Supreme Court Rejects Conor McGregor’s Appeal in Assault Case

UPDATE: The Supreme Court has just announced its decision to deny Conor McGregor the opportunity to appeal the ruling regarding his sexual assault of Nikita Hand. This decisive ruling marks the end of a lengthy legal battle for Hand, who has faced an “acutely distressing and difficult” journey through the courts.

The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre has welcomed this verdict, stating it validates Hand’s claims and allows her to move forward after the traumatic experience. In November 2022, a High Court civil jury found that McGregor assaulted Hand in a Dublin hotel in December 2018, awarding her €248,000 in damages. The court also mandated that McGregor cover her legal costs.

Last July, the Court of Appeal upheld the jury’s decision, rejecting McGregor’s challenge. The Supreme Court’s latest ruling comes after a three-judge panel determined that the appeal did not meet the necessary “interests of justice” threshold.

In addition, McGregor’s friend, James Lawrence, also faced a setback as the Supreme Court denied his appeal regarding the costs associated with the case, despite being found not guilty of assaulting Hand.

“We are so pleased for Nikita Hand, who in the face of great adversity was unshakeable in her determination that there be consequences for the harm done to her,” said Rachel Morrogh, Chief Executive of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.

Morrogh emphasized the importance of this ruling, stating, “There is no more road for this to run – the original judgement stands, and Nikita Hand’s truth is validated once again.” She expressed hope that survivors of sexual assault will find courage and support from Hand’s journey.

“Our message to them is: No matter what happened to you, when it was, who did it to you or how it happened, please reach out for support,” Morrogh added.

This ruling is significant not just for Hand, but for all survivors of sexual violence, reinforcing the message that their voices matter and justice can be served. As the legal process concludes, attention now turns to the ongoing support for survivors and the broader implications of this case in society.

For updates and further developments on this story, stay tuned as we continue to follow the impact of this landmark decision.