Joey Barton assault trial halted due to video link difficulties
The trial of former Fleetwood Town and current Bristol Rovers manager Joey Barton, who is accused of assaulting a rival football boss, has been halted at Sheffield Crown Court.
Barton, 38, denies assaulting former Barnsley manager Daniel Stendel occasioning him actual bodily harm.
His trial began on Monday but was halted by Judge Jeremy Richardson QC on Tuesday due to difficulties with Mr Stendel giving evidence in German over a video link from Hanover.
Judge Richardson discharged the jury saying: "It is just not right to struggle on."
He told the panel: "I became increasingly concerned that things are getting lost in translation.
"He is a critical witness in this case. It's not fair to him and not fair to anyone in this case."
Barton was given unconditional bail.
The case was adjourned to Wednesday for a new trial date to be fixed.
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