A 20-year-old Dublin man described in court as a very sick chronic schizophrenic was jailed today for four years over a vicious assault on a schoolteacher.
Edward Fanning was savagely beaten by a seven-strong gang outside his home in Mulhuddart, in October 2003 as his son enjoyed his first birthday party inside.
The 28-year-old now living in Gorey, Co Wexford, was left in a coma for several days.
Christopher Gleeson from Corduff Green, Blanchardstown, was given a seven-year jail term at the Circuit Criminal Court. The last three years were suspended.
Passing sentence Judge Michael White said Mr Fanning had suffered horrific injuries.
"There is no doubt in the court's mind that Mr Fanning suffered an horrific attack on him in the event in question and was left in fact in a very serious condition and is lucky to be still alive," the judge said.