Rise in reported drug debt intimidation cases in Waterford

There has been a rise in reported drug debt intimidation cases in Waterford.

A spokesperson for Waterford Gardaí said the rise is similar to statistics from across the country.

"An Garda Síochána would like to remind people that we are here to help and support families who are the victims of threats of violence and criminal damage, as a result of this type of offence," said the spokesperson.

"Regardless of the circumstances, we would encourage people to call us to at least seek advice," she added.

She highlighted how a collaborative approach is coordinated through the Drive Project which brings together specific agencies that can assist families with this issue

More information about the project can be found here www.driveproject.ie 

"We have had a number of successful prosecutions for this type of intimidation and threat of violence, most recently in the March 2026 sitting of Waterford Circuit Court," said the garda spokesperson.

She outlined how that case related to an incident when Gardai in Waterford received a report that two males had called to house in Waterford and demanded €10,000 from the homeowner for an alleged drug debt. 

"They threatened the homeowner and said they would return in one week to collect the money," she said.

A statement was made by the homeowner to the Gardaí and an investigation commenced, resulting in the arrest and charge of the two suspects. 

At Waterford Circuit Court in March 2026, following their conviction, the offenders were sentenced for the offence of demanding money with menaces under Section 17 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994.

"A 31-year-old male from Clondalkin, in Dublin, received a seven-year sentence [that], with mitigation, was reduced to five years and three months," said the garda.

The other offender, a 26-year-old male from Dungarvan, in Waterford, received a five-year sentence which, on mitigation, was reduced to three years and nine months.

The garda spokesperson said that sentence was to run concurrently with a sentence the man received for a robbery of the Post Office in Poleberry, in Waterford, on June 23, 2025.

"Both suspect offenders are currently in custody," said the spokesperson.

"We would strongly encourage people to consider the supports available if they are the victim of this type of crime," she said.

"In Waterford, we have a specifically appointed Liaison Inspector – Detective Inspector Donal Donohue - who is the nominated DRI Garda Inspector," she added.

Members of the public can make contact via Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300 or convey any information on the garda confidential voice messaging line 1800 666 111.

If people require the immediate assistance the gardaí they should phone 999/112.