Courts / Dublin / Report

Man (70) told gardai he was acting in self defence when he strangled "husband to be"

Summary

In a murder trial at the Central Criminal Court, a 70‑year‑old man, Desmond Duffy, pleaded not guilty to the death of his 59‑year‑old civil partner, Desmond Sullivan, who was found dead at their home in Somerville Park, Rathmines, on 23 May 2016. Duffy claimed he acted in self‑defence, saying he had been attacked and strangled Sullivan to protect himself. The prosecution described the couple as a drinking pair, known as "Little Des" and "Big Des," and due to be married in July 2017. Garda Maurice Ward, who arrived at the scene around 10:45 pm, testified that Duffy had called him to report the death and that the body had been present for some time. Ward noted that Duffy appeared shaken and that the couple had never shown aggression in his experience. The trial was set to continue before a jury the following day.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Man (70) told gardai he was acting in self defence when he strangled "husband to be". Charges or matters: murder. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• May 23, 2016 Hearing Or Sentence
• July 2017 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2018-11-06 Publication

Why: Mr Devally explained that as they share a first name, the deceased was known to friends as Little Des, the accused as Big Des. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report