Courts / Westmeath / Report
Murder accused who strangled mum-of-two asks for manslaughter verdict
Summary
Danny Keena, 55, pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter in the death of 43‑year‑old Brigid Maguire, who was strangled on November 14, 2015, at her home on Main Street, Ballynacargy. During his closing speech in the Central Criminal Court, Keena, through his barrister, requested a verdict of manslaughter on the grounds of provocation, citing Maguire's remark that he was a bad father. Prosecutor Remy Farrell argued that the case did not meet the provocation defence, noting Keena's prior threats to kill his partner and his description of the strangulation method. Defence counsel Colm Smyth highlighted the couple's separation, Keena's financial support for the family, and Maguire's hostile communication, arguing that these circumstances triggered Keena's reaction. The court heard both sides' closing arguments before the jury considered the verdict.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Murder accused who strangled mum-of-two asks for manslaughter verdict. Charges or matters: the murder of 43-year-old Brigid Maguire; murder, but guilty to her manslaughter at her new home on Main Street, Ballynacargy on November 14, 2015. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- November 14, 2015 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2017-10-05 Publication
Why: "The reason he did what he did was because he was angry, he was jealous, he was bitter," suggested Mr Farrell. CNI source report
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: the murder of 43-year-old Brigid Maguire; murder, but guilty to her manslaughter at her new home on Main Street, Ballynacargy on November 14, 2015 (Alleged Or Contested)
Places mentioned
- Main Street
- Central Criminal Court
Topics
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