‘Complex investigation’ into death of Eddie Friel is still ongoing, court hears

The man charged with serious assault in relation to the death of Killybegs man Eddie Friel remains in custody while the ‘complex investigation’ continues

James Spendley, 57, of St Cummin's Hill, Killybegs appeared before Judge Sandra Murphy at Sligo District Court via vidoelink on Thursday, May 29. He has been in custody since shortly after Mr Friel was found dead in his home at Harbour View Drive in Killybegs on Sunday, April 13. Spendley was arrested by Detective Garda Niall Brady in the early hours of Monday, April 14. 

To date, Spendley is charged with assault causing serious harm to Mr Friel. The offence is  contrary to Section 4 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997. It has been indicated to the court that there may be further charges. 

Solicitor Laura Spellman of McGovern Walsh Solicitors told Mr Spendley that the state was awaiting directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). She explained that the matter would be adjourned for a further two weeks, or three weeks with the defendant’s consent.

Spendley replied that he wished the matter to be back before the court as early as possible, therefore not consenting to the longer adjournment. 

Gardaí indicated that there was no timeframe for DPP directions, saying: “It is a complex investigation. We hope to be able to inform the court of the status on the next occasion.”

The matter was adjourned to June 12, with the defendant to appear via videolink unless DPP directions become available in the meantime. 

Spendley had previously lodged an application for bail to the High Court, having been refused bail by Judge Murphy at the district court. He remains in custody in Castlerea Prison where he is receiving psychiatric support.