Man accused of county Longford rape sent forward for trial to Central Criminal Court
It is alleged that the rape occurred on February 25, 2025, at the home of the victim
A man, in his 30s, accused of raping an elderly woman in county Longford earlier this year, has been sent forward for trial in the Central Criminal Court.
The defendant, who cannot be identified to protect the victim, appeared before Judge Bernadette Owens at Longford District Court last Tuesday.
The accused faces seven charges, including one count of rape under section 48 of the Offences Against a Person Act, 1861 and two counts of rape under section 4 of the Criminal Law (Rape) (Amendment) Act, 1990.
It is alleged that the rape occurred on February 25, 2025, at the home of the victim.
The defendant has also been charged with trespass with intent to rape the woman, attempted rape of the victim and sexual assault and one count of theft of €25 from the victim.
The accused was unemployed and on social welfare at the time.
Garda Declan O'Grady told Judge Owens he served the book of evidence on the defendant on the morning of the court sitting.
Sergeant Enda Daly said the Director of Public Prosecutions had given consent for the accused to be sent forward for trial at the present sittings of the Central Criminal Court.
Judge Bernadette Owens issued the defendant with an alibi warning informing that if he wished to rely on an alibi he must inform the State within 14 days.
Solicitor Michelle Reynolds, defending, stated she would not be applying for bail at this time.
The legal representative applied for legal aid for both a senior and junior counsel to represent her client in court.
Judge Owens approved the application.
Judge Owens remanded the accused in custody to the ongoing sittings of the Central Criminal Court in Dublin.