Courts / Dublin / Report
Defence barrister apologises to alleged rape victim after asking her about alleged "promiscuity"
Summary
During the third day of a rape trial, Defence barrister Feargal Kavanagh SC apologized to the alleged victim after questioning her about her "promiscuity." The 27‑year‑old accused, a Dublin man, is alleged to have raped the woman in a hotel room on 27 March 2012, while a 40‑year‑old co‑accused allegedly watched and threatened her. Both men plead not guilty. Kavanagh asked the victim about her early sexual history and about decorating her private parts with glitter stickers, then apologized for using the word "promiscuity." The victim testified that she had helped the men secure a hotel room after meeting them in a pub, that she did not intend to stay or have sex, and that the first man raped her while the second laughed. She denied that any consensual sex occurred and denied learning the accused was married. The trial continues before Justice Margaret Heneghan and a jury of eight men and four women.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Defence barrister apologises to alleged rape victim after asking her about alleged "promiscuity". Charges or matters: charges of rape. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- March 27, 2012 Incident
- 2015-06-08 Publication
Why: He explained that this could mean engaging in inappropriate sexual activity. CNI source report
Case subjects
Convicted Person
Charges: charges of rape (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
- Fishamble Street
Topics
Pubs And Nightclubs Sexual Offences Stage Trial
Related court reports
- Man charged with having 56k child abuse images and videos remanded on bail
- Ex-Dáil hopeful's allegations against former employer 'complete fantasy', WRC told
- Mater must pay €10k to worker who said he was wrongly accused of abusing patient
- 'I think we know I won't be getting bail' - Daniel Kinahan charged with directing criminal organisation
- Letting agent who claimed alleged domestic violence victim abandoned tenancy by fleeing to refuge must pay €14.7k
- 77-year-old with 470 convictions told Luas staff to 'f**k off'
Help us improve this report
Your request is saved for the newsroom's next review. It does not immediately change the published report.
Prefer email? Send a correction request.