Courts / Dublin / Report
Man with previous convictions for sexual assault and abduction of teen has "excessive" sentence cut for false imprisonment of girl (11)
Summary
Michael Martin, aged 37, was sentenced to 13 years for falsely imprisoning an 11‑year‑old girl he lifted from a green area near her home in Co. Laois. He was found guilty on 4 March 2015 and originally received a 17‑year term with the last four years suspended. On appeal the Court of Appeal deemed the sentence excessive and re‑sentenced him to 14 years, suspending the final three years for five years. The appeal judge noted the girl was physically lifted into a silver Nissan and that her ten‑year‑old brother's quick action prevented a more serious outcome. Martin had 92 prior convictions, including sexual assault and abduction, and pleaded guilty. He was required to enter a five‑year good‑behaviour bond after release. The court emphasised the gravity of the offence and the need to protect children.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Man with previous convictions for sexual assault and abduction of teen has "excessive" sentence cut for false imprisonment of girl (11). Charges or matters: false imprisonment of the girl along the roadside near Oldtown, Cullohill, Co Laois on March 4, 2015. Procedural stage: appeal
When:
- March 4, 2015 Incident
- November 5, 2015 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2017-03-09 Publication
Case subjects
Appellant
Charges: false imprisonment of the girl along the roadside near Oldtown, Cullohill, Co Laois on March 4, 2015 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: He was sentenced at Portloaise Circuit Criminal Court to 17 years imprisonment with the final four suspended by Judge Keenan Johnson on November 5, 2015. Martin was re-sentenced to 14 years imprisonment with the final three suspended.
Places mentioned
- Yellow Road
- Waterford City
- Oldtown
- Castlecomer
- Kilkenny
- Portloaise Circuit Criminal Court
- Court of Appeal
Topics
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