Courts / Louth / Report

Violent offender jailed for cowardly attack during anti-lockdown rally

Summary

In September 2020, Michael Quinn (30) of Louth attacked Ruth O'Rourke, known as Izzy Kamikaze (58), during an anti‑lockdown protest on Kildare Street, Dublin. Quinn swung a wooden plank with a tricolour nailed to it, striking O'Rourke's head and knocking her to the ground. After the assault, a crowd of masked men and unmasked protesters shouted homophobic slurs and threatened the victims. Video of the attack and the mob's behaviour was released online, prompting O'Rourke to say it made many people realise the danger of ignoring far‑right protests. Quinn pleaded guilty in June 2021 to assault causing harm and was sentenced to a three‑year prison term, with the final year suspended on conditions. The case highlighted the violent conduct of the attackers and the hostile environment faced by O'Rourke and her friends.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Violent offender jailed for cowardly attack during anti-lockdown rally. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• September 2020 Incident
• September 12 Incident
• September 9, 2020 Incident
• 2021-10-19 Publication

Why: Counsel said Quinn takes full responsibility for his actions and that is his reason for his early plea of guilty. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report