In a dramatic turn of events, authorities have decided to liberate John Sullivan, who has undergone three separate trials without a jury able to agree upon a verdict for the alleged willful murder of Michael Clifford. The crime took place near Limerick on September 12, 1900.
Both Sullivan and Clifford were laborers on the holding of James Nolan. On the fateful morning, Clifford was discovered dead in his bed with his throat cut, while Sullivan was found lying next to him, suffering from a self-inflicted wound in his neck. Prosecution argued that Clifford had been murdered by Sullivan using the latter’s razor, which was subsequently discovered at the scene.
The conditions of Sullivan’s release stipulate that he must leave the country, never to return. He was removed from Limerick Gaol on Friday night and is en route to the colonies for his enforced exile. This dramatic decision has left the city of Limerick reeling, as citizens grapple with the implications of a man thrice tried for murder being set free and banished.
Derby Daily Telegraph – Tuesday 27 August 1901
