Alleged assault on bouncer could see father and son face trial

A district court judge has refused jurisdiction in the case of a father and son who allegedly attacked a bouncer in a Donegal hotel.

William Ward and his son Liam Ward, both with addresses at Orbeg, Donegal Town are charged with assaulting Sean Douglas and causing him harm. The assault is alleged to have taken place in the Abbey Hotel, Donegal Town on October 29, 2022.

Inspector Angela Cummins handed a medical report into the court. 

She told Judge Vincent Deane that the men had been attending a function when there was an altercation. The inspector said it was alleged that William Ward attacked one of the bouncers, and Ward’s son Liam joined in.

The Director of Public Prosecution(DPP) had previously directed that the matter be dealt with by summary disposal, meaning that it could be heard in the district court.

However, after examining the medical report, Judge Deane refused jurisdiction. This means that the matter will now go back to the DPP for consent that the defendants be sent forward for trial to the circuit court. 

Judge Deane adjourned the case until April 22 for DPP consent and service of the book of evidence.