01/10/2013

Reporting Restriction Lifted In Garda Child Sex Abuse Images Case

Reporting restrictions placed on the identity of a garda officer accused of possessing more than 650 images and videos of child sexual abuse have been lifted.

The officer, aged in his 50s and stationed at a Dublin garda station, claimed that the publication of his name would put him at risk of attack and affect his right to a fair trial.

However, the judge ruled against the officer following opposition by legal representatives for RTÉ, the Irish Mail and Independent Newspapers.

The officer is accused of possession of images and movie files of explicit child sex, child exposure, and other graphic images.

It is understood that the officer plans to plead not guilty to the charges.

While reporting restrictions were lifted, the judge put a stay on the order until 5pm to allow the garda to decide whether or not he would apply for a judicial review of the ruling.

(MH/JP)

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