November 23rd 2024.
The beginning of Nikita Hand's civil trial at Dublin's High Court was filled with terror as details of a horrifying raid were revealed. It was described how a gang of men, their faces covered with balaclavas, violently broke into the home of Conor McGregor's rape accuser. As their young daughter slept in the next room, the intruders proceeded to stab her boyfriend. This terrifying event ultimately led to a jury awarding Nikita Hand over £200,000 in damages.
According to her lawyer John Gordon, the plaintiff claimed that nearly six years ago, in December of 2018, the UFC star known as 'Notorious' brutally raped her in a hotel penthouse in Dublin. However, the focus of the civil trial was on the break-in that occurred on June 14th of that year, just days after the incident. Gordon explained to the judge that the plaintiff's home was invaded by a group of men wearing balaclavas who proceeded to break into her bedroom. The plaintiff's partner, who bravely fought back, was injured in the process. And all the while, their young daughter lay sleeping in the next room.
The court was also made aware that the intruders had smashed the windows in the front room before fleeing. While it was not being claimed that the defendants were responsible for this act, it was believed to be a targeted attack by supporters of Conor McGregor. This was connected to the fact that the plaintiff had been forced to move from the Drimnagh area due to the events surrounding her case.
When asked if this was an accusation against McGregor, Mr. Gordon clarified that it was simply a piece of evidence to support their claim for special damages. This included the plaintiff's anxiety and the fact that she had to relocate. However, the judge deemed this information irrelevant and instructed the jury not to consider it.
At the end of the trial, it was agreed upon by both parties that the claim for the house move would not be made. Meanwhile, the Garda, or Irish police, reported that they were investigating an incident of aggravated burglary that occurred at the plaintiff's home. One man was injured and taken to the hospital, but his injuries were not life-threatening.
Nikita Hand, also known as Nikita Ni Laimhin, brought forth this civil case after the director of public prosecutions in Ireland chose not to pursue criminal charges against McGregor. In the end, the jury awarded her a total of 248,603.60 euros in damages. McGregor, who was accompanied by his family, including his partner Dee Devlin, shook his head in disbelief as the verdict was announced.
Following the verdict, McGregor announced that he would be appealing the decision. He expressed disappointment that the jury did not hear all of the evidence and stated that the modest award was for assault, not aggravated or exemplary damages. He also thanked his family and supporters for their continued support.
Meanwhile, Nikita Hand spoke to the media outside of the High Court and described the whole process as a nightmare. She also revealed that calls to the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre had increased during the trial, with many referencing her case and expressing distress over the media coverage. The CEO of the centre, Rachel Morrogh, stated that this case was having a profound effect on their clients and thanked all those involved in Hand's case for their support.
In her emotional statement, Hand urged other victims of assault to speak up and keep fighting for justice. She acknowledged the impact this case has had on her and her loved ones, and expressed her hope that it will serve as a reminder to others to never give up. With tears in her eyes, she concluded by saying that this experience will stay with her for the rest of her life.
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