Courts / Dublin / Report

Girl's injuries indicative of 'sustained abuse', trial of parents hears

Date
2021-10-14
Stage
Trial
Primary locality
Dublin
County
Dublin

Summary

During the trial of a 39‑year‑old man and his 36‑year‑old wife, both accused of assault causing serious harm and child cruelty, a medical expert confirmed that the nine‑year‑old girl's injuries were consistent with child abuse and non‑accidental injury. The parents pleaded not guilty to two assault charges and three child cruelty charges relating to incidents at their Dublin home between 28 June and 2 July 2019. The jury heard that the girl suffered a brain injury that will require 24‑hour care for life. Dr Louise Kyne, a paediatrician, stated that the parents' medical history did not explain the injuries. Professor Jack Crane examined photographs and described burn marks, bruising, bite‑like marks, purple bruises suggesting several days old, and evidence of blunt‑force trauma, including a subdural haematoma and bleeding in both eyes. The trial is ongoing before Judge Martin Nolan and a jury.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Girl's injuries indicative of 'sustained abuse', trial of parents hears. Charges or matters: two charges of assault causing serious harm to then nine year old child and three charges of child cruelty at the family home in Dublin on dates between June 28 and July 2, 2019. Procedural stage: trial

When:

Case subjects

Professor Jack Crane

Accused

Charges: two charges of assault causing serious harm to then nine year old child and three charges of child cruelty at the family home in Dublin on dates between June 28 and July 2, 2019 (Alleged Or Contested)

Places mentioned

Incident
Address Area
  • Temple Street
Court Venue
  • Dublin
  • Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
Facility
  • Temple St. hospital

Topics

Stage Trial Violent Crime

Related court reports

Read the original CNI report

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