Garda murder accused previously had symptoms on 'extreme end' of mental illness, trial hears

A forensic psychiatrist has told the Central Criminal Court that Stephen Silver, accused of murdering Garda Horkan in Castlerea, County Roscommon, in June 2020, previously experienced psychotic symptoms at the "extreme end" of bipolar affective disorder. Dr Brenda Wright, interim clinical director at the Central Mental Hospital, gave evidence that Mr Silver, aged 46, a motorbike mechanic from Foxford, County Mayo, was diagnosed with manic psychotic symptoms during a 2003 hospital admission. She outlined multiple psychiatric admissions, voluntary and involuntary, during which Mr Silver exhibited extreme agitation, made threats to staff, and refused medication. A 2006 incident saw him barricaded in his apartment with a sword wearing combat gear. Dr Wright testified that Mr Silver's mental capacity was significantly impaired at the time of the shooting. Mr Silver has pleaded not guilty to capital murder but guilty to manslaughter. The trial before Ms Justice Tara Burns continues, with the jury to determine his state of mind at the material time.