Courts / Dublin / Report

Judge charges murder trial jury on issue on self defence

Date
2023-07-19

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

In a Dublin murder trial, Judge Mary Ellen Ring instructed a jury that Andrew Lacey, 35, could be found not guilty if he used reasonable force in self‑defence after being attacked by Derek Reddin, 31, with a baseball bat. The judge explained that if Lacey used more force than necessary, the jury must decide whether he honestly believed it was required; if so, manslaughter could result, otherwise murder. Lacey claimed he stabbed Reddin in a scuffle, unaware of the fatal wound, while the prosecution alleged excessive force. The judge noted that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Lacey's force was unnecessary and that he did not honestly believe it was needed. The jury was also told to consider Lacey's intoxication, the threat's imminence, and the possibility of retreat. The judge's charge was to be delivered the following day.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Judge charges murder trial jury on issue on self defence. Charges or matters: the murder of Derek Reddin (31) at Loughlinstown Drive on a date unknown between October 14 and October 15, 2019, both dates inclusive. Procedural stage: trial

When:

October 14 Hearing Or Sentence
October 15, 2019 Hearing Or Sentence
2023-07-19 Publication

Why: The judge explained that Mr Lacey does not have to prove self-defence; the prosecution must disprove self-defence. Prosecution account reported by CNI

Case subjects

Andrew Lacey

Defendant

Charges: the murder of Derek Reddin (31) at Loughlinstown Drive on a date unknown between October 14 and October 15, 2019, both dates inclusive (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty