Courts / Louth / Report

Woman accused of murdering her partner wasn't impaired by mental disorder, psychiatrist tells trial

Date
2015-07-13

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Louth

County
Louth

Summary

In the Central Criminal Court, a 42‑year‑old Louth woman, Paula Farrell, was charged with murdering her partner, Wayne McQuillan, on 1 January 2014. She pleaded not guilty. During the trial, a consultant forensic psychiatrist, Dr Sally Linehan, testified that Farrell had the capacity to form intent and was not impaired by her mental disorder on the night of the offence. Dr Linehan stated that Farrell had post‑traumatic stress disorder but that her intoxication with alcohol—she had consumed 12 cans of Bulmers—was the overriding factor. She also confirmed that Farrell understood the nature of the act and that her mental disorder did not diminish her responsibility. The court heard that the next stage would involve counsel's speeches, with the judge's charge scheduled for Wednesday. The trial continues.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Woman accused of murdering her partner wasn't impaired by mental disorder, psychiatrist tells trial. Charges or matters: murdering Wayne McQuillan (30) at her home on January 1, 2014; murdering Mr McQuillan. Procedural stage: trial

When: