Foul play ruled out in death of Maynooth student

Dermot Tobin and Hazel Fahy

A garda officer has been appointed to investigate the death of Maynooth student Stephen Sheridan, who died on Wednesday the 7th February while in Garda custody. Gardaí received an emergency call on the morning of Tuesday the 6th from an apartment on Campus. Gardaí found two men in the apartment, one of whom was unconscious. The unconscious man was taken to Blanchardstown hospital. Meanwhile, the Gardaí acquired a search warrant on suspicion that illegal drugs might be involved. On searching the apartment, gardaí found a quantity of drugs, but the Garda Press Office have declined to say what type or, indeed, how much was found. The second man, who is not believed to be a student of the University, was subsequently arrested but later released pending instructions from the Director of Public Prosecutions. After discharging himself from hospital, Mr. Sheridan was arrested under section 74 of the Criminal Justice Act, misuse of drugs. He was arrested at his apartment and taken to Naas Garda station. After initial inquiries, gardaí suspended questioning until 12pm of the following day. Shortly before 5am, gardaí became concerned about his health and CPR was administered. An ambulance was called and Mr. Sheridan was pronounced dead at 6am at Naas General Hospital. The cause of Mr. Sheridan's death has still not been released to the public but an internal investigation led by a midlands garda super-intendant found no suspicious details in the man's death. Stephen Sheridan (29), Shandon Park, Phibsborough, North Dublin, was a second year Social Studies student undertaking a diploma in community and work. Head of the social studies department, Anastacia Crickley, described Mr. Sheridan as a good academic performer who had excelled in his first year examinations. She also said that students and staff alike in the close-knit department were very saddened and shocked by this untimely death. His class attended his funeral which was held on Monday. Jim Hughes, Vice President of NUI Maynooth, described the case as a great human tragedy and said that condolences had been extended to his family on behalf the University. He went on to say that University policy was very clear about illegal behaviour. He also wants to reassure students and parents alike that the University is adamant about maintaining its zero tolerance stance and will continue to monitor campus activities in conjunction with the Gardaí. A memorial service will be held in a months time.