Courts / Dublin / Report
Fact that alleged Tinder rape victim took a risk "of no relevance", prosecution tell jury
Summary
In a Central Criminal Court case, a 36‑year‑old Dublin man is accused of raping a university student he met on Tinder. The prosecution, led by Alex Owens SC, argued that the victim's decision to use Tinder and to get into a car with an unknown man was irrelevant to the alleged crime, emphasizing that the law protects those who take risks from predators. Owens highlighted alleged "nasty streak" behaviour and suggested the accused could act badly if crossed. The defence, represented by Michael Bowman SC, countered that Owens' remarks implied prejudice, likening the accused to a "controlling" predator and suggesting the victim's attire justified the alleged assault. Garda evidence showed the accused claimed consensual sex, citing a series of texts and sexting, and alleged the victim's complaints stemmed from a disagreement over condom use. The case remains pending jury deliberation. The unnamed accused pleaded not guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Fact that alleged Tinder rape victim took a risk "of no relevance", prosecution tell jury. Charges or matters: rape at Kilmashogue Lane, Rathfarnham, Co Dublin on September 11, 2014. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- September 11, 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
- September 19, 2014 Incident
- 2017-05-30 Publication
Why: " Mr Bowman said this was "tantamount to suggesting that because you wear a short skirt you get what is coming to you". CNI source report
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: rape at Kilmashogue Lane, Rathfarnham, Co Dublin on September 11, 2014 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Applicant
Places mentioned
Topics
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