Courts / Wexford / Report
Man died as a result of asphyxia court told
Summary
In a 2014 murder trial, an 84‑year‑old man died of asphyxia after an attack at his Wexford home in 2012. State Pathologist Dr Marie Cassidy testified that the victim's death was caused by hypoxia from chest trauma, with fractured ribs and dislocated finger joints. She described injuries to the right eye, mouth, and back of the scalp consistent with punches and a struggle. The accused, Caroline Roche, 52, pleaded not guilty on grounds of insanity. Dr Brenda Wright, a forensic psychiatrist, explained Roche's history of psychiatric admissions, delusions involving the devil, and a belief that the victim had threatened her. Roche had stopped medication a week before the incident and claimed she felt "strong" during the assault, stating she had broken the victim's fingers after death. The trial was set to continue before Mr Justice White and a jury of twelve.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Man died as a result of asphyxia court told. Charges or matters: murdering Walter Plunkett by reason of insanity. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- 2014-06-19 Publication
Why: The accused said that she had previously assaulted Mr Plunkett pushing and kicking him because she thought he had put marijuana in a burger he had given to her. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: murdering Walter Plunkett by reason of insanity (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
Topics
Related court reports
- Woman found not guilty of murdering her partner by reason of insanity committed to Central Mental Hospital
- Wexford woman not guilty by reason of insanity of murder of her partner
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