Joey Barton, a former football player, faces a significant legal decision following allegations of assaulting a man near a golf course in Merseyside. Barton, 43, and Gary O’Grady were charged with causing intentional harm after the incident near Huyton and Prescot Golf Club. Barton has been in custody since March 10 and recently appeared at Liverpool Crown Court for a bail hearing.
During the court proceedings, the judge ruled that Barton must remain in custody, denying his bail application. Barton was not present at the hearing but was represented by Simon Csoka KC. In contrast, O’Grady, the co-accused, was granted bail with strict conditions, including no contact with the victim, witnesses, or the golf club.
The next court appearance for Barton is scheduled for April 7. The incident occurred while Barton, O’Grady, and Kevin Lynch were socializing on March 8. Emergency services were called to the golf club that evening after a man sustained severe facial and bodily injuries.
Barton, known for his football career with teams like Manchester City and Newcastle, currently hosts a podcast called Common Sense With Joey Barton. The victim, Kevin Lynch, a respected figure in Merseyside football management, is recovering from the assault in the hospital.
Following the altercation, Merseyside police confirmed Lynch’s hospitalization for serious injuries. Prosecutors stated that Lynch is receiving medical treatment and there is a risk of potential vision loss in one eye due to the assault.
