Dublin Woman Left with Permanently Damaged Vision After Ex-Partner’s Violent Attack

Stephanie Hoey, a 33-year-old woman from Dublin, has been left practically blinded after suffering a devastating assault at the hands of her former partner, Conor Murphy. The attack occurred two years ago in Hoey’s home in Clondalkin, resulting in a blow-out fracture to her eye socket. Hoey required surgery to repair the damage, but she has been left with permanent vision loss, as well as ongoing nerve and muscle damage. Murphy, 23, pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm, as well as burglary and producing a knife on the same occasion. Today, he was sentenced to seven and a half years in prison by Judge Orla Crowe, who described the attack as an entirely unprovoked attack on a woman in her own home. The judge emphasized the significant impact the assault has had on Hoey’s life, including her deteriorating eyesight and the physical and psychological trauma she continues to experience. Hoey expressed relief at the sentencing, stating that it has provided her with a sense of safety and the ability to leave her home without fear. She thanked her mother for her unwavering support throughout this difficult time. The court heard that Murphy was abusing drugs at the time of the assault, and he has expressed remorse for his actions. However, given the severity of the attack and the lasting harm inflicted upon Hoey, Judge Crowe deemed a significant custodial sentence necessary.