Courts / Dublin / Report
Grandad avoids jail for damaging garda's shoulder
Summary
Thomas Knox, 64, was found guilty of assault causing harm to Garda Shane Buckley and criminal damage after a dispute with his neighbour over a back‑garden wall. The incident began when Knox, highly intoxicated, pulled down part of the neighbour's fence and then verbally abused the Garda. When the Garda attempted to leave the scene, Knox grabbed his arm and tried to pull him over a wall, causing the Garda's shoulder to pop. The Garda was later treated for a cartilage tear and required surgery. Knox, who has three prior drink‑driving convictions, was sentenced to a suspended three‑year term on the condition that he address his alcohol problems and participate in a victim awareness programme. The court noted Knox's long‑standing grievance with the neighbour and his ill‑health background, including rheumatoid arthritis and depression. The sentence was suspended pending his compliance with probation and alcohol‑treatment requirements.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Grandad avoids jail for damaging garda's shoulder. Charges or matters: assault causing harm to Garda Shane Buckley and to criminal damage on May 13, 2014. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- May 13, 2014 Incident
- 2017-03-14 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: assault causing harm to Garda Shane Buckley and to criminal damage on May 13, 2014 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Sentencing him today, Judge Pauline Codd suspended a sentence of three years on condition that he address his issues with alcohol and engage in a victim awareness programme.; Judge Codd previously adjourned the matter to allow Knox to work with Probation Services and address his alcohol issues.
Places mentioned
Topics
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