Woman accused of child cruelty and neglect in Laois

A book of evidence was served on a woman who is accused of child cruelty and neglect. 

The woman (30), who has a Laois address and cannot be named for legal reasons, was served with a book of evidence at Portlaoise District Court. 

The woman is accused of two counts of child cruelty on September 23, 2024, two counts of child neglect on the same date and two counts that she did compel a child to engage in criminal activity. She is also accused of robbery at a location in Laois on the same date. 

Garda Lisa Murray gave evidence of serving the book of evidence on the woman. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the DPP had directed that she should be sent forward for trial to the next sittings of Portlaoise Circuit Court beginning on June 18. 

Judge Susan Fay gave the woman the standard alibi warning and sent the case forward to the next sittings of Portlaoise Circuit Court sitting on June 18. 

Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said there was a co-accused in the case. She requested legal aid for a solicitor and two counsel which was granted by Judge Fay.