Courts / Dublin / Report

Jail time for next tweeter who publishes anything said in jury's absence, judge in Dwyer trial warns

Date
2015-03-05
Stage
Trial
Primary locality
Rathfarnham
County
Dublin

Summary

In the Graham Dwyer murder trial, Judge Tony Hunt warned the public not to tweet any statements made while the jury was absent, citing restrictions on reporting such discussions until the trial concludes. He noted that a recent tweet by a member of the public had breached these rules, and, though the tweeter was unaware of the regulations, the judge cautioned that a repeat offence could result in jail for contempt. The warning was delivered in the absence of the jury, but both prosecution and defence consented to its reporting. Mr Dwyer, 42, is on trial at the Central Criminal Court for the murder of 36‑year‑old childcare worker Elaine O'Hara, who was last seen in Shanganagh, South Dublin, on 22 August 2012 and whose skeletal remains were found at Killakee on 13 September 2013. The State alleges Dwyer stabbed her for sexual gratification. The trial proceeds before a jury of five women and seven men.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jail time for next tweeter who publishes anything said in jury's absence, judge in Dwyer trial warns. Procedural stage: trial

When:

Why: He explained that such discussions could not be reported until a trial was over and for a good reason. CNI source report

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • Central Criminal Court
Secondary Mention

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

Related court reports

Read the original CNI report

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