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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
National
Eoin Reynolds & John Hand

Delivery cyclist George Gonzaga Bento found not guilty of murdering 16-year-old Josh Dunne

A delivery cyclist has been found not guilty of murdering 16-year-old Josh Dunne in Dublin last year.

George Gonzaga Bento, 36, was acquitted of the charge along with three others, producing a knife in a manner to intimidate others and two assault causing harm charges.

Bento held his head in his hands after the verdict before hugging his partner and his family. Dunne's devastated family left the courtroom.

Read more: Go here for the latest news from the courts

Bento had claimed he was acting in self-defence after being attacked by a gang as he and his pal attempted to retrieve a stolen bike.

He said he pulled out a utility knife that he carried for cutting fruit and stabbed three people, including 16-year-old Josh.

Undated handout photo of issued by Bohemians FC of Josh Dunne (Bohemians FC/PA Wire)

The prosecution said that Bento exaggerated the danger he faced and knew at the time that the force he used was not necessary to repel the attack.

The jury deliberated for just over eight hours.

The court heard that, after a year and a half in custody, Bento was to be released.

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