Courts / Dublin / Report

Jury begin deliberating in Melanie McNamara murder trial

Summary

A jury has begun deliberating the trial of 19‑year‑old Daniel McDonnell, charged with murdering 16‑year‑old Melanie McCarthy McNamara on 8 February 2012. McDonnell's barrister argued that the only evidence against him was two letters he wrote while in prison, described as "rants to his friend and girlfriend." One letter contained violent language, including "Close‑range head shots… Two in the head. The bitch is dead," and references to a loaded 12‑gauge. The other letter suggested a motive tied to a car incident. McDonnell pleaded not guilty. Defending counsel Patrick Marrinan SC noted the absence of any role for McDonnell in the murder, the lack of forensic evidence such as fingerprints on the vehicle or gun, and the lack of corroboration for the letters. He warned of the dangers of relying on uncorroborated confessions, citing cases where Irish men had falsely confessed.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jury begin deliberating in Melanie McNamara murder trial. Charges or matters: murdering 16-year-old Melanie on February 8th 2012 at nearby Brookview Way. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• February 8th 2012 Incident
• 2014-01-23 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report