Courts / Dublin / Report
Former marathon runner will not face jail for assault on partner
Summary
James Butler, a 38‑year‑old former marathon runner and nurse, pleaded guilty in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing harm to his partner on 14 December 2014. He put his hands on her neck, choked her, and struck her head against a wardrobe, causing her to pass out. The victim, who has a toddler with Butler, later received medical treatment, including four stitches to her cheek and a CAT scan at St Vincent's Hospital. Butler's lawyer, Fiona Pekaar, noted the couple's volatile relationship and Butler's regret, while the prosecution highlighted an earlier argument at a Christmas market that escalated into the assault. Judge Catherine Murphy adjourned sentencing, ordered Butler to pay €1,155 in medical costs within three months, and decided he would not be jailed due to no prior convictions and his prompt responsibility for medical care. The case remains at the sentencing stage.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Former marathon runner will not face jail for assault on partner. Charges or matters: assault causing harm to a woman at her home on December 14, 2014. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- December 14, 2014 Incident
- Christmas Incident
- 2015-12-18 Publication
Why: The row continued the next day and she told him that because of his mood and anger issues he had to move out. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: assault causing harm to a woman at her home on December 14, 2014 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Judge Catherine Murphy adjourned sentencing and ordered that Butler pay over this sum to her within three months.
Places mentioned
- Dublin
- Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
- St Vincent's Hospital
- Columbia University Hospital
Topics
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