Time extended in case of man accused of 25 historical sex offences in Donegal

The case of a man facing 25 historical sex charges in Donegal has been adjourned to allow more time for a book of evidence to be prepared.

The man, who is aged in his 70s, faces one count of rape and 24 of indecent assault in alleged offences dating between 1976 and 1982.

Reporting restrictions are in place in the case meaning that the accused, who resides in Northern Ireland, cannot be named.

He will be sent forward to stand trial at the Central Criminal Court upon the serving of a book of evidence. 

The alleged victim in the case was a child at the time of the alleged offending.

The case was mentioned at Buncrana District Court this week. The defendant was not present. 

Solicitor for the man, Mr Rory O’Brien, said there was no objection to a State application seeking a two-month adjournment.

When arrested by detectives in Donegal in June, the man replied “not guilty” as each of the 25 charges were put to him.

The court heard that a number of arrest warrants for the man's extradition from Northern Ireland were previously issued.

At a previous court hearing, Mr O'Brien said the man “wishes to have his day in court to fight his case as he is entitled to do” and argued that refusing bail would be “grossly unfair”.

The man's passport has been surrendered to the PSNI and he has been ordered to undertake not to apply for a new passport, a duplicate passport or any travel documentation.

Judge Éiteáin Cunningham adjourned the case until November 26 for service of a book of evidence.