Courts / Dublin / Report

Judge tells Graham Dwyer trial jury: "If you think suicide is a reasonably possible hypothesis, you acquit"

Date
2015-03-25

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Rathfarnham

County
Dublin

Summary

In the Graham Dwyer murder trial, the jury resumed deliberations after Judge Tony Hunt clarified that only two verdicts were available: guilty or not guilty of murder. The judge emphasized the importance of considering suicide as a possible hypothesis; if the jury believes suicide is reasonably possible, they must acquit. He reviewed evidence, including psychiatric testimony on Ms O'Hara's mental health, forensic findings, and text messages suggesting threat. The prosecution argued Dwyer stabbed Ms O'Hara, citing a "Killing Darci" document and threatening texts. The defense focused on suicide and alleged innocence. Judge Hunt instructed the jury to base their decision solely on the evidence and reasonable inference, without considering intermediate verdicts. The jury spent 1 hour 28 minutes deliberating before resuming the next day. The case involved Ms O'Hara's disappearance on 22 August 2012 and her skeletal remains found in Killakee in September 2013.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Judge tells Graham Dwyer trial jury: "If you think suicide is a reasonably possible hypothesis, you acquit". Charges or matters: murdering Dubliner Elaine O'Hara. Procedural stage: trial

When: