Courts / Dublin / Report
Judge in celebrity's trial tells jury that cases can come down to 'one person's word against another'
Summary
In a trial of a 40‑year‑old Irish celebrity accused of defiling a 16‑year‑old girl, Judge Pauline Codd told the jury that the case relied solely on the complainant's word, as no corroborating evidence existed. She warned that, over time, such cases often hinge on "one person's word against another." The judge explained that the jury must assess the truth and reliability of the complainant's testimony. The defendant, aged 27 at the time, pleaded not guilty to three counts of sexual acts with a child under 17, alleged to have occurred in Dublin between August and December 2010. The State's case claimed he inserted his penis into the girl's mouth on three occasions, once at his workplace and twice at his home. The jury had deliberated for just over three hours on the eighth day before the judge paused proceedings for the evening, with a return the next day to continue deliberations.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Judge in celebrity's trial tells jury that cases can come down to 'one person's word against another'. Charges or matters: three counts of engaging in sexual acts with a child under the age of 17 at locations in Dublin on dates between August and December 2010. Procedural stage: trial
When:
- December 2010 Other
- 2023-10-19 Publication
Why: Finishing her charge before the jury started their deliberations earlier today, Judge Pauline Codd noted they "only have the word" of the complainant that the alleged sexual acts took place because there is no corroborating evidence. CNI source report
Case subjects
Accused
Charges: three counts of engaging in sexual acts with a child under the age of 17 at locations in Dublin on dates between August and December 2010 (Alleged Or Contested)
Plea: Not guilty
Places mentioned
Topics
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'
If a fact, identity, locality or legal outcome needs review, email the newsroom with this report's details prefilled.
Email a correction request