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Man jailed for murder of Shane Geoghegan claims gardaí induced him into making admissions
Summary
Barry Doyle, aged 29, was convicted of murdering rugby player Shane Geoghegan in 2008 and received a mandatory life sentence in 2012. Doyle now appeals his conviction to the Court of Appeal, arguing that Gardaí induced him to admit guilt during interviews. His counsel, Martin O'Rourke SC, contends that Doyle's admissions were obtained through non‑voluntary means, citing threats, psychological pressure, and the use of his child's mother, Victoria Gunnery, as a tool of intimidation. Doyle allegedly was told Gunnery was in custody away from their child, and that he could influence her release by confessing. O'Rourke claims Doyle was denied reasonable access to legal advice during the 14th and 15th Garda interviews, where he ultimately waived his right to silence. The Director of Public Prosecutions has not yet responded, and the appeal will be heard next week by the Court of Appeal judges. Barry Doyle pleaded not guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Man jailed for murder of Shane Geoghegan claims gardaí induced him into making admissions. Charges or matters: the murder of Mr Geogheghan in Limerick on Novemer 9, 2008. Procedural stage: appeal. Findings: Found guilty
When:
- February 16, 2012 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2015-02-04 Publication
Why: Counsel for Doyle, Martin O'Rourke SC, said the admissions should not have been used as evidence in the trial because they were obtained in a "non-voluntary" manner as a result of threats and inducements and psychological oppression by gardaí. CNI source report
Case subjects
Appellant
Charges: the murder of Mr Geogheghan in Limerick on Novemer 9, 2008 (Proven)
Plea: Not guilty
Finding: Found guilty
Outcome: Found guilty; He was found guilty by a jury at the Central Criminal Court and given the mandatory life sentence by Mr Justice Garrett Sheehan on February 16, 2012.
Appellant
Charges: the murder of Mr Geogheghan in Limerick on Novemer 9, 2008 (Alleged Or Contested)
Places mentioned
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