Courts / Dublin / Report
Trial of man charged in connection with murder of David Black hears submissions on legal issues
Summary
The Special Criminal Court is hearing a voir dire on legal matters concerning the detention and arrest of Vincent Banks, 44, who is charged with withholding information related to the murder of prison officer David Black. Banks, who lives in Dublin 7, pleaded not guilty to the charge. The court considered the legality of obtaining forensic samples, searching Banks' apartment in Smithfield and an address in Finglas, and the acquisition of phone records. The prosecution alleges that Black, a 52‑year‑old officer at Maghaberry jail, was shot dead on the M1 near Lurgan on 1 November 2012 by occupants of a Toyota Camry registered 94 D 50997, a vehicle purchased by Banks. Evidence was presented that bullet casings from the scene matched those from the Camry, which was found burnt‑out nearby.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Trial of man charged in connection with murder of David Black hears submissions on legal issues. Charges or matters: a charge of withholding information in relation to the murder. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- November 1, 2012 Hearing Or Sentence
- October 10th Other
- December 20th 2012 Incident
- 2014-03-13 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: a charge of withholding information in relation to the murder (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Outcome: The trial has entered a voir dire, a trial within a trial to determine legal issues relating to the detention and arrest of the accused man, the legality of obtaining of certain forensic samples, searches of his apartment in Smithfield and an address in Finglas, as well issues on the obtaining of certain phone records.
Places mentioned
- The Special Criminal Court
- Northern Ireland prison
Topics
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