Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

John Gilligan

VIDEO: John Gilligan speeds away from Portlaoise Prison

The 61-year-old was released this morning after serving 12 years in the midlands prison.

http://youtu.be/313U0szb0dA

(YouTube: SineadOCarrollTJ/courtesy of Midlands 103)

AT 9.35AM TODAY, a metallic grey Ford Mondeo sped out of the gates of Portlaoise Prison.

Heading for Dublin, the vehicle was carrying one of Ireland’s most infamous crime bosses. Sixty-one-year-old John Gilligan sat in the backseat of the car, speaking on his mobile phone with his trademark grin on his face.

He was enjoying his first moments of freedom following a 17-year jail term.

Gilligan was originally given a 28-year sentence for drug offences but this was reduced to 20 years on appeal. The time served was shortened further because of remission and he eventually served a total of 12 years.

While behind bars, the notorious criminal was found on two separate occasions to be in possession of a mobile phone, and received extra six- and eight- month sentences for those offences. The Ballyfermot native has also served extra time in prison for assaulting a prison officer.

In the video, members of the media on motorbikes can be seen driving after the car.

Although the convicted man led the gang responsible for killing journalist Veronica Guerin in 1996, he was acquitted of the murder.

Video courtesy of Michael Dunne and Midlands 103.

Pictures: John Gilligan walks free from Portlaoise Prison

Your Voice
Readers Comments
45
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.