Family of Jozef Puska Sentenced for Hiding Evidence and Destroying Murderer’s Clothes

Five family members of Jozef Puska, convicted of murdering Ashling Murphy, have received prison sentences for their roles in obstructing justice. The sentencing occurred at the Central Criminal Court, where the judge addressed their deliberate actions to withhold and destroy evidence related to the case.

Sentences Imposed on Puska’s Family

Puska’s brothers, Marek (36) and Lubomir (37), each received 30-month prison terms. Lubomir’s wife, Viera Gaziova (40), was sentenced to 24 months, while Marek’s wife, Jozefina, received 21 months. Additionally, Lucia Istokova (36), the mother of Puska’s children, will serve a 20-month sentence.

Impact of Family’s Actions

During the trial, Amy Murphy, sister of the murder victim, expressed her family’s anger and frustration over the injustice of the defendants’ actions. She criticized their claims of family values, stating, “How dare they speak those words?” She highlighted the contradiction between their words and actions, calling them “unreliable and untrustworthy.”

The Crime and Its Consequences

Jozef Puska, 35, murdered 23-year-old Ashling Murphy on January 12, 2022. He attacked her while she was jogging along the canal towpath in Tullamore, County Offaly, repeatedly stabbing her. In 2023, Puska was sentenced to life in prison, with eligibility for parole after 12 years.

Statements from the Victim’s Family

Ray Murphy, Ashling’s father, shared a poignant memory about his daughter during the court proceedings. He recounted how Ashling’s childhood toy fiddle, once filled with music, would now remain untouched. He lamented that the defendants’ choices led to further trauma for his family, stating that they could have spared them the anguish of a murder trial.

Mr. Murphy urged the Puska family to reflect on their legacy. He emphasized that their actions to conceal evidence could have allowed Jozef Puska to harm others in the future.

Judge’s Remarks on Sentencing

Ms. Justice Caroline Biggs, presiding over the case, mentioned that the sentences must reflect the harm caused and the culpability of the defendants. She noted that while the offenses were serious, they were not the highest category due to Puska’s prosecution and conviction. The judge remarked on the defendants’ choices to protect Puska and obstruct justice.

Legal Outcomes for Witnesses

On June 17, a jury found that Lubomir and Marek misled authorities by failing to provide critical information in their witness statements. Their partners, Gaziova and Grundzova, were found guilty of burning clothes belonging to Puska to hinder his arrest. All defendants except Istokova pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.

• Puska Family Sentences:
  • Marek Puska: 30 months
  • Lubomir Puska: 30 months
  • Viera Gaziova: 24 months
  • Jozefina Puska: 21 months
  • Lucia Istokova: 20 months
• Murder Details:
  • Victim: Ashling Murphy
  • Date of murder: January 12, 2022
  • Puska’s conviction: 2023
  • Parole eligibility: 12 years

The sentencing of Jozef Puska’s family members serves as a stark reminder of the importance of truth and accountability within communities. Their actions not only affected the victims’ family but also highlighted the profound consequences of obstructing justice.