ELDERLY MAN CHARGED WITH 49 OFFENCES

A man in his 60s appeared in Bray District Court last Thursday charged with 49 different offences, including indecent assault and causing unnecessary suffering to two different individuals under the age of 17, as well as ill-treatment of an animal.

The offences are alleged to have been com- mitted by James Clarke (63), 7 Devlis Cottage, Ballyhaunis, County Mayo, at Sea Road, Kilcoole, between December 1998 and May 1989.

The court heard that Clarke is currently serving a sentence and wished to remain at Arbour Hill prison. Judge David Kennedy said that while on remand on these matters, he would have to go to Clover Hill.

The court heard that the DPP has directed prosecution on indictment. Barrister Eibhlín Ní Raghallaigh made an application to the court for legal aid. The matter was adjourned to Thursday, November 22, for mention. The court heard that a book of evidence could be produced within weeks.