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July 07, 2025 – Ireland –
Brian “Tosser” Meehan—the only person convicted for the 1996 murder of investigative journalist Veronica Guerin has begun unescorted day releases from Shelton Abbey open prison, marking a significant step in his gradual reintegration process. Now 57, Meehan has been spotted on his fifth such release, casually dressed in cream chinos, an orange shirt, and sporting a new beard. He was seen visiting family and friends in Dublin neighborhoods like Crumlin and Finglas, accompanied by an associate.
Convicted in 1999 for driving the motorcycle used in the fatal ambush executed by Patrick “Dutchy” Holland, Meehan has served most of his sentence across multiple facilities—Portlaoise, Wheatfield, and now Shelton Abbey—where he has reportedly been a model inmate, playing golf and residing in an “apartment-style” unit.
Despite the apparent relaxation of his confinement, experts caution that full release is unlikely in 2025. Meehan’s eventual freedom remains contingent on both the Parole Board’s recommendation and the Justice Minister’s approval. The current day release is just the first stage; later steps—such as overnight release or permanent release—have yet to be approved.
Retired detective Brian Sherry, who worked on the original investigation, has voiced concern about Meehan’s reintegration, questioning whether he possesses any skills to reenter society lawfully after decades in prison. Sherry described him as “always a bad man,” and warned that the parole release includes strict conditions, where any future criminal activity—even uncharged—could lead to automatic reincarceration.
Meehan remains the last convicted member of the John Gilligan gang still serving time for Guerin’s murder, while other gang figures—including Gilligan himself—have evaded long-term jail sentences for their alleged involvement. His evolving privileges underscore the Irish penal system’s approach to rehabilitation, yet reawaken public unease about releasing individuals convicted of high-profile crimes.
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