Courts / Dublin / Report

Jury in trial of Ireland star told to put football out of their minds

Date
2017-07-06

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Dublin

County
Dublin

Summary

In the violent disorder trial of Republic of Ireland footballer Jeff Hendrick, the jury was instructed to disregard his football career. Hendrick, 25, denies committing violent disorder at Harcourt Street on 12 October 2013, as does co‑accused Jonathan Doran, 26. Doran also denies assaulting Darren McDermott, who testified that Hendrick dragged him from a taxi after a verbal row at Krystle nightclub, resulting in kicks to his head, face, chest and back. In closing, Hendrick's solicitor Sean Gillane urged the jury to set aside any bias from his football background, noting that Hendrick's success stems from application and diligence rather than talent. Judge Martin Nolan also asked the jury to apply common sense and ensure a fair trial. Witnesses, including Shannon Farrell, described seeing McDermott beaten and bleeding, while Doran's statements about the incident were heard by the court. The judge will resume his charge the following morning before the jury deliberates. Jonathan Doran pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jury in trial of Ireland star told to put football out of their minds. Charges or matters: assault causing harm to Darren McDermott on the same occasion. Procedural stage: trial

When:

October 12, 2013 Incident
2017-07-06 Publication

Why: Mr Gillane cited what someone had said to him at the time, that "talent is not worthy of respect" and said Mr Hendrick had not reached his current position because of talent. CNI source report