Supt O'Reilly, the applicant, appealed a November Dublin Circuit Civil Court decision to the High Court, where he alleged he was penalised by the Garda Commissioner's office after making protected disclosures regarding unsafe leather holsters. He claimed these defective holsters, supplied by a Kildare saddlery, allowed a pistol to be removed even when the retention strap was closed, potentially contributing to the accidental self-wounding of a Garda at the Israeli ambassador's residence in June 2020. Six days later, Stephen Silver murdered Gda Colm Horkan using the garda's own gun in Castlerea, Co Roscommon. Silver was sentenced in April 2023 to life imprisonment with a minimum time to be served of 40 years for murdering a Garda acting in the course of his duties. During the current High Court hearing, counsel for Supt O'Reilly raised a separate allegation that Supt Liam White shared a prohibited photograph taken inside a courtroom of Supt O'Reilly and three accompanying individuals. Mr Justice Micheál O'Higgins asked parties with knowledge to write to the court and stated he would review the relevant prohibitions. The matter was adjourned to May 19 for further submissions.
Stephen Silver, a 49-year-old motorbike mechanic from Aughaward, Foxford, Co Mayo, appealed his conviction for the murder of Garda Colm Horkan. Silver, who pleaded not guilty to killing the garda knowing or being reckless as to whether he was acting in the course of his duty, argued that the State's psychiatric evidence contradicted the legal test for insanity under the Criminal Law (Insanity Act 2006). His counsel contended that the prosecution expert's testimony regarding Silver's capacity to form intent improperly excluded the possibility of diminished responsibility. The prosecution rebutted this, stating the expert merely identified purposeful actions as one factor in assessing mental capacity and that the trial judge's direction was appropriate. The appeal hearing was presided over by Mr Justice John Edwards, with Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy. The court reserved judgment, meaning the matter was adjourned and not concluded. Silver was originally sentenced in April 2023 by Ms Justice Tara Burns to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 40 years. The trial evidence included conflicting psychiatric opinions on whether Silver's bipolar disorder contributed to his actions when he shot Garda Horkan eleven times in Castlerea, Co Roscommon, on June 17, 2020.
A High Court judge has emphasised the importance of media access after the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) excluded reporters from a hearing involving Detective Superintendent Brian O'Reilly. Mr Justice Garrett Simons stated that any departure from public hearings must be strictly justified, questioning the WRC's decision to hear O'Reilly's case behind closed doors. O'Reilly, the acting head of the Garda National Technical Bureau, is seeking to quash a WRC ruling that accepted Garda submissions regarding the 'sensitivities' of his disclosures. He alleges he suffered workplace detriment and pay reductions after raising concerns about defective leather pistol holsters, which he claims endangered armed gardaí and the public. O'Reilly submitted that these holsters may have contributed to the accidental self-wounding of a Garda at the Israeli ambassador's residence in June 2020. The report notes that six days after that incident, Stephen Silver murdered Detective Garda Colm Horkan in Castlerea, Co Roscommon. Silver, of Foxford, Co Mayo, was sentenced in April 2023 to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 40 years for murdering a Garda acting in the course of his duties. O'Reilly stated that Silver told gardaí in custody that he had been able to pull Horkan's pistol from the holster. The Commissioner of An Garda Síochána is named as a notice party in the proceedings.
Det Supt Brian O'Reilly, acting head of the Garda National Technical Bureau, is challenging a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) decision to exclude the media from his hearing. At the High Court, counsel successfully applied for an expedited leave application to be heard tomorrow, seeking to quash a ruling that the case contains "sensitivities" warranting closed doors. O'Reilly claims he suffered workplace detriment and pay reductions after making protected disclosures regarding unsafe leather pistol holsters. He alleges these defective holsters endangered armed gardaí and the public, potentially contributing to an accidental self-wounding incident in 2020. O'Reilly stated that a pistol could be removed even when the retention strap was closed. He referenced the murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan by Stephen Silver in Castlerea, noting that Silver allegedly told gardaí in custody he had pulled Horkan's pistol from the holster. Silver was sentenced in April 2023 to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 40 years for murdering a garda acting in the course of his duties. O'Reilly, who has a 30-year career, claims he suffered work-related stress certified by his GP in April 2023. The High Court will hear the application for judicial review over the proposed press coverage ban tomorrow.
A Knockmore man has been sentenced to four years in prison at Castlebar Circuit Court for offences including the savage mauling of a woman by his unmuzzled dog. David Barrett, aged 41, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm following an attack on November 20th, 2022, at Mount Falcon estate. The victim sustained life-changing injuries including severe lacerations and puncture wounds requiring emergency surgery and ongoing treatment. Judge Eoin Garavan noted the dog had been wandering loose and described Barrett's casual attitude toward the danger posed to the public. Barrett also pleaded guilty to assaulting two female gardaí who attended his home in July 2024 whilst responding to a domestic disturbance report. The court heard he was heavily intoxicated and attacked both officers with violence. The global sentence comprised two years for the dog attack and three years for assaulting the gardaí, with the final year suspended. Barrett was ordered to engage in mental health services, substance addiction treatment, and probation supervision upon release.
