Man Convicted of Attempted Murder of Three Children in Dublin

In a landmark verdict delivered on 22 July by the Central Criminal Court, Riad Bouchaker, aged 52 and without a fixed address, was found guilty of attempting to murder three children at Ubi B & C's school in Parnell Square, Dublin. He also faced charges for assault causing serious harm, stabs a five‑year‑old girl in the heart, leaving a lifelong brain injury.

The jury deliberated over six hours, delivering all eight guilty verdicts. Judge Tony Hunt praised the jury’s effort, noting the difficulty of hearing the evidence. Bouchaker will remain in custody until the sentencing scheduled for 12 October.

The November 2023 attack ignited widespread rioting across Dublin. Police deployed a historic number of riot officers, as the incident damaged 11 police vehicles, 13 stores, three buses, a tram and left several officers injured during three hours of sustained violence. The police chief at the time, Drew Harris, linked the unrest to far‑right ideology.

The community’s reaction highlighted the urgent need for stronger protective measures and restorative justice approaches that respect the rights and healing of children and families. This case will likely influence future policy regarding public safety and the support structures needed for vulnerable populations in Dublin.