Widespread condemnation

Lagan Valley MP Jeffrey Donaldson described the unprovoked attack as pathetic.

“The sooner those responsible are caught and brought before the courts, the safer our local community will be,” he said. “Whilst it is not my role to interfere with the judicial process, I do hope the courts show no leniency in this case.

“In a similar case in Lisburn recently which resulted in the death of a man as a result of serious injuries he sustained by being kicked in the head, the accused was sentenced to a mere six years, three of which will be out on licence.

“I have called on the Justice Minister to increase the sentencing tariffs for such crimes and this latest case reinforces the need for our judiciary to get tough on these thugs. The message needs to go out from the courts that human life is valued and you pay a high price if you threaten or destroy life.”

MLA Paul Givan said, “Thoughts and prayers are with Scott and his family at this difficult time. I cannot comprehend why someone would do this to a vulnerable young man. These people need removed from our streets for the safety of everyone in society.

MLA Jonathan Craig described the attack as ‘absolutely terrible.’

“I hope the police catch and convict whoever did this,” he said. “My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time, I can’t begin to comprehend the turmoil and suffering they are going through at this time.”

Basil McCrea MLA has appealed for information following an attack on 17 year old Scott Vineer. Scott Vineer was found on Friday 7th September 2012 in a disused retail property on the Laganbank Road.

Mr McCrea said: “This attack is sickening and particularly vicious, my thoughts go out to Scott and to his friends and family at this time.”

“Someone out there will have information on this brutal attack. It is vital that this person comes forth to the police to see that justice is done for Scott.”

“The reason for this attack is still unclear, but there is no justification for this level of violence. It is particularly inhumane given that Scott suffers from autism.”

Mayor, Alderman William Leathem also condemned the brutal assault on Scott.

“I was shocked to learn of the brutal assault on Scott Vineer in the City and condemn the person or people responsible for such a cowardly attack on a vulnerable young man.

Our thoughts are with Scott and his family at this incredibly difficult time and we all hope and pray for his recovery and that those responsible are apprehended quickly.”

Chairman of Lisburn’s Policing and Community Safety Partnership, Councillor John Palmer, also condemned the assault and appealed for anybody with information to talk to the Police.

“Somebody, somewhere knows about this assault however vague or second-hand. If anybody has any information about Scott or his whereabouts after leaving college last Thursday please contact the local Police,” said Councillor Palmer.

Councillor Andrew Ewing called the attack as an ‘horrific one’ on a vulnerable young man.

“I trust that the culprits are caught and brought to justice,” he said.

SDLP Lisburn City Councillor, Pat Catney also condemned the serious assault.

“This attack on a young person making his way home from college is totally reprehensible,” he said. “The fact that he was not discovered until Friday evening is deeply concerning and must have caused his family considerable distress.”

A spokesperson for SERC said: “Our thoughts are with Scott and his family at this very difficult time and we hope that he makes a full recovery.”