Denis O’Brien Exposes Deceit as DJ Carey Faces Sentencing

Businessman Denis O’Brien revealed his deep sense of betrayal at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, stating he was “completely duped” by former Kilkenny hurling star DJ Carey. O’Brien was one of over 20 victims who were misled into providing funds amounting to a total of €400,000 under false pretenses. Carey claimed he was suffering from a rare form of cancer that necessitated costly treatment in the United States.

During the hearing on March 15, 2024, Judge Martin Nolan indicated that Carey could expect a custodial sentence, remanding the 54-year-old in custody until the sentence is formally imposed. O’Brien shared his experiences, noting that he first met Carey while playing golf in 1997, which led to a friendship. In 2014, when Carey informed him of his supposed cancer diagnosis and need for financial assistance, O’Brien believed him without question.

In his victim-impact statement, read to the court, O’Brien described Carey’s actions as “unconscionable,” emphasizing the extraordinary deceit involved in claiming to have cancer to solicit help. He revealed that he provided Carey with approximately €125,000 over the years, including covering a €60,000 bank debt. O’Brien also offered Carey the use of an apartment and a car when he visited Dublin.

O’Brien expressed his embarrassment, stating, “To my embarrassment, I was completely duped by DJ Carey.” He noted that throughout years of receiving requests for financial support from various individuals, he had never been defrauded until this incident.

Another victim, Thomas Butler, an accountant and devoted Kilkenny GAA supporter, testified that he gave Carey over €16,000. Butler found it particularly distressing that Carey exploited a cancer diagnosis for financial gain, especially given his own family’s history with the disease. “I was also a volunteer driver for the Irish Cancer Society,” Butler remarked, highlighting the personal conflict he faced in light of Carey’s deceit.

The court heard that Edwin Carey, a distant cousin of DJ Carey, had also been misled. After meeting at a family funeral, Edwin received a call from Carey claiming he needed €5,000 to travel for treatment, which he willingly transferred. Similarly, Margaret Kirwan and her husband, Jer Kirwan, reported that Carey had convinced them he required €4,000 for treatment in the United States, which was later repaid.

DJ Carey has pleaded guilty to 10 separate counts under section 6 of the Criminal Justice Theft and Fraud Offences Act, involving dishonestly inducing 13 individuals to pay him for cancer treatment. An additional 10 counts concerning eight other individuals will be considered during sentencing. The maximum penalty for these offenses includes a fine and/or up to five years in prison.

In court, Carey listened as his counsel, Colman Cody, conveyed a “heartfelt and sincere” apology on his behalf to all affected parties. Cody noted that Carey is currently suffering from a chronic heart condition and is effectively homeless, at times sleeping in his car. He urged the judge to consider a “disproportionate” sentence, highlighting that Carey has no previous convictions and has faced a significant personal downfall following his rise to sporting fame.

As the case unfolds, the community continues to grapple with the implications of Carey’s actions, reflecting on the profound impact of betrayal and trust. The court’s decision on sentencing will be closely watched as it addresses both the need for justice and the complexities of human relationships.