Three men have been sentenced to a combined 43 years imprisonment following their guilty pleas to manslaughter in connection with the death of a pensioner in Co Sligo. At the Central Criminal Court, Mr Justice Paul McDermott imposed sentences of 16 years on John Irving (31) of Shanwar, Foxford, Co Mayo, with the final year suspended, and 15 years each on Francis Harman (58) of Ballina and John Clarke (37) of Ballina, also with the final year suspended. The men attacked Tom Niland at his home in Doonflynn, Skryne on 18 January 2022. Despite suffering severe injuries, Mr Niland alerted neighbours. He was hospitalised but died from his injuries on 30 September 2023. The judge described the assault as "savage" and noted the men had targeted Mr Niland because he lived alone and was elderly. The three men stole approximately €800 and disposed of evidence. John Irving was convicted.
Three men with a combined 106 previous convictions pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Tom Niland at the Central Criminal Court on Monday. John Irving (31) of Foxford, Co Mayo; Francis Harman (58) of Ballina, Co Mayo; and John Clarke (37) of Ballina attacked the 82-year-old at his home in Skryne, Co Sligo on January 18th, 2022, stealing approximately €800 from his wallet. Mr Niland suffered severe injuries including brain trauma and multiple fractures. He was hospitalised but his condition deteriorated, and he died from his injuries in September 2023, some 20 months after the assault. The State Pathologist attributed his death to blunt force trauma. All three were initially charged with murder but the Director of Public Prosecutions reduced the charges to manslaughter. Harman and Clarke pleaded guilty on the first day of trial; Irving initially pleaded not guilty but changed his plea during proceedings. The prosecution submitted that sentences between 15 and 20 years were warranted. Justice Paul McDermott will sentence the defendants on Thursday.
A Mayo woman seriously injured when struck by a Bus Éireann van in Ballina last May has expressed no ill-feeling towards the driver. At Castlebar Circuit Criminal Court on Friday, the court heard that Ann Bourke was briefly trapped beneath the vehicle on Kevin Barry Street on 14 May 2024, sustaining fractures to her wrist, shoulder blade and ribs. She spent two months hospitalised and required surgical intervention, though she told the court she is making good recovery. John Regan, aged 41, of Mountain View, Ballybrooney, Killala, pleaded guilty to careless driving causing serious bodily harm. Judge Eoin Garavan imposed 150 hours community service in lieu of a seven-month sentence, describing the incident as a serious lapse of judgment that could have proven fatal. The judge commended both parties, noting that Regan, a family man with no previous convictions, had completed a pro-social driving course and that the two had met cordially for the first time at court.
A man has pleaded guilty to the unlawful killing of Tom Niland at the Central Criminal Court, five days into his trial. John Irving, aged 31, of Shanwar, Foxford, County Mayo, changed his plea on the morning of July 17th. He is the third person to admit to manslaughter in connection with the death of the 73-year-old, who was assaulted at his home near Skreen, County Sligo on January 18th, 2022. Mr Niland suffered serious injuries including brain bleeding, facial fractures and multiple broken ribs during the attack. He was placed on life support but died from complications of his injuries twenty months later. Francis Harman and John Clarke had previously pleaded guilty to the same offence. The Director of Public Prosecutions indicated the guilty plea to manslaughter satisfied the prosecution's case. Justice Eileen Creedon discharged the jury and adjourned sentencing to October 13th, pending victim impact statements and psychological reports.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has viewed CCTV footage documenting movements in County Sligo and Mayo on January 18, 2022, the date of an alleged assault on 73-year-old Tom Niland at his home near Skreen. A garda detective presented a montage compiled from multiple camera systems showing a white Vauxhall Vivaro van travelling through Dromore West and Ballina that morning and afternoon, marked by distinctive features including a yellow number plate and a green roof stain. The prosecution alleges that John Irving, aged 31 of Shanwar, Foxford, County Mayo, Francis Harman, aged 58 of Ballina, and John Clarke, aged 37 of Ballina, broke into Mr Niland's home and assaulted him, causing injuries from which he died twenty months later in September 2023. The court heard that Mr Niland was discovered by neighbours crossing the N59 with severe injuries, including brain bleeding and multiple rib fractures. Mr Irving has pleaded not guilty to charges of unlawful killing, trespass causing serious harm, intentional or reckless serious harm, and false imprisonment.
A pensioner was so severely beaten during an alleged home invasion that neighbours did not recognise him as he walked along the road covered in blood with swollen eyes, the Central Criminal Court has heard. Witnesses described the victim as "crying blood" with multiple traumatic injuries following the incident at Doonflynn, Skreen, County Sligo on 18 January 2022. A surgeon from Sligo University Hospital testified that the injuries were serious and life-threatening, requiring the patient to be placed on life support. John Irving, aged 31, of Shanwar, Foxford, County Mayo faces four charges including unlawful killing, assault causing serious harm, intentional or reckless harm, and false imprisonment. The prosecution alleges Mr Irving, along with two other men, broke into the property and assaulted the occupant, who died more than 20 months later on 30 September 2023. Mr Irving has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The trial before Ms Justice Eileen Creedon continues.
A trial has commenced at the Central Criminal Court concerning charges against John Irving of Shanwar, Foxford, County Mayo. The prosecution alleges that Mr Irving, along with Francis Harman of Ballina and John Clarke of Ballina, broke into the home of a pensioner at Doonflynn, Skreen, County Sligo in January 2022 and assaulted him. The victim, then aged 73, sustained severe injuries including head trauma, rib fractures and internal bleeding. He died over twenty months later from complications arising from the assault. A medical witness is expected to testify that the injuries were comparable to those sustained in a serious motor collision. Forensic evidence presented includes DNA and blood located on gloves discovered in the area. Mr Irving denies all charges, including unlawful killing, assault causing serious harm, trespass, and false imprisonment. The trial before Ms Justice Eileen Creedon continues.
A jury of eight women and four men has been sworn in at the Central Criminal Court to hear the trial of a 31-year-old man accused of the unlawful killing of Tom Niland, a 74-year-old from Doonflynn, Skreen, County Sligo. The accused, John Irving of Shanwar, Foxford, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. Mr Niland died on September 30, 2023, more than twenty months after sustaining serious injuries during an alleged home invasion on January 18, 2022. The charges against Mr Irving include unlawfully killing Mr Niland, entering his home as a trespasser, causing him serious harm, and falsely imprisoning him. Justice Eileen Creedon estimated the trial will last approximately two weeks, with proceedings commencing the following day.
The Court of Appeal has adjourned proceedings in the appeal against the conviction of Stephen Silver, who is serving a life sentence with a 40-year minimum term for the capital murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan. Silver, a 48-year-old motorbike mechanic from Foxford, Co Mayo, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Det Gda Horkan, alleging he was reckless as to whether the victim was a garda acting in the course of his duty. He had previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter at Castlerea, Co Roscommon, on June 17, 2020. The jury found him guilty of murder, rejecting defences of self-defence and diminished responsibility. During the current appeal hearing, counsel for Silver stated that the legal team is unable to advance the appeal due to an impasse in obtaining crucial psychiatric disclosure from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP). Counsel described the situation as a "brick wall" and argued that the psychiatric evidence is a critical issue, particularly regarding Silver's bipolar affective disorder. Mr Justice John Edwards noted that the coroner for County Roscommon cannot complete the inquest into Garda Horkan's death until the appeal is determined. The judge described the delay as "intolerable" for the victim's family and stated that the matter "cannot drag on." Proceedings were adjourned to a case management list on June 20, with the judge indicating that a motion could be brought if the logjam persists.
Stephen Silver, aged 46 and a resident of Aughaward, Foxford, County Mayo, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 40 years at the Central Criminal Court following his conviction for the murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan on 17 June 2020 at Castlerea, County Roscommon. Justice Tara Burns imposed the sentence, noting she had no discretion in light of the jury's guilty verdict on the capital murder charge. The court heard that Silver had initially pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. With standard remission for good behaviour, Silver will become eligible for parole consideration after 30 years, when he will be aged 74. Justice Burns emphasised the importance of mental health treatment maintenance, noting evidence that Silver had ceased medication for bipolar affective disorder prior to the shooting. Members of Garda Horkan's family delivered impact statements describing their profound loss and the ongoing trauma caused by his death.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has found Stephen Silver guilty of capital murder following a retrial. Silver, aged 46, a mechanic from Aughaward, Foxford, County Mayo, was convicted of fatally shooting Garda Colm Horkan with the officer's own firearm on 17 June 2020 near Castlerea, County Roscommon. The jury of seven men and five women reached their unanimous verdict after deliberating for eight hours and 39 minutes. A previous jury had been unable to reach agreement in November 2022. Silver had pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter. The trial centred on his state of mind at the time of the shooting, with defence evidence suggesting mental illness contributed to his actions, whilst prosecution submissions maintained he acted with intent to kill. Ms Justice Tara Burns will impose sentence on 19 April. Conviction for capital murder carries a mandatory minimum 40-year prison sentence.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has convicted Stephen Silver of the capital murder of Garda Colm Horkan in Castlerea, County Roscommon, on 17 June 2020. Silver, a 46-year-old motorcycle mechanic, was sentenced to a minimum of 40 years imprisonment. The court heard that Silver had deliberately provoked an encounter with gardaí that evening, conducting dangerous motorcycle manoeuvres around the Knockroe estate in Foxford and making verbal challenges to armed officers. When Garda Horkan, a 25-year veteran based in Charlestown, County Mayo, approached Silver and his companion James Coyne, a struggle ensued over the officer's firearm. Silver disarmed Garda Horkan and fired eleven shots at the wounded officer as he lay on the ground. The defence argued Silver was experiencing a relapse of bipolar affective disorder at the time, but the jury rejected this claim. Expert testimony established that Silver's pattern of prior involuntary psychiatric admissions had created a "learned impunity" whereby he expected diffusion and hospitalisation rather than serious criminal consequences. Garda Helen Gillen, who witnessed the incident, confronted and arrested Silver unarmed. Stephen Silver pleaded guilty.
