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Abuser who was told he would "answer to God" fails in appeal against sentence

Summary

James Maher, 64, of Cherry Orchard Green, Ballyfermot, was found guilty of six counts of sexually abusing his nephews between 1980 and 1984. The nephews, aged eight to thirteen at the time, waived anonymity and described the abuse as "like an animal." One nephew said he had considered murdering Maher but decided against it, stating he would "answer to God." Maher's sentence of nine years was upheld by the Court of Appeal, with the final year suspended due to his age, health, guilty plea and lack of prior convictions. The Court confirmed an eight‑year custodial term was within the sentencing range of six to nine years. The appeal was dismissed, with the judges noting the premeditated, systematic and prolonged nature of the offences and their long‑term detrimental effects on the victims. The decision was made by a three‑judge panel including Mr Justice Alan Mahon.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Abuser who was told he would "answer to God" fails in appeal against sentence. Charges or matters: six counts of sexually abusing his nephews at various locations in Dublin between January 1980 and March 1984. Procedural stage: appeal

When:

• January 1980 Hearing Or Sentence
• March 1984 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2018-03-20 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Appeal

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Read the original CNI report