Courts / Kerry / Report
Prosecutor says jury must consider whether murder accused is trying to 'pull the wool' over their eyes
Summary
A prosecution counsel has urged the jury to consider whether the accused, Billy Burns, is attempting to 'pull the wool' over their eyes by feigning psychosis to secure a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity. In his closing speech, Mr Sean Guerin SC argued that Burns's violent actions towards his mother were driven by drug and alcohol abuse rather than mental illness. He highlighted the lack of evidence supporting Burns's claim of psychosis and pointed out inconsistencies in his statements to psychiatrists. The defense, led by Anthony Sammon SC, countered that the prosecution's psychiatrist did not effectively challenge the defense's expert opinion. The case centers on whether Burns's mental disorder absolves him of criminal responsibility, with the prosecution emphasizing that Burns understood the nature of his actions and was not genuinely suffering from psychosis. The jury must determine if Burns's claim of insanity is a fabrication to avoid conviction. The trial continues with the judge's charge to the jury expected to be delivered tomorrow.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Prosecutor says jury must consider whether murder accused is trying to 'pull the wool' over their eyes. Procedural stage: finding. Findings: Not guilty by reason of insanity
When:
- August 15, 2022 Other
- August 12 Other
- 2025-11-19 Publication
Why: Dr Morgan also said that he had not asked the accused about his mother's killing because he didn't want to be put in a position where he might have to give evidence against him in court. CNI source report
Case subjects
Accused
Plea: Not guilty
Finding: Not guilty by reason of insanity
Outcome: Not guilty by reason of insanity
Places mentioned
Topics
Drugs Stage Finding Violent Crime
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