The jury in the Central Criminal Court trial of Stephen Silver continues deliberations in the case concerning the death of Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on June 17, 2020. Mr Silver, aged 46 and from Aughaward, Foxford, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. The jury, comprising seven men and five women, has deliberated for over five hours and will resume considerations on a third day. Justice Tara Burns has directed the panel that possible verdicts include capital murder, murder simpliciter, or manslaughter based on diminished responsibility or self-defence. The central issue concerns Mr Silver's mental state at the time of the shooting. The defence argues Mr Silver was experiencing a relapse of mental illness that substantially reduced his responsibility, while the prosecution contends the shooting was a deliberate act motivated by resentment towards gardaí. Expert psychiatric evidence was presented by both the defence and prosecution regarding Mr Silver's mental condition at the time of the incident.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has begun deliberations in the trial of Stephen Silver, charged with the murder of Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Mr Silver, aged 46 of Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. Justice Tara Burns instructed the jury of twelve that possible verdicts include capital murder, murder, or manslaughter on grounds of diminished responsibility or self-defence. The central issue concerns Mr Silver's state of mind at the time of the shooting. Expert evidence was presented regarding whether Mr Silver's bipolar affective disorder was operant during the incident, with the defence and prosecution psychiatrists disagreeing on this point. The judge emphasised that the jury must determine the facts rather than defer to expert testimony. A unanimous verdict is required. Deliberations commenced at 3:40pm and will resume on Tuesday.
Stephen Silver, aged 46 of Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, stands trial at the Central Criminal Court on a charge of murdering Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. In closing submissions for the prosecution, Michael Delaney SC argued that the shooting was a deliberate act carried out with intent to kill, and that Mr Silver harboured a seething resentment toward gardaí. The prosecution contends that Mr Silver knew Garda Horkan was a member of An Garda Síochána acting in the course of his duty. The defence of diminished responsibility should be rejected, Mr Delaney submitted, noting that psychiatric evidence regarding Mr Silver's mental state remains disputed. The jury, comprising seven men and five women, will hear closing submissions from the defence before Justice Tara Burns before deliberating.
A consultant psychiatrist has given evidence at the Central Criminal Court in the trial of Stephen Silver, who is charged with murdering Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on June 17, 2020. Professor Harry Kennedy told the jury that Mr Silver, aged 46, of Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, was "an unreliable historian" regarding his mental health. The professor said he found no positive evidence that Mr Silver had suffered a relapse of bipolar affective disorder at the time of the shooting. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. The court heard the main issue centres on his state of mind at the time. Cross-examination by defence counsel focused on evidence of abnormal beliefs and behaviour, including Mr Silver's admission to the Central Mental Hospital where he was placed in seclusion. Defence testimony from another psychiatrist suggested Mr Silver's illness had impaired his thinking and judgement. The trial continues.
A consultant psychiatrist has told the Central Criminal Court that Stephen Silver, who stands accused of murdering Garda Colm Horkan with the officer's own firearm, displayed behaviour consistent with his personality rather than mental illness during garda interviews. Professor Harry Kennedy said the accused showed no regret or sympathy for the deceased and appeared angry and self-pitying, but these responses could be attributed to the stress of arrest. The psychiatrist stated that Mr Silver had developed "learned impunity" through a long history of disruptive conduct in Castlebar and surrounding areas, leading him to expect no charges would follow his actions. Mr Silver, aged 46, a motorbike mechanic from Aughavard in Foxford, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter. The shooting occurred at Castlerea, County Roscommon, on 17 June 2020. The trial, before Ms Justice Tara Burns, continues with the jury's focus on the accused's state of mind at the time of the incident.
At the Central Criminal Court in Dublin, a murder trial heard evidence concerning Stephen Silver's mental state in the hours before the fatal shooting of Garda Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Silver's sister, Marian Bruen, testified that she recognised her brother was unwell during a telephone call on 16 June 2020 and that the family planned to have him admitted to a psychiatric hospital. Dr Brenda Wright, interim clinical director at the Central Mental Hospital, gave evidence regarding her psychiatric assessment of Silver, who is aged 46 and from Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo. The prosecution highlighted apparent inconsistencies in Silver's accounts, including a statement he later acknowledged as untrue when interviewed by consultant psychiatrist Professor Harry Kennedy. Silver has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter. The trial, before Ms Justice Tara Burns, centres on Silver's mental capacity at the time of the shooting.
