Brothers sentenced for aggravated burglary
Three brothers have been sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for their roles in an aggravated burglary.
Joseph (aged 27) John (aged 35) and Martin (aged 30) Finlay, of Killinarden Estate, Tallaght, pleaded guilty to entering as trespassers with intent to commit assault and having at the time a weapon namely a sword at Swiftbrook Avenue, Tallaght on April 10, 2006.
Judge Frank O'Donnell said the evidence had been Joseph had come to the house with his two brothers after earlier having a verbal dispute with an occupant. He said John had a sword which he waved from side to side in a "threatening manner". One resident of the house was assaulted while a second man escaped.
The victim of the assault suffered contusions and lacerations but Judge O'Donnell said the physical injuries he suffered were not the worst effects. He noted the man suffers depression and nightmares and has become defensive and reclusive.
Judge O'Donnell said the second man who "escaped under difficult circumstances" later died but noted the three men are not charged with any offences in relation to the death of that man.
Judge O'Donnell imposed a seven-year sentence on John; a five-year sentence on Martin; and a four-year sentence on Joseph. He suspended Joseph's sentence in full noting that he had stayed outside on the street.
