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Assault trial jury told to "leave at the door" any views on gardai

Summary

In the assault trial of Garda Sean Lucey, the jury was instructed to set aside any personal feelings toward the police. Lucey, 42, faced charges of assault causing harm and damaging a camera after a confrontation with RTE cameraman Colm Hand on Cathedral Street in February 2016. The prosecution argued that footage showed Lucey striking Hand's groin after the cameraman had retreated, while the defense emphasized Lucey's two‑decade clean record and the lawful use of force in a volatile situation. The trial, presided over by Judge Melanie Greally, continued with the jury hearing both sides' arguments before a verdict was reached. The case highlighted the tension between police conduct and media presence during street protests. Sean Lucey pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Assault trial jury told to "leave at the door" any views on gardai. Charges or matters: one count of assault causing harm to Colm Hand at Cathedral Street, Dublin city centre on February 6, 2016 and to damaging his camera. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• February 6, 2016 Incident
• 2019-12-11 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report