Kildare mum calls for reform of juvenile laws after son is attacked
Victim suffered swollen black eyes, cuts, bruises
A Kildare mother has called for changes to Ireland’s juvenile justice system following an alleged assault on her 15-year-old son in Co Kildare.
Joanne Farrell said her son Kaiden Percival, 15, from Allenwood, was on his way to a friend’s party in Clane when a group of young people allegedly launched an unprovoked attack on him on Thursday, August 20.
Ms Farrell said Kaiden suffered swollen black eyes, cuts, bruises and stamp marks all over his body.
She said the incident highlighted wider concerns about youth violence and the recording and sharing of assaults on social media.
She has launched a campaign calling for reform of Ireland’s juvenile justice laws, including what she described as more appropriate consequences for serious offences involving young people, alongside rehabilitation and preventative measures.
She is also calling for sporting organisations to consider policies governing the participation of young people who are the subject of formal warnings, sanctions, charges or findings arising from serious violence.
Ms Farrell said any suspension from sporting activities should not be intended solely as punishment or as a permanent exclusion, but should take account of rehabilitation, engagement with support services and evidence of positive behavioural change.
The mother said sport can play an important role in shaping young people and argued that those representing clubs or counties should demonstrate respect, discipline and good conduct.
She has also appealed to members of the public to support a petition calling for action from lawmakers.
Garda statement
Gardaí confirmed that they responded to a report of an alleged assault in Clane at approximately 8.15pm on Thursday, August 20.
A statement said that three male juveniles, aged in their teens, were arrested and detained for questioning in connection with the investigation.
Gardaí said that, as required under the Children Act 2001, all three juveniles had been referred in the first instance to the Garda Youth Diversion Programme.
The statement added that investigations are ongoing.