Laois terror plotter admits drug possession in Portlaoise
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The Portlaoise resident had previously pleaded guilty to plotting to attack a mosque
A man who is awaiting sentencing over a terror plot which was uncovered in Portlaoise has admitted to possessing drugs in Portlaoise.
Darren Gorman (34), of 6 O’Moore Place, Portlaoise was accused of having drugs for his personal use valued at €30 at his address on November 6, 2025.
At a previous sitting of the Special Criminal Court last month the accused pleaded guilty to a terror offence over a plot to set fire to a mosque in Galway last year.
He admitted attempting to engage in a terrorist activity or a terrorist-linked activity to damage by fire Maryam Mosque at Old Cottages, Monivea Road, Galway intending to damage or being reckless as to whether such property would be damaged between November 4 and 5, 2025. He is due to be sentenced in October.
At a recent sitting of Portlaoise District Court, Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald said there was a plea of guilty in relation to the possession of drugs case.
“He is progressing well in prison,” said Mr Fitzgerald.
“These offences were committed when he was suffering an egregious addiction to cannabis,” said Mr Fitzgerald.
Judge Andrew Cody noted it was the man’s first conviction under the misuse of drugs act. As such, he said he would apply the probation act which he explained to the defendant meant, don’t do it again.