Justice Denied

The story “Justice Denied” by Jason Quigley covers the events of August 2021, when 19-year-old Aaron Bride from Malahide, Dublin, went out for what should have been a typical night out. Instead, he was allegedly sexually assaulted near Dublin’s General Post Office. CCTV footage showed three men stalking and attacking Aaron in a premeditated manner. Though two suspects were arrested, delays, legal mishandlings, and a lack of urgency meant justice was never served. Aaron, a vibrant, brave young transgender man who hadn’t yet medically transitioned, was left shattered by the experience and the system’s failure to act. 

Traumatised, he became reclusive, battling anxiety and turning to medication. His mental health deteriorated under the weight of a stalled legal process. In July 2024, aged just 21, Aaron died from cardiac arrest—his family believes the trauma consumed him. With Aaron’s death, the case was dismissed. 
His mother, Jackie Bride, and sister, Gwen Mc Auley, are now outspoken advocates for legal reform, determined to expose the justice system’s failures and ensure other victims aren’t similarly abandoned. They remember Aaron as courageous, kind, and full of life. Their fight is not just for justice—but for Aaron’s dignity, and for systemic change. As Gwen said, “We won’t let the world forget.”