A book of evidence was served on Monday in the case against a 38-year-old man facing a total of 116 sexual charges arising out of the investigation into online communications with children, production of child pornography, and sexual assaults.
The accused man appeared at Cork District Court by video link from prison in relation to the charges, which range over a period from May 2021 to August 2024 in areas of Cork and Kerry.
Sergeant John Kelleher confirmed Garda Richard O’Donnell had served a book of evidence on the accused man’s solicitor Frank Buttimer.
Judge Mary Dorgan sent the case forward from Cork District Court for trial at the next sessions of Cork Circuit Criminal Court commencing on October 28.
The judge gave him the alibi warning whereby certain notices must be given to the State if there is to be reliance on such a defence.
Twenty charges relate to alleged sexual activity with a child under 15, another 20 similar counts related to children under 17, and 40 counts of meeting a child for the purpose of sexual exploitation.
Other charges include the production and distribution of child pornography, using information and communications technology to facilitate sexual exploitation and sending of sexually explicit material to a child.
For legal reasons, publication of the identity of the accused is prevented.
Detective Garda Richard O’Donnell arrested and charged the defendant earlier this month, and objected to bail being granted to him arising out of Garda concerns for the safety of children if he was released from custody.
Mr Buttimer asked for free legal aid to be extended for the appointment of a barrister and senior counsel to represent him on free legal aid at the circuit court.