Herton Diansambu allegedly struck the woman in the face. Picture: Caroline Quinn

A young mum out walking with her two children was grabbed around the neck by a man who demanded she hand over her mobile phone, it has been alleged.

Herton Diansambu (20) is accused of striking the woman in the face and shoving her and her 13-year-old son to the ground after the boy tried to protect his mother.

He was served with the book of evidence when he appeared before Blanchardstown District Court.

The accused, of Bealing Walk, Tyrrelstown, is charged with stealing a Samsung Galaxy mobile phone worth €700 on Church Road, Mulhuddart, on July 4 last year.

Outlining the allegation for the court, Sgt Maria Callaghan previously claimed the victim was in the park when she walked past Mr Diansambu.

Refused

Sgt Callaghan had said the woman, who was speaking on her phone at the time, was accompanied by her 13-year-old son and 15-month-old daughter.

The sergeant alleged that Mr Diansambu put his arm around the woman's neck and demanded her mobile phone.

Sgt Callaghan said the woman refused to hand it over.

She alleged that Mr Diansambu then assaulted the woman, pulling her hair and striking her in the face, before forcibly pushing her, causing her to fall to the ground.

The court heard the woman's teenage son tried to protect his mother, but it is alleged he too was pushed to the ground.

Sgt Callaghan claimed the woman's screams were heard by men in a nearby garage and they went to her aid.

A state solicitor said the book of evidence had been served on the accused, who goes forward to the present sittings of Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Defence solicitor Simon Fleming and one junior counsel were assigned on free legal aid.

Mr Diansambu has not yet indicated a plea to the charge.

Herald