77-Year-Old Man Charged with Sexual Assault Sent to Trial

A 77-year-old man charged with sexually assaulting a four-year-old girl has been ordered to stand trial at the next sitting of the Cork Circuit Criminal Court, scheduled for October 28, 2023. The man, whose identity is protected for legal reasons, faces five counts of sexual assault linked to incidents that allegedly occurred between January and May 2022.

The accused first appeared in court in July after he was arrested at his home. Following this initial appearance, he has remained under strict bail conditions. Today, during proceedings at Cork District Court, Sergeant John Dineen confirmed that a book of evidence had been served to the defendant.

In light of the circumstances, defense attorney Frank Buttimer requested an extension of free legal aid. This request was granted by the court, as the man is currently on a state pension. Judge Mary Dorgan issued a warning regarding the alibi and subsequently remanded the defendant on bail, requiring him to appear at the Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

The court previously heard from Inspector Ray Dunne, who explained that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had directed that the case be tried by indictment at the higher court. The DPP also indicated that a guilty plea could be entered at the district court, with sentencing to be handled at the circuit level.

The bail conditions imposed on the accused include no direct or indirect contact with the victim or witnesses involved in the case. He is required to reside at his home address, report daily to his local Garda station, and remain accessible to law enforcement at all times. Additionally, he must surrender his passport and refrain from applying for any new travel documents.

As the proceedings move forward, the community watches closely, given the serious nature of the allegations and the young age of the alleged victim. The upcoming trial will determine the next steps in this significant legal matter.