Courts / Ireland / Report
Laois man accused of murdering Aoife Phelan takes to the stand
Summary
In a 2014 trial at the Central Criminal Court, a 25‑year‑old Laois man, Robert Corbet, pleaded not guilty to the murder of 30‑year‑old Aoife Phelan. Corbet testified that he had argued with Phelan about a claimed pregnancy, after which she threatened to ruin his life and business. He said he lost self‑control, strangled her, hit her, and placed a plastic bag and cable ties around her neck before dropping her body into a barrel on his property. Corbet admitted to having suicidal thoughts during Garda interviews and claimed he would have said anything to finish them. The prosecution argued he was not provoked and that his actions were calculated. The case was heard by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan with a jury of nine men and three women.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Laois man accused of murdering Aoife Phelan takes to the stand. Charges or matters: murdering Ms Phelan at Capoley. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- October 25th Hearing Or Sentence
- November 7th Hearing Or Sentence
- 2014-05-21 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: murdering Ms Phelan at Capoley (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Central Criminal Court
Topics
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