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Teen sentenced to six years for attempted murder remains on bail

Summary

Tadhg Costello, a 19-year-old from Monkstown, County Dublin, remains on bail pending an appeal after sentencing for the alleged attempted murder of Josh Leahy. Costello initially pleaded not guilty to the attempted murder, assault causing harm, and unlawful possession of a knife at Johnson's Court in Dublin city on May 31, 2012. However, he changed his plea to guilty for attempted murder during his Central Criminal Court trial last November, following a ruling that his garda interviews were admissible. The other two counts were taken into consideration. Mr Justice Paul Butler sentenced Costello to six years imprisonment, suspending the final three years. The judge deferred the committal order for three weeks to allow Costello to seek bail from the Court of Criminal Appeal. Costello must present himself to Dun Laoghaire Garda Station before midday on April 11. The defence intends to appeal at least the conviction. Mr Justice Butler noted the case was exceptional, citing Costello's lack of previous convictions and his status as a minor at the time of the offence. The judge described the attack as serious, noting Costello stabbed the victim six times with intent to kill but showed no immediate remorse. The victim, now 19, suffered a collapsed lung and continues to experience pain and nightmares. The matter was adjourned to allow the defence to consider the judgment and pursue the appeal.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Teen sentenced to six years for attempted murder remains on bail. Charges or matters: the attempted murder of Josh Leahy at Johnson's Court in Dublin city on May 31, 2012; assault causing harm to Mr Leahy and unlawful possession of a knife on the same date; the attempted murder charge after they were allowed. Procedural stage: appeal

When:

• May 31, 2012 Incident
• March 6 Hearing Or Sentence
• April 11 Other
• May 30, 2012 Incident
• May 31 2012 Other
• June 1, 2012 Other
• June 2 Other
• May 31 Other
• 2014-03-21 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Appeal Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report