Judge Treasa Kelly at Dublin District Court alongside Paddy Maher (57) and John Steadmond (47), who are also charged in connection with the case.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has directed a trial on indictment, meaning the case will be heard at a higher court with broader sentencing powers. The Dublin Circuit Criminal Court is set to list the case for mention on March 20th, 2025.

Details of the Allegations

According to the charges, Carey and her co-accused are alleged to have engaged in financial misconduct, specifically handling, acquiring, transferring, possessing, and using funds that were deemed to be the proceeds of criminal conduct.

The alleged offences are believed to have been committed over three successive years and have been described as serious breaches of financial regulations.

Investigators from the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) carried out an extensive probe before bringing the case to court. In December 2024, the DPP formally approved the charges against Carey, Maher, and Steadmond.

Court Proceedings: What Happened in the Dublin District Court?

During Friday’s court session, Judge Treasa Kelly granted return-for-trial orders, which officially moved the case to the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

She also instructed the Gardaí to provide copies of interview videos to the defence team and directed that the accused must notify authorities if they intend to rely on alibi evidence.

At an earlier hearing, GNECB detectives confirmed that when the accused were formally charged, they declined to comment or enter pleas.

All three defendants have been released on €500 bail, subject to conditions.

Catriona Carey: A Fall from Grace

Once a prominent name in Irish hockey, Carey represented Ireland’s national team and was a well-respected athlete. However, her transition into financial advisory work has been overshadowed by controversy and legal trouble.

In recent years, her involvement in high-profile financial scandals has led to public scrutiny and investigations into her business dealings.

Legal Implications and Potential Sentencing

If convicted, Carey and her co-defendants could face significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines.

Under the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010, money laundering offences carry severe legal consequences, particularly when linked to organized financial crime.

Given the serious nature of the allegations, legal experts predict that the case could result in strong sentencing recommendations if the accused are found guilty.

The Role of the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau

The Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) has played a pivotal role in this investigation. The bureau specializes in tackling white-collar crime, including fraud, money laundering, and financial deception.

Over the past decade, there has been a notable increase in economic crime cases in Ireland, prompting greater enforcement efforts from agencies like the GNECB.

The decision to pursue a trial on indictment signals that prosecutors believe the case warrants a full trial in a higher court, where stricter penalties may be imposed.

Public Reaction and What Happens Next?

The case has sparked widespread public interest, particularly given Catriona Carey’s high-profile background in Irish sport. Many observers are awaiting further developments as the trial progresses.

The next court hearing is scheduled for March 20th, 2025, at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Until then, Carey and her co-accused remain out on bail, but under strict conditions as they prepare their defence against the allegations.

With financial fraud cases being closely monitored by authorities, this trial is expected to be one of the most significant white-collar crime cases in Ireland in recent years.

Conclusion

The fraud case against Catriona Carey and her business partners is now set to move to the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, where they will face trial on serious financial crime charges.

With allegations of money laundering, handling criminal proceeds, and financial misconduct, this case will be closely watched by legal experts, financial regulators, and the general public.

As the trial progresses, the outcome will determine the legal consequences for Carey and her co-defendants and could set a precedent for financial crime enforcement in Ireland.

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