Trial hears murder accused threatened kind man before crime

Brian Ibe is on trial for the murder of 65-year-old Peter Kennedy in Newbridge, County Kildare. Ibe has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. The court heard that Ibe threatened Kennedy multiple times, demanding money and even saying he would "slit his throat." Several witnesses testified, sharing their concerns about Kennedy's safety. Rita Swords, a close friend of Kennedy, described him as a "kind" man. She noticed he had become anxious and fearful after Ibe moved in with him and worried that Ibe was taking advantage of Kennedy's good nature. Swords recalled times when Ibe would demand money from Kennedy. She said Ibe was aggressive when Kennedy refused to give him what he wanted. She encouraged Kennedy to seek help and get Ibe out of his home. Linda Mannion, another friend, echoed these concerns. She described how Ibe would often burst into Kennedy’s bedroom, demanding money while Kennedy was trying to sleep. Kennedy confided in Mannion that Ibe had threatened to kill him. Damian Molyneaux, who was Kennedy's best friend, testified that Kennedy had expressed fear for his life. He said Ibe had threatened to kill Kennedy on multiple occasions. The trial continues next week, with further testimonies expected.