Challenge by rapist to change of address law

The High Court has reserved its decision in a challenge brought by a convicted rapist against the constitutionality of laws that require sex offenders to notify the gardaí of any change of address.

The action has been brought by a man, who cannot be identified by order of the court, who served a prison sentence more than a decade ago after he admitted raping his nephew. The man, who had a chaotic and tragic life, was 13 when he committed the offence. On conviction, he was classified as being a sex offender.

After the offence was discovered, he was initially put on a special course for young sex offenders. He failed to complete the course because of the chaotic and troubled life he led. As he didn’t complete the course, he was charged and convicted of rape after he turned 18 years of age.