Accused of sexual assault in Laois

A man appeared in court accused of three counts of sexual assault in Laois. 

The defendant, 59, who can’t be named for legal reasons, is accused of sexual assault on a woman on October 27, 2022 and on two further unspecified dates in 2008.  

Detective Garda David Coughlan said there was no objection to bail for the defendant and there were agreed bail conditions.

He said the DPP had consented to the case being dealt with in the district court only if there was a guilty plea. If not the case will be sent forward to a higher court. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby requested reporting restrictions in the case which were granted. 

Solicitor Philip Meagher requested legal aid in the matter. 

Judge Nicola Andrews granted legal aid and remanded the defendant on bail with conditions to appear again before Portlaoise District Court on June 17.