Judge allows Cork man accused of possessing child sex abuse images to be identified

Philip Kelly is accused of possessing child child abuse material, consisting of 320 images and 69 videos

Judge Waters said the only reason for such a restriction would be where there was a link between the defendant and the images of children allegedly found in the defendant’s position. File picture: Larry Cummins

A District Court judge lifted reporting restrictions over the identification of a man accused of possessing child sex abuse images.

The case against 39-year-old Philip Kelly of Grattan Hill, Cork, on a single charge of possession of child pornography was before Judge David Waters.

The judge noted that reporting restrictions had been imposed in the case previously. However, he said it was incorrect to have such restrictions and he directed that the restriction be lifted.

Judge Waters said the only reason for such a restriction would be where there was a link between the defendant and the images of children allegedly found in the defendant’s position. But the judge said that in the absence of evidence that there was any such link the defendant should be identified.

The charge states that on August 24, 2025, at an address at Woodlands, Old Youghal Road, Cork, Philip Kelly did knowingly have in his possession child pornography, namely child abuse material, consisting of 320 images and 69 videos, stored in an electronic device.

The Director of Public Prosecutions has directed trial by indictment at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

The case was adjourned, on the application of Sergeant David Fleming for a signed plea of guilty or for a book of evidence until November 19 at Cork District Court.