Man denies leaving friend bloodied and bruised following alleged violent assault

A man in his 20s has denied violently attacking his friend at a Mullingar housing estate just over 12 months ago.

Kamil Pytel (24) of 2 Farran, Mullingar, Westmeath appeared at last week’s sitting of Mullingar District Court to face a charge of assault causing harm at Farranshack Park, Mullingar, County Westmeath on February 6, 2025.

The case was marked for ‘jurisdiction’, to decide whether it was suitable to remain in the District Court or be referred to the Circuit Criminal Court, which has broader sentencing powers.

In presenting the state case, Sgt Sheila Kenny said gardaí had received a statement of complaint from the alleged victim who recalled being at his friend’s house with the accused on the day in question.

She said that following the consumption of a few drinks, the man went to leave and made his way outside. It was there, he told gardaí, his friend, the accused, punched him a “number of times” in the head, leaving him with a bloody nose, bruising and a black eye.

The court was furnished with a medical report, which defence solicitor Louis Kiernan said he had viewed.

There were a photographs of the alleged injuries which Mr Kiernan said he had “no issue” being handed in.

Judge Bernadette Owens accepted jurisdiction before asking Mr Kiernan how Mr Pytel intended addressing the case.

“It is a not guilty plea,” replied Mr Kiernan as Sgt Kenny suggested a November date for the case to be heard.

Judge Owens remanded Mr Pytel on bail to Mullingar District Court on November 13, 2026 for hearing.

The state were also given liberty to re-mention the case in due course should an earlier hearing date become available.