Courts / Galway / Report

Murder trial adjourned after farmer's counsel nominated to become judge

Summary

The murder trial of farmer Michael Scott, accused of killing his aunt Christina Treacy in 2018, was adjourned for two weeks after his senior defence counsel, Mícheál P O'Higgins SC, was nominated to the High Court. Justice Caroline Biggs informed the jury that Scott had lost his lead counsel and would need time to appoint a replacement and review the case files. The jury agreed to remain available until May 31 and to return after the Easter break if the trial extends beyond the expected timeframe. The trial, which began last week, was expected to last more than two months and involved a 15‑person jury of seven men and eight women. It will resume on February 7, with the jury required to attend again on February 9. Michael Scott, aged 58, has pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder trial adjourned after farmer's counsel nominated to become judge. Charges or matters: the murder of his aunt Christina 'Chrissie' Treacy outside her home in Derryhiney, Portumna on April 27, 2018. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• May 31 Hearing Or Sentence
• February 7 Hearing Or Sentence
• February 9 Hearing Or Sentence
• April 27, 2018 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2023-01-25 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

Related court reports

• 12.5 years for man who repeatedly raped and abused 'innocent and vulnerable' partner's niece
• 'Thuggish' farmer who drove over elderly aunt with teleporter has manslaughter sentence cut
• Killer Farmer who drove over aunt appeals six-year sentence
• 'No compassion': Killer Farmer who drove over aunt jailed for six years
• Farmer who subjected aunt to 'mental torture' before manslaughter spends first night in prison
• Farmer who ran over vulnerable aunt (76) during land dispute is cleared of murder by jury

Read the original CNI report