A 55-year-old man has been handed a life sentence for murdering his mother at her home in Killarney in August 2022.
Billy Burns, of Arlington Lodge, Tralee, had sought a special verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity, but the jury rejected his defence earlier this week.
The Central Criminal Court heard how he strangled and beat his mother - 75-year-old Miriam Burns - before leaving her on the floor of her living room.
Afterwards, he tried to cover up what he did by burning pieces of evidence, including her blood-stained nightdress.
Her body was found by neighbours after other family members became worried.
During the trial, the court heard of Billy Burns’ history of mental illness and substance abuse; and his devoted mother’s efforts to help him.
The jury also heard evidence of how he physically and verbally abused his mother over the years, including an incident in 1993 when he broke her jaw.
Billy Burns admitted killing his mother but denied responsibility due to his mental state.
However, the jury rejected his defence and found him guilty of murder earlier this week.
After sentencing him, the judge said it was clear that Ms Burns was a kind, hard-working, glamorous woman who was committed to taking care of all her family.
