Courts / Wicklow / Report

Jury to begin deliberating in trial of woman accused of harbour murder

Summary

The trial of Marta Herda, a 29‑year‑old Polish waitress, is set to begin jury deliberations on Monday. She is charged with the murder of 31‑year‑old Csaba Orsos, who drowned after the car she was in drove into a harbour on 26 March 2013. Herda escaped the water, but Orsos could not swim and his body was recovered later that day. The prosecution presented evidence that the couple had been arguing in the car and that Orsos had been following Herda for two years, calling and texting him. Herda pleaded not guilty. Judge Patrick McCarthy explained to the jury that they could find her guilty of murder, acquitted, or not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter, noting that intent to kill could arise on the spot and that motive need not be proven. He also clarified that gross negligence would be required for a manslaughter verdict. The jury must reach a unanimous verdict.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jury to begin deliberating in trial of woman accused of harbour murder. Charges or matters: the murder of 31-year-old Csaba Orsos on March 26, 2013; murdering the Hungarian at South Quay, Arklow. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• March 26, 2013 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2016-07-22 Publication

Why: Mr Justice McCarthy also said that it was not necessary for the prosecution to prove motive. Prosecution account reported by CNI

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report