Courts / Dublin / Report
Rape accused more likely drunk than "sleepwalking", prosecution tells "sexsomnia" trial
Summary
The prosecution in the trial of a 29-year-old man accused of rape has argued that it is more likely he was drunk rather than sleepwalking during the alleged incident. The accused, who cannot be named, has pleaded not guilty to one count of raping a woman at an apartment in Dublin in September 2008. The woman testified that she woke up to find the accused having sex with her. Patrick McGrath SC, prosecuting, stated that the accused's actions, including responding to her questions about a condom and discussing the morning after pill, indicated he was conscious and not sleepwalking. The prosecution rejected the claim of sexsomnia, a rare condition, and emphasized that alcohol consumption does not excuse the crime. The defence, led by Hugh Hartnett SC, argued that the accused may have been acting in his sleep, citing expert testimony on sexsomnia. The trial continues with the judge to address the jury.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Rape accused more likely drunk than "sleepwalking", prosecution 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
- 2016-10-25 Publication
Why: First, that the accused had lowered inhibitions because of the amount he drank that night. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
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
- Central Criminal Court
Topics
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