A man has been sentenced to seven years in prison for attacking a taxi driver after a dispute about the fare.
Denis Creagh, 24, from Coolock in Dublin, kicked driver Terence Moloney in the head and stomach fracturing Mr Moloney's skull. He also bit him on the face during the attack in June 2004.
The Dublin Circuit Criminal Court also heard that Mr Moloney lost 12 teeth, suffered a hearing impairment and significant, ongoing, psychological difficulties. He has not worked since.
Judge Katherine Delahunt said the fact that Mr Moloney was kicked in the head while he was on the ground meant it was the most serious type of assault where there was an intent to inflict the maximum amount of damage.
Mr Creagh previously pleaded guilty and apologised to Mr Moloney in court. He said he did not think Mr Moloney or anyone deserved that.
