Courts / Dublin / Report

Man avoids jail for choking girlfriend during "terrifying" attack

Summary

Iain Macnab, 27, was sentenced by Judge Martina Baxter in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to a fully suspended two‑and‑a‑half‑year term for assault causing harm to his then‑girlfriend and a suspended 12‑month term for criminal damage at Poolbeg Quay. The judge described the assault as "menacing and terrifying" and noted it occurred over a prolonged period within the family home. Macnab pleaded guilty to both charges and admitted abusing cannabis at the time. He has no prior convictions, has ceased drug use, and is employed as an HR manager. The court imposed conditions including attendance at a domestic‑abuse perpetrators' programme. Macnab was described as remorseful, having engaged in counselling and shown a willingness to manage his emotions without violence. The probation report indicated he was unlikely to re‑offend.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Man avoids jail for choking girlfriend during "terrifying" attack. Charges or matters: one count of assault causing harm to his then partner and one count of criminal damage at Poolbeg Quay, Ringsend on January 19 last year. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• January 19 Incident
• 2019-12-02 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Drugs Stage Sentence Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report