DPP to get file on garda allegations

A Garda investigation into abuses alleged by a garda whistleblower is expected to result in a file being sent to the DPP.

The official probe — overseen by an assistant commissioner — is focused on a series of connected claims involving at least one garda in the Midlands, including allegations of involvement in drug dealing.

Independent TD Mick Wallace has raised concerns about the internal inquiry: “The investigation, which has been ongoing for nine months, does not appear to be making any progress and no reports have been forthcoming. The handling of this matter is extremely worrying. I am not sure things have changed much.”

He said this matter was happening “on the watch” of the new Garda commissioner, Noirín O’Sullivan.

The claims centre on allegations made by a whistleblower, previously named in the Dáil as Garda Nicky Kehoe, regarding a colleague in the Midlands.

The allegations are believed to include that the garda in question was allowing a drug dealer to operate.

The internal investigation is being led by a detective superintendent and conducted by a team of detective sergeants and gardaí.

Garda management has rejected claims that they were not progressing the investigation. “The allegations are being taken very seriously,” said a senior source. “There is a significant investigation and we expect a file on some, if not all, aspects will go to the Director of Public Prosecutions.”

It is thought that the allegations are taking time to investigate given the nature of them and because more claims have been made as the investigation has gone on.

As the claims centre on a garda allegedly allowing a known dealer to operate, the investigators have to try and talk to the dealer concerned, who would be self-incriminating himself if he confirmed the claims.

“There are three to four aspects to this particular investigation, so it requires a significant investigation,” said one source.

It is understood that the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission is being kept informed.

It is believed Garda Kehoe is awaiting the result of the investigation before deciding whether or not to go to GSOC, which now has the power to investigate complaints from serving gardaí.