Courts / Dublin / Report

DNA evidence admissible in Hutch murder trial

Summary

In the Special Criminal Court trial of Jonathan Keogh for the murder of Gareth Hutch, Mr Justice Tony Hunt ruled that ear plugs seized from Keogh on a military aircraft were admissible DNA evidence. The judge said the ear plugs were optional, not compulsory, and lawfully seized, enhancing comfort rather than being essential to life. He also accepted DNA samples, a mouth swab and fingerprints taken from Keogh after a later arrest for another offence, as admissible, stating the taking was lawful and justified. Keogh, aged 32, was extradited from RAF Northolt to Casement Aerodrome on 23 August 2017, where the ear plugs were collected by Gardaí. The trial continues with Mr Justice Hunt presiding alongside Judges Patricia Ryan and Michael Walsh. The case involves Keogh, Regina Keogh, Thomas Fox and Mr AB, all charged with Hutch's murder. The prosecution maintains the killing was pre‑planned and brutal. The court has not yet delivered a verdict. Regina Keogh pleaded not guilty. Thomas Fox pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: DNA evidence admissible in Hutch murder trial. Charges or matters: murdering Mr Hutch. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• August 23, 2017 Incident
• May 24, 2016 Hearing Or Sentence
• May 23, 2016 Incident
• 2018-07-09 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report