Courts / Dublin / Report

Judge: "Strong element of deterrence" required in glassing cases as consequences can be "life-altering and severe"

Date
2016-12-06

Stage
Sentence

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Judge Melanie Greally sentenced Silviu Voivod, 31, to 18 months imprisonment, suspended, for glassing a lounge‑boy, Robert McMickan, at Dandelion Bar & Nightclub on 12 October 2014. Voivod, a first‑time offender with no prior convictions, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm. The victim, a first‑year college student, suffered the loss of two front teeth, facial scarring, and medical costs exceeding €5,000, and missed two weeks of college. Voivod's defence argued his blameless life before and after the incident, while the prosecution highlighted the violent nature of the attack. Judge Greally emphasised the need for deterrence in glassing cases, citing the "horrific glassing culture" that has emerged, and noted Voivod's remorse and role as sole family earner. Voivod shook his head after the sentence was handed down.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Judge: "Strong element of deterrence" required in glassing cases as consequences can be "life-altering and severe". Charges or matters: assault causing harm to Robert McMickan at Dandelion Bar & Nightclub, St Stephen's Green in Dublin 2 on October 12, 2014. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

October 12, 2014 Incident
October 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
2016-12-06 Publication

Case subjects

Silviu Voivod

Defendant

Charges: assault causing harm to Robert McMickan at Dandelion Bar & Nightclub, St Stephen's Green in Dublin 2 on October 12, 2014 (Admitted)

Plea: Guilty

Outcome: She sentenced Voivod to three years' imprisonment, but suspended the final 18 months, taking into account his lack of previous convictions and his guilty plea. The consequences of such conduct can be life-altering and severe." Voivod shook his head after the sentence was handed down.