Contraband lands 'Border Fox' back in maximum security

One of Ireland’s most notorious prisoners was transferred to the maximum security facility at Portlaoise today following what the authorities described as a breach of trust.

Dessie O’Hare, known as the Border Fox, was caught with contraband in his clothing by prison officers.

The former Irish National Liberation Army leader had just returned to the open prison section at Castlerea from temporary relief when the discovery was made.

O’Hare, who was sentenced to 40 years in jail in 1988 for kidnapping and mutilating Dublin dentist John O’Grady, was being released from short periods in preparation for his eventual release.

A prison service spokesman said O’Hare was in the open section of Castlerea Prison on the basis of trust.

“He was transferred from Castlerea Prison this morning to Portlaoise, “ he said.

“He had been out on temporary release and when he returned yesterday he was searched by staff and found to be in possession of contraband.”