Drug debt intimidation on the rise in Waterford as Gardaí remind people help is available

Drug debt intimidation is on the rise in Waterford, with two offenders receiving jail time for demanding €10,000 from one family.

Gardaí from Waterford Garda Station are reminding people that help is available, even if they do not want to make a formal complaint. 

There was recently a conviction at the county's Circuit court, with the sentencing taking place last week. 

The case relates to an incident when Gardai received a report of two males who had called to the 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.

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A statement was made to Gardaí, and an investigation commenced that led to the arrest and charge of the two suspects.

A 31-year-old man from Clondalkin in Dublin received a 7-year sentence with mitigation, meaning it was reduced to 5 years and 3 months.

A 26-year-old man from Dungravan in Waterford received a 5-year sentence with mitigation, meaning it was reduced to 3 years 9 months.

This is to run concurrently with a sentence he received for a robbery of the Post Office in Poleberry on the 23rd of June 2025.

Both suspect offenders are currently in custody.

"Often families and victims feel that there is little that can be done when they find themselves in this situation. We can progress these incidents through the courts if we have complaint but there is a lot of help and support even if they opt not to make a formal complaint," Sgt Deirdre O'Neill said. 

The rise in reported drug debt intimidation cases in Waterford is similar to statistics 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.

A collaborative approach has been coordinated via the www.driveproject.ie, which brings together specific agencies that can assist families with this issue.

You can also make contact via Waterford Garda Station on 051 305300 or convey any information on our confidential voice messaging line 1800 666 111.