In a notable crackdown on local drug operations, 28-year-old Owen Treacy from St Ita’s Street, St Mary’s Park, Limerick, has been sentenced to four years in prison, with the final six months suspended. Treacy pleaded guilty to four counts of possession of drugs for sale or supply, following a meticulous surveillance operation by Gardaí that unveiled his unconventional method of concealing narcotics.

Ingenious Concealment: Kinder Egg Shells on Rooftop in Limerick

Treacy, identified as a significant figure in the local drug trade, employed a creative yet illicit strategy to hide his contraband. He stored cocaine, heroin, cannabis, and Alprazolam tablets within plastic shells of Kinder chocolate eggs, placing them under roof tiles of derelict properties adjacent to his residence. This method aimed to evade detection and facilitate quick access during transactions. ​

Surveillance Operation Unveils Modus Operandi

Between July 18 and August 2, 2019, Gardaí conducted an extensive surveillance operation focusing on 94, 96, and 98 St Munchin’s Street. Treacy, along with his sister Stephanie and other associates, was observed accessing the rooftops of these properties using a step ladder to retrieve and store drug packages. Notably, upon the arrival of known drug users at 96 St Munchin’s Street, Treacy would ascend to the rooftop and return shortly with the requested narcotics, highlighting the efficiency of his distribution network. ​

Seizure of Drugs and Cash

The operation culminated on August 2, 2019, when Gardaí executed raids on the targeted properties and Treacy’s home. The searches yielded €4,821 worth of drugs, meticulously packaged in over 100 wraps and bags ready for street distribution. Additionally, authorities seized €5,828 in cash from 96 St Munchin’s Street and a further €17,552 from Treacy’s residence. Two cheques amounting to €8,505 were also discovered, underscoring the financial scale of the operation.

Court Proceedings and Sentencing

During the hearing at Limerick Circuit Criminal Court, Prosecuting Barrister John O’Sullivan characterized Treacy’s activities as “organized and systematic drug dealing.” Despite having 139 previous convictions, predominantly for road traffic offenses, this marked Treacy’s first under the Misuse of Drugs Act. Judge Colin Daly condemned Treacy’s actions, emphasizing the detrimental impact on the community and labeling his occupation as “egregious.” Consequently, Treacy received a four-year sentence, with the final six months suspended. ​

Familial Ties to Criminal Activity

Treacy’s involvement in illicit activities is set against a backdrop of familial connections to organized crime. He is the grandnephew of the late Kieran Keane, a notorious gangland figure murdered in 2003. Furthermore, his sister, Stephanie Treacy, previously faced incarceration for similar offenses, indicating a troubling pattern within the family. ​

Community Impact and Gardaí’s Commitment

The revelation of Treacy’s operations has cast a spotlight on the persistent challenges faced by the St Mary’s Park community concerning drug-related activities. The Gardaí’s successful intervention underscores their dedication to dismantling such networks and safeguarding local residents. This case serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of drug trafficking and the innovative methods employed by those involved.​

The sentencing of Owen Treacy represents a significant victory in the ongoing battle against drug distribution in Limerick. It highlights the importance of vigilant law enforcement and community cooperation in addressing and mitigating the impact of narcotics on society. As authorities continue their efforts, the hope remains for a safer and more secure environment for all residents.

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