Man accused of rape in Athlone sent forward for trial

An asylum seeker accused of raping a teenage girl in Athlone earlier this year has been sent forward for trial at the Central Criminal Court.

The man in his twenties, who cannot be named due to the nature of the charge and to protect the identity of the alleged victim, appeared this morning before Judge Peter White in Athlone District Court.

Garda Sheila Fitzgerald gave evidence of having served the book of evidence on the man at 10.45am.

The rape is alleged to have occurred at a location in Athlone town on a date between February 16 and 17, 2025.

Andrea Callan BL said the accused was refused bail by Judge Bernadette Owens two weeks ago and will bring a second bail application before the High Court next Tuesday.

He was returned for trial to the present sittings of the Central Criminal Court and given an alibi warning.

Judge White extended the man's legal aid to the Central Criminal Court for his solicitor and two counsel.