Courts / Dublin / Report

Accused brought to A&E after saying "he had to kill" stepdad, trial hears

Date
2019-05-30
Stage
Finding
Primary locality
Lucan
County
Dublin

Summary

In a Dublin murder trial, Adam Nolan, aged 21, pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity for stabbing Bryan Cassidy, 52, to death on 7 February 2018. The prosecution argued that Nolan, who had previously been taken to A&E after claiming he had to kill his stepfather, was diagnosed with drug‑induced psychosis and later schizophrenia. Nolan had a history of illicit drug use, including cannabis from age 15, and had been treated for drug misuse. He was found at the scene, covered in blood, and behaved erratically, claiming voices told him to kill the deceased. A forensic psychiatrist testified that Nolan was genetically vulnerable to schizophrenia and that his delusions prevented him from understanding the wrongfulness of his act. The case is before Justice Eileen Creedon and a jury of twelve.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Accused brought to A&E after saying "he had to kill" stepdad, trial hears. Charges or matters: murder; murdering Bryan Cassidy (52) on February 7, 2018 at the same address. Procedural stage: finding. Findings: Not guilty by reason of insanity

When:

Why: Mr Gillane explained that both men were in the Nolan family home on the evening in question, while the accused man's mother was babysitting elsewhere. CNI source report

Case subjects

Adam Nolan

Accused

Charges: murdering Bryan Cassidy (52) on February 7, 2018 at the same address; murder (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty

Finding: Not guilty by reason of insanity

Outcome: Not guilty by reason of insanity

Bryan Cassidy

Defendant

Charges: murder (Alleged Or Contested)

Places mentioned

Secondary Mention
Court Venue
  • Central Criminal Court
Garda Station
  • took him to the garda station
Facility
  • Central Mental Hospital

Topics

Drugs Stage Finding Violent Crime

Related court reports

Read the original CNI report

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