Six-month sentence for man who attacked taxi driver in Waterford City
The temporary taxi rank changes will begin on September 6. File pic
An Enniscorthy man has been given a six-month prison sentence for an attack on a taxi driver in Waterford City.
Dean Kenny (31) of Millbrook, Ross Road, Enniscorthy, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery at Waterford District Court before Judge Kevin Staunton.
Sergeant John Phelan told the court that on December 26, 2023, the injured party was driving his taxi along the quay toward the Rice Bridge when he was flagged down by the defendant.
He stopped, rolled down the window and spoke to the defendant, who said he wanted to go to New Ross.
The driver told him that the cost would be €45, but he would require a deposit.
The defendant attempted to tap his card, but it didn’t work.
He asked the driver to “please help”, and the driver responded that he couldn’t because he had no money.
The injured party picked up his phone in case he had to call someone, and the defendant grabbed him by the throat, pinning him to his seat.
Then the defendant ran off in the direction of Hanover Street.
The court was told that the defendant had 35 previous convictions, including for assault.
Acting for the defendant, solicitor Ken Cunningham said his client had “nothing but shame in relation to the incident”.
The solicitor said that at the time, his client had issues with alcohol and drugs and did not remember the incident.
But he has apologised.
Mr Cunningham said that when his client was last in court, the judge gave him a chance, and as a result, he is due to start rehabilitation in the next two weeks.
He works, has two children, one a newborn, and he has the support of his mother.
Mr Cunningham said that while there was no victim impact statement, he would like the court to factor in that there was no loss from the incident.
However, Judge Staunton said he took the matter very seriously.
“This was an attack on a man who was out working," said Judge Staunton.
The judge said he has “great sympathy for his parents”, but Mr Kenny “has to take responsibility for his actions.”
And while he was glad to hear Mr Kenny was to start rehab, said “I have to view this as a serious assault on a taxi driver".
The judge imposed a six-month prison sentence, which Mr Cunningham said they intended to appeal.
