Killer of Grandfather Gets Only 2 Years for Domestic Abuse Death

UPDATE: A shocking case of domestic abuse unfolds as Olesja Hertova, 49, has been sentenced to only 33 months for the murder of her partner, James Ryan, 69. The incident occurred on August 11, 2024, when Hertova fatally pushed Ryan, leading to his tragic death the following day.

New revelations confirm a decade of sustained abuse against Ryan and his family, raising urgent questions about the leniency of her sentence. The couple’s teenage daughter, Ellie Ryan, bravely alerted authorities after witnessing the horrific incident outside their home in Balbriggan, Dublin.

In an exclusive interview, James Ryan’s daughter, Karen Ryan, expressed deep frustration over the judicial outcome. “No one should be getting two years in prison for killing someone,” she stated, emphasizing the prolonged suffering their family endured due to Hertova’s abusive behavior. Reports indicate that Hertova had previously assaulted her own daughter, further showcasing her violent history.

The abuse extended well beyond Ryan’s death, with witnesses recounting troubling incidents, including Hertova verbally and physically attacking family members. “She left my daughter with a black eye,” Karen revealed, highlighting the ongoing trauma inflicted on their family.

Sister Lynn Ryan shared her own harrowing experiences, describing bizarre late-night phone calls filled with insults and threats. “I had to block her texts. They were relentless,” she said, underlining the emotional toll on the family.

The Ryan family has taken action, writing to the Director of Public Prosecutions to contest the sentence, which they believe fails to reflect the severity of Hertova’s crimes. As they prepare to mark the first anniversary of James Ryan’s death, his grandchildren, Cian and Shannon, are left to grapple with their loss. “He was my hero, my teacher,” Cian said, expressing profound sorrow over the impact of his grandfather’s absence.

Authorities confirmed that Hertova is currently incarcerated at Dochas Prison and is slated for release in September 2026. The case has raised significant concerns about the handling of domestic abuse cases in Ireland, prompting discussions about necessary reforms to ensure justice for victims.

As the family continues to seek justice and healing, they urge others to recognize the signs of domestic abuse and the importance of speaking out. “We can only imagine what Ellie had to put up with in that house,” Karen said, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and support for victims.

As this story develops, the Ryan family remains determined to advocate for change, ensuring that their father’s legacy is honored, and that future victims receive the justice they deserve.