Concert-goer sent for trial over attack on off-duty garda

A 22-year-old man has been sent forward for trial accused of attacking an off-duty garda at the Swedish House Mafia concert in the Phoenix Park in Dublin last year.

Sean Hulgrain, with an address at Thornfield Square, Clondalkin, Dublin had been charged in October with assault causing harm to Wayne Keown at the outdoor gig on July 7th last which was attended by about 45,000 people.

Mr Hulgrain, who is on a disability benefit, made his fifth appearance at Dublin District Court yesterday where he was served with a book of evidence.

The DPP has decided that Mr Hulgrain, who is on bail, must face trial on indictment meaning his case will be heard in Circuit Court, which, on conviction, has wider sentencing powers.

After the book of evidence was served Judge Bryan Smyth said Mr Hulgrain, who has not yet indicated how he will plead, was being returned for trial.

He will face his next hearing on April 12th at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Several bail conditions were set earlier. Mr Hulgrain was told that he must continue to reside at his current address and notify gardai of any change, sign on regularly at Clondalkin Garda station, and not to have any contact “directly or indirectly” with the complainant or two named witnesses in the case.

The controversial event in the park also featured Tinie Tempah and Calvin Harris on its line-up. More than 30 arrests were made on the night of the concert which was marred by a litany of incidents including public order offences, assaults and drugs seizures.

On August 2nd, a Garda report into the events at the concert found that the Phoenix Park is not a suitable venue for “outdoor electric music concerts”. The report also found that gardaí warned the music promoters MCD before the event that they had concerns about alcohol sales, gate opening times and stewarding.

Afterwards MCD criticised how An Garda Siochana policed the event and the number of their officers they had on duty at the concert.

Another man, aged 23, is currently awaiting trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court accused of violent disorder at the concert and assault causing harm to a tourist from the Isle of Man who was allegedly stabbed.