Man sent for trial accused of assault in Dublin hotel

Colin O'Kelly (35) was served with the book of evidence when he appeared on bail be- fore Blanchardstown District Court.

Judge David McHugh sent him forward to Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

He is facing trial by judge and jury after the Director of Public Prosecutions ruled that the allegation was too serious to be dealt with by the district court.

Mr O'Kelly, of Newcastle Manor Square, Newcastle, Co Dublin, is charged with seriously assaulting another man.

The assault allegedly took place at Finnstown Castle Hotel in Lucan on May 1 last year.

A State solicitor said the book of evidence was ready and had been served on the accused, who goes forward to the next sittings of Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Judge McHugh gave Mr O'Kelly the formal alibi caution, warning him he had 14 days to provide to the State details of anyone he proposed calling as a witness in his defence.

The judge also assigned defence solicitor Terence Hanahoe and one junior counsel on free legal aid.

Video

Judge McHugh ordered a video copy of an interview that gardai conducted with the accused be furnished to his legal team.

Mr O'Kelly has not yet indicated how he is pleading to the charge.

He was remanded on the same bail conditions to appear before the circuit court on a date in October.

The accused did not address the court during the short hearing.