Courts / Dublin / Report

Burglar attacked young couple in their home

Summary

Gary Walsh, aged 32, was jailed for four years after a burglary and assault at a house in Rialto, south Dublin, on 1 July 2018. He admitted to breaking into the home, punching the homeowner Gerry Godley eight times, biting him twice, and assaulting Godley's partner Elish Bul when she tried to stop him. Walsh claimed he had been invited to play Playstation and was intoxicated, but the court found him disoriented and guilty. He was found with a bank card and a bag of the householder's property, though no significant items were taken. The homeowners, including a young daughter, reported nightmares and fear. Judge Melanie Greally noted the lack of premeditation and Walsh's remorse, suspending the final two years of a six‑year sentence on the condition of good behaviour and engagement with probation services for substance abuse and mental health issues.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Burglar attacked young couple in their home. Charges or matters: burglary at Haroldville Avenue, Rialto on July 1, 2018 and to assault causing harm to Gerry Godley. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• July 1, 2018 Incident
• 2019-01-22 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Burglary Stage Sentence Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report