17/07/2012

Renewed Appeal Over Derry Sectarian Attack

Detectives investigating a sectarian attack that left a Derry man in a vegetative state say they know the identities of some of those involved.

But on the anniversary of the assault, police have appealed again for information to help bring his attackers to justice.

Paul McCauley, a 35-year-old civil servant, was attacked by a gang at a barbecue in the Waterside area of the city in 2006.

He was left with severe brain injuries and will need round-the-clock care for the rest of his life.

One man is in prison on a 12-year sentence for his part in the serious assault but PSNI Detective Chief Inspector Ian Harrison said up to 15 more people may have been involved.

Police believe Mr McCauley's attackers made off in the direction of Irish Street in the Waterside.

DCI Harrison asked people in that area to come forward with information.

In the six years since the attack, Mr McCauley has been unable to speak or move and his father Jim said it is unclear whether he knows his family anymore.

DCI Harrison said: "I need the community to come forward and give me the answers I need to bring these people to court. I can understand people are concerned, but I want them to at least sit down with me, tell me what they know and I can give them reassurance in respect of giving evidence and helping them through court.

"This whole incident has left a stain on the city of Derry."

(NE)

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