Man facing 73 allegations of sexually assaulting his babysitter niece appears in court

A MAN facing 73 allegations of sexually assaulting a niece has appeared at Naas District Court. 

Garda Jacinta O'Connor gave evidence of serving a book of evidence on the defendant, aged in his sixties, and he remained silent when the charges were put to him in a Garda station. 

Detective Garda Christine Brady told a previous hearing that it would be alleged that the incidents took place on dates between 1994 and 1997.

Barrister Mark Gibbons said he did not require the Garda to go through each charge in court. 

The Garda also stated that the incidents relate to alleged touching of genitalia outside the clothing and she had given him a copy of each charge. 

The court was also told that the injured party, who was present in court, had babysat for the man for a number of years and most of the incidents took place on the way home. 

The court was told there was no objection to bail, his own bond of €1000, provided that the defendant notify the Gardaí of a phone number, which he has done. 

He must not have any contact directly or indirectly with the injured party or any witness, keep his phone charged and be available to take calls from the Gardaí at any time. 

Sgt Dave Hanrahan requested that the defendant be sent forward for trial to Naas Circuit Court. 

The defendant was remanded on continuing bail with no change to the conditions. 

Free legal aid was granted.

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