A MAN who bit a hospital security guard and falsely claimed to be HIV positive has been jailed for 12 months by the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
Judge Michael Moriarty said Noel Brennan had put his victim through "living hell". Brennan had taunted him, saying he hoped, he would get "it" too.
Tests were carried out on the victim and it took three weeks for the "all clear" results to be returned. It later transpired Brennan was also free of the virus.
Brennan (22) of Belcamp Crescent, Coolock, Dublin pleaded guilty to assaulting Chief Security Officer, Mr William Watson at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin on March 19th, 1994.
Six months of the term will be suspended.
Det Garda Gary Tobin of Whitehall told prosecuting counsel, Ms Una McGurk, that Brennan's mother had been seriously ill in hospital. She had suffered a breakdown following the death of a daughter.
Brennan arrived in a drunken state after visiting hours and demanded to see her. Mr Watson and his colleague Mr Kevin Campbell stopped him and a struggle took place during which Mr Watson was bitten. Brennan has 13 previous convictions, many of which are for assault.
Defence counsel, Mr Anthony Sammon, said his client suffered from a drink problem. He had also been under stress due to his mother's condition and the family tragedy.