Courts / Laois / Report

Closing speeches in self defence murder trial

Summary

In the trial of 21‑year‑old Dean Kerrie, who was 17 when the incident occurred, the court heard closing speeches from both the prosecution and defence. Kerrie, of St Brigid's Square, Portarlington, denies murdering 25‑year‑old Jack Power, who was stabbed at Shanakiel, Dunmore East, on 26 July 2018. The defence argues that Kerrie acted in self‑defence after Power allegedly forced his way into the Kerrie home following a rock thrown at their window. Witness testimony includes a 999 call by Kerrie at 3.44 am, stating that Power entered the front door and tried to hit him, and that Kerrie stabbed him with a kitchen knife without intent to kill. Christopher Lee, a friend of Power, denies that Power forced entry and claims Kerrie deliberately killed him. The court heard that Power died from a 13 cm stab wound that penetrated his heart, causing massive blood loss. Dean Kerrie pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Closing speeches in self defence murder trial. Charges or matters: murdering 25-year-old Jack Power at Shanakiel, Dunmore East, Co Waterford, on July 26, 2018. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• July 26, 2018 Other
• July 26 Other
• 2022-07-11 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report