A woman left with brain damage after being brutally attacked on a date is suing Police Scotland. Carol O'Reilly's attacker, Michael Harvey from Cambuslang, South Lanarkshire, subjected her to hours of abuse and violence across Glasgow city centre before a final assault in a hotel left her in an induced coma with catastrophic head injuries.
Attack and Failed Arrest
Chilling CCTV footage captured Harvey's savagery in the early hours of October 1, 2023, as he shouted at the woman in hotels and streets before the attack continued in a hotel room. The High Court in Glasgow heard last year that Harvey managed to "talk his way out of handcuffs" after police were called despite the woman's condition.
Police Scotland officers who attended failed to arrest her 32-year-old attacker and instead dropped the pair off at A&E. Harvey then took Carol back to the Ibis Hotel where he continued his assault. CCTV captured him carrying her lifeless body back into the reception of the hotel.
Ongoing Impact and Legal Action
O'Reilly continues to struggle with lifelong memory loss and is likely to be on anti-seizure medication for life. Solicitors Digby Brown are now supporting the victim, who has launched civil action against Police Scotland. It is understood she is seeking a six-figure sum.
A spokeswoman for law firm Digby Brown said: "What happened to Ms O'Reilly was a horrific act of violence and which left her fighting for her life. The injuries she suffered continue to impact her every day and as a result her life will never be the same again. As this is an ongoing legal case it would be inappropriate to comment further but we will continue to support Ms O'Reilly with her recovery and pursuit for recognition."
Investigation and Sentencing
It is understood Police Scotland's actions on the night in question are being "investigated separately". The court heard Carol was found unconscious by hotel staff in the blood-splattered room the next morning. A phone call to 999 played to the court heard Harvey claiming that she had fallen in the shower and had been foaming at the mouth.
In July 2025, Harvey was found guilty of attempted murder and attempting to defeat the end of justice. He was sentenced to nine years behind bars and given an indefinite non-harassment order banning him from contacting the victim. He will serve the bulk of his nine-year sentence in prison before being considered for release under licence conditions.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: "We are aware that the case is ongoing and therefore it would be inappropriate to comment further."
