Sentencing hearing under way for Riad Bouchaker
The sentencing hearing for Riad Bouchaker is underway following his conviction for the attempted murder of three children and a childcare worker in Dublin. Victims' families provided emotional testimony regarding the lasting impact of the 2023 attack.
Why it matters
The case is a significant criminal trial in Ireland that has deeply affected the public and raised questions about safety and mental health in public spaces.
The mother of the little girl most seriously injured in the attack by Riad Bouchaker on Parnell Square three years ago has said their family's lives have been changed unrecognisably and she would not wish what happened on anyone.
The woman, whose daughter will need 24-hour care for the rest of her life, was giving evidence at Bouchaker’s sentencing hearing at the Central Criminal Court.
Another mother, whose son was slashed on the chest, described Bouchaker as the monster who haunts their nightmares.
Bouchaker, who is 52, and originally from Algeria, was found guilty earlier this year of attempting to murder three children when he attacked a group of five and six-year-olds waiting to go to after-school on the afternoon of 23 November 2023.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in