Courts / Dublin / Report

Lab environment placed murder accused's jacket at "high risk of contamination", jury hears

Date
2015-03-26

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

In a 2015 murder trial, a chartered scientist testified that a jacket belonging to the accused, Mark Nash, and blood‑stained clothing found at the crime scene were examined in the same laboratory room six weeks apart, creating a high risk of contamination. Dr. Denise Syndercombe Court, who had visited Forensic Science Ireland in 2011, initially reported no risk of cross‑contamination, stating the items were examined in different rooms. After the prosecution highlighted an error, she amended her report to acknowledge the risk and noted DNA from several individuals on the jacket, suggesting possible contamination. She explained that debris in the lab could have transferred to the jacket during examination. The trial continues with these findings presented to the jury. Mark Nash pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Lab environment placed murder accused's jacket at "high risk of contamination", jury hears. Charges or matters: the murder of Sylvia Shields (60) and Mary Callanan (61) between March 6 and March 7, 1997. Procedural stage: trial

When:

March 6 Hearing Or Sentence
March 7, 1997 Hearing Or Sentence
October 19 Hearing Or Sentence
2015-03-26 Publication

Why: Mr Hartnett later put it to Dr Syndercombe Court that it was suggested by prosecution witnesses that because there was a gap of six weeks in relation to the examining of a jacket belonging to the accused and heavily blood stained clothing and bedding found at the scene, the risk of contamination was very low? Prosecution account reported by CNI