Courts / Ireland / Report
Man believed he was in "love relationship" when abusing 13-year-old cousin
2025-05-08
Hearing Or Decision
Summary
In May 2025 a 22‑year‑old man was placed under Probation Service supervision for 12 months after pleading guilty in July 2022 to one count of sexual assault of his 13‑year‑old first cousin. The man claimed he believed he was in a "love relationship" with the girl. He had contacted her via social media in June 2022, and over the following weeks their contact became sexual. He visited the girl's home in late July 2022 with her parents' consent and sexually assaulted her on four occasions that night, in a nearby park and in a car. The abuse involved inappropriate touching and kissing on the lips. After the incidents he sent apologies, but his messages became persistent and distressing, leading the girl to block and later unblock him. She disclosed the abuse to a friend and a teacher.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Man believed he was in "love relationship" when abusing 13-year-old cousin. Charges or matters: one count of sexual assault in July 2022. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision
When:
- July 2022 Incident
- June 2022 Other
- August 2023 Other
- May 2026 Adjournment
- 2025-05-08 Publication
Why: She said this was upsetting because "during that time, I really needed to be hugged". CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: one count of sexual assault in July 2022 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: The judge adjourned the case to May 2026 for finalisation.
Topics
Stage Hearing Or Decision Violent Crime
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