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'A woman of secrets': defence lawyers say more to Lisa Thompson killing than appears
Summary
In a trial for the murder of Lisa Thompson, 52, the defence argued that the case was more complex than the prosecution's narrative suggested. They highlighted that Thompson had been involved in selling prescription tablets, with 24,500 tablets found in her attic, and that she had a brief relationship with the accused, Brian McHugh, 40, the year before her death. The defence questioned the reliability of identification evidence, the timing of CCTV footage, and the credibility of witness statements, including those of neighbour Sandra McMahon and Joan Lundy. They also pointed to text messages from a woman who claimed insider knowledge of Thompson's death, and to DNA found on a blind cord wrapped around Thompson's neck, which McHugh could not satisfactorily explain. The defence maintained that the prosecution had not proven guilt beyond a reasonable doubt and urged an acquittal. The trial was set to continue before Judge Karen O'Connor and a jury. Brian McHugh pleaded not guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 'A woman of secrets': defence lawyers say more to Lisa Thompson killing than appears. Charges or matters: murdering Ms Thompson (52) at Sandyhill Gardens, Ballymun in Dublin 11 on May 9, 2022. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- May 9, 2022 Hearing Or Sentence
- May 9 Other
- May 10 Hearing Or Sentence
- June 2022 Hearing Or Sentence
- May 2022 Other
- January 2022 Other
- 2025-02-25 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: murdering Ms Thompson (52) at Sandyhill Gardens, Ballymun in Dublin 11 on May 9, 2022 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Ms Thompson's house
Topics
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