Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has heard how a father of one was beaten into a coma at a house party in Finglas 2 years ago. Alan McDonald of Premier Square in Finglas is being sentenced for the beating that left Gerard Hughes with catastrophic brain injuries.

Mr. Hughes had been drinking with his brother before they bought some cocaine and went for a party in Mr. McDonald's apartment on April 24th 2011.

Several hours later McDonald took exception to who Gerard, a 40-year-old builder, said he had been drinking with earlier. A fight broke out and spiraled out of control as the night wore on and the men became more intoxicated.

McDonald’s girlfriend witnessed him kicking Gerard on the kitchen floor and stomping on his head. The court heard how McDonald’s clothes and apartment were covered in blood and his victim was rushed to hospital where he remained in a coma.

A victim impact statement was read out in court. It outlined how the father of one could no longer care for himself or his 8-year-old son.

He now lives with his elderly parents and can no longer handle simple tasks like cooking or crossing the street on his own.

Sentencing has been adjourned until June 26th.