News at One Three-month suspended sentence for garda who assaulted wife
Jan 16, 2026
Paul Reynolds, RTÉ crime correspondent, provides an incisive look into the case of Garda Trevor Bolger, who assaulted his wife, Margaret Loftus, thirteen years ago. The discussion reveals the couple's troubled relationship, highlighting the assault's shocking context during a family party. Reynolds delves into the timeline of events leading to the complaint in 2018 and the court's findings, emphasizing the breach of trust given Bolger’s position. Ultimately, he unpacks the implications of the three-month suspended sentence tied to a domestic violence program.
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Assault After A Family Party
- Trevor Bolger and Margaret Loftus met as gardaí in Ballymun and married in 2010.
- In October 2012, Bolger assaulted Loftus in her childhood bedroom with their young children present, ending the marriage.
Long-Term Harm From A Single Incident
- The assault had lasting ripple effects on both parents and the children, altering their lives long-term.
- Loftus confronted Bolger the next day and later made a formal complaint years after the incident.
Breach Of Public Trust By An Officer
- The judge emphasised that as a garda Bolger was held to a higher standard because officers are meant to protect the public.
- The court described the offence as an egregious breach of trust given his role.