Courts / Mayo / Report
"Accomplished boxer" to be sentenced next month for manslaughter of girlfriend
Summary
Ray Gralton, aged 23, of Mount Prospect, Roscommon, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Sara Staunton at the Central Criminal Court on March 23rd, 2015. Ms Staunton, aged 28, died at her home in Portagh, Mayo Abbey, Claremorris on December 13th, 2013. The court heard evidence that the couple had been in a turbulent relationship lasting twelve months, characterised by domestic violence and alcohol abuse. On the night in question, a violent altercation occurred involving multiple physical confrontations. A post-mortem examination determined Ms Staunton died from severe blunt force trauma to the head. Detective evidence indicated beer cans struck to her head were the likely cause of death. Victim impact statements from Ms Staunton's mother and former partner detailed the profound effect on her two children. Mr Justice Paul Carney remanded Gralton in custody pending sentencing scheduled for April 13th, 2015.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: "Accomplished boxer" to be sentenced next month for manslaughter of girlfriend. Charges or matters: the murder of 28-year-old Sara Staunton at her home at Portagh, Mayo Abbey, Claremorris in Co; manslaughter in advance of the trial and the plea was accepted by the DPP. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- December 13, 2013 Hearing Or Sentence
- December 14, 2013 Hearing Or Sentence
- December 15 Other
- April 13 2015 Adjournment
- 2015-03-23 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: the murder of 28-year-old Sara Staunton at her home at Portagh, Mayo Abbey, Claremorris in Co; manslaughter in advance of the trial and the plea was accepted by the DPP (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Mr Justice Paul Carney remanded Gralton in custody until April 13 2015, when he will be sentenced.; Mr Justice Paul Carney remanded Gralton in custody until April 13 2015, when he will be sentenced.
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