Courts / Wexford / Report

Murder accused and deceased had mental health problems

Date
2013-11-07

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Enniscorthy

County
Wexford

Summary

In a Wexford murder trial, Michael Furlong, aged 36, pleaded not guilty to the killing of Patrick Connors, aged 37, which occurred between 28 and 29 April 2011 at Carraig Túr apartments. The jury heard that Furlong had a history of schizophrenia, while Connors had mental health problems, including depression and episodes of hearing voices. Witness Shauna Young, who had been engaged to Connors, confirmed his psychiatric hospitalisations and his attempts at self‑harm, though she denied knowledge of a 2010 suicide attempt. Dr Stephen Bowe testified that Furlong, at the time of the incident, had an odor of alcohol, claimed to have consumed two bottles of wine the previous night, and described a past schizophrenia diagnosis. He also noted scratches on Furlong's legs that were inconsistent with walking dogs, suggesting trauma. The case remains before Mr Justice Barry White and a jury of seven men and five women.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Murder accused and deceased had mental health problems. Charges or matters: the murder of Patrick Connors (37) between April 28th and April 29th 2011 at Carraig Túr apartments in the town. Procedural stage: trial

When: