THE PARTNER of a man whose body was found in the boot of his own car has told his killer’s murder trial that she became concerned for his safety after another man answered his mobile phone.
Joleen Smyth was giving evidence at the Central Criminal Court in the trial of Stephen Penrose (27), who denies murdering David Sharkey (28) at an apartment in Blackcastle, Navan, in May last year. Penrose has pleaded guilty to manslaughter, which the DPP has rejected. State lawyers are arguing he murdered Mr Sharkey during an apparent drugs deal on May 17th, 2009.
Cross-examined by Patrick Marrinan SC, defending, Ms Smyth admitted she was aware Mr Sharkey was involved in drug-dealing. She said he was very secretive about his activities and never kept drugs in their apartment.
Paul Green, for the prosecution, said Mr Sharkey arrived at the apartment in his BMW to drop off one ounce of a controlled drug. He said an argument broke out and Penrose stabbed Mr Sharkey. He sustained 10 “significant” stab wounds.
Penrose and a woman were seen leaving a few minutes later carrying what appeared to be a body covered with wrapping.
Two gardaí on patrol in Dunsink Lane in Finglas that evening gave evidence of seeing a man driving a grey BMW. After searching it they found the remains of Mr Sharkey in the boot.