A former prisoner's High Court claim seeking damages for injuries sustained during an alleged assault by another inmate has been dismissed due to inconsistencies in his recollection of events and the lack of supporting evidence.
A former prisoner's High Court claim seeking at least €60,000 in damages for injuries sustained during an alleged assault by another inmate has been dismissed. The judge stated that while evidence suggested Mr. Knowles was indeed assaulted, his inconsistent recollection of the events and lack of specific prison records documenting the incident ultimately led to the dismissal. Mr.
Knowles had alleged that while smoking in a kitchen area toilet in June 2013, another inmate kicked open the door and punched him, leading to a struggle and subsequent injury. He claimed he didn't receive immediate medical attention despite bleeding and fainting. The judge acknowledged that a prison officer confirmed inmates were allowed to smoke in the toilets, despite it being prohibited. However, the officer stated the alleged assailant, who had been working in the kitchen for five months without prior issues, hadn't been observed acting erratically before the incident. The judge found inconsistencies in Mr. Knowles' account, particularly regarding the medical treatment he received, which contradicted medical records. While the judge concluded that an assault did occur, insufficient evidence was presented to establish that the prison authorities could have reasonably foreseen the incident based on the other prisoner's past behavior. The lack of supervision in the toilet was also not deemed a breach of duty. The judge stated that the absence of a specific prison record regarding the alleged incident may have deprived Mr. Knowles of an opportunity to support his account with evidence. This point will be considered when determining who will be responsible for the legal and other costs associated with the case
ASSAULT DAMAGES PRISON HIGH COURT LEGAL CASE MEMORY INCONSISTENCIES
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