Wife of Kerry drug smuggler Nathan McDonnell summonsed for drug-driving in Tralee

Jacqueline O'Duffy, wife of jailed Ballyseedy Garden Centre owner, appeared on a summons list at Tralee District Court over an alleged drug-driving offence in August 2025.

Ballyseedy businessman's wife faces drug-driving charge at Tralee court

The Irish Times reports that Jacqueline O'Duffy (44), of Clashaphúca, Ballyroe, Tralee, has been summonsed before Tralee District Court for allegedly driving while exceeding the blood drug limit on 23rd August 2025 at Clogherbrien, Tralee.

O'Duffy is the wife of Nathan McDonnell, who operated the long-established Ballyseedy Garden Centre in Co Kerry. McDonnell is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence after his business was used to store a machine containing more than €32 million worth of crystal methamphetamine. The drugs were linked to an organised crime group with connections to the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico and were destined for Australia.

When O'Duffy's case was called on Wednesday, her solicitor Padraig O'Connell sought full disclosure from the court. He also raised concern that the general public had become aware of the summons before it was formally brought before the court, saying "there will be an issue." Judge David Waters indicated he was not sure what the solicitor meant, at which point O'Connell said he did not wish to elaborate further.

O'Duffy was not present in court and was under no obligation to attend. The matter has been adjourned to 24th June for full disclosure and to either set a hearing date or enter a plea.

Source: Irish Times