Murder trial latest - psychiatrist's comments
Published Date:
20 November 2008
A PSYCHIATRIST has claimed in court that if Martin Garratty killed Rhona Heywood, his responsibility was 'substantially impaired' at the time.
Garratty, 41, of Jockey Mead, Horsham, denies murdering his 65-year-old neighbour in March this year.
Defence lawyers told the jury at Lewes Crown Court on Thursday November 20 that, even if they decide that he did kill his friend and neighbour, they have the option to convict him on the lesser charge of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility.
Giving evidence for the defence, psychiatrist Dr Andrew Johns said he had met Garratty and considered whether he had Alcohol Dependence Syndrome (ADS).
"I have concluded that he suffered from ADS, but that this was moderate rather than severe or mild."
Philippa McAtasney QC, defending Garratty, asked him to consider 'on the balance of probability', whether her client's responsibility for his actions was impaired.
"My opinion is that his responsibility was substantially impaired," said Dr Johns.
The case continues.
Read Friday's County Times for the full report from the trial.
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The full article contains 260 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
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Last Updated:
20 November 2008 2:11 PM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
Horsham
