Sentence for hit-and-run driver increased

The Court of Criminal Appeal has increased by two years the prison sentence imposed on a Dublin man for killing a truck driver in a hit-and-run incident after the victim tried to stop a group of people from stealing diesel from two trucks.

Today the CCA ruled that the original sentence imposed on Charlie McDonagh was unduly lenient and increased it from four to six years.

The Court also rejected an appeal by McDonagh against his conviction.

McDonagh (aged 22) Belcamp Lane, Priorswood, Dublin had admitted he drove the van that killed Mr Robertus Jusius but denied the unlawful killing and dangerous driving causing his death at Lanesborough Crescent, Finglas on April 4, 2006.

He was found guilty of the offence by a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Last April, Judge Patrick McCartan imposed a seven-year sentence on McDonagh, with the final three years suspended.

The CCA of Ms Justice Susan Denham presiding, sitting with Mr Justice Daniel Herbert and Mr Justice Michael Hanna, said that the court agreed with the DPP that Judge McCartan had erred by suspending the last three years of that sentence.

Ms Justice Denham said that court was therefore imposing a sentence of seven years with just the final 12 months suspended. The court also rejected an appeal by McDonagh against his conviction.