A man who took matters into his own hands by ramming a teenager with a truck has been sentenced to prison. Declan Fahey, residing in Croxdale, County Durham, faced legal consequences after causing severe injuries to a 16-year-old who had allegedly stolen his friend’s quad bike.
During the incident, Fahey chased the quad bike in his flatbed lorry and intentionally collided with it, resulting in the teenager sustaining multiple fractures to his face, skull, and leg. Despite denying the charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, a jury found him guilty. Fahey, aged 27, has been imprisoned for 42 months following the court’s decision.
The court proceedings revealed that Fahey’s actions were fueled by his belief that the quad bike riders were responsible for the theft. Recorder Richard Herrmann described Fahey’s behavior as premeditated, driven by revenge, or a vigilante-style attack. Despite having no prior criminal record, Fahey was convicted of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and received a 42-month prison sentence, along with a 57-month driving ban.
The injured teenager suffered fractures to his skull, face, and thigh, along with potential lung bruising. Fahey’s defense lawyer, Chris Morrison, emphasized that the attack was impulsive and out of character for Fahey. Morrison highlighted Fahey’s positive attributes, including his good work ethic and positive character references. Fahey’s time in custody has reportedly had a significant impact on him, leading to a noticeable weight loss.
Fahey’s refusal to take responsibility for the injuries he caused and his lack of remorse during the trial were noted by the court. Despite Fahey’s claims that he did not intend to harm the quad bike riders, the court concluded that his actions were deliberate and harmful. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of taking the law into one’s own hands.