Courts / Dublin / Report

UK man attacked "friendly passer-by"

Summary

In the early hours of March 24 last year, 25‑year‑old Alfie Wood was standing in Temple Bar, Dublin, holding two beer bottles when Mark Canavan and his girlfriend passed by. Canavan warned Wood that Gardaí were nearby and that he might get in trouble for the bottles. Wood replied, "What did you say to me?" and then charged at Canavan, punching him in the face and knocking him to the ground. Wood pleaded guilty to one count of assault causing harm. He had no prior convictions. The court noted that Canavan had suffered a lacerated lip requiring five sutures and two rounds of dental treatment. Wood's early guilty plea, cooperation with Gardaí, and €2,000 token of remorse were considered mitigating factors. Judge Melanie Greally sentenced Wood to two years, suspended in full. Wood admitted the assault was unjustified and that he had been out socialising, separated from friends, and that it was "a bit of a blur.".

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: UK man attacked "friendly passer-by". Charges or matters: one count of assault causing harm to Mr Canavan. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• March 24 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2020-02-14 Publication

Why: The court heard Wood has travelled back to Ireland a number of times in order to meet the case against him. Court evidence reported by CNI

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Sentence Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report