Jury Sworn In for Natalie McNally Murder Trial at Belfast Crown Court
A jury has been formally sworn in to serve in the high-profile trial of a man accused of murdering Natalie McNally in County Armagh. The 32-year-old marketing professional, who was 15 weeks pregnant at the time, was killed at her home in Lurgan on December 18, 2022.
Defendant Denies Charges in Court Appearance
Stephen McCullagh, aged 35 and from Woodland Gardens in Lisburn, has pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. He appeared in the dock at Belfast Crown Court on Monday morning, dressed in a blue round-neck jumper and glasses, flanked by two prison staff members.
The public gallery was filled with Ms McNally's family, friends, and supporters, underscoring the emotional weight of the proceedings. Judge Mr Justice Patrick Kinney presided over the jury selection process, addressing a pool of potential jurors about the case details.
Jury Selection and Case Background
Potential jurors were informed that McCullagh is known as a YouTuber under the handle votesaxon07, primarily reviewing Dr Who merchandise, while Ms McNally was a law graduate who had worked for Translink. A list of witnesses was read aloud, and jurors were told about rallies held in connection with the case.
Judge Kinney asked McCullagh to stand so potential jurors could identify if they knew him personally. They were also instructed to raise any connections to the case that might affect their objectivity. Several potential jurors were excused due to pre-planned holidays.
Ultimately, a jury of six men and six women was sworn in. They were strongly urged to base their decision solely on evidence presented in court and to avoid independent research.
Trial Timeline and Legal Context
The trial is expected to last approximately five weeks, with evidence hearings scheduled to begin on Tuesday. This follows concerns from Ms McNally's family about potential delays due to ongoing strike action by criminal barristers over legal aid fees.
The escalated industrial action had effectively halted Crown Court cases involving legal aid, but the Criminal Bar Association agreed to exempt this trial. Judge Kinney expressed gratitude for this exemption during a preliminary hearing last month, acknowledging the barristers' cooperation.
The case continues to draw significant public attention, blending elements of digital media influence with tragic personal loss, as the court seeks justice for Natalie McNally and her unborn child.