At the Central Criminal Court, a psychiatrist gave evidence that Stephen Silver displayed behaviour indicative of mental illness during garda interviews following the fatal shooting of Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, Co Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Dr Brenda Wright, interim clinical director at the Central Mental Hospital, told the court that Silver's conduct during five interviews was facetious, contemptuous and hostile, with incongruent and erratic behaviour including grandiose ideas and disinhibited actions. She stated that Silver's mental state at the time was consistent with a manic relapse of bipolar disorder caused by non-compliance with medication, and that this illness impaired his thinking and judgment. The psychiatrist noted Silver's belief that his companion was in MI6 and other indicators of psychological distress. Silver, aged 46, from Aughavard, Foxford, Co Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter. The trial continues, with the jury's main consideration being Silver's state of mind at the material time.
A psychiatrist has given evidence at the Central Criminal Court regarding the mental health history of Stephen Silver, aged 46, of Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, who is charged with the murder of Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on June 17, 2020. Dr Brenda Wright, interim clinical director at the Central Mental Hospital, testified about multiple hospital admissions spanning from 2010 to 2019, during which Mr Silver experienced psychotic episodes, paranoid delusions, and aggressive behaviour. Dr Wright told the jury that in interviews conducted after the shooting, Mr Silver described experiencing disturbed sleep, increased alcohol consumption, and paranoid thoughts in the days preceding the incident. Regarding the shooting itself, Mr Silver stated he believed he was struggling for his life and that Gda Horkan had a weapon. Dr Wright concluded that Mr Silver's mental capacity was significantly impaired at the time of the shooting. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. The trial continues before Ms Justice Tara Burns.
A forensic psychiatrist has told the Central Criminal Court that Stephen Silver, accused of murdering Garda Horkan in Castlerea, County Roscommon, in June 2020, previously experienced psychotic symptoms at the "extreme end" of bipolar affective disorder. Dr Brenda Wright, interim clinical director at the Central Mental Hospital, gave evidence that Mr Silver, aged 46, a motorbike mechanic from Foxford, County Mayo, was diagnosed with manic psychotic symptoms during a 2003 hospital admission. She outlined multiple psychiatric admissions, voluntary and involuntary, during which Mr Silver exhibited extreme agitation, made threats to staff, and refused medication. A 2006 incident saw him barricaded in his apartment with a sword wearing combat gear. Dr Wright testified that Mr Silver's mental capacity was significantly impaired at the time of the shooting. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter. The trial before Ms Justice Tara Burns continues, with the jury to determine his state of mind at the material time.
A forensic psychiatrist has told the Central Criminal Court that Stephen Silver's mental capacity was significantly impaired at the time Garda Colm Horkan was shot dead at Castlerea, County Roscommon on June 17, 2020. Dr Brenda Wright, interim clinical director at the Central Mental Hospital, gave evidence during Mr Silver's trial that she interviewed the accused on three occasions between August and September 2020. She outlined his extensive psychiatric history, including multiple hospital admissions since 1998 and a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder. Dr Wright stated that when Mr Silver became unwell, he displayed severe psychotic symptoms. A character witness from Castlebar confirmed he had known Mr Silver for 28 years and had observed concerning changes in his behaviour prior to his hospitalisation. Mr Silver, aged 46 of Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. The trial before Ms Justice Tara Burns continues.
Stephen Silver, a forty-six-year-old motorbike mechanic from Aughavard in Foxford, County Mayo, is on trial at the Central Criminal Court accused of the capital murder of Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to capital murder while knowing or being reckless as to whether the garda was acting in accordance with his duty, and has pleaded guilty to manslaughter. During cross-examination, prosecution counsel Michael Delaney SC questioned Mr Silver's assertion that a woman he was with prior to the shooting was connected to MI6, suggesting the claim had been invented to strengthen his defence. Mr Silver denied this, stating he had genuinely experienced such thoughts. The court heard evidence regarding Mr Silver's psychiatric history, previous incidents involving gardaí, and his pattern of non-compliance with medication following hospital discharge. Mr Silver maintained he did not know the deceased was a garda and stated he had been defending himself. The trial, before Ms Justice Tara Burns, continues.
Stephen Silver (46) of Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon, on 17 June 2020. At the Central Criminal Court, Mr Silver gave evidence describing how he discharged the garda's weapon repeatedly during a struggle, stating he believed the officer was an assailant attempting to harm him. He told the jury he continued firing until ammunition was exhausted. The prosecution challenged his account, suggesting he was aware Garda Horkan was a member of An Garda Síochána and arguing that his conduct that evening, including remarks made in the Knockroe estate, indicated an intention to provoke police intervention. The central issue for the jury concerns Mr Silver's state of mind at the time of the incident. Evidence regarding his mental health history, including a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, has been presented. The trial continues before Ms Justice Tara Burns and a jury of twelve.
Stephen Silver (46), from Aughavard in Foxford, County Mayo, is on trial at the Central Criminal Court charged with the murder of Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. He has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. During evidence, Mr Silver described experiencing mental health episodes since age nineteen, including believing himself to be "the second coming of Jesus" and experiencing paranoid delusions. He told the court he has been hospitalised between sixteen and seventeen times and has schizoaffective disorder. On the day of the incident, Mr Silver said he was at a hotel where he became suspicious of companions and believed English builders present were members of the SAS. He stated he checked underneath his van for explosives due to paranoia and fear. The defence argues Mr Silver's state of mind at the time of the shooting is the central issue in the case. The trial before Ms Justice Burns continues.
