Man accused of rape and sexual assault in Laois

A man appeared before Portlaoise District Court accused of rape, sexual assault and indecent assault. 

The man (54), who cannot be named due to reporting restrictions but has a Laois address, faces a total of 44 charges relating to offences allegedly committed over a five year period in Laois on dates between 1986 and 1991. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the DPP had directed that the case be sent forward to the Central Criminal Court.  He said bail conditions had been agreed for the accused. 

Judge Andrew Cody imposed reporting restrictions in the case. 

He granted legal aid and adjourned the case back to Portlaoise District Court on December 2 for service of the book of evidence.