Courts / Cork / Report
Gardai used 'enhanced' interviewing techniques with Richard Satchwell, trial hears
Summary
In the trial of Richard Satchwell, the jury heard that Gardaí used an enhanced cognitive interview to question him about his wife's disappearance. The detective sergeant explained that this method, considered a gold standard, is witness‑led and conducted away from a station in a relaxed setting. Mr Satchwell, 58, told Gardaí on 24 March 2017 that his wife had left the home four days earlier and that he had no concerns about her welfare. He reported her missing in May, but her body was not found until October 2023, when Gardaí discovered her decomposed remains in a grave beneath the stairs of her home. Prosecutor Gerardine Small said that after the body was recovered, Mr Satchwell claimed he fell when his wife tried to stab him with a chisel, and that she died in his arms. He has pleaded not guilty to murdering his 45‑year‑old wife, Tina Satchwell, between 19 and 20 March 2017.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Gardai used 'enhanced' interviewing techniques with Richard Satchwell, trial hears. Charges or matters: murdering his 45-year-old wife Tina Satchwell – nee Dingivan – at that address between March 19 and March 20, 2017, both dates inclusive. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- March 24, 2017 Hearing Or Sentence
- October 2023 Other
- March 19 Other
- March 20, 2017 Other
- June 20, 2021 Other
- June 20 Other
- 2025-05-06 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: murdering his 45-year-old wife Tina Satchwell – nee Dingivan – at that address between March 19 and March 20, 2017, both dates inclusive (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
Topics
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