Stephen Silver (46), from Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, is on trial at the Central Criminal Court on a charge of murdering Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon, on 17 June 2020. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. The jury has been directed that the central issue concerns his state of mind at the time of the shooting. Video footage from his fifth police interview, conducted on 19 June 2020, was viewed in court on Tuesday. In the footage, Mr Silver stated the garda would not be dead had he remained in his vehicle. Detective Inspector Brian Hanley put it to the accused that Garda Horkan had identified himself and announced an arrest for assault, and that Mr Silver was aware of the firearm the garda carried. Mr Silver declined to respond. Witness statements were read to the court, including one from a resident of Castlerea who heard shouting and gunshots in rapid succession.
Stephen Silver, aged 46 from Aughavard in Foxford, County Mayo, is on trial at the Central Criminal Court accused of the capital murder of Garda Colm Horkan on June 17th, 2020 at Castlerea, County Roscommon. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to murder while knowing or being reckless as to whether the deceased was a garda acting in the course of duty, but has pleaded guilty to manslaughter. The jury's central consideration concerns the accused's state of mind at the time of the shooting. During interview footage presented to the jury on Monday, Mr Silver disputed accounts provided by witness James Coyne, describing them as "lies, absolute bullsh*t". He claimed Garda Horkan "never at any stage indicated he was a detective" and questioned why identification had not been produced. Mr Silver's behaviour during the interviews included refusing to answer questions, whistling, singing, and at one point claiming to be a captain in a cavalry reserve unit. Detective Inspector Brian Hanley testified that the accused was aggressive, angry and threatening prior to his fourth interview.
Stephen Silver, a 46-year-old mechanic from Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to the capital murder of Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. He has pleaded guilty to manslaughter. At the Central Criminal Court, the jury heard a video recording of Mr Silver's first interview with gardaí at Castlerea station. In the interview, Mr Silver stated that Garda Horkan initiated a struggle after approaching him on the street, and that the officer went for his gun after losing the ensuing confrontation. Mr Silver told detectives he was certain he would have been killed had he not gained control of the firearm, which he said discharged during the struggle. He said he was "a law-abiding citizen" unaware of the garda's identity. The prosecution presented evidence from Detective Inspector Brian Hanley regarding observations made during the interview. Detective Sergeant Eric Godfrey, who trained with Garda Horkan at Garda College in 1994, gave emotional testimony. The trial continues before Ms Justice Tara Burns and a jury of twelve.
Stephen Silver, a 46-year-old motorbike mechanic from Foxford, County Mayo, is on trial at the Central Criminal Court charged with the capital murder of Garda Colm Horkan on 17 June 2020 at Castlerea, County Roscommon. He has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter. Prosecution witnesses testified that Silver engaged in ordinary conversation about sport, politics and work with hotel guests on the morning of the garda's death. Forensic and pathology evidence detailed extensive gunshot injuries sustained by the deceased officer. A retired garda sergeant stated that Garda Horkan had escorted Silver to a psychiatric unit following a family incident in 2003. A superintendent confirmed Garda Horkan was temporarily appointed as a detective aid and authorised to carry a firearm in plainclothes duties. The defence has acknowledged Silver's responsibility for the shooting. The trial continues before Justice Tara Burns and a jury of twelve.
At the Central Criminal Court, a witness testified that Stephen Silver (46), of Aughavard, Foxford, Co Mayo, appeared "looking crazy" following the fatal shooting of Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, Co Roscommon on June 17, 2020. The garda was shot eleven times with his own firearm. Ms Makulova, a resident of Castlerea Main Street, told the jury she heard gunshots that she initially mistook for fireworks, and observed a man with a ponytail holding a gun standing beside an injured man on the road. A second witness, business owner Dermot Mulvihill, corroborated hearing explosions and described seeing the man discard an object with a metallic sound. Forensic evidence presented showed a palm print matching Mr Silver's on the gun. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter. The defence acknowledged the accused's responsibility for the shooting, with the central issue being his state of mind at the time. The trial, before Ms Justice Tara Burns, continues before a jury of seven men and five women.
Stephen Silver, a 46-year-old motorbike mechanic from Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, stands trial at the Central Criminal Court on a charge of capital murder in connection with the death of Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. During proceedings, psychiatric evidence was presented regarding Mr Silver's mental state at the time of arrest. Dr William Monteiro told the court that Mr Silver refused psychiatric assessment but displayed no evidence of active mental illness when observed, appearing lucid and capable of engagement. Dr Greg Kelly, a general practitioner from Castlerea, testified that Mr Silver had disclosed his mental health declined during Covid restrictions and that he had been living in a shed. Dr Kelly noted Mr Silver's demeanour appeared inappropriate for his circumstances and that psychiatric care had diminished due to Covid-related service restrictions. The trial, before Ms Justice Tara Burns, continues.
