Convicted sex offender accused of sexually assaulting two girls in County Kildare

BOOK OF EVIDENCE DUE

A convicted sex offender has been accused of sexually assaulting two girls in County Kildare over a number of years.

The accusations were heard in front of Judge Desmond Zaidan at Naas District Court on Thursday, October 3 last.

A garda who was sworn in said that one of the alleged injured parties is now an adult, while the other alleged injured party is still a juvenile.

When Judge Zaidan asked about the exact nature of the allegations, the garda replied that the accused, who is aged in his 60s, allegedly touched the girls inappropriately, both ‘under and over the clothing.’

The judge then asked how the alleged offending came to light, the garda said that the father of one of the girls noticed a change of behaviour in her, and she eventually told him about the alleged abuse.

REPORTING RESTRICTIONS IMPOSED

After it was heard that there was a risk that the alleged injured parties could be identified if the defendant is named, Judge Zaidan decided to impose reporting restrictions on the case.

The court was informed that the accused is currently serving a custodial sentence for a separate sexual offence committed against another person, and is not due for release until 2031.

It was also heard that he pleaded guilty to committing this offence.

Defending solicitor Brian Larkin said that his client was recently diagnosed with a serious illness, and is due to receive treatment soon for this illness.

The case was adjourned by the judge to a later date, to allow time for a book of evidence to be presented by gardaí.

If you have been affected by this article, you can find resources to help you by contacting Samaritans Ireland at jo@samaritans.ie or by ringing 116 123, as well as by visiting pieta.ie (Free 24/7 Crisis helpline: 1800 247 247 or Text HELP to 51444).

You can also find additional resources at the Rape Crisis Centre at http://drcc.ie.

For resources relating to young people who are concerned about sexual violence, please visit https://www.childline.ie/.