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Defence suggest even Thompson's "own mother" wouldn't identify him from CCTV image
Summary
During the Special Criminal Court trial of 37‑year‑old Frederick 'Freddie' Thompson, Detective Garda Seamus O'Donovan gave recognition evidence that Thompson was the driver of a "spotter" vehicle in the 2016 murder of shoe shop manager David Douglas. O'Donovan identified Thompson in three CCTV clips taken on the day of the shooting, showing a bearded driver of a Ford Fiesta, one of the alleged spotter cars. The prosecution does not claim Thompson fired the shots; instead, his DNA was found in two spotter cars. O'Donovan also recounted his prior investigation of Thompson in a 2013 violent disorder case at Morrissey's Pub and his involvement in Thompson's extradition from Holland. The defence, led by Michael O'Higgins SC, challenged the admissibility of the CCTV evidence, arguing the footage was insufficient for reliable identification. The court heard the dispute and will consider submissions before Judge Tony Hunt and the other judges. The unnamed 37-year-old pleaded not guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Defence suggest even Thompson's "own mother" wouldn't identify him from CCTV image. Charges or matters: the murder of shoe shop manager David Douglas on July 1st, 2016 on Bridgefoot Street in the city. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- July 1st, 2016 Hearing Or Sentence
- January 2013 Incident
- 2018-05-11 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: the murder of shoe shop manager David Douglas on July 1st, 2016 on Bridgefoot Street in the city (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
Topics
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