4 days ago
Trial for couple accused of child neglect after boy (6) found asleep on floor by gardaí
Gardaí found the defendants intoxicated and there was evidence of drug use, it is alleged
A couple accused of child neglect after a six-year-old boy was found sleeping on a floor in his school uniform have been sent forward for trial.
The boy's younger sibling was sitting in a buggy in front of a TV, wearing a soiled nappy, and a third child was still awake and appeared 'dishevelled' when gardaí conducted a welfare check in the early hours of the morning.
Gardaí found the defendants intoxicated and there was evidence of drug use, it is alleged.
The couple, who are in their 30s and cannot be named to protect the children, are facing charges of child neglect.
They were served with the book of evidence when they appeared before Blanchardstown District Court.
The DPP had directed summary trial of the allegations in the district court but Judge David McHugh, after hearing a summary of the evidence, refused jurisdiction.
Photo: Stock image
News in 90 Seconds - 5th June 2025
A State solicitor said the book of evidence had been served on the accused, who go forward to the next sittings of Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
The couple was remanded on continuing bail to appear before the circuit court in July.
Defence solicitors Margaret McEvilly and Aengus McCarthy and two junior counsel were assigned on free legal aid.
