Judge sitting in Offaly sends man for trial to Special Criminal Court

Charged with Mountmellick drugs possession and offence involving a criminal organisation

Published 9th Oct 2026, 19:00 BST Man sent for trial to Special Criminal Court | Tribune Pictures Charged with Mountmellick drugs possession and offence involving a criminal organisation A MAN accused of a drug offence and involvement in a criminal organisation has been sent for trial to the non-jury Special Criminal Court.

A book of evidence was served on Blazej Ozanski (31), with an address at Hawthorn Way, Ridge Road, Portlaoise by Detective Garda Aidan Ferris at Tullamore District Court.

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Mr Ozanski, who is on bail, had previously been charged with having cannabis in his possession, and cannabis in his possession for sale or supply to others, at the storage facility, Townspark, Mountmellick, on February 16 last.

In addition, he had been charged with an offence contrary to Section 72 of the Criminal Justice Act and when he came before Judge Andrew Cody on Wednesday, Sandra Mahon, appearing for the DPP, said she was applying to amend that charge.

Justice Minister criticises Law Society’s position as ‘contradictory’ Permission to amend the charge was granted and it is now alleged that Mr Ozanski did, between July 1, 2024 and February 16, 2026, with the knowledge of the existence of a criminal organisation, participate or contribute to the fitting of concealed compartments in motor vehicles, intending to or being reckless as to whether such participation or contribution could enhance the ability of the criminal organisation or any of its members to sell or supply controlled drugs.

Ms Mahon told Judge Cody the DPP had certified pursuant to Section 46.2 of the Offences Against the State Act that the ordinary courts “are inadequate to secure the effective administration of justice” in the case and applied for Mr Ozanski to be sent forward for trial to a sitting of a Special Criminal Court.

The accused man was represented in court by Patrick Martin, solicitor, and he noted his client was being sent forward on bail conditions which were the same as those fixed by the High Court.

Mr Martin said the man was subject to a curfew and an independent surety was present.

Judge Cody made the order sending Mr Ozanski to the Special Criminal Court in the Criminal Courts of Justice.

Told by Mr Martin that the man was not working, Judge Cody granted legal aid and assigned the solicitor and two counsel.