Dublin, Ireland – Denis Leahy, a 59-year-old inmate described as one of Ireland’s most dangerous prisoners, is set to be released from Midlands Prison in Co Laois today. Leahy had been incarcerated since September 2014, following a brutal attack on Rose Kenny, a Dublin woman, which nearly claimed her life.
In July 2016, Leahy was sentenced to 14 years in prison for the attempted murder of Kenny, with whom he had a brief relationship years prior. The sentencing followed his guilty plea to stabbing Kenny multiple times at her Dublin residence in an incident that left her critically injured. Kenny, who was 59 at the time of the attack, endured three stab wounds to her neck—one severing her larynx—as well as multiple stab wounds to her chest. She spent seven weeks at St James’s Hospital in a fight for her life.
The decision to release Leahy has sparked concern among public safety advocates and victim support groups. Women’s Aid, a leading advocacy group for women’s safety, emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough risk assessment before Leahy’s release. Sarah Benson, CEO of Women’s Aid, expressed deep concern over the potential threat posed by Leahy’s imminent release, especially given his history and lack of remorse for his actions.
During Leahy’s sentencing, Justice Paul Butler remarked on the premeditated nature of the attack, which he indicated had been planned at least a day in advance. He underscored Leahy’s apparent lack of remorse and categorized the offense as high-severity due to the deliberate and brutal nature of the assault. These factors contributed to the decision to impose a significant prison term of 14 years, which was backdated to account for time already spent in custody since the attack.
The case took a more disturbing turn with revelations regarding Leahy’s past. Reports emerged alleging that in 2006, Leahy had killed a prostitute in Thailand, stabbing Bupha Tanchiangpin 22 times. Her mutilated body was discovered in his apartment in Pattaya, with her hands tied behind her back. Although Leahy was detained by Thai police as he attempted to cross into Cambodia, he managed to flee the country and return to Ireland after initial detention.
Reflecting on the harrowing day of her attack, Kenny recounted that Leahy had accused her of calling the police on him, a claim she denied as she fought to defend herself during the onslaught. Despite the severe injuries, Kenny managed to maintain consciousness and sought immediate help, which she credits with saving her life.
The gravity of Leahy’s crimes, both in Ireland and potentially abroad, underline the critical need for careful evaluation of the risks associated with his return to society. Advocates like Benson stress the necessity of protective measures, including safety and restraining orders, to prevent any further harm to Kenny or others.
As Leahy’s release proceeds, the community and Kenny herself are left to grapple with the potential consequences, hoping that adequate safeguards are in place to ensure safety and justice for victims of such heinous acts.