The Minister for Justice, Mr McDowell, last night ordered an investigation into a counterfeiting operation allegedly being run by three prison officers at Mountjoy Prison, Dublin. A fourth officer, at Arbour Hill, may be questioned as part of the investigation.
The officers are alleged to have been copying video tapes, CDs and DVDs in a specialist unit at the prison. Some of the material is believed to be pornographic. Two of the men fill senior positions at Mountjoy, and have nearly 50 years' combined service. All three have been suspended.
Members of the Garda Serious Crime Squad stopped a car driven by one of the officers at Brunswick Street, Dublin, yesterday. They uncovered a small number of counterfeit videos in the car. Six gardaí - including an inspector and detective inspector - then went to Mountjoy Prison and searched an area where they found more videos and copying equipment. They also took away a number of computers for examination.
It is alleged the officers were offering the counterfeit merchandise for sale, both in the jail and on the outside.
According to one source, gardaí are investigating reports that the videos were being taken out of the jail by visitors, while counterfiet goods were also being offered for sale to fellow prison officers.
The three men were being questioned in relation to alleged breaches of the Copyright Act.
However, it is understood none of the three have been arrested. A file is being prepared for the DPP.
While the incident, if proven, represents a serious criminal matter, it would also be viewed as a serious breach of prison discipline. The men face dismissal if the allegations are proven.
A spokesman for the Irish Prison Service was unavailable for comment last night. A spokesman for Mr McDowell confirmed the Minister had ordered an investigation. He was unable to say how long it might take to complete.
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