Courts / Dublin / Report

Murder accused an 'innocent man who used reasonable force to defend himself', jury told

Date
2022-06-08

Stage
Finding

Primary locality
Dublin City

County
Dublin

Summary

George Gonzaga Bento, a 36-year-old Brazilian national from East Wall, Dublin 3, was acquitted by the Central Criminal Court of murdering 16-year-old Josh Dunne. The defendant, a delivery cyclist, had pleaded not guilty to four counts, including murder, producing a knife to intimidate, and assault causing harm to two other young men. The incident occurred on January 26, 2021, at East Wall Road, following a confrontation over a stolen bicycle. Defence counsel argued that Bento used reasonable force to defend himself and his friend from a violent group assault, while the prosecution alleged he exaggerated the threat and used lethal force against Dunne, who was merely reacting to protect his friend. The jury accepted the defence's position, resulting in a full acquittal on all charges. This finding concludes the criminal proceedings against Bento, who was found not guilty of the serious allegations brought by the state.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused an 'innocent man who used reasonable force to defend himself', jury told. Procedural stage: finding. Findings: Acquitted

When:

January 26, 2021 Incident
2022-06-08 Publication

Why: Counsel said that Mr Bento tried to prevent a crime from being committed and added: "It is a mistake that Irish people would not make because we know the consequences of trying to stop a crime in this city; that you become a victim of crime yourself. CNI source report