Courts / Carlow / Report

Pensioner launches appeal against conviction for rape and abuse of nieces

Date
2023-11-03

Stage
Appeal

Primary locality
Carlow

County
Carlow

Summary

A 71‑year‑old Carlow pensioner has lodged an appeal against his conviction for two counts of rape of his niece and multiple counts of indecent assault on other female relatives. The appeal argues that the trial judge erred by refusing to sever the indictment into separate trials for each complainant and by refusing to withdraw the case from the jury after the State's evidence. The appellant contends that the passage of time and the unavailability of witnesses prejudiced his case, as the alleged offences occurred in the 1970s and 1980s and witnesses could only identify limited time periods. He also claims that extensive pre‑trial communication between complainants should have led to severance. The Court of Appeal has reserved judgment, with the Director of Prosecutions defending the judge's decisions and stating the law is well settled. The unnamed 71-year-old pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Pensioner launches appeal against conviction for rape and abuse of nieces. Charges or matters: all of these offences. Procedural stage: appeal

When: