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Accused who "smashed man's head in with crowbar" meets insanity criteria, psychiatrist says

Summary

Richard McLaughlin, 32, is accused of murdering Jimmy 'James' Loughlin (20) at Connolly Street, Sligo, on February 24, 2018. McLaughlin pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. The Central Criminal Court heard evidence that McLaughlin admitted attacking the deceased with a crowbar, causing fatal traumatic head injuries. Gardaí testified that McLaughlin claimed he acted on delusions that Loughlin was raping someone known to him, despite no prior connection between the men. A consultant forensic psychiatrist, Dr. Anthony Kearns, testified that McLaughlin suffers from schizophrenia and was unable to appreciate the wrongfulness of his actions or refrain from committing them at the time. Dr. Kearns stated that McLaughlin fulfils the criteria for a special verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. The court noted McLaughlin's history of mental health issues, including previous admissions to St Columba's Hospital and poor medication compliance. The trial continues before Justice Carmel Stewart and a jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Accused who "smashed man's head in with crowbar" meets insanity criteria, psychiatrist says. Charges or matters: murdering Jimmy 'James' Loughlin (20) at Connolly Street in the city on February 24, 2018. Procedural stage: finding. Findings: Not guilty by reason of insanity

When:

• February 2018 Hearing Or Sentence
• February 24, 2018 Other
• February 24 Incident
• December 2012 Other
• April 2015 Incident
• June 2015 Incident
• 2019-07-08 Publication

Why: "They did not know each other and had never met," confirmed Gda Gallagher, adding that there was no evidence behind the motive other than what had been outlined by Mc McLaughlin. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

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Stage Finding

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Read the original CNI report