Courts / Waterford / Report
Boy disclosed abuse allegations to foster mother, trial hears
Summary
In a Waterford case, a 12‑year‑old boy testified that his father sexually abused him with a hot poker, forced him to have sex with his mother, threatened him with a gun, and locked him in a box between 2007 and 2011. The boy disclosed the abuse only after being placed in foster care at age eight, stating that the absence of his father allowed him to speak. He told the prosecutor that his foster mother was safe and kind, unlike his father who used abusive language. The parents face 82 abuse charges; both pleaded not guilty to 16 counts of sexual exploitation and one child cruelty charge each. The trial will continue with further evidence before a judge and jury.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Boy disclosed abuse allegations to foster mother, trial hears. Charges or matters: 16 counts each of sexual exploitation and one charge each of child cruelty. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- 2007 and 2011 Incident
- 2016-04-14 Publication
Why: When asked why he felt able to tell her this, the child replied "because I knew my dad didn't know where I was. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: 16 counts each of sexual exploitation and one charge each of child cruelty (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Central Criminal Court
Topics
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