Courts / Dublin / Report

Mentally ill man sexually assaulted woman (19) at Dublin airport

Date
2026-03-03
Stage
Sentence
Primary locality
Dublin
County
Dublin

Summary

Rogerio Afonso, 56, pleaded guilty to one count of sexually assaulting a 19-year-old woman at Dublin Airport on August 4, 2025. The court heard that Afonso, who has a history of bipolar disorder, followed the complainant, sniffed her hair, and hugged and kissed her against her will. He has been in custody since his arrest and has no previous convictions. Judge Jonathan Dunphy sentenced Afonso to 12 months, noting aggravating factors such as the persistence of his actions, but acknowledged his improved mental health while compliant with medication in custody. The judge indicated a willingness to suspend the sentence in full, given Afonso has already served seven months in custody. A condition of the suspended sentence requires Afonso to return to Brazil in the care of his daughter. The finalisation of the sentence was adjourned to later this week to allow time for Afonso's daughter in Malta to be informed and to make travel arrangements. The judge requested that a family member attend the finalisation hearing to ensure they are aware of the conditions. Afonso was remanded in custody on the same terms until the adjourned date.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Mentally ill man sexually assaulted woman (19) at Dublin airport. Charges or matters: one count of sexually assaulting the 19-year-old woman at the airport on August 4, 2025. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

Case subjects

Rogerio Afonso

Defendant

Charges: one count of sexually assaulting the 19-year-old woman at the airport on August 4, 2025 (Admitted)

Plea: Guilty

Outcome: He handed down a sentence of 12 months but said he was willing to suspend it in full, given that Afonso has spent seven months in custody. He said Afonso must return to Brazil in the care of his daughter as part of the conditions of the suspended sentence.; He said he wished for a family member of Afonso to attend court for the sentence finalisation so they are aware of the conditions.

Places mentioned

Secondary Mention
Incident
Court Venue
  • Dublin
  • Dublin Circuit Criminal Court

Topics

Stage Sentence

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