Courts / Louth / Report

Lisa Smith judges to admit expert's evidence on IS membership

Date
2022-03-11
Stage
Trial
Primary locality
Dundalk
County
Louth

Summary

In the Special Criminal Court, Mr Justice Tony Hunt decided to admit the evidence of Dr Florence Gaub, a social scientist and director at the European Union Institute for Security Studies, regarding Lisa Smith's alleged membership in the Islamic State. Dr Gaub argued that anyone who travelled to Syria in support of the Islamic State, including those who sent money, joined its territory, or carried out attacks, became a member of the terrorist group. She also claimed that such travellers received preferential treatment such as better housing, food, and internet access. Mr Justice Hunt noted that while the court would consider Dr Gaub's testimony, it would weigh it against the claim that her sources were limited. Lisa Smith, aged 40, from Dundalk, has pleaded not guilty to membership of an unlawful terrorist group between 28 October 2015 and 1 December 2019, and to financing terrorism by sending €800 in May 2015.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Lisa Smith judges to admit expert's evidence on IS membership. Procedural stage: trial

When:

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • The Special Criminal Court
Residence

Topics

Stage Trial

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