Dublin Finglas murder: Court acquits husband of mental disorder
Dublin: In a tragic and harrowing case, Diego Costa Silva, aged 35, has been acquitted by the Central Criminal Court in the brutal beheading of his wife, Fabiola de Campos Silva, aged 33, citing reasons of mental illness and delusions.
The horrifying incident took place on November 4, 2021, at their residence in Charlestown Place, Finglas, Dublin. It was revealed during the trial that Costa Silva perceived his wife as a snake, driven by the grip of drug addiction. Subsequently, he inflicted fatal injuries on her, including beating her head with a mug, strangling her, and ultimately beheading her to ensure her demise.
His defence contended that Costa Silva meticulously planned the killing due to his profound belief that his wife was possessed by a snake and posed a threat to his life. Forensic consultant psychiatrists corroborated his mental state, attesting to symptoms of psychosis, hallucinations, and auditory disturbances, which rendered him unaware of his actions.
The jury, comprising seven men and five women, unanimously reached a verdict after deliberating for two hours and 24 minutes. Justice Michael MacGrath expressed gratitude to the jury while extending heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the victim’s family in the wake of the tragic incident.
Further insight into the case revealed that Costa Silva’s mental health deteriorated following revelations of his infidelity to his wife. He harboured delusions of her harbouring enmity towards him and engaging in extramarital affairs, fueling his paranoia and fear for his life. Despite receiving treatment for his mental illness at Mater Hospital, Costa Silva absconded from medical care, subsequently returning home under the care of his wife.
The court also scrutinised evidence regarding Costa Silva’s long-standing substance abuse issues, noting his habitual use of marijuana since adolescence. Mental health symptoms emerged shortly after the murder, shedding light on the profound impact of his untreated illness.
In reaching its decision, the court considered the complex interplay of mental illness, substance abuse, and the tragic consequences of untreated psychosis. The acquittal underscores the challenges in addressing mental health within the criminal justice system, highlighting the need for enhanced support and intervention for individuals grappling with severe psychiatric disorders.
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