Jury finds mixed martial arts star McGregor attacked woman in 2018 – Sports

The jury of eight women and four men reached its verdict after six hours and 10 minutes of deliberation in the civil case in Ireland’s high court.

During two weeks of evidence, plaintiff Nikita Hand claimed McGregor sexually assaulted her on December 9, 2018, and that another man, James Lawrence, did the same.

The jury found that Lawrence did not attack Hand. McGregor left court without comment amid a slew of reporters and later shared in X that he planned to appeal the decision.

McGregor, 36, denied the allegation and said he had “completely consensual sex” with Hand. He also denied causing the plaintiff’s bruising.

Hand’s attorney told the jury that when she was transferred to the sexual assault treatment unit the day after the alleged assault, the doctor became so concerned that he ordered photographs of her injuries be taken.

Hand said he contacted McGregor, whom he and a friend knew, after a work Christmas party. He said they were taken by McGregor to a party on the rooftop of a hotel in South Dublin, where drugs and alcohol were consumed.

She said McGregor rented her a bedroom in the attic and sexually assaulted her.

Speaking outside court, Hand said he was overwhelmed by the support he had received and felt vindicated.

“To all victims of sexual assault, I hope my story serves as a reminder that no matter how scared you are, you must speak up, make your voice heard, and continue to fight for justice,” she said.