The man cleared of murdering Josh Dunne has vowed never to work as a delivery driver again following the tragedy.
Speaking exclusively to The Star, George Gonzaga Bento’s partner Cohelo Macedo said the Brazilian native would also strongly discourage anyone else from working as a delivery driver in Ireland.
Mr Bento walked free from prison after 16 months on remand this week.
Read more: Man to leave Ireland after being found not guilty of Josh Dunne's murder
“He doesn’t feel like working as a delivery driver again. He is still in shock with the situation,” said Cohelo.
“Being violently attacked when all that he was trying to do was work and provide a better life to his family, it is not something that’s easy to digest,” she said.
This week Mr Bento, who is now leaving Ireland for good, was found not guilty of Ballymun native Josh Dunne’s murder.
A jury agreed he was acting in self-defence after being attacked when he and a colleague tried to retrieve a stolen bike on January 26, 2021.
Talented footballer Josh (16) was stabbed twice by Bento during the ordeal, after intervening in the scuffle with the Deliveroo cyclist and a number of youths.
But now Mr Bento’s partner says he feels it is unsafe for anyone to work as a delivery cyclist in Ireland – and he would strongly urge people to seek another career.
“The attacks against delivery riders are still happening across the city and even after this tragedy,” she said.
“So if he could give any advice would be, if possible, choose a different kind of job.”
However, she added that if someone feels they have to take up the job, Mr Bento’s advice to them is to steer clear of gangs of youths — and to always shout for help.
“Stay away from the areas that are known as violent and unsafe,” she said.
“Stay away from a group of teenagers that are well known for making trouble, and if you can’t run fast enough, scream for help, because if you are not able to call gardai, someone that is passing by hopefully will.”
Mr Bento is now leaving Ireland for good — and returning to Brazil amid fears for his safety.
“He doesn’t intend to stay in Ireland. He’s very concerned,” she said.
”Ireland is a lovely country, (but) we have seen some comments on social media that make us really worried.
“After all he just feels like being with his kids at the moment, and his old parents.”
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