Jones Acted In 'Self Defence' In Bar Brawl

From: Imdb.com

Tough guy Vinnie Jones has defended his actions in a December bar brawl in South Dakota, insisting he was simply trying to protect himself.

The soccer star-turned-actor headed to court in South Dakota on Thursday to face three charges of assault following a bloody punch-up with Juan Trevino Barrera in a Sioux Falls bar.

During the scuffle, Jones was hit in the face with a beer glass, while Barrera was left with 48 stitches in his face after the Brit fought back.

But the Snatch actor is adamant his retaliation was justified.

Giving his opening statement in Jones' trial, his attorney Peter Wold told the court: "Vinnie Jones used very reasonable force in an attempt to protect himself when he finally could."

One of Jones' pals, Brett Buxton, testified in the star's defence, claiming he was completely sober when the incident occurred: "He bought a round of drinks and I definitely remember him not having one and he was dancing at one point."

Wold also hit out at Barrera for selling his story to a tabloid soon after the fight - and after bringing him to the stand, got him to acknowledge that he'd cash in further from his tell-all if Jones was convicted.

Jones himself testified on Friday morning, claiming he was so badly injured, his "nose was hanging off, you could have put a quarter in it". And he added he was "driven with fear" when he hit Barrera because of the severity of his own injuries. He also alleged Barrera was mocking his accent and his age.

The defence rested after Jones took to the stand and his fate is now in the hands of the jury.

The movie hardman is facing up to a year behind bars as well as a $1,000 (£665) fine if he is found guilty.