Courts / Limerick / Report

Scout leader who sexually assaulted three cousins claims juror letter renders convictions unsafe

Date
2026-02-27

Stage
Sentence

Primary locality
Limerick

Summary

A former scout leader is appealing five convictions for offences against three young cousins, including rape and sexual assault. His defence argues that an anonymous letter said to be from a juror, a complainant's reference to rape and the prosecution closing speech made the convictions unsafe. Ms Justice Nuala Butler said the court would reserve judgment; the man continues to deny the offences. The unnamed 63-year-old pleaded not guilty and was acquitted.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Scout leader who sexually assaulted three cousins claims juror letter renders convictions unsafe. Charges or matters: five of the six offences following a trial at the Central Criminal Court in Limerick in February 2024; two counts of indecent assault and one count of rape against one sister. Procedural stage: sentence. Findings: Acquitted

When:

February 2024 Incident
April 2024 Incident
September 1991 Incident
April 22, 2024 Other
1979 and 1981 Incident
2026-02-27 Publication

Why: Mr Bowman said the concern was that the jury would think "there is more to this than meets the eye" and that "there is something further at play" because sexual assault is alleged and the complainant mentioned rape. CNI source report

Case subjects

Unnamed 63-year-old

Convicted Person

Charges: five of the six offences following a trial at the Central Criminal Court in Limerick in February 2024; two counts of indecent assault and one count of rape against one sister (Alleged Or Contested)

Plea: Not guilty

Finding: Acquitted

Outcome: Acquitted; Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo sentenced the defendant to seven and a half years in April 2024.