Courts / Dublin / Report

Leaving Cert student knocked pupil unconscious in school corridor

Summary

In March 2017, 20‑year‑old Lee Fetherson punched and kicked a 15‑year‑old pupil in a St Vincent's CBS corridor, briefly knocking him unconscious. The victim suffered a broken nose, concussion and ongoing breathing difficulties. Fetherson, who had no prior convictions, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm. Judge Elma Sheahan sentenced him to 18 months imprisonment, suspended in full for 24 months on strict conditions. He paid €2,500 to court, which the judge ordered to be handed to the Gardaí for the victim's medical costs. The incident was captured on CCTV and presented to the judge. Fetherson had initially intended to break up a dispute but reacted violently after being shoved. He expressed remorse, offered compensation, and had no drug or alcohol issues. The victim's mother accepted the funds to aid his recovery. The case highlighted the seriousness of the offence and the mitigating factors of Fetherson's youth, good character and cooperation.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Leaving Cert student knocked pupil unconscious in school corridor. Charges or matters: a single count of assault causing harm. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• March 10, 2017 Incident
• 2019-07-24 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Drugs Stage Sentence Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report