Courts / Dublin / Report
Clash as defence barrister tells psychiatrist to "wipe that smirk off your face"
Summary
In the Central Criminal Court, Dr Harry Kennedy, a psychiatrist, was cross‑examined by counsel for Laura Kenna, a 37‑year‑old woman charged with attempted murder and assault causing serious harm. Kenna pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. Kennedy had previously stated that Kenna met the criteria for schizoaffective disorder but was not delusional at the time of the offence, acting in anger. During the hearing, counsel Mr Barry White SC questioned Kennedy about Kenna's claim that she was recording an album with a known record studio owner, asking whether this was evidence of delusion. Kennedy confirmed the studio owner was real and that Kenna's statements were true, describing them as fabrications rather than delusions. The confrontation escalated when White asked Kennedy to "take that smirk off your face," to which Kennedy replied he was not smirking. The trial continued with Justice Tara Burns presiding and a jury of twelve.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Clash as defence barrister tells psychiatrist to "wipe that smirk off your face". Charges or matters: attempting to murder Fionnuala Burke on Lower Drumcondra Road, in Dublin, on January 3, 2017 and assault causing serious harm on the same occasion. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- January 3, 2017 Incident
- 2019-03-01 Publication
Why: Dr Kennedy said she told him she used that name because she called her boyfriend Zeus. CNI source report
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: attempting to murder Fionnuala Burke on Lower Drumcondra Road, in Dublin, on January 3, 2017 and assault causing serious harm on the same occasion (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Central Criminal Court
- Lower Drumcondra Road
- Dublin
Topics
Related court reports
- Man charged with having 56k child abuse images and videos remanded on bail
- Ex-Dáil hopeful's allegations against former employer 'complete fantasy', WRC told
- Mater must pay €10k to worker who said he was wrongly accused of abusing patient
- 'I think we know I won't be getting bail' - Daniel Kinahan charged with directing criminal organisation
- Letting agent who claimed alleged domestic violence victim abandoned tenancy by fleeing to refuge must pay €14.7k
- 77-year-old with 470 convictions told Luas staff to 'f**k off'
If a fact, identity, locality or legal outcome needs review, email the newsroom with this report's details prefilled.
Email a correction request