Majority unsure on sophie killing
NEARLY two thirds of the public are either unsure if Ian Bailey killed Sophie Toscan du Plantier or do not believe he was involved, a new poll has revealed.
The survey, published in yesterday’s Sunday Independent, showed 37% think he carried out the gruesome killing.
The findings follow recent rampant speculation about Bailey’s guilt or innocence triggered by his death aged 66 from a heart attack on January 21.
Bailey remains the prime suspect for the French film producer’s murder for three decades but was never prosecuted here.
He was convicted in absentia by a French court in 2019 based on evidence gathered as part of the original botched garda probe, but Ireland refused to extradite him.
The poll showed 30% think Bailey was innocent, 33% are unsure and 37% believe he was guilty.
Almost half — 49% — believe Bailey should have been tried in Ireland for the murder.
Frank Buttimer, Bailey’s solicitor, said: “It is reassuring to think there is a substantial number of people who believe in his innocence. In addition, in a criminal context the people who ‘don’t know’ would also have to be included in the not guilty camp, as you cannot convict someone of a criminal offence if you are unsure of their guilt.
“That is a big swing from where Bailey would have found himself 25 years ago. I think he would be gratified by the level of belief in his innocence among the Irish public. He would have to take a positive from that.”
Jim Sheridan, who made the documentary, Murder at the Cottage, said the poll “shows the Irish justice system works and people should respect it”.