Man Left Brain Damaged After Vicious Crete Assault

The mother of a former footballer who suffered serious brain injuries after he was brutally attacked outside a nightclub in Malia, Crete, seven years ago has spoken of her relief following the conclusion of an appeal hearing into the prosecution of four men in relation to the assault.

Robbie Hughes, who played professional football for various clubs including Oxford United, was left in a coma and needed four operations in as many months following the attack during a holiday on Crete in June 2008 which left him with substantial brain damage and memory problems.

Four men were found guilty in relation to the incident in November 2012 and were sentenced to four years in jail and to pay Robbie damages. However, following an appeal, a retrial was held this week in Heraklion, Crete, where the four Defendants – Curtis Taylor, Sean Branton, Daniel Bell and Joseph Bruckland, from Surrey were again found guilty.

Irwin Mitchell’s International Personal Injury serious injury specialists are representing Robbie and his mother Maggie, from Wallington in Surrey, and are working with legal experts in Greece in the fight for justice and to get access to vital funds to aid Robbie’s ongoing rehabilitation needs.

Expert Opinion

“The vicious assault that Robbie suffered in 2008 has had a huge effect on his life, leaving him with injuries which meant he could not recall the attack and was unable to recognise his family and friends.

“Robbie’s family, and in particular his mother, have fought tirelessly for many years. The outcome of this appeal by the defendants is that the guilty verdict has been upheld, bringing to an end the criminal proceedings in this case.

“We are continuing to provide support to Robbie and Maggie and remain determined to work to ensure that Justice is done. This includes helping Robbie to secure the funds which will allow him to access the vital care and support he needs to improve his quality of life.”
Demetrius Danas - Partner

Maggie Hughes, who has campaigned tirelessly for justice for Robbie and to improve the rights of victims in relation to such attacks abroad, said: “It has been an immensely difficult seven years not only supporting Robbie but also fighting for justice to be done.

“The appeal ruling is hugely welcome and ensures   that Robbie’s attackers are held to account for the terrible attack that he suffered all those years ago.

 “This has been a long and drawn out process which has proved a distraction from our real focus – getting Robbie the help and support he needs to get the best from life. We will tirelessly continue the fight to ensure he is able to access vital professional support to aid his continuing recovery.”

If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of a violent assault,  our solicitors could help you claim criminal injury compensation. See our Assault Claims page for more information.