Courts / Dublin / Report
DNA the "golden thread" that links accused to violent sex attacks, prosecution say
Summary
During the trial of Slawomir Gierlowski, a 33‑year‑old man from Drimnagh, the prosecution presented DNA evidence as the central link between him and three violent sexual attacks on women in Clondalkin and Knockmeenagh Lane between 2011 and 2016. One victim recounted a 2016 assault where a man with a hunting knife threatened her throat and she cut his blade, leaving tendon injuries on her fingers. Another victim described a 2015 incident where a man wrapped a leather belt around her neck, knocked her to the ground, and used duct tape to restrain her before sexually assaulting her. The third victim reported a 2011 attack involving punches and sexual assault. The prosecution argued that DNA from Gierlowski's semen and blood was found at each scene, including on a jacket he owned and a Polish beer bottle near the 2016 site, and that cable ties linked to his van were found near the 2016 scene. Slawomir Gierlowski pleaded not guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: DNA the "golden thread" that links accused to violent sex attacks, prosecution say. Charges or matters: nine charges, including false imprisonment, sexual assault and assault. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- May 16, 2016 Incident
- September 3, 2015 Incident
- September 11, 2011 Incident
- 2015 and 2016 Incident
- 2018-03-20 Publication
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: nine charges, including false imprisonment, sexual assault and assault (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Galtymore Road
- Dublin
- Knockmeenagh Lane
- New Road
- Dublin
- Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
Topics
Sexual Offences Stage Sentence Violent Crime
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