Courts / Donegal / Report

Sliabh Liag jury ask for definition of joint enterprise

Date
2025-03-05

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Donegal

County
Donegal

Summary

A jury at the Central Criminal Court has sought clarification on the legal definition of joint enterprise whilst deliberating in the trial of two Donegal residents accused of murder. Alan Vial, aged 39, from Drumanoo Head, and Nikita Burns, aged 23, of Carrick, are charged with murdering a 66-year-old man whose body was disposed of at Sliabh Liag in June 2023. Both defendants deny the charge and have each accused the other of committing the fatal act. The prosecution contends that both participated in a joint enterprise to cause serious injury. Mr Justice Paul McDermott instructed the jury that mere presence at a crime scene does not constitute participation, and that the prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt that each accused assisted in the killing with intent to kill or cause serious harm. The jury also examined bloodstained clothing belonging to Ms Burns, with defence counsel suggesting an alternative explanation for the presence of DNA evidence. Deliberations are ongoing.