Man raped woman while she slept in her own home

A man from Castlefinn, County Donegal has been sentenced to six and a half years imprisonment by the Central Criminal Court following his conviction for rape. Kevin McGovern, aged 28, was found guilty by jury of one count of rape committed on 21 August 2021. Two further charges, comprising sexual assault and burglary, resulted in a nolle prosequi after the jury could not reach agreement on these matters. Ms Justice Melanie Greally imposed a seven-year sentence with the final six months suspended. She identified grave aggravating factors, including breach of trust, the violation occurring in the victim's own home and bed whilst she slept, and the profound impact on the injured party. The judge noted McGovern's lack of previous convictions. He was directed to accept Probation Services supervision for twelve months following release. His sentence was backdated to 18 November when he entered custody. An earlier trial at Carrick-on-Shannon had been discharged following a procedural issue.