Courts / Dublin / Report
Attacker who left victim in wheelchair withdraws appeal after warning from court
Summary
Conti Birali, aged 28, withdrew an appeal against a nine‑year prison sentence after the Court of Appeal warned that it could increase sentences. The appeal was withdrawn following advice from his counsel, Mark Lynam SC, after Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy highlighted the seriousness of the case and the court's jurisdictional powers. Birali was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for assault causing serious harm to Austin Doherty, who was left a wheelchair user after being kicked, stamped on and beaten. Birali also pleaded guilty to violent disorder with others on the same occasion. The victim, aged 38, suffered a nearly concave head and other injuries, and his prognosis is unlikely to improve. Birali's appeal was dismissed, and he remains sentenced to nine years in prison. The case also involved co‑accused Craig Maples, who received seven years for violent disorder and assault.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Attacker who left victim in wheelchair withdraws appeal after warning from court. Charges or matters: assault causing serious harm; violent disorder. Procedural stage: appeal
When:
- July 31, 2022 Incident
- 2024-10-07 Publication
Why: "This is a very serious case, and he has acted in a very prudent manner because of the powers of the court," he said. CNI source report
Case subjects
Appellant
Charges: assault causing serious harm; violent disorder (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Guilty
Co Accused
Charges: violent disorder; assault causing serious harm (Alleged Or Contested)
Outcome: A co-accused, Craig Maples (28), was jailed for seven years for violent disorder and assault causing serious harm to Mr Doherty on the same date.
Places mentioned
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