Eight people who arrested by An Garda Siochana under Operation Stratus which was established in 2018 to tackle the activities of feuding gangs in Drogheda, appeared in Drogheda District Court earlier today to face money laundering charges.

Micheala Fitzpatrick (32), of Rathmullen Park, faced a total of nine charges, including three of money laundering and others relating to alleged participation in organised crime and drug importation, possession and supply. The money laundering offences she faces are alleged to have been committed between October 23rd, 2023, and January 19th, 2024.

Fitzpatrick is also charged with participating in and facilitating organised crime on January 24th, 2021 and importing drugs worth over €13,000, with intent to supply.

She alsofaces one charge of importation, contrary to Section 21 of the Misuse of Drugs Act, on January 24th, 2024, and a charge of possessing drugs with a value in excess of €13,000 with intent to supply on the same date.

Three other charges, also allegedly committed on January 24th, 2021, include: possession with intent to supply contrary to Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act.

Judge Stephanie Coggans remanded Ms Fitzpatrick in custody and she is due to appear before Drogheda District Court again on Monday, October 21st.

The seven other suspects facing charges in Drogheda District Court this morning were also arrested under Operation Stratus and were all charged with money laundering on various dates and remanded on bail to appear before the court again on November 25th.

They are: Luke Lawless (30), Knockbrack Downs, Drogheda (two counts), Leah Smith (26), St Cronan’s, Swords, (one count), Annie Smith (28), The Alders Awoureen, Drogheda (one count), Amy Rooney (30), Newtown Meadows, Drogheda (one count), Niamh McManus (37), Maudlins, Duleek, (one count), Marlena Aleksandrowicz, Bridgefield, Northwood, Santry, (one count) and Jade Heeney (26), Hill of Rath, Drogheda (one count).