Book of evidence still not ready in Ashling Murphy murder probe

The man charged with the murder of Ashling Murphy remains in custody as gardaí ask for more time to prepare the book of evidence for his trial.

Jozef Puska (31), with an address at Lynally Grove, Mucklagh, Co Offaly, first appeared in court on January 19 and has been in custody ever since.

He is accused of killing Durrow school teacher Ashling Murphy on the banks of the Grand canal at Cappincur on January 12.

Two weeks ago, the court heard the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) directed that Mr Puska would face trial on indictment in the Central Criminal Court.

The book of evidence must be served on him before any trial can take place. 

Judge Blake asked gardaí to expedite the book of evidence in this case at a hearing on Wednesday.

Gardaí asked for a four-week adjournment to do so but defence counsel only consented to two weeks.

Mr Puska was remanded in custody again to appear on April 6.