Hurling Legend DJ Carey Pleads Guilty to Fraud Over Fake Cancer Claims

Irish sporting icon DJ Carey has pleaded guilty to multiple counts of fraud after admitting to deceiving individuals out of large sums of money by falsely claiming he had cancer. The former Kilkenny hurling star appeared before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, where he entered guilty pleas to nine charges of deception and one charge of using a false instrument under the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act.

The charges relate to incidents that took place between 2014 and 2022, during which Carey misled several people, many of them acquaintances or admirers, by claiming he needed funds for life-saving cancer treatment. Prosecutors revealed that Carey received thousands of euros from victims who believed they were helping him cover the costs of medical care. In reality, no such treatment was taking place, and Carey did not suffer from the illness he claimed.

Several high-profile individuals, including businessman Denis O’Brien, were deceived. Carey also presented a falsified letter purporting to be from a consultant oncologist at University Hospital Waterford stating he required urgent and expensive treatment abroad. This letter bolsters his claims and elicits sympathy and financial assistance from those around him.

The court heard that Carey abused his status as a national sports hero and public figure to gain trust and encourage people to share their money. The deception caused financial loss and emotional harm, as many supporters felt betrayed by someone they had admired for years. During his hurling career, Carey earned legendary status, winning five All-Ireland titles with Kilkenny and earning a place among the greatest players in the sport’s history.

Sentencing has been scheduled for October 29, 2025. Carey was granted bail pending the hearing. The judge has ordered the preparation of a psychological report and victim impact statements to be submitted before sentencing.

This case has sparked widespread public reaction in Ireland, with many expressing shocks at the fall from grace of one of the country’s most revered athletes. While some have called for compassion due to his reported personal struggles, others stress the gravity of the betrayal.

Carey’s conviction marks a somber chapter in Irish sporting history, casting a shadow over a figure once celebrated for his on-field brilliance but now facing the consequences of deeply personal misconduct.

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