Portumna Farmer’s Manslaughter Sentence Reduced by 18 Months

UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, a Portumna farmer’s sentence for the manslaughter of his elderly aunt has been reduced by 18 months. 61-year-old Michael Scott, who was convicted for killing Chrissie Treacy in 2018, now faces 4.5 years in prison following an appeal decision made today.

Scott, who was found guilty of manslaughter by gross negligence for driving over his aunt with an agricultural teleporter, initially received a six-year sentence. This significant reduction comes despite the trial judge’s harsh description of Scott’s behavior toward his aunt as “thuggish.”

On April 27, 2018, the tragic incident occurred outside Ms. Treacy’s home in Derryhiney, Portumna. After a trial in 2023, a jury acquitted Scott of murder but convicted him of manslaughter based on gross negligence.

During today’s appeal at the Court of Appeal, Justice Brian O’Moore acknowledged the gravity of the situation, citing Scott’s obstructed view and failure to keep a proper lookout while reversing the vehicle. However, he also considered mitigating factors such as Scott’s remorse, clean criminal record, steady work history, and his status as a family man with a low risk of reoffending.

The judge emphasized that the original ruling, which suggested an eight-year headline sentence, was an error. He stated that Scott’s behavior toward his aunt was deemed “unacceptable” but did not justify the original sentence length.

This reduction means Scott’s sentence is now backdated to June 12, 2023, a decision that has drawn mixed reactions from the community. The emotional impact of this case continues to resonate in Portumna as residents grapple with the tragic loss of Ms. Treacy and the consequences of this legal outcome.

As details continue to emerge, observers are left questioning the broader implications of this case for similar legal matters. The community is urged to stay updated on any further developments regarding Michael Scott’s case and its aftermath.

For more information on this developing story, follow local news outlets for updates.