Courts / Dublin / Report
'Extreme and absolutely appalling' breach of trust in man's abuse of foster child
Summary
A 77‑year‑old man was sentenced to five years' imprisonment after pleading guilty to indecent assault and sexual assault against his foster daughter. The abuse began when she was 13 and continued until she left the home at 18, with two further incidents after she moved out. The court heard that the victim, who entered care at four after her mother's death, was afraid to speak out for fear of being sent away. She described feeling ashamed, dirty, and living in fear, blaming herself for the abuse. The man admitted the acts were "a mutual thing" and expressed remorse, claiming no malice. Judge Melanie Greally described the breach of trust as "extreme and absolutely appalling" and noted the catastrophic effect on the victim's life. The man had no prior convictions and was otherwise considered a conventional father to other children in his care.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 'Extreme and absolutely appalling' breach of trust in man's abuse of foster child. Charges or matters: counts of indecent assault and sexual assault at locations in Dublin on dates between April 1, 1988 and March 28, 1994. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- April 1, 1988 Incident
- March 28, 1994 Incident
- 2021-06-30 Publication
Why: The court heard that the victim was afraid to say anything about the abuse because she was afraid she would be sent away. Court evidence reported by CNI
Case subjects
Convicted Person
Charges: counts of indecent assault and sexual assault at locations in Dublin on dates between April 1, 1988 and March 28, 1994 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: A man who sexually abused his foster daughter multiple times a week until she left the family home has been jailed for five years. Judge Greally sentenced the man to five years imprisonment.
Places mentioned
Topics
Sexual Offences Stage Sentence Violent Crime
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