Stephen Silver, aged 46, of Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, is on trial at the Central Criminal Court charged with the capital murder of Garda Colm Horkan. The trial heard that Garda Horkan was shot eleven times with his own firearm at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter. Civilian witnesses gave evidence that after the shooting, Mr Silver repeatedly told gardaí: "If I hadn't killed him, he would have killed me." Garda witnesses testified that Mr Silver was agitated and aggressive in custody, and that he later spat at officers and urinated on the floor of his cell. During cross-examination, the defence counsel indicated that Mr Silver's state of mind at the time of the incident remains the central issue in dispute. The trial continues before Ms Justice Tara Burns.
At the Central Criminal Court, a garda has given evidence describing the fatal shooting of his colleague Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Stephen Silver, aged 46, from Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter. Garda Aidan Fallon testified that he witnessed the incident and found Garda Horkan shot eleven times with his own firearm. The court heard that Silver made comments and behaved disruptively as emergency procedures were performed. Multiple witnesses provided accounts of the struggle and subsequent gunshots on Main Street. Sergeant Michael O'Hara and other gardaí testified regarding Silver's statements and demeanour following his arrest. The defence has indicated that Silver's state of mind at the time remains the central issue in dispute. The trial before Ms Justice Tara Burns continues.
At the Central Criminal Court, a garda recounted attending to her colleague Garda Colm Horkan after he was fatally shot at Castlerea, Co Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Garda Helen Gillen described witnessing two men grappling before one was shot multiple times with his own firearm. She performed CPR on Garda Horkan after realising he was the victim. Stephen Silver, aged 46, a motorbike mechanic from Foxford, Co Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter. The trial heard evidence from eyewitness James Coyne, who was with Silver that evening, describing how an interaction with Garda Horkan escalated into violence. Another witness, Paul McGarry, a local resident, testified to hearing gunshots and disturbances in the area. The defence has indicated that Silver's state of mind at the time remains the central issue, with responsibility for the shooting accepted. The trial continues before Ms Justice Tara Burns.
The Central Criminal Court heard evidence on Thursday that Stephen Silver, a forty-six-year-old mechanic from Foxford in County Mayo, was shouting in a Castlerea street on the night Garda Colm Horkan was fatally shot, daring armed gardaí to confront him. Witness testimony established that Mr Silver had visited Castlerea Garda Station earlier that day to lodge an angry complaint about a garda raid on a neighbouring property. Several residents of Knockroe estate told the court they observed Mr Silver riding a motorbike recklessly around the area at approximately ten-thirty that evening, engaging in erratic behaviour including aggressive shouting. One witness stated she heard him challenge the armed squad to come down. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to the capital murder of Garda Horkan on June seventeenth, twenty twenty, but has pleaded guilty to manslaughter. His defence team has indicated that Mr Silver's state of mind at the material time remains the central issue in the trial before Ms Justice Tara Burns. The case continues.
A jury has been discharged in the trial of Stephen Silver at the Central Criminal Court following difficulty raised by one juror. Mr Silver, aged 46, a motorbike mechanic from Aughavard in Foxford, Co Mayo, faces a charge of murdering Garda Colm Horkan, aged 49, at Castlerea, Co Roscommon on 17 June 2020. He has pleaded not guilty to capital murder and guilty to manslaughter. The original jury of twelve was sworn in on Monday and the prosecution opened its case on Tuesday. However, when proceedings resumed on Wednesday morning, a juror indicated an inability to continue serving. Justice Tara Burns determined it inappropriate to proceed with eleven jurors and discharged the entire panel. Both prosecution and defence agreed this course was preferable. A fresh jury panel was expected to be sworn in later that day to commence the trial afresh.
At the Central Criminal Court, Stephen Silver, aged 46, a motorbike mechanic from Foxford, County Mayo, pleaded not guilty to the capital murder of Garda Colm Horkan on June 17, 2020, at Castlerea, County Roscommon. He has pleaded guilty to manslaughter. The prosecution opening alleged that following an encounter on the main street in Castlerea, Mr Silver engaged in a struggle with the uniformed officer, seized his firearm, and discharged it multiple times, causing fatal injuries. The court heard that Mr Silver told gardai at the scene that the deceased had attempted to attack him. The defence intends to raise issues of bipolar disorder and diminished responsibility due to mental health difficulties. The trial, before Ms Justice Tara Burns and a jury of twelve, is expected to last six weeks. The main disputed issue concerns Mr Silver's state of mind at the time of the incident.
A jury of six men and six women has been sworn in at the Central Criminal Court for the trial of a man charged with the murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan. Stephen Silver, aged 46, of Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, pleads not guilty to capital murder in relation to the death of Det Gda Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. He has entered a guilty plea to manslaughter. Justice Eileen Creedon advised the jury that proceedings are expected to extend over six weeks. The defence is expected to raise matters concerning bipolar disorder and diminished responsibility on grounds of mental health difficulties. The trial, led by Justice Tara Burns, commences tomorrow at 11am before the sworn jury.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has been unable to reach a verdict in the trial of Stephen Silver concerning the death of Detective Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Mr Silver accepts that he discharged the detective's own firearm eleven times but denies the charge of murder. The defence argued that Mr Silver should be found guilty of manslaughter on grounds of diminished responsibility, citing evidence that he was suffering from bipolar affective disorder at the time. The jury of seven men and five women deliberated for just under nine hours over three days before reporting they could not reach agreement. Mr Justice Paul McDermott remanded Mr Silver in custody pending a retrial, with the case listed for 9 December at the Central Criminal Court. The judge thanked the jury for their careful consideration of what he described as a deeply difficult and disturbing case. Stephen Silver was acquitted.
