Northern murder accused for trial in Republic
A MAN charged with the murder of a pregnant mother of four in the North has opted to have his trial in the Republic.
Stephen Cahoon (36) of Harvey Street, Derry, was remanded in custody again when he appeared at Harristown District Court in Castlerea, Co Roscommon yesterday.
He is charged with murdering 30-year-old Jean Quigley at her home in Cornshell Field, Shantallow, Derry, on July 26.
Judge Conal Gibbons told the accused that, under the Criminal Law Jurisdiction Act 1976, he could opt to have his trial either in this jurisdiction or in Northern Ireland.
The judge said the accused should consult with his lawyer and shouldn't make a decision "on the top of your head".
Defence counsel Peter Nolan told the court that the defendant had considered the matter and wished to have his trial in this jurisdiction.
He pointed out that Mr Cahoon had the option of changing his mind up to the date of arraignment, "when the curtain comes down".
Mr Nolan noted that extradition proceedings were not yet relevant, while Judge Gibbons said extradition was an issue for another court.
In order to advise his client on whether his detention was lawful, Mr Nolan said he wished to see the extension orders signed by senior gardai after the accused was in taken into custody. Judge Gibbons said that issue should be raised with the prosecution.
Mr Nolan told the court that, as his client would have difficulty in getting bail, the onus was on the prosecution to expedite the case without delay.
Counsel argued that a remand to Donegal would give easier access to the defendant's family, but Judge Gibbons said Harristown court catered for for remands to Castlerea prison.
He said he would be willing to consider remanding the defendant to a court in Co Donegal at a future date but would "have to have very good reasons".
Mr Cahoon was remanded in custody to Harristown court on August 29.
- Marese McDonagh
