Shanley granted bail and told to live with parents
A JUDGE at the Central Criminal Court has granted bail to a man who admitted to a Christmas Eve killing in Courtown.
The court has also heard that the killer had been living with the deceased’s former partner.
David Shanley (47), of Courtown Harbour, Gorey, pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the manslaughter of John Lawlor on December 24 or 25, 2014 at Ballinatray Lower, Courtown Harbour. The State accepted the plea. Last Thursday Justice Paul Butler at the Central Criminal Court heard that the State and defence legal teams had agreed to bail terms for Shanley, who will live with his parents.
Justice Butler said: ‘I am very pleased we could come to an agreement,’ and granted bail, adjourning the case until October 10.
Detective Sergeant Murt Whelan from Enniscorthy Garda Station gave evidence to a previous bail hearing for Shanley on July 22 last.
Det Sgt Whelan told the court that Shanley has been on bail from the High Court since he was initially charged with the offence in December 2014.
‘Mr Shanley was previously found to be in breach of his bail conditions which were issued by the High Court. The terms of bail was that he would reside at his parent’s address but I became aware that he was residing at the address of his partner which was outside Gorey in Co Wexford,’ he said.
The court heard that Shanley’s current partner is the deceased’s widow.
Det Sgt Whelan said the matter was ‘complicated’ as Shanley’s partner is receiving ongoing treatment in hospital.
Shanley is a carer for his partner who has ‘serious health problems’.
Shanley will reside with his parents under the terms of his bail.