Courts / Dublin / Report
Former British army solider "in control of his mind", prosecution tells jury
Summary
In a murder trial at the Central Criminal Court, the prosecution argued that former British Army soldier Donal Colgan, aged 65, was in control of his actions when he stabbed David Sheridan, aged 45, to death outside Luigi's chip shop on North Strand Road on 17/18 August 2014. Paul Burns SC presented evidence that Colgan left the scene after a fight, returned nine minutes later armed with a knife, and stabbed Sheridan, stating that Colgan had time to cool off on the walk home and back. The defence contended that if Colgan had lost control due to Sheridan's provocation, he should be found guilty of manslaughter, not murder, and that self‑defence was not applicable. The defence also highlighted alleged false testimony by witness Gary Kinlan and suggested Colgan's background of depression and panic attacks might explain his behaviour. Donal Colgan pleaded not guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Former British army solider "in control of his mind", prosecution tells jury. Charges or matters: the murder of David Sheridan (45), outside Luigi's chip shop on the capital's North Strand Road on August 17/18 2014. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- August 17 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2016-11-22 Publication
Why: "But these provide the motive for murder, not the excuse," he added. CNI source report
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: the murder of David Sheridan (45), outside Luigi's chip shop on the capital's North Strand Road on August 17/18 2014 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Central Criminal Court
- North Strand Road
- Sunset House
Topics
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