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Jury told they must decide if common design is feature in trial of man accused of murdering his neighbour

Summary

The trial of Anothony Locke, 38, is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court, where he has pleaded not guilty to the alleged murder of his neighbour, Christopher Jackson, 53. The prosecution alleges that Mr Jackson was killed at his apartment on Prussia Street between September 6th and 7th, 2012. Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy has instructed the jury that they must determine whether the offence was committed through common design, noting that it is not alleged that Mr Locke performed the physical act of killing. The judge explained that common design involves an intention to kill or cause serious injury, which can be formed spontaneously and may be tacit or active. He illustrated this legal concept using examples of accomplices in bank robberies or police obstructions. Mr Justice McCarthy further indicated that he would provide a direction regarding a possible alternative verdict for another offence once the evidence summary is complete. The matter is currently at the trial stage, with the judge's charge proceeding before a jury of six men and six women. No final verdict, sentence, or disposal has been recorded, and the proceedings continue.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jury told they must decide if common design is feature in trial of man accused of murdering his neighbour. Charges or matters: the murder of Mr Jackson (53) at his apartment on Prussia Street, between September 6th and 7th, 2012. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• September 6th Other
• 2015-11-16 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

Read the original CNI report