Courts / Cork / Report

Man accused of murdering grandmother found in burning car is refused bail

Summary

Michael Leonard, 63, of Hillcrest, Glenosheen, Kilmallock, Co Limerick, was denied bail by the High Court after being accused of murdering 72‑year‑old Mary O'Keeffe in Doneraile, Co Cork, on 4 February 2021. Leonard appeared at the hearing by video‑link. Detective Sergeant James O'Shea, of Fermoy Garda Station, argued that the evidence was strong, the charge serious, and that Leonard might interfere with witnesses. He described the scene where a burning vehicle was found at 2.20 pm on 4 February, containing Ms O'Keeffe's body. Leonard's defence, led by Mr Marc Thompson Grolimund BL, highlighted his client's 41‑year work record with Coillte and his recent retirement, and offered a €10,000 bond and a vacant property address for bail if granted. Mr Leonard pledged not to approach witnesses. Judge Robert Eager cited the "appalling" death and the seriousness of the murder charge in denying bail.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Man accused of murdering grandmother found in burning car is refused bail. Procedural stage: charge_or_pretrial

When:

• February 4 Hearing Or Sentence
• February 4, 2021 Other
• February 5 Other
• 2021-05-06 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Charge Or Pretrial Violent Crime

Related court reports

• Fund seeks orders requiring alleged trespassers to vacate Kerry home
• 'Emotionally manipulative man' burned woman alive after becoming 'obsessed'
• Man admits murdering grandmother (72) whose body was found in burning car

Read the original CNI report