Courts / Dublin / Report

Jury deliberating in attempted murder trial of woman who slashed civil servant's neck

Summary

A jury has begun deliberating the trial of 37‑year‑old Laura Kenna, who is charged with attempting to murder civil servant Fionnuala Burke and assault causing serious harm. The incident occurred on 3 January 2017 on Lower Drumcondra Road when Kenna, who has no fixed abode, approached Burke, pushed her onto grass, and stabbed her, slashing her neck. Kenna pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to both counts. The jury's main task is to assess Kenna's state of mind at the time of the attack. Defence psychiatrist Dr Stephen Monks testified that Kenna suffered a mental disorder, while State psychiatrist Professor Harry Kennedy disagreed, stating she was not delusional and acted out of anger and entitlement. The jury will resume deliberations tomorrow morning, with Justice Tara Burns warning them not to discuss the case with anyone in the meantime.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jury deliberating in attempted murder trial of woman who slashed civil servant's neck. Charges or matters: attempting to murder Fionnuala Burke on Lower Drumcondra Road in the city on January 3, 2017, and of assault causing serious harm to her on the same occasion. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• January 3, 2017 Incident
• 2019-03-04 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report