Athlone rape accused to apply for bail

A man accused of raping a woman in Athlone in February is expected to apply for bail next week.

The asylum seeker aged in his 20s, who cannot be named due to the nature of the charge and to protect the identity of the alleged victim, appeared before Judge Bernadette Owens this week at Athlone District Court, via video link.

No bail application was made during this week's proceedings, but the accused is to be produced on June 18 when an application is expected to be made and an update to be given for the service of a book of evidence.

Sergeant Paul McNally, for the State, informed the court that the book of evidence is likely to be ready by July 2.

The rape is alleged to have taken place at a location on Ballymahon Road, Athlone between February 16 and February 17, 2025

The man was remanded in custody and will reappear on June 18 before Athlone District Court.