Dublin: The trial of a 35-year-old father accused of leaving his toddler in a car for more than eight hours has concluded at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Judge Sarah Berkley is expected to deliver a final ruling on the case next Tuesday. The defendant, who has a prior conviction for a road traffic offence, faced charges stemming from an incident that occurred in Dublin 15 on October 21, 2023.
The court heard that the incident took place in the absence of the child’s mother. The father reportedly left the toddler in the car and went to Clondalkin Garda Station to report the situation, though he was unable to provide the exact location of the vehicle. A large-scale search operation was launched, involving helicopters and CCTV footage. Using an emergency ping from the defendant’s phone, which was left in the car, Gardaí determined that the vehicle was in the Dublin 15 area.
The search, which began at 9 p.m., concluded at 4:55 a.m. when the car was located. Inside, the child was found in critical condition, with its entire body blue and trembling. Gardaí broke the car window, wrapped the toddler in a blanket, and rushed the child to Temple Street Children’s Hospital. Despite the ordeal, the child ultimately survived after extensive medical intervention.
Following the incident, Gardaí notified Tusla, which placed the child in the custody of other family members. Upon her return, the child’s mother reclaimed custody from her relatives.
The father was taken into custody, and his car was impounded. During a search of the vehicle, Gardaí discovered cocaine in a bag near the gear stick.
The defendant’s lawyer informed the court that the accused has since completed a five-week residential rehabilitation programme and has been participating in aftercare services for the past year. The court was told that the father is now drug-free, undergoing regular testing, and has made significant efforts to transform his life. Testimonials from family members were submitted, highlighting his commitment to becoming a loving and caring parent.
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