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Young man with significant mental disabilities who tried to hijack car to be assessed for community service
Summary
Daniel Byrne, 21, with significant mental disabilities, pleaded guilty in the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to attempting to hijack a woman's car on Old Lucan Road, Palmerstown, on 29 October 2013. Byrne, who left a special needs school at 14, is described by his grandfather as having severe mental disabilities, including ADHD and compulsive behaviour. He was found to have blood on his face and was seen by the victim, who had locked her car, as he tried to open the passenger door. Byrne fled but was apprehended by Gardaí, who noted he had a screwdriver in his hand. He admitted intent to rob the car to drive to his family and cooperated with police. The victim reported nightmares and job changes due to the incident. Judge Martin Nolan deemed the crime "not too bad" and ordered Byrne to be assessed by the Probation Service for suitability for community service, while he remains on bail until 6 June.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Young man with significant mental disabilities who tried to hijack car to be assessed for community service. Charges or matters: attempting to seize a car through intimidation on Old Lucan Road, Palmerstown on October 29, 2013. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- October 29, 2013 Hearing Or Sentence
- June 6 Adjournment
- 2015-04-30 Publication
Why: A victim impact report from the woman stated that she has had to change jobs because of the attack as she was reminded of it every time she went into work. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: attempting to seize a car through intimidation on Old Lucan Road, Palmerstown on October 29, 2013 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Judge Martin Nolan said his crime was "not too bad" and that he was going to take what is an unusual step for him and order the accused be assessed by the Probation Service for his suitability for community service.; He remanded Byrne on continuing bail until June 6 next.
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