Stitches needed after unprovoked headbutt attack in Laois

A man was headbutted and needed three stitches as a result of an unprovoked assault in Durrow. 

David Cleary, 32, of 99 Springfield Meadows, Nenagh, Co Tipperary previously admitted assaulting the man causing harm at Mary Street, Durrow on August 28, 2022. 

Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said her client was a qualified mechanic who “met the matter well” and paid compensation. 

She said the injured party was “very satisfied with the compensation and letter of apology and didn’t wish to offer a victim impact statement.”

She said her client was “extremely remorseful” and had dealt with the matter as best he could. 

Judge Andrew Cody described it as an “unprovoked attack” that had occurred at 4.15am. 

“The injured party was headbutted and had to get three stitches to his forehead,” he said. 

He said it is a very serious offence and he noted the accused had 22 previous convictions. 

“That is absolutely accepted and he is in no doubt as to what penalties are available to the court,” said Ms Fitzpatrick.

Judge Cody fined the man €500 and gave him a two month prison sentence which he suspended for two years.