A Dublin man sentenced to 14 years for stabbing his ex-girlfriend 50 times in a 2024 attack that left her blind and disabled.

A 22-year-old man, Josh O’Brien, was sentenced to 14 years in prison for attempting to murder his ex-girlfriend, Niamh Kelly, by stabbing her 50 times in a September 2024 attack in Dublin. Judge Mary Ellen Ring called the assault “breathtaking” and described Kelly’s survival as “nothing short of a miracle.” The attack left Kelly with lifelong injuries, including blindness in one eye, chronic pain, and the need for a wheelchair, along with lasting emotional trauma. O’Brien, who had a history of abusive behavior and mental health issues, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 15 years and six months, with 18 months suspended, due to his cooperation and lack of prior convictions. He is banned from contacting Kelly for five years and must attend probation appointments. Kelly, who has a young son, said she is grateful for the sentence but wished it were harsher. The case highlights the severe and lasting impact of domestic violence.