Direece Roche, 30, denies murdering 64 year old Fintan McDwyer, found dead in his Fallowfield home in July 2023.
Roche appeared in Manchester Crown Court on Monday, February 17, and pleaded not guilty. This plea also relates to another charge involving possessing cannabis for supply, dated May 14, 2023.
Wearing a North Face coat and Nike trousers, Roche spoke only to confirm his name and his not guilty pleas. His trial will begin on May 6 at Crown Square, and he will remain in custody until then.
Justice Bright stated that the trial is scheduled for two to three weeks and will address both charges. Fintan McDwyer’s family released a statement after his death, saying they lost their dad, grandad, brother, and uncle on July 1.
The family stated their lives have been upended and their whole family is grieving Fintan’s loss, adding that their hearts are broken forever. They said they will try to move forward, and the love from Fintan will give them strength.
They described Fintan as their gentle giant, a true gentleman with a calm presence and a soft Irish accent. He had a great sense of humor and always had a twinkle in his eye.