The Daily Star Ireland
A jury has been sworn in for the trial of Richard Satchwell, who stands accused of murdering his wife, Tina Satchwell, eight years ago. The trial is set to begin tomorrow morning and is expected to run for approximately six weeks. The jury is composed of seven women and five men, selected after a careful vetting process to ensure impartiality.
Richard Satchwell, aged 57 and residing on Grattan Street in Youghal, County Cork, has pleaded not guilty to the charge of murdering 45-year-old Tina Satchwell at their home in March 2017. Tina, originally from St Bernard’s Place in Fermoy, was reported missing on 24 March 2017. Her disappearance remained a mystery for years until Gardaí discovered her skeletal remains in October 2023, buried beneath a concrete floor and concealed within a walled-off area under the stairwell at the couple’s residence.
Court Instructions and Case Details
Before the jury was finalized, Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo addressed the potential jurors, emphasizing the importance of impartiality. He acknowledged that the case had received considerable media coverage but reassured the panel that this was normal for high-profile court proceedings. Nevertheless, he urged anyone who had prior knowledge of the case that might impair their objectivity to come forward and disclose it.
The judge also advised that anyone who personally knew either Richard Satchwell, the late Tina Satchwell, or any of the witnesses should excuse themselves from serving. Approximately 100 witnesses are expected to provide testimony throughout the course of the trial, ensuring a detailed and comprehensive examination of the events surrounding Tina’s disappearance and death.
