abstract:Blessed John Roche (also known as John Neele or Neale) was a Catholic martyr, born in Ireland, who died in London, England in 1588. Usually shown in working-class Elizabethan dress and holding an oar or a miniature boat, he is the patron of sailors, mariners and boatmen.
Shewas the daughterof Edward JohnSpencer, Viscount Althorp, andFrancesRuthBurkeRoche, Viscountess Althorp (later known as the HonorableFrances ShandKydd).
Patrick Roche, the lawyer representing her father John, argued that the case should be heard in front of a jury because of the high levels of chloral hydrate prescribed after her release by her doctor.