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Murder accused husband displayed 'ultimate in toxic masculinity', prosecution tell jury
Summary
In a Dublin murder trial, prosecution counsel Shane Costelloe SC argued that Renato Gehlen, a 39‑year‑old Brazilian, stabbed his 37‑year‑old French wife Anne Colomines to death on 25 October 2017 to end their marriage. Costelloe described the act as "the ultimate in toxic masculinity," claiming Gehlen lost control and could not handle the marriage's end. He cited evidence of four stab wounds, a 22‑centimetre throat wound, and six defensive injuries, concluding it was highly unlikely the wounds were self‑inflicted. Costelloe also highlighted Gehlen's Facebook activity, including a message expressing a desire to stab, as evidence of intent. He urged the jury to find Gehlen guilty of murder, emphasizing that a man cannot kill his wife simply because she is unfaithful. The defense maintained that the wounds could have been self‑inflicted and called for an acquittal. The jury was instructed to deliberate on the case. Renato Gehlen pleaded not guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Murder accused husband displayed 'ultimate in toxic masculinity', prosecution tell jury. Charges or matters: murdering his wife Ms Colomines (37), a French national who worked for Paypal, at their home in Dorset Square, Gardiner Street upper, Dublin 1 on October 25, 2017. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- October 25, 2017 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2021-09-27 Publication
Why: He told gardai that he then tried to kill himself because Ms Colomines was his family. CNI source report
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: murdering his wife Ms Colomines (37), a French national who worked for Paypal, at their home in Dorset Square, Gardiner Street upper, Dublin 1 on October 25, 2017 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
Topics
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