Toddler found on roof of building was covered in faeces, Limerick court hears

A TODDLER had to be rescued by neighbours after he climbed onto the roof of a multi-story apartment building, Limerick District Court has heard.

The mother in this case, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the child, appeared before Judge Patricia Harney in relation to the incident, which took place in the Autumn of 2023. She is charged with child cruelty.

Judge Harney heard that on this date, at approximately 2pm in the afternoon, gardai received a report that there was a child on the roof of a multi-story apartment building. The parents were not in the area.

When authorities arrived at the building, located in Limerick, an eye-witness did confirm that they saw the toddler on the roof. He had been taken down from the ledge in the meantime by neighbours who brought him back to safety.

The woman’s solicitor confirmed that the child was under three-years-of-age at the time of the alleged incident. Judge Harney heard that after being removed from the roof, the toddler was found to be covered in faeces and non-verbal.

He was brought to University Hospital Limerick but no physical injuries were noted.

Following this, gardai spoke with the parents of the child at their apartment, which, the court heard, was covered in rubbish, mould and faeces.

Prosecuting Sergeant Jimmy Dillane informed the judge that the woman and her co-accused were intoxicated during this time. The pair have since separated.

Taking all evidence into consideration and the seriousness of the charge, Judge Patricia Harney refused jurisdiction in this case and remanded the woman on bail. This means the matter will likely proceed at the Circuit Court, where more serious penalties can apply.

She will next appear before Limerick District Court on a date in December, where new DPP directions will be available.

Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme.