Garda Cyber Crime Expert Suspended Over Harris Hate Tweets
A high-ranking official at Ireland's national cyber crime agency has been suspended from duty after making a series of threatening tweets against the country's deputy prime minister.
Jonathan O'Neill, a civilian executive officer at the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau, has been taken off active duty pending an investigation into the allegations. The tweets, which were posted on social media platform Twitter, saw O'Neill threaten Tanaiste Micheal Martin's deputy, Leo Varadkar, but it was specifically the Tanaiste that was targeted.
According to sources, O'Neill made two separate tweets, which were reported to Garda authorities by Twitter users. The tweets were subsequently removed by the social media platform, but not before being captured by screenshots.
It is understood that O'Neill's suspension is a result of the Garda's own internal investigation, which is being led by the force's Professional Standards Unit. The investigation is said to be ongoing, with a spokesperson for the Garda confirming that the matter is being taken "very seriously".
The suspension of O'Neill, who has been a key figure in Ireland's fight against cyber crime, has sent shockwaves through the Garda and wider policing community. The move is seen as a clear indication of the force's commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
As the investigation continues, O'Neill remains suspended from duty, with his future at the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau hanging in the balance. The Garda has declined to comment further on the matter, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
