LIMERICK, IRELAND – All-star Limerick hurler Kyle Hayes faced a day in court where he received fully suspended jail sentences for his involvement in a violent disorder incident inside and outside a nightclub. The altercation led to serious facial injuries for a young carpenter, Cillian McCarthy. Despite denying two violent disorder charges, Hayes was convicted by a jury and faced the consequences of his actions.
As the sentences were announced, Hayes’ barrister guided him out of court, emphasizing that he would not be serving time behind bars. Judge Dermot Sheehan, taking into account the recommendations of Limerick hurling manager John Kiely, decided to give Hayes a chance by suspending the custodial sentence. Recognizing the seriousness of the violence displayed by Hayes, the judge imposed suspended sentences for the charges related to the nightclub incident.
Although Hayes was found not guilty of assault causing harm to McCarthy, the judge emphasized Hayes’ pivotal role in the events that unfolded. Hayes was directed to compensate McCarthy with €10,000 for the injuries and financial losses he suffered. The court acknowledged the traumatic experience McCarthy endured due to the altercation initiated by Hayes and others.
During the trial, it was revealed that Hayes had aggressively confronted McCarthy and his friend inside the nightclub, leading to a physical altercation that continued outside the premises. The judge noted Hayes’ continuous involvement in the violent behavior directed towards McCarthy, underscoring the dangerous nature of the incident.
Despite evidence pointing to Hayes’ remorse, the judge could not ignore his significant culpability in the violent events of the night. The court highlighted the threatening and menacing behavior exhibited by Hayes and others, culminating in the injuries sustained by McCarthy. Hayes’ lack of recollection during interviews with the authorities, contrasted with his ability to recount the events to his hurling coach, raised concerns about his behavior that night.
McCarthy expressed the psychological and physical toll the incident had taken on him, leading to fear and apprehension about going out at night. Hayes made no comments to the media after the proceedings, while McCarthy expressed relief in putting the incident behind him. The judge’s decision to suspend Hayes’ sentences reflected a balance between accountability for his actions and the opportunity for rehabilitation.