Accused of drug possession and money laundering in Laois

A book of evidence was served on a woman who is accused of money laundering and having drugs valued at over €13,000. 

Genna Bennett (31) of 3 Beech Drive, The Friary, Castledermot, Co Kildare, is accused of money laundering the sum of €1,760 in cash and possessing drugs for sale or supply and possession of drugs valued at over €13,000 at Debicot, Mountmellick on July 8, 2025. 

She appeared before Portlaoise District Court where Garda Lisa Murray served her with a book of evidence. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the DPP had directed that the accused be sent forward to the next sittings of Portlaoise Circuit Court sitting beginning on February 17, 2026. 

Anne Doyle BL requested legal aid for a solicitor and two counsel “given the gravity” of the case. 

Judge Susan Fay gave the accused the standard alibi warning and asked Ms Doyle what income her client had. She was told the woman was in receipt of job seekers allowance. 

Judge Fay granted legal aid for a solicitor and two counsel, remanded the defendant on bail and sent the case forward to the next sittings of Portlaoise Circuit Court beginning on February 17, 2026.