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Jury to begin deliberations in trial of man charged with attempted murder of wife on her birthday

Summary

A jury will begin deliberating on whether 42‑year‑old Andrzej Benko intended to kill his sleeping wife, Joanna, on her 32nd birthday. Benko, of Ladyswell Road, Mulhuddert, admits striking her over the head with a lump hammer at least three times. He pleaded not guilty to attempted murder on 5 July 2010. The trial, held at the Central Criminal Court, noted that Mrs Benko is now largely confined to a wheelchair, has communication difficulties and will need full‑time care. Benko told Gardaí he had bought red roses for her that morning, was disappointed she did not wake, found a hammer while looking for a vase, and carried it upstairs before striking her. The prosecution argued that the act of striking a sleeping, defenseless woman with a heavy hammer at least three times demonstrates intent to kill.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jury to begin deliberations in trial of man charged with attempted murder of wife on her birthday. Charges or matters: attempted murder at that address on July 5, 2010. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• July 5, 2010 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2014-03-06 Publication

Why: Is that because he didn't have the intention to kill? CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report