Closing speeches in knife murder trial

CLOSING SPEECHES have been heard in the Central Criminal Court trial of a Tipperary man accused of murder

CLOSING SPEECHES have been heard in the Central Criminal Court trial of a Tipperary man accused of murder. Alex Freiberg (30), Bridgewater House, Clonmel, denies murdering Kieran Cambridge (45) at Carrigeen Close, Clonmel, in August 2007.

The State's case is that Mr Freiberg was unhappy about his ex- girlfriend's new relationship and that he entered Catherine Shanahan's home armed with two knives. He allegedly threatened her, then went upstairs and fatally stabbed Mr Cambridge who was in bed.

Michael Durack SC, prosecuting, told the jury that Mr Freiberg had the motive and opportunity. Evidence had been given that Mr Freiberg had gone to a friend's house in the early hours and washed himself and all his clothes.

David Sutton SC, defending, said this was a "one-witness case". He said Ms Shanahan was unreliable and a "proven liar", she had exaggerated and told a "series of lies" in order to "gild the lily" and present herself as a decent person.

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He said there was no forensic evidence linking Mr Freiberg to the scene, or any evidence to back up Ms Shanahan's testimony.

Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy will charge the jury on Monday.