Man accused of sex act in front of child appears in Kildare court

A father charged with 22 counts of masturbating in front of his pre-teen child is arguing “the mother of the child is putting the child up to it”.

The man appeared Naas District Court for his book of evidence and to learn of his date in the circuit court.

“There are several allegations with kids,” said Sergeant Dave Hanrahan for the state.

“Twenty-two,” noted Judge Desmond Zaidan.

“On various dates between February 2023 and July 2023, the defendant is alleged to have engaged in sexual activities in front of a child,” said the sergeant.

“Engaging in sex in front of the child? With who? His wife?” asked the judge.

“Solo,” clarified defence solicitor Tim Kennelly. “Masturbation is the charge, but is totally denied."

“The boy is his own child?” asked the judge, to which Mr Kennelly nodded.

After giving the defendant the alibi warning as required, the judge turned to Sgt Hanrahan and added: “For what it’s worth, any additional summary charges being added to this will also be subject to the alibi rule.”

Judge Zaidan then granted Mr Kennelly legal aid for the circuit court trial, but Mr Kennelly sought a special extension on this to cover a parental misconduct report, and this is where the cross-allegations were made public.

“My client is going through a very acrimonious break-up, and we’re saying the mother of the child is putting the child up for it. We’re totally denying all charges,” asserted Mr Kennelly. “My client is actively seeking custody, and she said ‘no way', by hook or by crook."

Judge Zaidan granted the legal aid extension for the “alleged report”, before remanding the man on continuing bail until the circuit court on 18 June.