Clare man charged with possession of child pornography

A man appeared in court yesterday on a child pornography offence, accused of having in his possession images of naked boys.

The 33-year-old accused from Co Clare cannot be named by order of the court.

He appeared before a special sitting of Kilrush District Court charged with the possession of child pornography.

He was charged, that, on June 28 at a location in Co Clare, he did knowingly have in his possession child pornography featuring naked male images, contrary to section 6(1) of the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act 1998.

Detective Garda TJ Molloy gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution and said the defendant made no reply after caution.

Solicitor William Cahir made an application for free legal aid, which was granted by Judge Eugene O’Kelly.

Mr Cahir said there was no application for bail but he would reserve his position in relation to the matter.

Supt Seamus Nolan requested reporting restrictions be imposed, as he said the investigation was continuing. He said to identify the accused, or the location of the alleged offence, would impede the inquiry.

Judge O’Kelly imposed reporting restrictions as requested. The matter was adjourned to a sitting of Ennis District Court on Wednesday next. The accused was remanded in custody.