Teen accused of attacking girl after meeting through Snapchat

The court heard the girl reluctantly went into a field where the alleged rape, sexual assault and physical attack took place
Newstalk
Newstalk

17.44 2 Jan 2024


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Teen accused of attacking girl...

Teen accused of attacking girl after meeting through Snapchat

Newstalk
Newstalk

17.44 2 Jan 2024


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A Dublin teenager is due to face trial accused of rape and sexual assault of a girl after meeting on Snapchat.

The 17-year-old, who cannot be identified, faced a preliminary hearing at Dublin Children's Court earlier today.

He has to go forward for trial to the Central Criminal Court for the alleged rape.

However, the teenager had a right to ask the Children's Court to accept jurisdiction and run a separate trial on the related sexual assault and assault causing harm charges.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) opposed the defence application for two trials.

Judge Paul Kelly heard that it was alleged that the complainant met the defendant on the Snapchat social media app.

It was claimed the accused used a different name and sent her a photo "from the neck down" and "did not show his face".

They arranged to meet on a date in March 2022 in north Dublin.

The court heard that the girl reluctantly went into a field where the alleged rape, sexual assault and physical attack took place.

It was alleged the youth, then aged 16, grabbed her by the throat, stating, "You are mine," and she was left with marks on her neck.

The girl later attended a sexual assault treatment unit.

The court heard that the teenager had no prior convictions and was still at secondary school.

Judge Kelly said that all charges should be dealt with together in one trial at the Central Criminal Court.

The case was adjourned pending the preparation of a book of evidence.

The youth, who did not address the court and has yet to indicate a plea, was remanded on continuing bail.

The girl did not have to attend the proceedings for the ruling on the preliminary trial venue issues.

Reporting by: Tom Tuite

Main image: The Snapchat social media app is seen on an iPhone, 22-10-16. Image: Iain Masterton / Alamy

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Central Criminal Court DPP Dublin Children's Court Judge Paul Kelly Rape Sexual Assault Snapchat Teenager