Kilkenny man accused of masturbating in public in Portlaoise

Reporting restrictions were lifted in relation to a man accused of masturbating in public in Portlaoise. 

Simon Brennan, 63, of 10 Togher Way, Urlingford, Co Kilkenny is accused of masturbating in a public place at Lyster Square, Portlaoise on March 12 last. 

Garda Rebecca Gavin said she had served a book of evidence on the accused in the body of the courthouse. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the DPP had directed that the man should be sent forward to the next sittings Portlaoise Circuit Court on January 9. 

Judge Andrew Cody said he was going to send the defendant forward to the next sittings of Portlaoise Circuit Court on January 9 on the single charge. 

He noted he had previously reserved judgement on the issue of reporting restrictions in the case which was being heard  in-camera and not in open court.  

On checking with gardai that the man wasn’t known to any of those who witnessed the act, Judge Cody said he would lift the reporting restrictions and allow the defendant to be identified. 

The man was released on bail with strict conditions and legal aid was granted for one defending solicitor and counsel in the case.