National court archive · 2026-03-27
Violent offender argues judge not entitled to jail him for life to protect the public
At a glance
- Crime
- manslaughter
- People
- Christopher O’Sullivan, Timothy Hourihane, James Brady, Michael Bowman SC, Donal O’Sullivan SC, Mr Justice Paul McDermott, Mr Justice John Edwards, Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, Ms Justice Tara Burns
- Locations
- Kerry, Cork, Shannon Lawn, Mayfield
- Court
- Court of Appeal
- Outcome
- reserved judgment
Summary
Christopher O’Sullivan appealed the life sentence imposed for his manslaughter role in the killing of Timothy Hourihane. At the Court of Appeal, his counsel argued that the offence did not fall into the most serious sentencing category and that the disparity with James Brady’s sentence was unjustified. The prosecution said the sentencing judge was entitled to consider O’Sullivan’s previous convictions. Judgment was reserved.
Original reporting: courtsnewsireland.ie