‘Dangerous Sexual Predator’ Denis O’Donovan Appeals Conviction in Limerick Assault Case

Denis O’Donovan, described as a “dangerous sexual predator” by his victim, is appealing his conviction for the 2020 kidnapping and sexual assault of a woman in Limerick, Ireland. The appeal, heard today in the Court of Appeal, centers on the admissibility of a 40-minute 999 (emergency call) recording made by the victim following the ordeal.

Details of the Assault

O’Donovan (39), from Ballyryan, Donohill, Co Tipperary, pleaded not guilty to five offenses. He was ultimately convicted of false imprisonment, assault causing harm, and two counts of sexual assault, though the jury failed to reach a verdict on one alleged sexual assault charge. The incident occurred on January 17, 2020, in a rural area of Limerick. According to trial testimony, O’Donovan lured the woman from her home, then sexually assaulted her while choking her in a nearby lane.

The victim managed to escape and hid while O’Donovan searched for her. She eventually made her way home and contacted emergency services.

The 999 Call and the Appeal

O’Donovan’s barrister, Timothy O’Leary SC, argued that the sentencing judge erred in allowing the jury to hear the entire 40-minute 999 call. O’Leary contended that the length of the call was unnecessary and introduced irrelevant and prejudicial material. He stated the call contained information “all extra over and above” the victim’s direct testimony and didn’t “put matters any further.” He argued the jury should not have been exposed to the full recording, stating, “I’m saying it’s not fair to my client, simple as that.”

O’Leary also raised concerns about the lack of forensic analysis of samples taken from O’Donovan’s vehicle, noting the jury questioned this absence. He argued the judge should have further advised the jury that they could consider this lack of testing when reaching a verdict.

Prosecution’s Response

Lily Buckley BL, representing the Director of Public Prosecutions, countered that the 999 call was “probative,” “relevant,” and “admissible” evidence. She emphasized the victim’s state of “blind panic” during the call, fearing O’Donovan’s return, and that she was recounting the incident as it unfolded. Buckley described the victim’s desperate escape, scrambling through briars and a ditch, sustaining injuries in the process.

Buckley also defended the judge’s instructions to the jury regarding the forensic samples, stating they were “entirely appropriate” and reminded the jury to focus solely on the evidence presented.

Previous Sentencing and Background

O’Donovan was sentenced to seven years in prison, with six months suspended, by Judge Dermot Sheehan at Limerick Circuit Court in June 2024. The sentencing court was informed that O’Donovan had 39 previous convictions and was on bail at the time for an aggravated burglary at another woman’s house.

Ongoing Case

Mr Justice John Edwards stated the appeal court would reserve judgment and deliver its decision at a later date.