Man accused of coercion and assault in Laois

A man appeared in court accused of coercion, theft and assaulting a woman in Laois. 

The man (43), who has a Westmeath address and cannot be named for legal reasons, was served with a book of evidence at a sitting of Portlaoise District Court. 

He is accused of assaulting a woman causing her harm at a location in Laois on August 11, 2025. He is further accused of stealing a mobile phone and coercion in Laois between August 11 and 12, 2025. 

Garda Lisa Murray gave evidence of serving a book of evidence on the accused at a sitting of Portlaoise District Court. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the DPP had directed that the accused be sent forward for trial to the current sittings of Portlaoise Circuit Court. 

Judge Susan Fay issued the alibi warning and sent the case forward to the current sittings of Portlaoise Circuit Court. 

Andrew Dunne BL requested legal aid for a solicitor and one barrister. Judge Fay granted the request.