Closing Arguments Heard in Trial of Man Accused of Kildare Murder

Friday, 4 April 2025 15:28

By Tara Flanagan

Brian Ibe, of no fixed abode but previously at Moore Park in Newbridge, denies the murder

The prosecution has delivered its closing address in the trial of a 23-year-old man accused of murder in County Kildare nearly 5 years ago.

Brian Ibe, of no fixed abode but previously at Moore Park in Newbridge, denies murdering 65-year-old Peter Kennedy by reason of insanity.

It's the state’s case that Brian Ibe attacked Peter Kennedy at the deceased’s home in Moore Park in Newbridge in April 2020 – and he died two weeks later from his injuries.

The fact Mr Ibe attacked Mr Kennedy isn’t in dispute, but the trial previously heard that he was suffering from schizophrenia – although that has been disputed by the prosecution.

In his final address to the jury, prosecuting counsel Paul Carroll SC said they heard evidence from Dr Gaurav Malhan that Mr Ibe was unable to refrain from attacking Mr Kennedy due to his mental disorder.

Mr Carroll argued that other witnesses heard Mr Ibe had made demands for money from Mr Kennedy in the past, as well as threats towards him.

He also pointed out that Mr Ibe left the scene after the attack and got a train back home, as well as previously denying he was in Newbridge that night.

The defence will address the jury this afternoon.

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