Bench warrant issued as man accused of sexually assaulting daughter doesn't appear in court

A bench warrant was issued today for the arrest of a 34-year-old man accused of sexually assaulting his daughter.

Detective Garda Brendan Murray was present in court to serve the accused with a book of evidence. However, the accused did not appear.

Sergeant Gearóid Davis applied for a warrant for the arrest of the accused. Sgt Davis said the accused was present in court on July 2 when the case was adjourned until today for service of the book of evidence.

However, solicitor Eddie Burke said the defendant would not have had legal representation on the last date in July due to the solicitors’ strike over free legal aid. Det Garda Murray said the defendant was present that day when the case was adjourned to today for service of the book.

Judge Waters issued the warrant for the arrest of the accused. He faces two charges of sexually assaulting his daughter in November 2023 and in April 2024.