Courts / Kerry / Report

Murder accused 'begged for cocaine' on night partner was killed, trial hears

Summary

In the Central Criminal Court, the jury heard that Daniel Blanaru (37) begged his brother, David Serban, for cocaine on the night Larisa Serban (26) was found stabbed in her home. Blanaru, from Rathmore, Athboy, Co Meath, pleaded not guilty to her murder. The State argued that Larisa was killed by her jealous, controlling partner. Serban testified he left the house at about 1 a.m. on 12 August 2022, with no arguing, and that he had stopped at a bank to withdraw money for rent. He denied planning to buy cocaine or return to Rathmore after. He claimed he was the last person to see Larisa alive and that he would have been present if a struggle had occurred. Garda evidence showed Blanaru presented himself at a station at 6 a.m., shouting in a foreign language and saying "my wife, my wife, we fight." The trial continues tomorrow.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused 'begged for cocaine' on night partner was killed, trial hears. Charges or matters: the murder of his partner Larisa at Rathmore, Co Meath on or about August 12, 2022. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• August 12, 2022 Other
• August 12 Incident
• 2025-02-26 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Drugs Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report