DPP ruling on prosecution of suspected killers awaited

A decision is due shortly on whether gardaí will be given the go-ahead to proceed with the prosecution of the suspected killers of a Cork drug dealer.

If gardaí get convictions against the killers of Gerard ‘Topper’ Staunton it will represent the first success in six outstanding cases of drug-related gangland killings — the first of which occurred in 1995 when Michael Crinnion was gunned down outside the Clannad Bar in Barrack Street.

Gardaí have confirmed they are awaiting a decision from the DPP on the murder of convicted drug dealer Staunton who was blasted at close range with a double barrel shotgun in front of his partner and two children outside their home at Westlawn, Wilton, on Jan 20, 2010. According to Garda sources they have identified a number of suspects.