Pair sent forward for trial on Mayo theft and money laundering charges

Two Ukrainian nationals have been sent forward for trial on theft and money laundering charges relating to a house in Castlebar.

Alina Rizchenko and Mykyta Belavin, both of 3 Lakes Hotel, Cork Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry, appeared before Judge Vincent Deane at Castlebar District Court.

They spoke through a Ukrainian interpreter. Neither was legally represented due to the legal aid dispute.

Garda Evan Joyce, Castlebar, told the court he served both co-accused with a book of evidence.

Belavin is charged with three counts of theft from a Castlebar man at Chestnut Grove, Castlebar.

He is accused of three cash thefts, contrary to section 4 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act, totalling €27,900.

It is also alleged that he stole €15,000 on June 26, 2025, €7,900 on July 8, 2025, and €5,000 on June 19, 2025.

He also faces three counts of money laundering under section 7 of the Act. These allege that between June 19 and July 14, 2025, he converted or transferred €5,000, €15,000 and €7,900 at an unknown location.

Rizchenko is also charged with money laundering and theft in relation to the same alleged incident.

Sergeant Conor McShane applied to return both for trial to Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court on Monday, November 2.

Judge Deane said the DPP had consented to trial on indictment. He gave each an alibi warning and sent them forward.

* Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme.