A civil jury in Ireland has found mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Conor McGregor liable for sexually assaulting a woman in 2018 and ordered him to pay nearly โฌ250,000 (approximately $260,000) in damages. The verdict came after a two-week trial in which the plaintiff, Nikita Hand, accused McGregor of “brutally raping and battering” her in a Dublin hotel room.
Hand testified that she met McGregor at a party and that he took her to a bedroom where he sexually assaulted her, including putting her in a choke hold multiple times. She described fearing for her life and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of the alleged assault.
McGregor vehemently denied the allegations, claiming that their encounter was consensual and that he did not cause any injuries to Hand. His defense team presented surveillance video that they argued showed Hand acting affectionately towards McGregor after they left the hotel room.
Despite a police investigation, prosecutors declined to bring charges against McGregor, citing insufficient evidence. However, Hand pursued a civil lawsuit, seeking damages for the alleged assault.
The jury’s verdict in favor of Hand represents a significant legal victory for the plaintiff and a blow to McGregor’s reputation. Hand expressed relief and vindication outside the court, stating that she hoped her story would encourage other survivors to speak out.
This case highlights the complexities of sexual assault allegations and the challenges faced by survivors in seeking justice. While the criminal justice system may not always result in charges or convictions, civil lawsuits can provide an alternative avenue for survivors to seek accountability and redress.
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