Courts / Meath / Report

Jury deliberating in trial of man who has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder by reason of insanity

Date
2015-01-27
Stage
Trial
Primary locality
Clonee
County
Meath

Summary

The jury has begun deliberating in the trial of Lateef Bello, a 42‑year‑old Dublin man from Clonee, who has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to attempted murder of Adejoke Opesusi, burglary, criminal damage, endangerment and assault causing harm. The prosecution, represented by Paul O'Higgins SC, presented evidence that Bello, a former taxi driver, believed his wife was having an affair and that he was hearing voices and experiencing religious delusions. He allegedly broke into Mr. Oroleye's house, smashed property, drove his car at Mr. Carrick, and then approached Mrs. Opesusi at Littleplace Close, stabbing and choking her. The defence, led by Michael Bowman SC, described Bello's behaviour on 19 February 2012 as terrifying and mentally unwell, citing a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia and a two‑month stay at Central Medical Hospital. Mr. Justice Paul McDermott instructed the jury of seven men and five women to return a unanimous decision.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jury deliberating in trial of man who has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder by reason of insanity. Charges or matters: the attempted murder of Adejoke Opesusi at Littleplace, in Clonee, by reason of insanity more than two years ago. Procedural stage: trial

When:

Case subjects

Lateef Bello

Defendant

Charges: the attempted murder of Adejoke Opesusi at Littleplace, in Clonee, by reason of insanity more than two years ago (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty

Places mentioned

Secondary Mention
Court Venue
  • Central Criminal Court
Facility
  • Mr Oroleye's house
  • Central Medical Hospital

Topics

Burglary Stage Trial Violent Crime

Related court reports

Read the original CNI report

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