Courts / Dublin / Report

Former journalist found not guilty of murdering flatmate is committed to CMH

Date
2019-05-21

Stage
Finding

Primary locality
Rathfarnham

County
Dublin

Summary

A 46‑year‑old former journalist from Sierra Leone, Mercy Peters, was found not guilty by reason of insanity after pleading guilty by reason of insanity for the murder of her 42‑year‑old flatmate, Tyrone McKenna, on 17 July 2014 in Marlay Court, Rathfarnham. The trial, held at the Central Criminal Court, noted that both Peters and McKenna had histories of mental health problems and had first met in a psychiatric ward in 2010. Peters claimed voices in her head compelled her to stab McKenna, and she was described as erratic and speaking of spirits during court appearances. Expert testimony from psychiatrists confirmed Peters suffered from schizophrenia and a severe episode at the time of the offence, meeting the criteria for a special verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. Following a unanimous jury verdict, Mr Justice White committed Peters to the Central Mental Hospital for further assessment and treatment.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Former journalist found not guilty of murdering flatmate is committed to CMH. Procedural stage: finding. Findings: Not guilty by reason of insanity

When:

July 17, 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
2019-05-21 Publication

Why: Mr Burns explained that he was there on behalf of the prosecution, but not to get a conviction at any cost. Prosecution account reported by CNI