Michael “Skin” Devlin, a 50-year-old father of five from Edgeworthstown, Co Longford, was serving a 12-year sentence—10 years to be served and two suspended—for possession of cannabis for sale or supply. In 2014, he and his father were convicted after Gardaí intercepted a €1.3 million cannabis shipment in Termonfeckin, Co Louth. Devlin had 11 prior convictions and a history of heroin addiction dating back to 2009.

In the summer of 2020, while nearing the end of his sentence at Shelton Abbey open prison in Co Wicklow, Devlin absconded and remained at large for nearly four years. He was recaptured in January 2024 in Edgeworthstown and returned to custody at Cloverhill Prison in Dublin.

Sudden Death in Custody

On February 21, 2024, less than two months after his recapture, Devlin was found unresponsive in his cell at Cloverhill Prison. An inquest revealed that he died from complications of acute adult supraglottitis, a rare bacterial infection causing inflammation of the larynx, which can lead to airway obstruction. His father, Michael Devlin Sr., formally identified his body.

The inquest was adjourned for three months pending further investigation, with a file submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Family Ties and Criminal Associations

Devlin’s family has been linked to organized crime in Drogheda. His son, considered second-in-command of a gang involved in a violent feud that claimed multiple lives, is believed to have fled to Thailand. Authorities have issued arrest warrants and are monitoring ports and airports in case he returns for his father’s funeral.

Another relative, a half-brother, is thought to be leading an opposing faction in the ongoing gangland dispute and is currently sought by Gardaí.

Implications and Reflections

Devlin’s death highlights concerns about the health care provided to prisoners, especially those with underlying conditions. It also underscores the challenges faced by the Irish prison system in managing inmates with complex medical needs and histories of escape.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the far-reaching consequences of organized crime, not only for the individuals directly involved but also for their families and communities.

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