Courts / Cork / Report

Daughters speak of relief as father who raped and abused them fails in appeal

Date
2018-07-23

Stage
Appeal

Primary locality
Youghal

County
Cork

Summary

The daughters of Jerry O'Keefe, who was sentenced to ten years in prison for repeatedly raping and sexually abusing them between 1980 and 1993, expressed relief that his appeal was dismissed. O'Keefe, 69, had pleaded guilty to nine counts of rape and sexual abuse after a jury was sworn in. He received consecutive sentences of seven years for raping one daughter and three years for abusing the other, totaling ten years. The Court of Appeal upheld the sentence, stating it was not lenient. Amy Barrett, the eldest daughter, said she was relieved the case was finally over and that the judges showed zero tolerance for child abuse. She urged other victims not to lose hope and to come forward. The appeal was dismissed by a three‑judge panel, including Mr Justice John Hedigan, Mr Justice George Birmingham and Mr Justice John Edwards.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Daughters speak of relief as father who raped and abused them fails in appeal. Charges or matters: nine sample counts of raping one of his daughters and sexually abusing another in Youghal from 1980 to 1985 and 1987 to 1993. Procedural stage: appeal

When:

November 6, 2011 Hearing Or Sentence
1980 to 1985 Other
1987 to 1993 Other
Christmas Other
2018-07-23 Publication

Case subjects

Amy Barrett

Appellant

Charges: nine sample counts of raping one of his daughters and sexually abusing another in Youghal from 1980 to 1985 and 1987 to 1993 (Alleged Or Contested)

Jerry O'Keefe

Appellant

Charges: nine sample counts of raping one of his daughters and sexually abusing another in Youghal from 1980 to 1985 and 1987 to 1993 (Admitted)

Plea: Guilty