No bail for man accused of raping woman in Cork due to security reasons

“I deny it absolutely and vigorously,” the defendant said when he appeared before Cork District Court on Friday.

The big concern is that more serious crimes could be committed, said Sergeant Dave Delea.

Det Garda O’Donnell said the objections were also due to the seriousness of the crime. No details were given of the background allegations that led to the rape charge.

Attorney Eddie Burke said the defendant has had no contact with the plaintiff since the controversial incident more than two years ago.

Mr Burke also added that it would take approximately 18 months for the case to be heard in the Central Criminal Court and that if bail was refused, the defendant would remain in custody for that period.

Judge Mary Dorgan denied bail and adjourned the case to the first remand court of the holiday season, August 2. The judge ordered that he be given all appropriate medical care.

In his bail application, the 31-year-old said his mental health problems began during the Covid pandemic.

The judge said the court was refusing an application for bail, taking into account the seriousness of the charges and other factors, including the Garda’s concerns for the safety of community members if he were released.

The Attorney General ordered the trial before the Central Criminal Court or required a signed confession of guilt for the verdict to be pronounced before that court.

Mr Burke said a book of evidence was required.