Wexford Man Assaults Elderly Dublin Tourist Who Entered His Property by Mistake

A Wexford man, Sean Neville (53), was found guilty of assaulting an elderly Dublin tourist, Joseph Mulhall, who accidentally entered his property in Fethard-On-Sea while looking for a parking spot for his campervan. The incident occurred on August 25, 2023.

Mr. Mulhall, aged 72 at the time, testified that he unknowingly entered Neville's property and was confronted by him. Neville allegedly assaulted him, punched him, pushed him to the ground, and stamped on his bike. Despite pleading to leave, Mr. Mulhall faced insults and aggression from Neville.

Evidence presented in court included Google Maps photos showing the private property signs that Mr. Mulhall claimed he did not see. CCTV footage showed a confrontation where Mr. Mulhall appeared to charge at Neville, resulting in a physical altercation.

Garda reports indicated that Mr. Mulhall sustained injuries, including cuts and a black eye. Initially hesitant to press charges, Mr. Mulhall later changed his mind and provided a statement to the Garda.

Neville, claiming self-defense, alleged that Mr. Mulhall charged at him and accidentally hit Neville's son during the altercation. Neville cited concerns about trespassing due to previous robberies at his father's property.

Judge John King ruled that Neville assaulted an elderly man and sentenced him to 100 hours of community service instead of three months in prison.

According to the source: The Irish Independent.