A 26-year-old man charged with sexually assaulting a child in Mullingar has been remanded in custody for a further two weeks.
No bail application was made at Cloverhill District Court this week on behalf of the man whose name cannot be released to protect his alleged victim.
He is charged with sexually assaulting the10-year-old on Sunday June 6 in a public area where other children were at play at Ashfield.
He was arrested last Saturday June 12 and was brought before a special sitting of Mullingar District Court on Sunday June 13 where Judge John Coughlan remanded him in custody to appear at Cloverhill District Court on Tuesday of this week (June 15 ).
Judge Coughlan heard that when Garda Alan Clerkin charged the man, he made a lengthy reply.
“I wish to God I could take back what happened,” he said. “I was out of my head on speed and drink and everything. After I ran away, I thought I was tripping. I don't know what to say. I want the girl to be okay."
The court also heard that the young man had threatened to injure himself and psychiatric assessment and treatment were directed.
At the Dublin court on Tuesday, Garda Alan Clerkin from Mullingar Garda Station asked that the case be adjourned to allow preparation of a book of evidence.
Ms Patricia Cronin solicitor, said her client is currently receiving psychiatric treatment and asked that he receive further care during his remand.
She said they would not consent to a four week remand for the young man who appeared behind the glass barrier in the remand prison wearing a football jersey and looking restless.
Family members were in court.
Judge Ann Watkin noted the man’s medical needs as she adjourned the case to Cloverhill District Court June 29.
She also ordered that if he is to apply for bail, Ms Cronin is to notify the State in sufficient time before his next appearance.
