A sports coach suffered a triple jaw fracture and feared for his life after he was confronted by a group including Republic of Ireland footballer Jeff Hendrick, a court has heard.
Darren McDermott alleged he was dragged from a taxi by Mr Hendrick who was “out of it” and was later chased and beaten during the incident in Dublin more than two years ago.
Mr Hendrick (24), originally from Kilmore, Dublin, but now based in England where he plays for Derby County, is accused of violent disorder at Harcourt Street on October 12th, 2013. The charge, under the Public Order Act, involves an allegation of the use of, or the threat of violence, which could cause a person to fear for their safety.
His co-accused, Jonathan Doran (24), of Kilmore Crescent, Artane, is also charged with violent disorder at Montague Street but has an additional charge for assault causing harm to Mr McDermott.
Both men have pleaded not guilty and their trial began at Dublin District Court yesterday.
After hearing evidence from Mr McDermott, Judge John Cheatle refused jurisdiction, meaning the case must go forward to the Circuit Court, which has tougher sentencing powers. Judge Cheatle said Mr McDermott had described a terrifying event in which he had been threatened and pursued by Mr Hendrick.