Ten-Year-Old Girl Missing from Tusla Care Faces Alleged Sexual Assault in West Dublin
A 10-year-old girl, who was in care under Tusla, has gone missing and is alleged to have faced sexual assault in West Dublin. The girl had been in Tusla’s care since February and reportedly absconded while on a recreational outing with staff in the city center over the weekend.
Details of the Incident
The incident took place on Sunday night at the entrance of the Citywest Hotel complex in Saggart, which is currently housing international protection applicants. Gardaí are actively investigating the case following reports of the alleged assault.
Authorities Respond
A man in his 20s was arrested in connection with the incident under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act. He is currently in custody at a Garda station in Dublin while investigations continue.
In the aftermath of the alleged incident, Gardaí cordoned off the area outside the entrance to the hotel. A portion of the complex’s car park was also sealed off for a forensic examination by the Garda Technical Bureau.
Protest and Community Reactions
A small protest occurred outside the Citywest Hotel on Monday night, highlighting community concerns over the incident. Gardaí emphasized that they are aware of unrelated reports of a fatal stabbing in the vicinity, but those claims have been affirmed as incorrect.
Tusla’s Statement on the Matter
Tusla released a statement regarding the young girl’s situation. They confirmed that staff immediately reported her absence to An Garda Síochána after she went missing. She was found attempting to return to a relative’s home but later left again.
Despite maintaining phone contact with staff, she did not disclose her exact whereabouts. Eventually, her location was determined based on the information she provided, leading to her recovery by law enforcement.
Support for the Victim
Tusla emphasized that their main focus is now on supporting the young girl and her family. They are cooperating closely with Gardaí throughout the ongoing investigation and stated that further details could not be disclosed at this time.
