Gortin man avoids jail over taxi driver assault

A GORTIN man has received a suspended jail sentence for an attack on a taxi driver described as
being born out of “drunken thuggery”.

Ronan John O’Connor (38), of Glenpark Road, had the prison term suspended for 20 months when he appeared at Dungannon Crown Court after admitting inflicting grievous bodily harm.

He was ordered to pay £1,200 in compensation to his victim and warned that he would serve the full term of imprisonment if he re-offended.

Imposing the sentence, Judge Brian Sherrard warned O’Connor that attacks on taxi drivers or any other public servant would not be tolerated.

He said O’Connor was in a drunken state at the time, adding that taxi drivers were vulnerable and often had to deal alone with customers who had drink or drugs taken.

“It is clear to me that this attack was born out of drunken
thuggery and nothing else,” the judge said.

“It needs to be clearly understood that in this court those who attack public-facing and vulnerable workers will go to prison. There is a need to protect public workers from attack.”

But Judge Sherrard said O’Connor had used the four years since the commission of the offence to address alcohol issues, establishing a business and staying out of trouble.

He said an immediate prison term would compromise his progress, and be a regressive step for him and the community as a whole.

“This is a matter that I am leaving entirely in your hands.

“It is a matter for you if you serve this sentence and I sincerely hope I do not see you back here and do not have to impose this sentence.”

The court was told that O’Connor had flagged down the taxi on James Street at 2am on on July 9, 2017 and asked for a lift home.

After being told by the driver that he was awaiting another fare, O’Connor kicked the door of the vehicle.

It was at this point that the driver got out of the car to see what damage had been done, only to be lunged at by O’Connor and then punched once on the face.

surgery

The driver sustained a fractured cheek bone which required surgery, the court heard.

References were received from a number of people, including O’Connor’s local priest. His sister also attended court and gave evidence on his behalf.

Pre-sentence reports had been completed in the case and defence barrister, Ian Turkington, said that O’Connor was now running an agricultural business and employing three to four other people if and when they are required.

He said that O’Connor was ashamed of his actions and apologised to the taxi driver.