Courts / Dublin / Report
"Violent struggle" in hotel room where man is accused of murdering ex-girlfriend, trial hears
Summary
During a 2017 trial, evidence was presented that a violent struggle occurred in a Dublin hotel room where 35‑year‑old Eric Locke allegedly strangled and suffocated 31‑year‑old Sonia Blount. The jury saw CCTV footage of Locke leaving the hotel hours before Blount's body was found on the floor, with an imitation firearm, cable ties, duct tape, and a blood‑stained top stuffed into her mouth. Garda testimony described ligature marks around her neck, a gag that damaged her teeth, and a black duct tape and phone charger near the body. The State Pathologist testified that death was caused by asphyxia from neck compression and suffocation due to the gag, noting bruising and scratches indicating a struggle. Locke pleaded not guilty, and the trial continued with a jury of eight men and four women.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: "Violent struggle" in hotel room where man is accused of murdering ex-girlfriend, trial hears. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- February 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2017-05-09 Publication
Why: The prosecutor had told the jury that the Dublin man had assumed a false identity in order to meet her in the room Mr Locke, with an address at St John's Park East in Clondalkin, has pleaded not guilty. Prosecution account reported by CNI
Case subjects
Places mentioned
- Central Criminal Court
- St John's Park
- Belgard Square
Topics
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