Man caught with cash in Laois admits money laundering

A man who was caught with €2,170 in cash pleaded guilty to a charge of money laundering. 

Ali Mamisi, 23, of 16 Waterfront Apartments, French Church Street, Portarlington was charged with money laundering at Millbrook, Portlaoise on August 3, 2023.

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the defendant was stopped and searched and the money was discovered. He failed to explain where it had come from. He said the defendant had 43 previous convictions for offences including drugs and robbery and was given a prison sentence for drug possession in 2022.

“He hasn’t been deterred,” Judge Nicola Andrews said on hearing of the sentence.

Sgt Kirby said the defendant had a difficult upbringing. 

“He became involved in criminality of all kinds,” he said. 

“In the last six months he has improved,” said Sgt Kirby.

Solicitor Michael Byrne said his client was pleading guilty. 

“He puts his hand up for this matter,” he said. 

He said that although his client had the cash there are “no trappings of wealth” in his background.

“He is willing to do community service, Judge,” said Mr Byrne. 

Judge Andrews noted the defendant has had a two month period of sobriety which she said was a “massive” achievement. 

“I always like to give people a chance,” said Judge Andrews. 

“He is 23 years of age. His next stop is to go to a prison,” she said. 

She decided to refer the defendant for community service to see if he is a suitable candidate. 

Judge Andrews warned the man that she would not hesitate in dealing with him if he gets in trouble in the meantime. 

She ordered that the €2,170 be donated to the court poor box. The case was adjourned back to Portlaoise District Court on April 22 for a probation report.