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Arguments against CCTV use in criminal trials 'lacking in reality', Court of Appeal finds in landmark ruling

Summary

In a landmark ruling, the Court of Appeal held that CCTV footage can be used as evidence in criminal trials, rejecting arguments that its use breaches constitutional and EU rights. Mr Justice John Edwards, in the case of Philip Dunbar, who murdered a homeless man with a disability by stabbing him 183 times, said that where such evidence exists, it would be a dereliction of duty if Gardaí did not access and use it. He noted that data protection laws allow CCTV processing when necessary and proportionate for preventing, detecting, investigating or prosecuting crime. The judge described the footage as highly relevant, obtained from private homes, businesses and public places such as footpaths, roads, a public park, a bus and a shopping centre. He dismissed the appeal, stating that the arguments were "lacking in reality" and that no rights were breached.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Arguments against CCTV use in criminal trials 'lacking in reality', Court of Appeal finds in landmark ruling. Charges or matters: murder. Procedural stage: appeal

When:

• June 22 Incident
• 2024-01-30 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Appeal

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Read the original CNI report