John Biggins acquitted of murdering father by insanity

This report is a localnews.ie summary based on public court reporting and records; sources are listed below.

John Biggins was acquitted of murdering his father by reason of insanity at the Central Criminal Court, reported on 30 May 2014. The jury returned the unanimous verdict after a two-day trial and 27 minutes of deliberation.

Biggins had pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to murdering Thomas Biggins at Ballynalty, Cross, Claremorris, on 6 May 2012. The court heard he had been diagnosed with severe schizophrenia.

A defence psychiatrist said Biggins was mentally ill at the time and that his judgement was grossly impaired. Another consultant forensic psychiatrist said he met the criteria under the Mental Insanity Act.

The prosecution sought an order committing Biggins to the Central Mental Hospital, with a further court appearance requested for the following Wednesday.