Courts / Mayo / Report

Murder accused did not have mental disorders in law, forensic psychiatrist tells trial

Summary

A forensic psychiatrist for the State has told the Central Criminal Court that a Co Mayo man accused of murder did not have mental disorders recognised in law, despite having personality disorders at the time of the alleged killings. The 30-year-old from Ballina has admitted killing two elderly brothers with special needs but pleaded not guilty to their murder on 10th July 2013 in Castlebar. Dr Brenda Wright testified that while she agreed with the defence psychiatrist's diagnosis of emotionally unstable and antisocial personality disorders, these did not qualify as mental disorders under the Criminal Law Insanity Act 2006. She stated that qualifying mental disorders must impair a person's capacity to make decisions or understand relevant information, which personality disorders do not. Dr Wright also disputed the defence evidence that the accused had ADHD at the time, saying she found no supporting behaviour in garda interview recordings. Her evidence continues before Justice Paul Coffey and jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused did not have mental disorders in law, forensic psychiatrist tells trial. Charges or matters: murdering them on 10th July 2013 at New Antrim Street in Castlebar. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• 10th July 2013 Other
• 2017-07-19 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report