Man apologises for assaulting bouncer

A man who responded to being refused entry to a pub by striking the security man in the neck and face has apologised and agreed to pay compensation to the injured party.

The victim struggled for breath after he was struck by Michael Grist, aged 26, of 10 Brooklodge Grove, Glanmire, Co Cork.

Anthony Barrett, who refused Grist entry to An Bróg on Oliver Plunkett St, Cork, that night, told Cork District Court he had pain in his jaw and neck and difficulty swallowing for a few days after that but otherwise recovered and did not require medical attention.

He told Judge Leo Malone he had not taken a civil action against Grist.

Judge Malone said that the defendant should pay €750 as a gesture of compensation and the judge adjourned sentencing of Grist for a month for that purpose.

Defence solicitor, Frank Buttimer, said the defendant accepted responsibility for what was an unprovoked assault on a man who was simply doing his job and he apologised for the assault.

Inspector Bill Duane previously said the assault occurred on Jun 27, 2012.

“Anthony Barrett was punched in the face and neck. He found it difficult to speak and swallow after the incident. A taxi driver passing the scene identified the accused as the aggressor.”

“Mr Barrett said (immediately afterwards) that if he had not reacted as quickly as he did, he might have sustained more serious injuries,” the inspector said.