Courts / Galway / Report

Michael Scott murder trial jury told it's 'nowhere near' majority verdict stage

Summary

The jury in the Michael Scott murder trial was told by Justice Caroline Biggs that it is too early to return a majority verdict and that a unanimous verdict is required at this stage. She explained that a majority verdict could be considered later, after a number of days, but the case is not yet at that point. Justice Biggs outlined the legal principles, noting that the accused enjoys the presumption of innocence and the prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. She stated that there is no doubt Mr Scott caused his aunt's death, but for a murder verdict the jury must be satisfied beyond a reasonable doubt that he intended to kill or cause serious injury. If the jury has reasonable doubt about intent, they must acquit of murder and consider manslaughter, which requires proof that Mr Scott was driving in a grossly negligent manner. Michael Scott pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Michael Scott murder trial jury told it's 'nowhere near' majority verdict stage. Charges or matters: murdering his aunt Christina 'Chrissie' Treacy Treacy outside her home in Derryhiney, Portumna, Co Galway on April 27, 2018. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• April 27, 2018 Hearing Or Sentence
• Christmas 2017 Other
• 2023-03-27 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report