Two serving members of An Garda Síochána are due to appear before Longford District Court this morning charged with corruption offences in connection with a drugs search.
The case follows a lengthy probe by the Garda Anti-Corruption Unit (GACU), which investigated allegations that the officers were involved in perverting the course of justice.
Court Appearance Expected to Draw Media Attention
The accused – a sergeant and a rank-and-file garda – will be formally identified after the case is called in court, expected shortly after 10am before Judge Bernadette Owens. A significant media presence is anticipated, with both local and national journalists gathering at Longford Courthouse.
The charges come after GACU examined the circumstances surrounding a drugs search in the Longford district. The investigation led to the arrest of the two officers by appointment on Monday, 28 July.
Suspensions and Bail
The sergeant was suspended from duty on Monday, 26 July, while the garda has been suspended for a longer, undisclosed period. Both men were charged with corruption offences and later released on station bail pending their court appearance.
The two officers have decades of combined service in the Garda, with extensive operational experience in the Longford area.
Background on Anti-Corruption Efforts
The Garda Anti-Corruption Unit was established in 2021 as part of a broader strategy to strengthen integrity and accountability within the force. The unit investigates suspected misconduct and corruption, including allegations of improper influence, interference in investigations, and abuse of authority.
Today’s proceedings will mark the first public hearing in the case, which could result in further legal developments in the weeks ahead.
