Man in the Midlands hit victim with trophy on dancefloor of hotel

A court has heard how a man was allegedly punched several times and struck with a trophy after accidentally bumping into his attacker on the dancefloor of a Longford hotel.

Twenty-six-year-old Sean Campbell, of Ballagh Road, Stonepark, Longford was charged with assault causing harm to his alleged victim following the incident at the Longford Arms Hotel during the early hours of January 29.

Sgt Enda Daly, for the prosecution, said the episode stemmed from a minor coming together between the pair on the dancefloor of the hotel.

He said the alleged victim “accidently bumped” into Mr Campbell before apologising moments later.

Judge Miriam Walsh was told despite those overtures, Mr Campbell allegedly attacked the man, punching him up to half a dozen times while also striking him across the face with a trophy which was in his possession.

“The suspect, the defendant allegedly proceeded to assault (the victim), hitting him at least five to six times, at least two of which the defendant allegedly used a trophy to assault (the victim), said Sgt Daly.

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The injured party allegedly sustained injuries to the bridge of his nose and above his left eye.

He later attended out of hours GP service, Midoc before being referred to Mullingar’s Midland Regional Hospital’s Accident and Emergency department.

During the course of his admission, the alleged victim was x-rayed and received treatment for his injuries.

Sgt Daly said a voluntary caution statement was taken from the accused where “certain admissions” were made, the court was told.

In defence, solicitor Frank Gearty said his client would be “taking a certain course” of action in meeting the case and would be offering a “full apology” over what transpired on the date in question.

Judge Walsh accepted jurisdiction, meaning the matter could be disposed of in the District Court, leading Mr Gearty to apply for a short adjournment, saying he was “virtually ready” to put forward Mr Campbell’s mitigation to the court.

The accused was remanded on bail to a sitting of Longford District Court on December 5.