Homeless Man Brutally Beaten 109 Times by Three Youths in Limerick

URGENT UPDATE: A vulnerable homeless man was savagely assaulted by three youths in Limerick, suffering a shocking 109 strikes in a brutal attack early this morning. This violent incident has sent shockwaves through the community as details emerge from the Limerick Circuit Criminal Court.

The victim, aged 39, desperately pleaded with his attackers, “Take what ye want, lads, just please stop beating me, will ye please stop, I beg ye.” The harrowing assault occurred around 5:00 AM on May 8, 2022, on Wickham Street, where authorities received an anonymous tip regarding the violent confrontation.

Dean Keane, aged 23, of Lacey Avenue, Templemore, Co Tipperary, has pled guilty to one count of violent disorder. The other two attackers, aged 15 and 17 at the time, have already faced court proceedings. Prosecutor John O’Sullivan detailed the attack’s brutality, emphasizing the victim’s vulnerability during the assault.

Garda Jason Walmsley, who responded to the scene, reported that when authorities arrived at 5:19 AM, the victim had visible injuries, including blood on his forehead. After a foot chase, two of the attackers were detained, with the third apprehended later. Garda Walmsley noted the victim’s reluctance to cooperate, having interacted with him multiple times previously. “He is quite a vulnerable man,” Walmsley confirmed.

CCTV footage revealed the shocking extent of the violence. Keane was recorded delivering 28 kicks and 14 punches, while the younger assailants inflicted further damage with 36 kicks and 13 punches. Throughout the ordeal, the victim’s cries for mercy were captured, with him pleading, “Stop, please stop.”

Keane, visibly emotional during the trial, has a history of 63 previous convictions for serious offenses including sexual assault and drug possession. His defense attorney, Liam Carroll, highlighted Keane’s difficult upbringing and substance abuse issues, stating he was homeless at the time of the attack and had since taken positive steps toward recovery.

In a letter of apology read in court, Keane expressed remorse for his actions. “I know it is too late to change what happened but I am really sorry to the victim and to the guards,” he wrote. He mentioned attempts to communicate with the victim, claiming they have since become friends.

Judge Colin Daly condemned the assault as a “cowardly attack on a very vulnerable homeless man,” ultimately sentencing Keane to a five-year prison term, with the final year suspended.

As authorities continue to address the community’s concerns about rising violence, they are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. The Limerick community is left grappling with the implications of this brutal attack, highlighting the urgent need for support for vulnerable individuals in society.

This developing story underscores a critical issue facing many cities today, as officials seek to ensure safety for all residents. Stay tuned for more updates as they unfold.