Alleged ‘money mule’ appears in Laois court

An alleged ‘money mule’ appeared before a sitting of Portlaoise District Court. 

Harry Techera (28) of 44 Rossvale, Portlaoise, is accused of laundering €8,801 at an address at Oakleaf Place, Portlaoise, on February 15, 2023. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said it would be alleged the man was “a money mule” who allowed €8,801 be transferred through his Revolut account. He said the money wasn’t recovered. 

Sgt Kirby said the DPP had directed that the case could remain in the district court subject to a judge accepting jurisdiction. 

Judge Fay said she was refusing jurisdiction. She adjourned the matter back to Portlaoise District Court on April 13 for service of the book of evidence. 

Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick was granted legal aid in the case. She said her client was in receipt of a jobseeker's allowance.