Courts / Westmeath / Report

Jury deliberating in trial of retired army private accused of murdering prostitute

Date
2015-07-29

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Athlone

Summary

The jury in the trial of retired army private Jimmy Devaney, aged 67, is set to resume deliberations after an hour and fifteen minutes of discussion. Devaney, who pleaded not guilty, is accused of murdering prostitute Marie Greene on 13 February 2011 in Westmeath. Greene was last seen alive that evening and her body was found nine days later in Anagorta Bog. The State alleges Devaney killed Greene after she blackmailed him for money and threatened to inform his wife. Devaney claims he met Greene at Anagorta Bog, that she threatened to involve her brothers, and that he stabbed her in a struggle, losing control. He also says he had given her up to €40,000 over six months. Evidence includes a videolink testimony from Devaney's brother‑in‑law, Peter Boardman, who supplied knives used in his butcher trade. Judge Margaret Heneghan explained that provocation could reduce murder to manslaughter if the jury believes Devaney was provoked.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jury deliberating in trial of retired army private accused of murdering prostitute. Charges or matters: murdering Marie Greene in Westmeath on February 13, 2011. Procedural stage: trial

When:

February 13, 2011 Hearing Or Sentence
February 21 Other
2015-07-29 Publication

Why: It is the State's case that Mr Devaney murdered Marie Greene because she had been blackmailing him for money or she would tell his wife. CNI source report