Courts / Dublin / Report

Jury in rape trial discharged after man tells judge he felt "uncomfortable" around fellow jurors

Date
2018-07-26
Stage
Trial
Primary locality
Dublin
County
Dublin

Summary

During a rape trial at the Central Criminal Court, a black juror requested to be excused after claiming discomfort with fellow jurors, citing remarks about his clothing and manner of walking. He submitted a note citing "personal reasons" and later explained to Judge Eileen Creedon that he felt "slagged" daily. The judge agreed and discharged him. The accused, a Pakistani national, had pleaded not guilty to rape and sexual assault at a Dublin beach. The trial was adjourned to the following Monday for a new date. The prosecution, led by Roisín Lacey SC, presented the complainant's testimony, describing consensual meetings, a subsequent incident where the accused attempted to undo her bra, and ultimately a forced sexual act. The complainant detailed her distress and attempts to seek help during the aftermath. The case remains pending.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Jury in rape trial discharged after man tells judge he felt "uncomfortable" around fellow jurors. Charges or matters: a charge of rape and sexual assault at a Dublin beach on October 29, 2015. Procedural stage: trial

When:

Why: A jury in a rape trial has been discharged after a black juror asked the judge to be excused from the panel because he said he felt uncomfortable around his fellow jurors. CNI source report

Case subjects

Unnamed accused

Accused

Charges: a charge of rape and sexual assault at a Dublin beach on October 29, 2015 (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty

Outcome: She adjourned the trial to next Monday when a new trial date will be set.

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • Central Criminal Court
Incident

Topics

Sexual Offences Stage Trial Violent Crime

Related court reports

Read the original CNI report

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