An obsessive philosophy student who cannot accept his former partner has moved on was jailed yesterday for assaulting the new man in her life and for sending him threatening text messages.
David Murphy (38), Fr Griffin Road, Galway, who is a mature student studying philosophy and politics at NUI Galway, pleaded guilty to assaulting Thierry Mulliez, causing him harm, by kicking him in the groin at Edward Square, Galway, on January 12th last year.
He also pleaded guilty to assaulting Mr Mulliez at the university the preceding day and to sending him threatening text messages on dates between January 21st, 2006, and January 21st, 2007. Murphy pleaded guilty also to putting his former partner and mother of his child, Anna Clayton, in fear in contravention of a long-standing court order.
Insp Sean Glynn said trouble began when Ms Clayton formed a relationship with Mr Mulliez.
Hearing the victim had obtained an injunction in the Circuit Court, restraining Murphy from coming near him, Judge Mary Fahy said it was clear Murphy had to be stopped.
She imposed sentences totalling six months and granted leave to appeal.