Courts / Dublin / Report
Christina Anderson's behaviour 'very severely impaired', psychologist tells trial
Summary
In the trial of Christina Anderson, 41, accused of murdering Gareth Kelly, 39, a jury heard that Anderson's behaviour immediately after the stabbing was "very severely impaired." Dr Harry Wood, a forensic psychologist, testified that a traumatic event can distort memory and that heightened emotional states, such as mania or psychosis, can alter how memories are formed. He explained that Anderson's actions appeared impaired and that her personality disorder is a psychological issue rather than a psychiatric one. Anderson had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. Dr Wood also revealed that Anderson had been ill, hearing voices, and paranoid before the incident, and that she later admitted she was delusional. The trial, presided over by Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, will continue with the jury's deliberation of Anderson's state of mind at the time of the offence. The prosecution maintains that Anderson killed Kelly, while the defence focuses on her mental condition. The case remains in progress.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Christina Anderson's behaviour 'very severely impaired', psychologist tells trial. Charges or matters: murdering Gareth Kelly (39), who died from stab wounds following an incident at the estate on the morning of February 25, 2020. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- February 25, 2020 Incident
- 2022-12-13 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: murdering Gareth Kelly (39), who died from stab wounds following an incident at the estate on the morning of February 25, 2020 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
Topics
Related court reports
- Man charged with having 56k child abuse images and videos remanded on bail
- Ex-Dáil hopeful's allegations against former employer 'complete fantasy', WRC told
- Mater must pay €10k to worker who said he was wrongly accused of abusing patient
- 'I think we know I won't be getting bail' - Daniel Kinahan charged with directing criminal organisation
- Letting agent who claimed alleged domestic violence victim abandoned tenancy by fleeing to refuge must pay €14.7k
- 77-year-old with 470 convictions told Luas staff to 'f**k off'
If a fact, identity, locality or legal outcome needs review, email the newsroom with this report's details prefilled.
Email a correction request