Inappropriate Social Media Posts on Noah Donohoe Inquest Referred to Attorney General
Inappropriate social media content related to the inquest into Noah Donohoe has been referred to the Attorney General (AG) for Northern Ireland. The Coroner, Mr Justice Rooney, has made multiple referrals to the AG during the ongoing inquest concerning the disappearance and death of the schoolboy in north Belfast in June 2020.
The most recent referral was prompted by social media posts made during the testimony of a senior Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) witness. Rooney emphasized the seriousness of such posts, stating they could have significant implications not only for the inquest but also for the individuals responsible for the content.
The Attorney General has the authority to initiate proceedings for contempt of court when conduct threatens to interfere with the administration of justice, including during ongoing civil or criminal cases.
Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Tom Phillips concluded his evidence on Wednesday after appearing at the inquest over three days. The coroner noted that he became aware of social media content specifically related to DCI Phillips's testimony before the witness had finished giving evidence.
"I have previously and repeatedly warned against inappropriate use of social media in relation to this inquest. I made it absolutely clear that no one should engage in any social media activity which might prejudice the inquest."
Mr Justice Rooney added that particular social media posts have been brought to his attention during the inquest's progress.
"The coroner's service have been in contact with the office of the attorney general who will be looking into matters,"he said.
Potential to Prejudice a Jury
The coroner further clarified his position regarding online commentary during the inquest.
"I am making it absolutely clear that online publication and commentary during the inquest other than accurate press reporting of a witness's evidence, especially a witness whose evidence is incomplete, is something I consider to be entirely inappropriate. It may also amount to contempt of court and it has the potential to prejudice a jury."
Noah Donohoe, aged 14, was found deceased in an underground water tunnel six days after his unexplained disappearance on 21 June 2020. The inquest into his death commenced at the end of January and is anticipated to conclude in the coming weeks.
