The Irish Defence Forces say they have begun disciplinary proceedings after a solider convicted of assault was controversially given a suspended prison sentence.
Social media has been ablaze with outrage after 22-year-old Cathal Crotty, a serving member of the Army, was given a three-year suspended sentence after pleading guilty to assaulting 24-year-old Natasha O’Brien.
Mr Crotty brutally attacked Ms O’Brien, leaving her with serious mental and physical injuries that led to her losing her job.
In a statement released to the media, the Defence Forces said that the disciplinary process would begin today after court proceedings concluded.
“Any conviction in a civilian court may have implications for the retention and service of members of the Defence Forces, as stipulated in defence forces regulations. Once due process has been completed in a civilian court of law it becomes a matter for the relevant Defence Forces authorities in accordance with Defence Forces Regulations.”
“The Defence Forces commend the bravery of the victim in this case, and hope for her full recovery from the injuries sustained.”
“The Defence Forces unequivocally condemn any actions by serving personnel that are contrary to or do not reflect our values.”
