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High Court rules that a trial judge may admit a certificate as evidence regarding the custody of exhibits, even against defense objections, unless the judge deems it in the interests of justice to require oral evidence. The case involved a respondent charged with possession and intent to supply a controlled drug, where the defense challenged the chain of custody evidence presented through a certificate issued under statute. The High Court affirmed that the certificate is prima facie proof of the matters stated within, and the trial judge has discretion to require oral evidence if justice necessitates.
Criminal Justice Act, 1999, section 30 certificate, chain of custody, controlled drug, possession, intent to supply, admissibility of evidence, prima facie proof, trial judge discretion, interests of justice, oral evidence requirement, Forensic Science Ireland, Garda Síochána, exhibit custody, evidence admissibility objection, health-related witness non-availability.
Note: This is intended to be a fair and accurate report of a decision made public by a court of law. Any errors should be notified to the editor and will be dealt with accordingly.
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