RAPIST ISSUES THREATS TO COURT BEFORE BEING HANDED FOURTH LIFE SENTENCE FOR ATTACKING PRISON OFFICER
A convicted rapist issued threats to a court before being handed a fourth life sentence for attempting to stab the neck of a prison officer.David O’Brien, who already has three life imprisonment orders for attempting to murder fellow inmates, was hauled before Manchester Crown Court after the most recent attack in October 2022.
The 47-year-old previously admitted attempting to murder Danny Fitzsimons, a murderer whom he attacked with a metal bar while both were inmates at Ashworth Hospital in Maghull.
He also admitted attacking fellow inmate Peter Harris with an improvised knife made from a toothbrush and a razor blade.
During the court proceedings, O’Brien told prosecutors to read out all his convictions, expressing a desire for vengeance.
O’Brien has an extensive and serious criminal record, including being jailed for nine years for two offenses of rape, 49 months for robbery in 2015, and multiple life sentences for attempted murder in 2017 and 2023.
During sentencing, he interrupted the court, making threats and showing volatile behavior, insisting that "Vengeance will be sweeter" and questioning the point of further life sentences.
He was handed a life sentence with a minimum term of four and a half years before parole consideration.
The court also ordered that a record of his threats and ultimatums be sent to the prison for future review.
O’Brien has expressed defiance and anger throughout the proceedings, stating he does not care about the sentences and that he should be on the streets fighting terrorists.
The judge deemed him a dangerous offender, citing a significant risk of further offenses and serious harm in the future.
This case highlights the dangerousness of O’Brien, given his history of violence and his recent threats in court, culminating in his latest life imprisonment for the attack on the prison officer.
