Noble defence closes in Benson murder trial

The jury is expected to retire tomorrow to consider its verdict in the trial of a man and woman accused of murdering her violent partner.

Jacqui Noble, aged 38, of Knowth Court, Ballymun, Dublin and Paul Hopkins, aged 24, Sillogue Road, Ballymun both deny the murder of Derek Benson, aged 33, at Sandy Hill Avenue Ballymun on May 13 2000.

In her closing speech today Ms Mary Ellen Ring SC, for Jacqui Noble told the jury that the killing of Derek Benson was one of self defence.

She said the accused woman was beaten "again and again and again" for 14 years. She secured barring orders which were breached by Derek Benson.

Counsel said if, when Benson fractured her ribs in 1997, she had struck him and pierced his heart, that would be a classic case of self defence and Jacqui Noble would not be here now.

She also asked the jury to consider the deceased’s treatment of his young daughter when, at aged 13, he showed her how to shoot up heroin.

She asked them to consider also other incidents of abuse against the girl and to then consider what effect this would have had on the girl’s mother, Jacqui Noble.

Ms Ring concluded by asking the jury to acquit the accused woman of murder.

Following the conclusion of defence speeches, trial judge Mr Justice Henry Abbott began his charge to the jury.