The jury in the trial of Stephen Silver, a motorbike mechanic from Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, has been instructed that majority verdicts are now permissible at the Central Criminal Court. Mr Justice Paul McDermott informed the twelve-person jury, entering their third day of deliberations, that they may return a verdict supported by at least ten jurors rather than requiring unanimity. Silver is charged with the murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. He has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility. The jury must determine between verdicts of capital murder, murder, manslaughter, or manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility. Defence evidence suggested Silver suffered bipolar affective disorder at the time, whilst prosecution psychiatric evidence contradicted this assessment of his mental capacity. Detective Garda Horkan sustained eleven gunshot wounds. Deliberations are continuing.
The jury in the trial of Stephen Silver, a 46-year-old motorbike mechanic from Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, continued deliberations at the Central Criminal Court on Wednesday. Mr Silver stands accused of murdering Detective Garda Colm Horkan, who suffered eleven gunshot wounds during an incident at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility. The jury must decide between verdicts of capital murder, murder, manslaughter, or manslaughter by diminished responsibility. Central to the case are conflicting expert psychiatric assessments regarding Mr Silver's mental state at the time of the shooting. Justice Paul McDermott instructed the jury to apply common sense in evaluating evidence from two consultant psychiatrists who disagreed on this issue. The panel of seven men and five women will resume deliberations on Thursday morning at eleven o'clock.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court has begun deliberating in the trial of Stephen Silver, aged 46, from Aughaward, Foxford, County Mayo, who is charged with the murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan. The accused has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility in relation to the incident at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. During the trial, the defence presented evidence from a psychiatrist who testified the accused was suffering from bipolar affective disorder at the time, which diminished his responsibility. The prosecution's psychiatric expert disputed this assessment, maintaining the accused's mental capacity remained intact. Mr Justice Paul McDermott charged the jury, comprising seven men and five women, on the available verdicts. The jury retired shortly before midday and was sent home in the evening. Deliberations are to resume Wednesday morning at 10.30am.
At the Central Criminal Court, Mr Justice Paul McDermott has instructed the jury in the trial of Stephen Silver to apply common sense when evaluating conflicting psychiatric evidence regarding the accused's mental state. Mr Silver, aged 46, a motorbike mechanic from Aughaward in Foxford, County Mayo, denies murdering Detective Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. He has pleaded guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility. The defence psychiatrist testified that Mr Silver suffered from bipolar affective disorder at the time of the shooting, whilst the prosecution's expert disagreed. The judge clarified that jurors are not bound by expert testimony and may prefer one account over another. He explained that if they find Mr Silver guilty of unlawful killing with the requisite intent, they must then determine whether his responsibility was substantially diminished by mental disorder. The judge emphasised this remains a question of fact for the jury to assess using common sense alongside all evidence presented. Stephen Silver pleaded not guilty.
At the Central Criminal Court, defence counsel for Stephen Silver argued it would be unsafe to convict him of the murder of Detective Garda Colm Horkan, citing evidence of mental disorder at the time of the shooting. Mr Silver, aged 46, from Aughaward near Foxford in County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility for the fatal shooting at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Defence barrister Roisin Lacey SC asked the jury to consider psychiatric evidence that Mr Silver was experiencing a relapse of bipolar affective disorder which substantially diminished his culpability. She referenced observations from gardaí interviews, recorded on the day following the incident, which documented deteriorating mental state including delusional beliefs and bizarre behaviour. Ms Lacey also highlighted inconsistencies in the prosecution's evidence regarding the deceased garda's formal status. The trial continues with the judge's charge to the jury expected the following day.
At the Central Criminal Court, counsel for Stephen Silver, who denies murdering Detective Garda Colm Horkan, has questioned whether the prosecution has adequately proven the deceased was a member of An Garda Síochána. Roisin Lacey SC submitted to the jury that the prosecution must establish beyond reasonable doubt that Garda Horkan was acting in accordance with his duty. Ms Lacey highlighted discrepancies between the date Garda Horkan's identification card was issued and his attested date as a garda, and noted differences between identification numbers provided to the jury and those on his identity card. She acknowledged evidence from senior gardaí regarding Garda Horkan's duties and presence on the day in question but contended formal proof of his membership had not been presented. Ms Lacey also argued evidence that Mr Silver was experiencing a relapse of bipolar disorder substantially reduced his responsibility for the killing. Mr Silver, aged 46, a motorbike mechanic from Aughaward, Foxford, County Mayo, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility.