Man in his 20s charged with indecent assault of 10-year-old girl in Dublin
It's understood the man, who is of African nationality, had his application for international protection rejected last year
A man in his 20s arrested in connection with the investigation into an alleged assault of a 10-year-old girl in Dublin on Monday has been charged.
He is expected to appear before a sitting of Blanchardstown District Court this morning, October 21, 2025.
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses in connection with this investigation, reported to have occurred at Saggart, Co. Dublin on Monday, 20th October 2025.
An Garda Síochána would like to speak to any persons who was in the City West Drive, Garter Lane, City West Luas Stop, or Saggart Luas Stop areas between 11pm on Sunday October 19, 2025, and 01:30am on Monday October 20, 2025.
The Citywest Hotel is currently being used by the State to house international protection applicants.
As reported in the Irish Times, the man in question is of African nationality and had entered Ireland around six years ago seeking international protection, however, it's understood that application was rejected in 2024.
Despite continuing to live in Ireland, the man was subject to a deportation order earlier this year, which apparently still remains in place.
It's understood the 10-year-old girl has been under the care of Tusla since February of this year, after her family gave her up "due to significant behavioural issues" according to a statement. The girl absconded while she was in Dublin for a recreational visit at the weekend.
While care staff kept in contact with the girl after she fled, although she did not disclose her location, she later told staff she had been attacked.
Once staff found out where she was, An Garda Síochána were alerted and deployed to the grounds of Citywest.
The Garda investigation team can be contacted at Clondalkin Garda Station on (01) 666 7600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.