Family of retired farmer Tom Niland didn't recognise him in hospital after killers' brutal attack, sentencing told

"The 'treasured' Sligo man died 20 months after he was set upon by a gang in January, 2022 One cousin said she remembers Mr Niland in hospital 'struggling to breathe in pain with tears rolling down his face' The family said they 'can only hope that some justice will be served for Tom' The family of a retired farmer who died 20 months after being violently attacked by a gang in his Sligo home didn't recognise him in hospital due to the severity of his injuries."

"A cousin of Tom Niland (75) has also told the Central Criminal Court that the three offenders, who have over 100 previous convictions between them, robbed a fit and healthy man of his independence, his freedom and ultimately his life."

Tom Niland, aged 75, died 20 months after being violently attacked in his Sligo home in January 2022. The injuries were so severe that family members did not recognise him in hospital, and he experienced respiratory distress and visible pain. Three offenders, collectively holding over 100 prior convictions, carried out the attack and robbery. The assault severely reduced his independence and freedom and contributed to his eventual death. Family members recalled his suffering and expressed a hope that justice will be served for Tom. The events were presented in the Central Criminal Court.

Read at Independent