Man goes on trial accused of murder at McVerry Trust housing unit

A 33-year-old man has entered a not guilty plea to murder at the Central Criminal Court. Liam O'Leary, formerly of Kiltimagh, is charged with the murder of John Casserly, aged 59, at Tone House on Tone Street in Ballina, County Mayo, between 23 and 24 October 2024. The alleged offence occurred at a housing unit operated by the Fr Peter McVerry Trust. Mr Justice Paul McDermott empanelled a jury of twelve to hear the trial, which commenced on 10 March 2026 and is expected to continue for approximately three weeks. Before proceedings began, the judge advised potential jurors to declare any connection to the McVerry Trust, Men's Aid charity, or County Mayo, given that the case narrative involves events across multiple Mayo locations including Kiltimagh, Knock, Ballina and Ballyhaunis.