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No scientific evidence that a man can have sex while asleep, expert tells "sexsomnia" trial
Summary
In a Dublin rape trial, the 29‑year‑old accused admitted he could have had sex with a friend while sharing a bed, but the defence argued it was due to sexsomnia, a sleep‑walking condition. The defence presented expert evidence suggesting the man was asleep when he climbed on the woman, pulled up her skirt and inserted his penis. Witnesses claimed the accused had a history of groping people in his sleep. The accused pleaded not guilty to one count of rape at an apartment on 28 September 2008. A prosecution expert, Dr Harry Kennedy, countered that no objective scientific observation exists of a man initiating sex while asleep, citing a 2006 study of 31 cases with no observed instances. He questioned the plausibility of an erection during non‑REM sleep and argued the accused's actions indicated consciousness. Evidence was concluded and the jury will hear closing speeches before judgment.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: No scientific evidence that a man can have sex while asleep, expert tells "sexsomnia" trial. Charges or matters: one count of raping the woman at an apartment in Dublin in the early hours of September 28, 2008. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- September 28, 2008 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2016-10-24 Publication
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: one count of raping the woman at an apartment in Dublin in the early hours of September 28, 2008 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
Topics
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