Courts / Dublin / Report

Trial hears of DNA match to man accused of raping woman with Down syndrome

Date
2015-11-30
Stage
Trial
Primary locality
Dublin
County
Dublin

Summary

The trial heard that DNA from semen found on a woman with Down syndrome matched the DNA of the accused, with a one‑in‑a‑billion likelihood of it belonging to someone else. The accused, who pleaded not guilty, is charged with rape, sexual assault and having sex with a mentally impaired person at his Dublin home on 12 June 2013. Forensic evidence included fibres from the accused's bedclothes matching those on the woman's clothes, and a laceration on her vagina, which the defence said did not prove lack of consent. The accused admitted some sexual contact but claimed it was consensual and that he was unaware of her impairment. Garda interview transcripts were presented, showing the accused denying prior contact and questioning the woman's appearance. The case is before Justice Tony Hunt and a jury of twelve.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Trial hears of DNA match to man accused of raping woman with Down syndrome. Charges or matters: rape, sexual assault and having sex with a mentally impaired person at his Dublin home on June 12, 2013. Procedural stage: trial

When:

Why: " After a translator explained what he was being asked, the man said "I don't know because I'm not a doctor. CNI source report

Case subjects

Unnamed accused

Accused

Charges: rape, sexual assault and having sex with a mentally impaired person at his Dublin home on June 12, 2013 (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty

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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