O’Brien holds ‘no malice’ for Carey despite being defrauded of €135,000

As reported in the Irish Independent, Carey was jailed last week for five-and-a-half years. He pleaded guilty to lying about a cancer diagnosis to gain money. The deception lasted for almost a decade. During that time, Carey told friends, acquaintances and public figures that he was seriously ill. As a result, 22 people gave him nearly €400,000.

O’Brien was one of the victims. He told gardaí he had been deceived for eight years. During that period, he offered Carey much more than cash. He gave him accommodation, a car, employment and regular personal support. O’Brien believed he was helping someone who was fighting for his life. He said he acted out of care and concern, with no idea that the illness was fabricated.