Live Streaming of Court Proceedings by Notorious Criminal Reaches 2.5k Viewers on TikTok
A notorious career criminal nonchalantly flashed his middle finger as he was released from court despite being caught live streaming proceedings on TikTok. Boasting over 400,000 followers on the social media platform, Sam Walker appeared at Dublin District Court on Thursday (September 26). There, he admitted to four driving offences. The 41-year-old’s live-broadcast was followed by around 2,500 viewers, before being abruptly stopped by an intervening Garda [Irish police].
Walker’s Legal Troubles
Asserting that the live stream was unintentional, Walker claimed he was unaware the broadcast was still running as he entered the courtroom according to the Irish Mirror. However, Judge Gerard Jones was not convinced by Walker’s “genuine mistake” excuse and declared it a deliberate act, proceeding to convict him for contempt of court. Initially arriving in court on Monday, Walker was bailed to reappear yesterday (September 27). Originally hailing from Liverpool, Walker’s legal troubles began on Saturday when Garda Detective Paul Cummins arrested and charged him upon discovering fake Irish and British driving licenses in his possession on Aston Quay, Dublin. Additional charges included operating a vehicle with registration plate “KT16 OYW” without a valid license and insurance.
Legal Proceedings and Conviction
As Detective Paul Cummins informed Judge Jones, there’s an ongoing wait for a comprehensive report on Walker’s previous convictions across various jurisdictions, reports the Liverpool Echo. However, Walker’s lawyer Brian Keenan urged Judge Jones to proceed with the case today as a sentence was unlikely. He stated that his client was residing in Sierra Leone where “he was engaged in charity work and was due to travel back to the African nation.” Mr. Keenan mentioned that his client was covering the cost of hotel accommodation in Dublin.
Judge Jones agreed to hear his case. But while the details of the driving offences were being read out, a garda (Irish police) interrupted court proceedings to inform Judge Jones that Walker seemed to be recording on his mobile phone which was in his hand. His phone was confiscated by Gardaí and Judge Jones proceeded to sentence Walker for the driving offenses. Judge Jones noted Walker, who was dressed in a black AirMax tracksuit top, black tracksuit bottoms, and a pair of black Nike runners, had no prior convictions in Ireland. Walker was hit with fines totaling €500 and a two-year driving ban by the judge. After a short recess, Judge Jones decided to hold Walker in contempt of court pending a hearing, leading to his arrest.
Contempt of Court and Live Streaming
During the Contempt of Court hearing, it was revealed by the court sergeant that Walker had been “live-broadcasting the event to his TikTok account,” with his phone aimed at Detective Garda Cummins as he detailed the motoring charges. The court heard that Walker boasts “in the region of 400,000 followers” on TikTok and the live stream was watched by approximately 2,500 people. State Witness Garda Anita Murphy testified that she saw Walker outside using TikTok on his phone. Garda Murphy testified that although no picture was visible, live comments were still appearing. Walker, who took the stand, admitted to live streaming outside the court and believed it had ceased when he entered the building. He insisted it was a “genuine mistake” and was unaware the stream was ongoing.
Judge Jones’s Decision
The court sergeant countered, suggesting Walker’s phone was aimed at the prosecuting garda. Walker responded: “No, I can’t remember which way it was; I didn’t know it was live.” He conceded: “If the officers said I did I’m not going to dispute it … it was a mistake.” Judge Jones inquired about Walker’s online presence. His solicitor, Mr. Keenan, highlighted his client’s charity efforts in Sierra Leone, noting it was chronicled on social media. However, the court sergeant challenged this, stating: “The State would not accept that was the reason for his following online.” Walker then explained to Judge Jones his work in Sierra Leone, detailing how he provided water for 25,000 villagers and documented his efforts online.
Controversy and Sentencing
Mr. Keenan contended that Walker’s live stream during court proceedings was unintentional and claimed it was still running when he entered the court without his knowledge. However, Judge Jones dismissed this argument, stating: “I’m sitting here looking down at the court, and I can see with my own two eyes what was going on in this case.” Judge Jones further declared: “it wasn’t accidental, it was deliberate” emphasizing the seriousness of the courtroom environment by adding, “This is not a public bar, this is a court of law, we can’t have this carry on.” Subsequently, Judge Jones handed down a one-month jail sentence to Walker but suspended it on the condition that he does not commit any offenses within the next two years.
Walker’s Future and Gratitude
Speaking to the Irish Mirror/Star outside the courtroom, Walker commented: “I’m not leaving Ireland anytime soon.” He expressed his gratitude towards the Dublin community and his desire to give back, saying, “The Irish people in Dublin have treated me with nothing but respect so I want to do something for the local community before I leave which is food banks.” Walker’s criminal record includes numerous convictions spanning over 130 offenses. His adult life has largely been spent behind bars due to a series of crimes ranging from violence and firearms to drug supply. He is also known for his high-profile altercations with individuals such as ex-gangster Stephen French and footballer Ross Barkley.