Courts / Dublin / Report

Amanda Carroll murder trial jury ask judge if intoxication can negate intent

Date
2020-10-23

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

In the trial of Sean Nolan, 36, for the murder of his partner Amanda Carroll, 33, a jury asked the judge whether intoxication could negate intent. Defence counsel argued Nolan was too drunk to form intent, seeking a manslaughter verdict. The judge explained that voluntary intoxication can reduce murder to manslaughter if the prosecution fails to prove intent to kill or cause serious injury. He also clarified that "serious injury" is a matter of judgement. Nolan had been involved in a road collision earlier that day, fled the scene, and was later arrested after the body was found. The jury will return to decide between a murder or manslaughter verdict. The case is heard at Homestead Court, Quarry Road, Cabra. The judge emphasized that the jury must remain unanimous. The prosecution maintains that Nolan intended to kill when he strangled Carroll for 20 seconds. The trial continues. Sean Nolan pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Amanda Carroll murder trial jury ask judge if intoxication can negate intent. Charges or matters: murder but guilty to the manslaughter of Ms Carroll (33) at Homestead Court, Quarry Road, Cabra, Dublin 7 on October 21, 2018. Procedural stage: trial

When:

October 21, 2018 Hearing Or Sentence
2020-10-23 Publication

Case subjects

Sean Nolan

Accused

Charges: murder but guilty to the manslaughter of Ms Carroll (33) at Homestead Court, Quarry Road, Cabra, Dublin 7 on October 21, 2018 (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty