Man accused of masturbating at Laois leisure centre can be named 

A Judge ruled that a man who was accused of masturbating on the grounds of a leisure centre in Laois can be named. 

Jaroslav Balog (28) of Millbrook Estate, Portlaoise, is accused of engaging in an act of masturbation at Portlaoise Leisure Centre on August 19, 2023. 

Judge Susan Fay had previously imposed reporting restrictions in the case while she considered submissions on whether he could be named and on whether or not to accept jurisdiction. 

Solicitor Barry Fitzgerald referred to a Supreme Court case which noted the judge had discretion but “recommended that the court would have to have regard to the sensitivity of the case”. 

“Typically if there were vulnerable people in the background,” said Mr Fitzgerald. 

He said an “aggravating factor here is the potential of there being children around in the area”.

Judge Fay said she was refusing jurisdiction, meaning the case would go forward to the higher circuit court. She also said she would not impose reporting restrictions. She remanded the accused on bail and adjourned the matter to Portlaoise District Court on March 9 for a book of evidence.