Doctor accused of sexual assault of woman at practice

A book of evidence was served on Monday on a doctor who is accused of sexually assaulting a woman at his practice.

Sergeant Gearóid Davis confirmed service of the book of evidence on the defendant at Cork District Court.

Judge Mary Dorgan sent the case forward, on the application of Sgt Davis, to the next sessions of Cork Circuit Criminal Court commencing on February 9, 2026.

Judge Dorgan also gave the defendant the alibi warning, whereby he must give the State notice of any witnesses he may be calling if he is relying on an alibi defence.

The Director of Public Prosecutions gave directions previously that the case against the accused, who is in his mid-30s, could proceed at Cork District Court, but only on a plea of guilty. Frank Buttimer, solicitor, said the defendant would be pleading not guilty to the sexual assault charge, so the book of evidence was prepared, and Judge Dorgan said there are reporting restrictions on identification of the parties.

Det Sgt Aisling Murphy said previously in court that on an afternoon in November last year, the complainant attended for an informal consultation.

“It is alleged that he sexually assaulted her during her consultation, by placing a stethoscope on her breast inside her clothing and later carrying out an unnecessary breast examination,” Det Sgt Murphy said. 

It was further alleged that the doctor kissed her before she left and asked for her home address.