Coronavirus: Trials should be completed where possible, President instructs

At the Central Criminal Court, Ms Justice Eileen Creedon instructed a jury on 12 March 2020 to return on Wednesday to conclude closing speeches in the trial of Rafal Karaczyn, aged 34, of Crozon Park, Sligo. The judge relayed directions from the President of the High Court that existing trials should be completed where possible amid emerging public health concerns. Mr Karaczyn has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter in relation to the death of his wife at their Sligo home between 29 April and 1 May 2018. The jury of seven women and five men was informed that closing arguments, the judicial charge, and their deliberations remained outstanding. The court indicated the registrar would remain available to assist jurors between the adjournment and the scheduled resumption.