Courts / Dublin / Report
Melanie McCarthy McNamara murderer brings court challenge over prison conditions
Summary
Daniel McDonnell, who was found guilty by a jury at the Central Criminal Court of murdering Melanie McCarthy McNamara (16) and sentenced to a mandatory life term by Mr Justice Paul Carney, has brought a High Court challenge against his prison conditions. Represented by Bernard Condon SC, McDonnell argues that his 23-hour daily lock-up regime at Wheatfield Prison is disproportionate and violates his constitutional and European Convention on Human Rights. He claims he is denied access to structured activities and adequate exercise, with only one hour outside his cell daily. Opposing counsel, Seamus Woulfe SC, stated that the isolation is necessary for McDonnell's safety due to threats from other prisoners, and proposed allowing him gym access three days a week. Following submissions, Mr Justice Brian Cregan reserved judgment, indicating a decision would be issued early the following week. Separately, Keith Hall, of Kilmartin Drive, Tallaght, was sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to Ms McCarthy McNamara's manslaughter, while denying her murder. The court proceedings regarding McDonnell's challenge remain pending, with the matter adjourned for the judge's decision.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Melanie McCarthy McNamara murderer brings court challenge over prison conditions. Charges or matters: murdering Ms McCarthy McNamara (16) by a jury at the Central Criminal Court; Ms McCarthy McNamara's manslaughter, but not guilty of her murder. Procedural stage: sentence. Findings: Found guilty
When:
- February 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
- January 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
- February 2012 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2015-02-09 Publication
Case subjects
Applicant
Charges: murdering Ms McCarthy McNamara (16) by a jury at the Central Criminal Court (Proven)
Finding: Found guilty
Outcome: Found guilty; Following the verdict Mr Justice Paul Carney imposed the mandatory life sentence on McDonnell, who had denied the charge.; Following the conclusion of submissions from both sides Mr Justice Brian Cregan reserved judgment.
Convicted Person
Charges: Ms McCarthy McNamara's manslaughter, but not guilty of her murder (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Keith Hall, of Kilmartin Drive, Tallaght, was sentenced to 20 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to Ms McCarthy McNamara's manslaughter, but not guilty of her murder.
Applicant
Charges: murdering Ms McCarthy McNamara (16) by a jury at the Central Criminal Court (Proven)
Finding: Found guilty
Outcome: Found guilty; Following the conclusion of submissions from both sides Mr Justice Brian Cregan reserved judgment.
Places mentioned
- High Court
- Central Criminal Court
- Wheatfield Prison
- Dublin's Wheatfield Prison
- Tallaght
- Kilmartin Drive
Topics
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