Courts / Dublin / Report

Army Private jailed for attempted rape

Summary

A 28‑year‑old army private, Bernard Fleming, was convicted of attempted rape, oral rape and sexual assault of a woman in Dublin on 24 September 2011. The incident began after the victim and Fleming's friend had been drinking outside an early house; the victim later went to Fleming's home where they continued drinking. Fleming, drunk and wearing only a towel, attempted to kiss and have sex with the victim, who fled the room and was helped by others. He was arrested and denied the allegations, claiming he was fully clothed. The victim, who declined a victim impact statement, was found to have bruises consistent with being held down. The court noted no predatory element but that Fleming had taken advantage of a drunken woman. He was sentenced to six years' imprisonment, with the final three years suspended, and ordered 18 months of post‑release supervision and probation service engagement. Bernard Fleming pleaded not guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Army Private jailed for attempted rape. Charges or matters: attempted rape, oral rape and sexual assault of the woman at a location in Dublin on September 24, 2011. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• September 24, 2011 Incident
• September 23 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2016-02-02 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Sentence Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report