The man accused of raping two young girls in Athlone is due back in court later this morning.
The 30-year-old's been placed on suicide watch, and given protection while in prison.
The homeless man is accused of raping a 6 year old girl and a 9 year old girl after they went missing from a children’s birthday party last weekend.
He was charged in Athlone and brought before Longford District Court on Tuesday on four counts of rape.
While he was being questioned, hundreds of people gathered in protest outside the local garda station. Two other men in their 40s were arrested and released without charge.
Judge Seamus Hughes remanded the 30 year old in custody until today when he will make his second court appearance.
Having noticed marks on his face he ordered that the man be put on suicide watch and afforded protection while in prison.
