Courts / Cork / Report

DNA in cold case murder trial had to be sent to UK for analysis

Date
2023-07-20

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Cork

County
Cork

Summary

In a cold‑case murder trial, the prosecution explained that DNA material recovered from the body of 54‑year‑old Nora Sheehan, who was killed in 1981, had to be sent to the UK in 2008 because Ireland lacked the technology to interpret low amounts of DNA at that time. The material, a vaginal swab taken from Sheehan's body, was sent to Dr Jonathan Whitaker of Forensic Science Services in the UK, who generated a DNA profile. The profile was later matched to DNA recovered from the accused, Noel Long (74), who has pleaded not guilty. The trial, held before Mr Justice Paul McDermott, continues with a jury of seven men and four women, and the State's case is expected to conclude tomorrow. The proceedings remain at the evidential stage, with no verdict yet announced.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: DNA in cold case murder trial had to be sent to UK for analysis. Charges or matters: murdering 54-year-old Nora Sheehan between June 6 and June 12, 1981 at an unknown place within the State. Procedural stage: trial

When: