Woman Cleared Of Husband's Murder

A Co Laois woman has been cleared of her husband's murder, but found not guilty of his manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility.

Anne Burke, a 56-year-old mother-of-four from Ballybrittas, was found guilty of the manslaughter of her husband Pat, 55, at their home on August 19, 2009.

Mr Burke died after suffering 23 blows to the head from a hammer, which were inflicted while he slept.

Central Criminal Court heard how Mrs Burke had suffered "a litany of abuse" throughout the couple's 32-year marriage, which was marred by violent rows and regular and excessive drinking.

The court also heard that Mrs Burke had been admitted to the psychiatric unit of Portlaoise Hospital after she tried to cut her wrists, six days before her husband's death. She was discharged two days later, without receiving any treatment or medication, at the request of both her and her husband.

Following the killing, Mrs Burke had written a suicide note and attempted to slash her wrists.

Two psychiatrists told the court that Mrs Burke had been suffering from severe depression at the time of killing.

The jury reached their decision after 30 minutes of deliberation.

Mrs Burke is due to be sentenced on January 26 next year.

(KMcA/BMcc)