Teen Arrested for Assault on US Tourist in Dublin
A male juvenile has been arrested in connection with the assault of an American tourist in Dublin city centre. The attack, which was captured on CCTV footage, left the victim in a coma with life-altering injuries. The teenager is currently being detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at a North Dublin Garda Station. A spokesperson for An Garda Síochána confirmed that the arrest was made for an alleged offence contrary to the Non-Fatal Against the Persons Act, 1997. The investigation is ongoing.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar Pledges to Increase Garda Numbers
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has promised to increase the number of gardaí in response to a rise in public order incidents across the country. Varadkar stated that there has been a noticeable deterioration in public order since the onset of the pandemic. He emphasized the need for a “tough and firm” approach to combat street thugs and ensure the safety of citizens. Varadkar outlined plans to recruit more gardaí, improve equipment and vehicles, increase CCTV coverage, appoint more judges, and develop Community Safety Partnerships. He stressed the importance of visible garda presence on the streets to instill a sense of safety in the public.
Son of Assaulted Tourist Desires to be by Father’s Side
The son of Stephen Termini, the American tourist who was brutally attacked in Dublin, has expressed his desire to be with his father when he wakes up from his coma. Mike Rizzuto, Termini’s son, revealed that his father suffered multiple kicks and punches to the head during the unprovoked assault. The attack took place in close proximity to Store Street garda station. Gardaí have identified three youths, aged between 14 and 15, as suspects in the case. One of the suspects has already provided a voluntary statement at a garda station. Rizzuto, who has Irish heritage, is seeking to raise funds to travel to Ireland to be with his father.
GoFundMe Page Created to Support Family’s Travel to Ireland
In an effort to travel to Ireland and be with Stephen Termini, a GoFundMe page has been set up by his two sons and sister. Termini, a musician from Buffalo, New York, had been saving money to visit Ireland and trace his Irish heritage. He lost his wife to illness last April and had always dreamed of visiting the country. The funds raised will cover the expenses of Termini’s family, including his sons and sister, to travel from America. The family hopes to be by Termini’s side when he wakes up from his coma.