Courts / Louth / Report
Defence continue closing speech in trial of prominent republican
Summary
The Special Criminal Court has heard the defence closing speech in the trial of Thomas Murphy, 66, of Ballybinaby, Co Louth. The defendant, a prominent republican, has pleaded not guilty to nine charges alleging that he failed to furnish a return of his income, profits or gains to the Collector General or the Inspector of Taxes for the years 1996/97 to 2004. Prosecutors, acting on a Criminal Assets Bureau investigation, allege that despite conducting significant cattle and land dealings and receiving farming grants, Murphy made no returns to revenue. Defence counsel John Kearney QC argued that Murphy's brother, Patrick, managed the farming activities and controlled the relevant bank accounts. Kearney contended that the prosecution cannot prove Murphy personally attended livestock marts or meat factories, nor that he was the chargeable person in charge of the farm. He further submitted that the forensic accountant's evidence was discredited by unanalysed materials, including Patrick Murphy's bank account. The defence requested the court to find reasonable doubt regarding the viability of the prosecution's evidence. The matter is currently at the pre-trial stage, with the closing speech expected to conclude the following day.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Defence continue closing speech in trial of prominent republican. 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:
- 2015-12-08 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
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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