Limavady man jailed after female victim suffered brain bleed in ‘horrific’ domestic assault

PSNI custody photo: Derek McManus, aged 54

A Limavady man has been jailed after a woman was severely beaten, locked inside his house overnight and left needing emergency brain surgery.

Derek McManus, aged 54, was sentenced yesterday at Laganside Crown Court for domestic abuse offences, including grievous bodily harm with intent and common assault.

McManus was handed a sentence of three years and two and a half months in prison, followed by three years and two and a half months on licence.

The victim in the case was also granted a five-year restraining order.

Victim sought help from neighbour after assault

Police said they received a 999 call from a concerned neighbour on Saturday, 5 October 2024, after the victim went to his home seeking help.

Detective Superintendent Kerry Brennan said McManus had “severely beaten her and locked her in his house overnight”.

She said:

“He had subjected her to a horrific sustained assault, resulting in emergency brain surgery after suffering a bleed on her brain.

“McManus is a violent and dangerous individual. We commend the victim’s bravery in coming forward and supporting the police investigation resulting in her getting justice.”

Police urge domestic abuse victims to seek help

Police said domestic abuse offences will be investigated thoroughly and offenders brought before the courts.

Detective Superintendent Brennan added:

“Anyone who commits domestic abuse crimes of any nature in our community will be investigated thoroughly and everything will be done to bring them before the courts.

“If you are suffering domestic abuse in any form, or are concerned about someone you know, please reach out for help. Call us on 101 or report online here: https://www.psni.police.uk/report

“Always call 999 in an emergency.”

The sentence brings the criminal case to a close, while the restraining order is intended to provide continuing protection for the victim following McManus’s release.