Courts / Cavan / Report

Woman to go on trial accused of 2014 double murder

Date
2025-10-08

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Ballyjamesduff

County
Cavan

Summary

A 45-year-old woman with an address in County Meath has pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder at the Central Criminal Court. Ruth Lawrence is charged with the murder of Anthony Keegan and Eoin O'Connor, alleged to have occurred at an unknown location within the State between April and May 2014. The trial commenced before Mr Justice Tony Hunt with a jury of twelve members. The prosecution is led by senior counsel Michael O'Higgins, with the defence represented by Patrick Gageby SC. The trial is expected to conclude by mid-November. Evidence will be heard from members of both deceased's families, forensic specialists, pathologists and mobile phone analysts. The investigation was principally conducted by officers from Kells Garda Station in County Meath, with the missing persons aspect handled by Santry gardaí. Locations of relevance include Ballyjamesduff in County Cavan and an area adjoining Lough Sheelin spanning three counties.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Woman to go on trial accused of 2014 double murder. Charges or matters: murdering Mr Keegan and Mr O'Connor at an unknown location within the State on a date unknown between April 22, 2014 and May 26, 2014, both dates inclusive. Procedural stage: trial

When:

April 22, 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
May 26, 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
November 14 Hearing Or Sentence
2025-10-08 Publication

Case subjects

Ruth Lawrence

Accused

Charges: murdering Mr Keegan and Mr O'Connor at an unknown location within the State on a date unknown between April 22, 2014 and May 26, 2014, both dates inclusive (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty