Courts / Louth / Report
"Strong evidence" that "Slab" Murphy did not sign documents signed in his name
Summary
The Special Criminal Court trial of Thomas Murphy, 66, of Ballybinaby, Hackballscross, Co Louth, has heard expert evidence regarding documents allegedly signed in his name. Murphy, who has pleaded not guilty to nine charges alleging he failed to furnish income returns to the Collector General or Inspector of Taxes for the years 1996/97 to 2004, is being prosecuted following a Criminal Assets Bureau investigation. The prosecution alleges that despite conducting significant cattle and land dealings and receiving farming grants, Murphy made no returns to revenue. Defence witness and handwriting expert Stephen Cosslett testified that his first report found "strong evidence" that Murphy did not sign a number of questioned documents. He further stated there was "conclusive evidence" that three documents from 2007 to 2009 were signed by Patrick Murphy, the accused's brother. Regarding a second report examining cheques, Cosslett noted "limited evidence" that Murphy did not sign the reverse of the cheques, though he acknowledged the examination circumstances were "not ideal" as a magnifying glass was used instead of a microscope. Under cross-examination, Cosslett agreed it was "more than likely" Murphy signed certain land rental declarations and EU Area Aid Applications from 1994 to 2004. The defence has closed its case, and closing speeches are expected to be heard tomorrow.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: "Strong evidence" that "Slab" Murphy did not sign documents signed in his name. Charges or matters: nine charges alleging that he failed to furnish a return of his income, profits or gains or the source of his income, profits or gains to the Collector General or the Inspector of Taxes for the years 1996/97 to 2004. Procedural stage: charge_or_pretrial
When:
- November 20th Hearing Or Sentence
- November 27th Hearing Or Sentence
- 2007 to 2009 Other
- 1994 and 1995 Other
- 1997 and 2004 Other
- 2015-12-01 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: nine charges alleging that he failed to furnish a return of his income, profits or gains or the source of his income, profits or gains to the Collector General or the Inspector of Taxes for the years 1996/97 to 2004 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Special Criminal Court
Topics
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