Three years in prison for assault on fair ground operator
Wednesday December 15 2004
Joseph Philips, Lower St Joseph's Terrace, Athy, Co Kildare, had pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm and with violent disorder as a result of an assault on David Mullins on August 8, 2003.
Portlaoise Circuit Court heard that Philips was one of three men who attacked Mr Mullins, of Geashil, Co Offaly, at the Stradbally Steam Rally. The two others are awaiting trial but have fled the jurisdiction, the court heard.
The three had been drinking and had gone to the Fair Green where Mr Mullins operates carnival-type attractions. The trio got involved in arguments with two patrons and when Mr Mullins sought to intercede to calm the situation her was struck on the head with a bottle.
Witnesses gave statements saying they saw Mr Mullins stagger back and a 5ft spurt of blood poured out of his arm. Two onlookers managed to stop the bleeding by tying a rope around his arm. He later had emergency surgery in a Dublin hospital.
