Deception trial of Catherine O’Brien adjourned following jury foreman’s bereavement

Judge grants accused permission to stand during proceedings due to medical condition causing discomfort while seated

Catherine O'Brien at Waterford Circuit Court, where she has pleaded not guilty to three charges of deception regarding the purchase, transport and insurance of a French horse. Picture: Dan Linehan

The deception trial of Catherine O’Brien was adjourned until tomorrow following a bereavement suffered by the jury foreman over the weekend.

When excusing the other 11 jurors this morning, Judge Eugene O’Kelly informed them he had given permission to the accused, Ms O’Brien, to stand, as she is suffering from a medical condition that makes it uncomfortable for her to sit.

Ms O’Brien is facing charges of deception related to a man named John Blake, and the alleged purchase, transport, and insurance of a French mare named Lingreville.

It is alleged that she “dishonestly by deception” induced Mr Blake to pay €20,000 to purchase the horse — which the State claims was never bought; to pay €1,100 in insurance — which the State alleges was not paid; and €984 for transport from France to Ireland — which the State contends never occurred.

Ms O’Brien, of An Grianán, Ballinroad, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, has pleaded not guilty to the three charges of making gain or causing loss by deception, contrary to Section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001.

Judge O’Kelly asked the 11 jurors to return on Tuesday, adding that the foreman is expected to return then.

He asked the jury to excuse Ms O’Brien as she “may have to stand up or take regular breaks” on Tuesday.

Ms O’Brien stood throughout the brief hearing, wearing a black sleeveless jacket, wine jumper, and navy trousers, with her hair tied back.

She was remanded on continuing bail.