Courts / Dublin / Report
Afghan man who punched pregnant wife unconscious loses appeal against 3-year sentence
Summary
In a Dublin case, Afghan national Muhammed Tajik, aged 28, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm after attacking his pregnant wife, Susan Wombsley, on 8 December 2015. Tajik allegedly grabbed Wombsley's neck from behind, punching her in the head and face until she passed out, causing a broken jaw on both sides. The Court of Appeal upheld a three‑year prison sentence imposed by Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, finding no error in principle. The appeal was dismissed by a three‑judge panel, including Mr Justice John Edwards, who noted that the couple had married in Turkey, moved to Dublin, and faced financial difficulties. Wombsley had recently secured employment, which was cited as a source of dispute. Tajik sent apologetic messages after the assault but denied responsibility until presented with them. The court rejected arguments that his new relationship or church involvement mitigated the offence. The sentence remains in force.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Afghan man who punched pregnant wife unconscious loses appeal against 3-year sentence. Charges or matters: assault causing harm to Susan Wombsley at a flat on Lower Rathmines Road, Dublin on December 8, 2015. Procedural stage: appeal
When:
- December 8, 2015 Incident
- August 2015 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2018-11-27 Publication
Why: The Court of Appeal heard that on the day of the assault, Tajik was said to have been "simmering" with anger for a number of matters, particularly because his wife had just obtained employment but also because she had burned a pizza. CNI source report
Case subjects
Appellant
Charges: assault causing harm to Susan Wombsley at a flat on Lower Rathmines Road, Dublin on December 8, 2015 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Sentencing him to three years imprisonment, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy said Ms Wombsley had "fallen into the hands of a man of a very violent disposition".
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