Pensioner accused of sexual assault

An old age pensioner appeared in court accused of sexually assaulting a girl in Laois. 

The man, who is in his early 80s and cannot be named due to reporting restrictions, is accused of sexual assault at a shopping centre in Laois on June 3 last. 

Detective Garda Amy Duffy said gardai were alerted to the incident after the girl reported the matter to gardai. She said the accused was identified through CCTV and arrested. 

She said it would be alleged the “gent leaned over and touched her inner thigh” during what she described as a brief encounter. 

Solicitor Philip Meagher said the incident was alleged to have occurred in a public place. 

On hearing the details, Judge Nicola Andrews agreed to accept jurisdiction in the case meaning it could be heard in the District Court.  

She ordered disclosure, imposed reporting restrictions and adjourned the matter back to Portlaoise District Court on February 22.