DNA samples match those of the accused

DNA samples taken from a man accused of murdering an 18-month-old infant matched that of the infant, a forensic expert told a murder trial jury today.

Samples of DNA taken from clothing worn by the accused man, John Reilly, were compared with samples taken from a T-shirt, track suit bottoms and nappy belonging to the victim, Oisin Reilly-Murphy, forensic witness Dr O'Donnell told the Central Criminal Court.

The witness said the DNA profile on the accused's clothes matched that of Oisin's. Blood samples taken from the cushions of a settee and base cushion of an armchair also matched the DNA profile of the infant.

Trial judge Mr Justice Carney told the jury that the DNA results were agreed by both sides in the case.

Detective Sgt John Schley of Tallaght Garda Station told the court he removed items of Mr Reilly's clothing for examination after the accused gave his consent. "I noticed his jeans in particular were heavily blood stained as were his boots", the witness said.

He showed the jury a pair of jeans taken from the accused that appeared to have heavy bloodstains towards the bottom and on the inside thighs. The witness also produced a navy T- shirt with traces of what appeared to be blood along the neckline and a white vest heavily stained around the neck.

John Reilly ( aged 32) of Crooksling, Brittas, Co Dublin has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Oisin Reilly-Murphy of Manor Kilbride, Co Wicklow on 5 June 2000 at Kiltalown Road, Jobstown, Tallaght, Co Dublin.

He is alleged to have cut the infant's throat after an evening's drinking with the child's parents and two other relatives at his cousin's house in Kiltalown Road. The court has heard video evidence of the accused telling gardai he does not remember what happened on the night of the killing. He

said he could not have harmed Oisin as he "loved the child".

The trial continues on Tuesday.