Stone, R v [2008] NICC 36 (14 November 2008)

Stone, R v [2008] NICC 36 (14 November 2008)

The court found that Michael Stone intended to murder Gerard Adams and Martin McGuinness, as evidenced by his own admissions, letters, and the nature of the devices he brought to Stormont. The devices were found to be viable and capable of causing death or serious injury. The defence of performance art was rejected as inconsistent with the evidence and the accused's own statements. The accused was found guilty on the counts of attempted murder and related offences.

Citation
[2008] NICC 36
Parties
Prosecution: The Queen; Defendant: Michael Stone
Jurisdiction
Northern Ireland
Judgment Date
14 November 2008
Procedural Posture
Criminal / Trial Judgment
Outcome
Guilty on all counts
Legal Topics
Attempted Murder, Possession of Explosives, Possession of Offensive Weapons, Imitation Firearm, Public Order Offences
Criminal Law Terrorism Law Attempted Murder Possession of Explosives Possession of Offensive Weapons Imitation Firearm Public Order Offences

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Parties

The Queen

Prosecution

Michael Stone

Defendant

Procedural Posture

Criminal / Trial Judgment

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the accused intended to murder Gerard Adams and Martin McGuinness
  2. 2 Whether the accused's actions constituted performance art or criminal conduct
  3. 3 Whether the explosive devices were viable and intended to cause harm

Ratio Decidendi

The court found that Michael Stone intended to murder Gerard Adams and Martin McGuinness, as evidenced by his own admissions, letters, and the nature of the devices he brought to Stormont. The devices were found to be viable and capable of causing death or serious injury. The defence of performance art was rejected as inconsistent with the evidence and the accused's own statements. The accused was found guilty on the counts of attempted murder and related offences.

Court Disposition

Guilty on all counts

Orders

  • Conviction on two counts of attempted murder (Gerard Adams and Martin McGuinness)
  • Conviction on counts relating to possession of explosives, offensive weapons, and imitation firearm