Courts / Mayo / Report
Garda murder accused said mental health declined during Covid restrictions
Summary
Stephen Silver, a 46-year-old motorbike mechanic from Aughavard, Foxford, County Mayo, stands trial at the Central Criminal Court on a charge of capital murder in connection with the death of Garda Colm Horkan at Castlerea, County Roscommon on 17 June 2020. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. During proceedings, psychiatric evidence was presented regarding Mr Silver's mental state at the time of arrest. Dr William Monteiro told the court that Mr Silver refused psychiatric assessment but displayed no evidence of active mental illness when observed, appearing lucid and capable of engagement. Dr Greg Kelly, a general practitioner from Castlerea, testified that Mr Silver had disclosed his mental health declined during Covid restrictions and that he had been living in a shed. Dr Kelly noted Mr Silver's demeanour appeared inappropriate for his circumstances and that psychiatric care had diminished due to Covid-related service restrictions. The trial, before Ms Justice Tara Burns, continues.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Garda murder accused said mental health declined during Covid restrictions. Charges or matters: the capital murder of Garda Colm Horkan (49) knowing or being reckless as to whether he was a member of An Garda Siochana acting in accordance with his duty at Castlerea, Co Roscommon on June 17, 2020; manslaughter. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- June 17, 2020 Other
- June 18, 2020 Hearing Or Sentence
- June 18 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2023-02-10 Publication
Why: Dr Greg Kelly agreed with Mr Silver's defence lawyers that psychiatric services were restricted because of Covid and that one of the most important aspects of psychiatric care is having face to face care. Defence account reported by CNI
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: the capital murder of Garda Colm Horkan (49) knowing or being reckless as to whether he was a member of An Garda Siochana acting in accordance with his duty at Castlerea, Co Roscommon on June 17, 2020; manslaughter (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
Topics
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