Ruth Lawrence Convicted for the Murder of Two Men in Meath
Ruth Lawrence has been found guilty of the murder of two men in Meath, an act tied to a drug deal gone wrong. The jury concluded that she played a key role in the events leading to the deaths of Eoin O’Connor and Anthony Keegan.
Background of the Case
Eoin O’Connor, a Dublin drug dealer, had a precarious history. Six days prior to his murder, O’Connor had been robbed of drugs. This incident stemmed from his dealings with Lawrence’s boyfriend, Neville van der Westhuizen, who was in significant debt to him, amounting to €70,000.
Details of the Incident
The incident unfolded near St. Patrick’s Cottage, located by the shoreline of Lough Sheelin, about 100 meters from Inchicup Island. According to the prosecution, the killing began with Lawrence shooting O’Connor in the stomach. Although this shot was not fatal, it initiated a deadly confrontation.
After the initial shot, Lawrence’s boyfriend, van der Westhuizen, is alleged to have fatally shot O’Connor in the head. Prosecutor Michael O’Higgins indicated that Lawrence had the intent to kill, stating that O’Connor may have struggled with van der Westhuizen before receiving the fatal shot.
Victims and Aftermath
- Eoin O’Connor: Shot in the stomach and head, leading to his death.
- Anthony Keegan: Shot in the neck and head during the altercation.
The bodies of O’Connor and Keegan were subsequently relocated to a field near Patrick’s Cottage. The prosecution emphasized the deliberate nature of the actions taken by Lawrence and van der Westhuizen.
This case highlights the grim realities surrounding the drug trade in Dublin and the extremes to which individuals may resort amidst financial disputes. Lawrence’s conviction marks a significant moment in addressing such violent crimes.
