Computer student caught up in ‘classic money mule’ case

A 21 year-old college computer student "should know better" remarked Judge Eirinn McKiernan when he appeared back before her in what was described as a “classic money mule” case.

Court Presenter Sergeant Alan Ratcliffe explained this entailed young people allowing bank details to be used by a third party.

The student, from Dunshaughlin was before Trim District Court on Tuesday for the payment of compensation arising from an incident in 2023 where €12,800 was taken from the account of a victim.

This was after a lady received a message from somebody pretending to be her son and gave her credit card details.

A sum of €2,850 went into the defendant's account the court heard last November when the case was adjourned for him to pay back the money.

Defence barrister James O’Brien said the money had been handed over. The defendant’s parents were in court to support the defendant. He had written a letter of apology to the victim, and had a clear record.

Recalling the nature of the offence, Judge McKiernan commented it was a “very serious matter” and that it was “very traumatic” for the victim.

The defendant in the courtroom apologised to everyone involved in the case.

Judge McKiernan marked the facts proven and dismissed a money laundering charge against the defendant. She said he was very lucky his family could provide the money otherwise he would have to go to prison.