Man changes plea in Cork rape trial

A man on trial for raping and attempting to rape a female friend in Cork over two years ago has dramatically changed his plea at the Central Criminal Court after a day of legal argument.

It was the third day of the trial of the 44-year-old man, who cannot be named for legal reasons. He had pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape, one count of attempted rape and one count of sexual assault in Cork on dates between September 12 and 13, 2008.

One of the rape charges was later changed to attempted rape after a ruling by the trial judge.

When the jury returned after an absence of one day, the defence counsel, Mr Blaise O’Carroll SC, read out a letter from the man stating he had changed his plea to all charges.

“I am deeply sorry for the hurt and pain I have caused. I felt her pain and sorrow when she took the stand,” the man said in his letter.

“It was a moment of madness fuelled by alcohol, cannabis and medication. I have now ruined a good friendship and I am in shock and disbelief at what I have done,” he continued.

“My actions were out of character and I hope she will find the strength to pick up the pieces and find normality again. I am deeply sorry for all the pain I have caused and she will always be in my prayers,” he stated.

Mr O’Carroll asked that his client be re-arraigned and he pleaded guilty to one count of rape, two counts of attempted rape and one count of sexual assault.

His plea was accepted by Mr Timothy O’Leary SC, prosecuting, on behalf of the DPP.

Mr Justice Paul Carney thanked the jury of eight men and four women for their service and exempted them from jury duty for ten years.

He declared the man a sex offender and ordered that a victim impact report be prepared in advance of sentencing next month.