A man with a history of violence against women has been handed a life sentence for the murder of his girlfriend at her home in Dublin.
Gavin Murphy, of Coultry Drive, Ballymun, Dublin, admitted repeatedly stabbing 24-year-old Jennifer Poole with a kitchen knife on April 17th last year.
On behalf of their family, Jennifer’s brother Jason welcomed today’s outcome but said they’ve been given a life sentence too.
He described his sister as beautiful, both inside and out.
“Today is Jennifer’s day and we have finally got justice for her short life,” he said.
“Jennifer was 24-years-old and loved life. She was honest, caring and hardworking. Jennifer loved to smile and had a heart of gold.”
“YET another case of a violent attack by a partner on a young woman”
Those were the words of Mr Justice Paul Burns before he handed Gavin Murphy (30) from Coultry Drive in Ballymun a life sentence for murdering his girlfriend Jennifer Poole (24).
Murphy stabbed her 7 times. pic.twitter.com/a4SxxzCOBh
— Frank Greaney (@FrankGreaney) April 29, 2022
Jennifer met Murphy through a neighbour in May 2020 and in the months leading up her death, friends and family became concerned for her safety.
When asked about facial injuries, the court heard she used to brush them off with “benign explanations.”
On April 17th last year, the same neighbour who introduced them heard Jennifer screaming for help.
She tried to kick down her door to help her but couldn’t.
Inside, Murphy had stabbed her seven times.
Later, he claimed he just lost it when she pointed a knife at him. He claimed she was jealous because she suspected he was looking at other girls on his phone.
Gardaí found no evidence that she pulled out the knife.
🎥“Domestic violence in Ireland has become far too common, and it’s NOT ok!”
Jason Poole addresses media after Gavin Murphy (30) was jailed for murdering his sister, Jennifer (24).
Help is out there if you find yourself in an abusive relationship @Womens_Aid @SAFEIreland pic.twitter.com/u13wIGZy3O
— Frank Greaney (@FrankGreaney) April 29, 2022
Outside court afterwards, Chief Superintendent Finbarr Murphy had this message for anyone who finds themselves in an abusive relationship:
“Bring it forward at a nearly stage – don’t wait for the crisis,” he said.
“We will be there to help you. We will be there to support you.”
Jason Poole said domestic violence in Ireland has become far too common – and urged anyone experiencing it to “please seek help and support”.
“Speak to the Guards or contact an organisation for help. We don’t want another family to have to go through what we are going through.”
He also called for stronger legislation against domestic violence, noting “everyone can be an ally on this matter”.
If you are affected by anything discussed in this article, you can call the 24hr national freephone helpline on 1800 341 900.
