Courts / Dublin / Report

Former murder accused turned State's witness agrees motive was to "save" himself

Date
2017-02-14

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

The Special Criminal Court is currently hearing a voir dire to determine the admissibility of evidence from David Cullen, a former accused who turned State's witness in the trial of Edward McGrath and Sharif Kelly. Both men, who have pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of Peter Butterly and, in McGrath's case, firearms offences, are contesting Cullen's testimony. During cross-examination, Cullen admitted his motivation to provide evidence was to "save" himself. He acknowledged lying in a bail affidavit to deny knowing McGrath and admitted reviewing the book of evidence before making his statement. The court also heard from DPP officer David Gormley, who confirmed the DPP agreed to Cullen's offer to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a statement, with an understanding that his words would not be used against him, though no immunity was granted. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Tony Hunt, continues with the judges assessing the reliability of the witness's account.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Former murder accused turned State's witness agrees motive was to "save" himself. Charges or matters: the alleged murder; firearms offences on the same occasion. Procedural stage: trial

When: