Jury now considering verdicts in capital murder trial

The jury in the trial of the man accused of murdering Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe will continue deliberating today (Thursday) at the Central Criminal Court.

Aaron Brady (29) from New Road, Crossmaglen, Co Armagh has pleaded not guilty to the capital murder of Det Gda Adrian Donohoe who was then a member of An Garda Síochána on active duty on January 25, 2013, at Lordship Credit Union, Bellurgan, Co Louth.

Mr Brady also denies a charge of robbing approximately €7,000 in cash and assorted cheques on the same date and at the same location.

Presiding judge Mr Justice Michael White yesterday (Wednesday) advised the five men and seven women to begin by considering the charge of robbery. He said that, if they find Mr Brady not guilty of that charge, it would be illogical to find him guilty of the murder charge.

The judge added that if they find him guilty of robbery, they must then consider the capital murder charge, which he said is "tricky" because there are multiple possible verdicts.

Mr Justice White told the jury that if they not satisfied beyond a reasonable doubt that Mr Brady shot the garda, then they should bring a not guilty verdict.

If they are satisfied that Mr Brady shot the detective, the judge explained: "For capital murder, you have to be satisfied he knew he was a member of An Garda Síochána on active duty or that he was reckless to that."

The jury could find Mr Brady guilty of murder but not capital murder if they decide that he was the shooter but did not know that he was shooting a garda and was not reckless as to whether he was a garda.

The judge also pointed out that the defence had raised manslaughter as an alternative verdict. Mr Justice White explained that manslaughter is an unlawful killing without the intention to kill or cause serious injury. He added: "If that's your assessment, it's a matter for you entirely ladies and gentlemen, then you write down, "not guilty of capital murder or murder but guilty of manslaughter"."

The jury are now considering their verdicts.