Accused’s DNA was not found on knife

A knife that was allegedly used to kill a man did not have the accused’s DNA on it when examined by a forensic scientist, the Central Criminal Court heard yesterday.

James Connors, aged 29, of Rosemount, Drinagh, Co Wexford, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Jason Ryan, aged 27, at Hollyville Heights in Wexford Town on January 25, 2012.

Stephen Clifford, a DNA expert at the State Forensic Science Laboratory, told Gerard Clarke, prosecuting, that he examined a knife and a baton that were found at the scene. He said they were given to him by gardaí from Wexford Garda Station along with DNA swabs from Mr Connors and Mr Ryan.