Courts / Dublin / Report

Jail for sustained, 'vicious' attack on partner

Date
2021-03-19

Stage
Sentence

Primary locality
Tallaght

County
Dublin

Summary

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced Dubliner Gareth McCarton to two years' imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to assault causing harm. The offence occurred at his address in Tallaght on April 13, 2020. Prosecution evidence alleged that McCarton dragged his partner, Shannon Mahon, from bed, threatened to kill her, and subjected her to a sustained episode of violence involving punching, choking, and biting. Gardaí intervened after receiving reports of screaming; Ms Mahon was later diagnosed with a fractured nasal bone and extensive bruising. McCarton, a father of three, admitted the charge. His defence counsel noted that McCarton claimed he had taken crack cocaine for the first time prior to the incident and expressed remorse, stating the act was out of character. The judge acknowledged his previous convictions, including possession of a realistic firearm, and noted that his bail had been revoked for failing to stay away from his partner. Judge Melanie Greally described the incident as a vicious and extreme breach of trust. She emphasised the need for McCarton to address his drug difficulties while recognising his desire to maintain family responsibilities. The court imposed a custodial sentence of two years imprisonment.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jail for sustained, 'vicious' attack on partner. Charges or matters: assault causing harm at his address on April 13, 2020. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

April 13, 2020 Incident
2021-03-19 Publication

Why: Ms Mahon, who had blood and bruises on her face, called from an upstairs window and asked gardaí to enter the house quickly because the accused was assaulting her. CNI source report