Cork court: Book of evidence required in case of man accused of raping girl

A book of evidence will be required in the case against a 25-year-old man accused of raping a girl and making child sexual abuse material as well as demanding money from her with menaces.

The matter had been adjourned until today to see if there would be a signed plea of guilty or if a book of evidence would be required.

Defence solicitor Eddie Burke said the book of evidence would be required.

Detective Garda Enda Dowling objected to bail being granted to the accused last week, expressing the concern that he would be a flight risk if released on bail.

Sergeant Gearóid Davis said the Director of Public Prosecutions directed that the case would be sent to the Central Criminal Court for trial. 

Alternatively, the defendant could sign a plea of guilty at the district court and be sent forward for sentencing at the Central Criminal Court.

Two counts of rape relate to January 5 2024 and in respect of the same date there is a charge against him of knowingly producing child pornography for the purpose of distribution, publication, exportation, sale or show.

There is a related charge of coercing a child to participate in the production of child pornography.

A further charge alleges that on dates between December 30 2023 and January 5 2024 he allegedly made a demand with menaces for the payment of €12,000.

Det Garda Dowling testified in the course of his objection to bail: 

“He led her to believe she was responsible for a €12,000 drug debt because she was the only person who knew about the drugs. Gardaí are satisfied that this drug seizure never happened.” 

In the course of his evidence he said there was a video, which appeared to be taken by the accused, as the child engaged with him in oral sex and that the video suggested she was acting under his instructions.

There are further charges against him in relation to theft of various sums of money ranging from €32 to €500 and of jewellery, including a €6,500 diamond ring.

Judge Mary Dorgan remanded the accused in custody to Cork District Court on November 13. On that date his appearance will again be by video link from prison.