A 29-year-old man has pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of a Polish national in County Tipperary, bringing a significant development in a case that dates back more than two years.
Mr Tomasz Rozpeda, of no fixed abode, entered the guilty plea before the Central Criminal Court on Friday morning. He had originally been charged with the murder of 32-year-old Mr Maciej Nowak, who died following an incident in late December of 2023.
The court heard that the unlawful killing occurred on or about December 26th or 27th, 2023, at Ballycranna, Kilross, Co. Tipperary. Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions confirmed that the State has accepted the plea to manslaughter.
During proceedings, the court was informed that the victim’s family, who are based in Poland, wish to attend the sentencing hearing. In light of this, a sentencing date has been scheduled for May 18th next.
Ms Justice Karen O’Connor adjourned the case to that date and directed that a victim impact report be prepared. Mr Rozpeda was remanded in custody pending sentencing.
The court also heard that a nolle prosequi, (not to wish to prosecute), will be entered on the original murder charge at the conclusion of sentencing proceedings, meaning the State will not pursue that count further.
Further details, including sentencing, will be determined at the next court hearing.
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