Courts / Dublin / Report
Man who killed mother and injured infant with car while in "micro-sleep" walks from court after new sentence
Summary
Anthony Handley, 64, of Whitethorn Grove, Artane, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to dangerous driving that caused the death of Olivia Dunne, 31, and serious bodily harm to her 15‑week‑old daughter Éabha in Balbriggan on 17 January 2014. Gardaí said Handley drifted off momentarily before his off‑road SUV veered from the road and struck the mother and child. He had no alcohol or drugs in his system. On 10 May 2016 Judge Patrick McCartan sentenced him to two years' imprisonment, citing his good character but warning that fatigue must be a concern for all drivers, and imposed a ten‑year driving ban. The Court of Appeal found errors in the sentencing, upheld the two‑year term but suspended the balance on conditions, and left the driving ban unchanged.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Man who killed mother and injured infant with car while in "micro-sleep" walks from court after new sentence. Charges or matters: dangerous driving causing the death of Olivia Dunne (31) and serious bodily harm to Éabha Dunne in Balbriggan on January 17, 2014. Procedural stage: appeal
When:
- January 17, 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
- May 10, 2016 Other
- 2017-02-17 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: dangerous driving causing the death of Olivia Dunne (31) and serious bodily harm to Éabha Dunne in Balbriggan on January 17, 2014 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Sentencing Handley to two years imprisonment on May 10, 2016, Judge Patrick McCartan said he was a good man with a blameless record but he should have been alert to the fact that he was becoming tired behind the wheel. Handley was re-sentenced to two years imprisonment but any unserved portion was suspended.
Places mentioned
Topics
Drugs Road Traffic Stage Appeal
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