Courts / Ireland / Report
School caretaker raped and abused daughter
Summary
In a hearing at the Central Criminal Court, a 77‑year‑old former school caretaker pleaded guilty to one count of orally raping his daughter and three counts of sexually assaulting her in the family home between 1991 and 1997. The victim, aged six to thirteen during the offences, testified that the abuse began when she was preparing for her first holy communion and continued while her mother worked shift jobs. She described the lasting psychological impact, noting feelings of unlovability and isolation, and how the abuse irreparably damaged her relationship with her mother. The caretaker, who has no prior convictions, was defended by Gerardine Small SC, who highlighted his medical conditions and expressed remorse. The court, guided by the DPP's recommendation of a 10‑to‑15‑year sentence due to the breach of trust and the victim's young age, adjourned the case to 24 October to allow the defendant two weeks to arrange his affairs before potential custody.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: School caretaker raped and abused daughter. Charges or matters: one count of orally raping his daughter and three counts of sexually assaulting her in the family home on dates between 1991 and 1997. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- October 24 Adjournment
- 1991 and 1997 Other
- 2023-10-10 Publication
Why: She said this was because of the breach of his position of trust, the young age of the complainant and the period of time over which the offending took place. CNI source report
Case subjects
Defendant
Charges: one count of orally raping his daughter and three counts of sexually assaulting her in the family home on dates between 1991 and 1997 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: Ms Justice Melanie Greally noted this was a case where a substantial sentence would be imposed.; She adjourned to matter to October 24 for finalisation, noting this would give the man two weeks to get his affairs in order before going into custody.
Places mentioned
- Central Criminal Court
Topics
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