Alleged drug debt intimidators who threatened to petrol bomb a house released on bail
Waterford Courthouse
On Tuesday, October 10, a pair of young Waterford men, who allegedly threatened to petrol bomb a mother’s home over her son’s drug debt, were told in court that were was no objection to their bail conditions, and that they were allowed to leave.
The case related to an incident on September 10, 2025, when two masked men entered the home of a woman who lives in a location on the border of Waterford and Kilkenny.
Ben Kavanagh (20), of Moonvoy Valley, Tramore, and Jack Whelan (20), of The Paddock, Fenor, Tramore, have been charged with making threats to damage property, and with committing blackmail, extortion and demanding of money with menaces.
Whilst in the house, there are alleged to have been threats directed towards the woman. Whelan allegedly told her that if her son does not pay the money he owes in drug debts, they would be coming back, and they would petrol bomb her home.
“We know where you live," Whelan allegedly wrote in a text message.
During an appearance at Waterford Courthouse on October 10, jurisdiction to the District Court was accepted by Judge Catriona Murray.
The two men's bail terms were also considered by the court.
Subject to conditions, there was no objection to bail.
The pair must have zero contact with the woman, and they must sign on regularly at Tramore Garda Station.
Following the delivery of these orders, the men were free to leave until November 3.
