2014-07-04 ยท Dublin
Restoritive Justice report for GAA player who broke man's jaw outside chip shop
Samual McGuinness, a 23-year-old GAA player from Rush, appeared at Balbriggan District Court where his sentencing was adjourned. He pleaded guilty to assaulting Patrick Butterly, causing him harm on October 5th last year, outside a takeaway in Rush. The court heard that the assault resulted in a broken jaw, stitches, and significant medical costs for the victim. Judge Dermot Dempsey noted the severity of the injuries but stated he could not change jurisdiction to the Circuit Court due to the guilty plea. McGuinness's solicitor indicated that the defendant had accepted an apology from the victim and requested a Restorative Justice Programme report. The court was informed of a communication error with Probation Services regarding the report's readiness. Consequently, Judge Dempsey adjourned the case until October 23rd to allow for the Restorative Justice Programme. McGuinness was remanded on continuing bail until that date. The matter remains pending and has not been finalised.