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'Deranged' killer who claimed partner stabbed herself to death fails in bid to overturn conviction
Summary
In a Court of Appeal hearing on 29 May 2025, the appeal of Martin Hayes, aged 36, was dismissed. Hayes had been found guilty of manslaughter in the death of Amadea McDermott, aged 27, in July 2017, after a Central Criminal Court jury returned a majority verdict. He had claimed that McDermott had stabbed herself, a claim that was rejected by the jury. Hayes had admitted using violence against McDermott and had been convicted of 12 years and six months' imprisonment. His appeal argued that evidence of his former partner, Niamh Higgins, being in fear of him and of his custody was prejudicial. The Court of Appeal, led by Justice Tara Burns, held that the evidence was irrelevant and did not undermine a fair trial. The appeal was rejected and the case was scheduled for further case‑management on 20 June. Martin Hayes pleaded not guilty and was acquitted.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 'Deranged' killer who claimed partner stabbed herself to death fails in bid to overturn conviction. Charges or matters: murdering the mother-of-two at her home in Rathvale Drive, Ayrfield, Coolock, on or about July 20, 2017. Procedural stage: appeal. Findings: Acquitted
When:
- November 2023 Hearing Or Sentence
- July 20, 2017 Hearing Or Sentence
- November 2020 Other
- May 2023 Other
- June 20 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2025-05-29 Publication
Case subjects
Appellant
Charges: murdering the mother-of-two at her home in Rathvale Drive, Ayrfield, Coolock, on or about July 20, 2017 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Finding: Acquitted
Outcome: Acquitted; At the conclusion of the judgement, Mr Dwyer said his client wished to appeal against the sentence imposed and the matter was listed for case management on June 20 next.
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