Courts / Mayo / Report

'Highly unlikely' that murder accused husband was intoxicated from cannabis, jury told

Date
2024-07-23

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Westport

County
Mayo

Summary

At the Central Criminal Court, two toxicologists have given evidence that it is "highly unlikely" a man accused of murdering his wife was intoxicated from cannabis at the time of the alleged killing. James Kilroy, aged 51, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the murder of his wife at their home in Kilbree Lower, Westport, County Mayo, between 13th and 14th June 2019. Dr Johann Grundlingh, called by the defence, based his assessment on blood and urine tests taken after Mr Kilroy's arrest, both of which were negative for THC. He noted the symptoms described by Mr Kilroy—including hallucinations and delusions—were inconsistent with cannabis intoxication or withdrawal. Dr Atholl Johnston, called by the prosecution, concurred with these findings. The trial has heard conflicting psychiatric evidence regarding Mr Kilroy's mental state at the time. Mr Justice Tony Hunt adjourned proceedings, describing the expert evidence as complex, before the jury returns to hear closing speeches on Thursday.