Man 'beaten into a coma at house party'
Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has heard how a father-of-one was beaten into a coma at a house party in Finglas two years ago.
Andrew McDonnell of Premier Square in Finglas is being sentenced for the savage beating that left Gerard Hughes with catastrophic brain injuries.
Gerard Hughes had been drinking with his brother before they bought some cocaine and went for a party in Alan McDonald’s apartment on Apr 24, 2011.
Several hours later, McDonnell took exception to Hughes, a 40-year-old builder.
A fight broke out and spiralled out of control as the night wore on and the men became more intoxicated.
McDonnell’s girlfriend witnessed him kicking Hughes on the kitchen floor and stamping on his head.
The court heard how McDonnell’s clothes and apartment were covered in blood and his victim was rushed to hospital where he remained in a coma.
A victim impact statement was read out in court.
It outlined how the father-of-one could no longer care for himself or his eight-year-old son.
He now lives with his elderly parents and can no longer handle simple tasks like cooking or crossing the street on his own.
Sentencing has been adjourned until June 26.
