Courts / Dublin / Report

Soldier who tried to protect girlfriend stabbed five times in the back

Summary

Adam Dempsey, aged 23, was sentenced to two years in prison after stabbing Defence Forces member Ross Hayden seven times, including five times in the back, while attempting to protect Hayden's girlfriend. The incident occurred on 16 June 2018 at Ardlee Inn, Artane, when Dempsey, who was not involved in the initial pub altercation, approached the group and repeatedly made comments. Hayden's girlfriend asked him to "cop on," leading to a confrontation. Dempsey stabbed Hayden, left, then returned 20–30 seconds later to stab him again. Dempsey pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and had 15 prior traffic convictions. He was found intoxicated with alcohol and cocaine. The judge suspended the final 12 months of a three‑year sentence, requiring Dempsey to pay €5,000 in compensation to Hayden or a chosen charity. Dempsey is currently serving in the Defence Forces in Kosovo.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Soldier who tried to protect girlfriend stabbed five times in the back. Charges or matters: assault causing harm at Ardlee Inn, Artane, on June 16, 2018. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• June 16, 2018 Incident
• 2021-01-29 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Drugs Stage Sentence Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report