Crime

Irish Convicted Robber Linked to Threat Against Mary Lou McDonald and Garda Commissioner

Published

5 months ago

July 17, 2024

A man with a history of robbery convictions is suspected of being behind a chilling threat against Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris.

The suspect, in his late 20s from West Dublin, was identified as the individual in a disturbing online video wearing a homemade balaclava and making threats to shoot Ms McDonald.

Sources indicate that while the man is known to gardaí primarily for petty thefts and has been previously convicted in the Circuit Court for robbery, he is on bail for another alleged theft incident. The video, which has since been widely shared, shows the man expressing support for protests in Coolock before issuing threats against Ms McDonald and Commissioner Harris.

A masked thug has threatened Mary Lou McDonald and Drew Harris.

Gardaí have confirmed they are investigating the video, which prompted Ms McDonald to file a formal complaint on Wednesday. She expressed grave concern over the threat, highlighting it as part of an ongoing pattern of online abuse directed at her.

In response, Ms McDonald stated on social media, “Last night, a threat to kill me was issued online. The individual said he would shoot me dead. This represents an escalation of targeted online abuse directed at me over the last year. It is unacceptable. I have reported this to An Garda Síochána.”

In subsequent interviews, Ms McDonald described the threat as blatant and an escalation of misogynistic and racist abuse she has faced. She emphasized that while she welcomes criticism and debate, threats against her life are unacceptable.

Former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar also spoke out, revealing past instances where he felt concerned for his safety, particularly during the Dublin riots in 2022. Despite security threats, Varadkar expressed gratitude for being able to lead a relatively everyday life as a politician in Ireland.

The investigation into the threat against Ms McDonald and Commissioner Harris continues, with authorities emphasizing the seriousness of the incident and their commitment to addressing such threats.