Courts / Dublin / Report

Forensic scientist tells murder trial jury there are "numerous ways" DNA could have been deposited on jacket belonging to accused

Date
2015-03-27

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

During a murder trial in Dublin, forensic scientist Dr Philip Avenell testified that DNA could have been deposited on a jacket belonging to accused Mark Nash in numerous ways. Avenell, who had reviewed the case files and examined the jacket in 2015, explained that the jacket and other heavily blood‑stained items were processed at Forensic Science Ireland in 1997–1998, a period when formal cleaning documentation was not yet established. He noted that the lab's cleaning procedures at the time were different from modern standards and that the absence of records made it difficult to assess potential contamination. Avenell stated he could not determine whether the DNA was deposited shortly after the murders or later when the jacket was seized, and he refrained from speculating on the exact mechanism of contamination. The state counsel will continue cross‑examination of Dr Avenell on Monday. Mark Nash pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Forensic scientist tells murder trial jury there are "numerous ways" DNA could have been deposited on jacket belonging to accused. Charges or matters: the murder of Sylvia Shields (60) and Mary Callanan (61) between March 6 and March 7, 1997. Procedural stage: trial

When: