Double murder trial adjourned

A double murder trial was adjourned today for legal reasons at the Central Criminal Court.

Ms Jacqui Noble, former partner of the deceased and Mr Paul Hopkins, a pub doorman, are jointly charged with the murder of Derek Benson in Ballymun, Dublin, in May 2000 in what the State alleges was a contract killing.

Yesterday, the jury heard medical evidence that the deceased was stabbed and hacked from head to toe in a sustained and vicious attack.

Deputy State Pathologist Dr Marie Cassidy told the court that Mr Benson suffered 25 stab wounds and 60 cuts or incised wounds to the head, trunk and limbs, some of which went completely through his body.

The jury has also heard Garda statements from Jacqui Noble that Derek Benson beat her repeatedly over a 10-year period.

Jacqui Noble (38) of Knowth Court, Ballymun, Dublin, and Paul Hopkins (24) of Sillogue Road, Ballymun, have both pleaded not guilty to the murder of Derek Benson (33) at Sandy Hill Avenue, Ballymun on May 13, 2000.

The trial before Mr Justice Henry Abbott continues tomorrow.