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Murder accused's account of sexual attack by partner 'an outrageous lie', prosecution tell jury

Summary

In a Central Criminal Court hearing, prosecution counsel Gerard Clarke SC argued that Paula Farrell, 47, intended to cause serious injury when she stabbed her partner Wayne McQuillan, 30, four times with the largest knife from a block. Clarke said the prosecution need not prove intent to kill, only to cause serious injury, and that Farrell's claim of a sexual assault that night was an "outrageous lie." He noted Farrell's history of childhood sexual abuse, PTSD, and alcohol dependence, but said these were used to create sympathy rather than explain the killing. Defence counsel Caroline Biggs SC contended that Farrell, classified as borderline intellectually disabled, may have been provoked and therefore guilty of manslaughter. The jury was instructed to consider provocation and Farrell's mental state when deciding between murder and manslaughter. The case remains at the jury stage. Paula Farrell pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused's account of sexual attack by partner 'an outrageous lie', prosecution tell jury. Charges or matters: murder but guilty to manslaughter for the unlawful killing of Wayne 'Quilly' McQuillan (30) at Ms Farrell's home on New Year's Day 2014. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• New Year's Day 2014 Other
• 2020-03-25 Publication

Why: "This was because there are no connections. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report