Courts / Kerry / Report

Witness told gardai that murder accused said he 'cut her with a knife', trial hears

Summary

During the Central Criminal Court hearing on 20 February 2025, Raul‑Cosmin Tache, the brother‑in‑law of Daniel Blanaru, gave evidence about statements he made to Gardaí on 12 and 16 August 2022. Tache confirmed that he had recorded Blanaru's claims that the accused had "beat her" and "cut her with a knife" and that he had been "desperate and crying" when he arrived at the house. Tache also stated that Blanaru said he had "beat up his wife" and was unsure whether he had killed her. Tache admitted he could not recall all the words spoken at the time, citing stress and panic, but acknowledged the statements were written down. The trial, presided over by Ms Justice Eileen Creedon, continues with an enlarged jury. Daniel Blanaru pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Witness told gardai that murder accused said he 'cut her with a knife', trial hears. Charges or matters: the murder of his partner Larisa Serban (26) at Rathmore, Co Meath on or about August 12, 2022. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• August 12, 2022 Hearing Or Sentence
• August 16 Other
• August 12 Other
• 2025-02-20 Publication

Why: I don't recall because I was stressed and panicking, but I see in my statement it is there," the witness told Ms Brennan. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report