In a disturbing development, a woman has alleged that she was gang-raped in a car park, raising yet again the issue of women’s safety in public spaces. The incident, which is said to have taken place in the early hours of the morning, has sent shockwaves across the community. The woman has revealed that she did not even have to shout “no,” as she did not think anyone would take advantage of her vulnerable condition. This incident highlights the urgent need for stronger measures to protect women and ensure that they can go about their lives without fear of assault or harassment.
A young woman who was allegedly raped by three men in a hotel car park six years ago has told the court that she did not think she would “have to shout no” to them. The trial, which is being held at the Central Criminal Court, involves three defendants, all of whom have pleaded not guilty to multiple charges of rape and sexual assault. The offences are alleged to have taken place in the Leinster area on December 20th, 2017, when the complainant was just 17 years old.
During the trial, the complainant was cross-examined by defence counsel for two of the defendants. Garnet Orange SC, who was representing the second defendant, asked the complainant why she had not mentioned an incident in the car involving two of the male occupants during her direct evidence. The complainant responded by saying that she did not remember every detail of what happened.
Throughout the cross-examination, the defendants’ counsel attempted to paint the picture that the complainant had willfully engaged in sexual activity with the defendants. However, the young woman reiterated that she did not engage in consensual sex and that she allowed the sexual assaults to occur out of fear that she would be hurt.
The complainant also revealed that she was completely sober on the night in question and that she had only got into the car to stay with her friend. She confirmed that she had not met the boys before that evening and that she only agreed to go with them to ensure that her friend was not left alone.
The defendants’ counsel repeatedly suggested that the complainant had lied to the court and tried to cover her tracks by deleting apps from her phone. However, the young woman denied these accusations and maintained that she was telling the truth.
Despite the aggressive questioning from the defence, the complainant remained composed and stood firm in her statements. She told the court that she had built herself a backbone and was able to stand up for herself during the cross-examination.
The trial continues under the watchful eye of Ms Justice Melanie Greally and the jury. The outcome of the trial remains uncertain, but the strength and courage demonstrated by the complainant is a reminder that sexual assault survivors deserve justice and should be believed when they come forward with allegations of sexual violence.
