Courts / Dublin / Report

Former army officer refused more time to appeal 11-year rape sentence

Summary

A former army officer, Timothy O'Sullivan, 67, was denied an extension of time to appeal his 11‑year sentence for raping two teenage boys between 1991 and 1996. The Central Criminal Court found that O'Sullivan, then in his forties, abused the boys, aged 13 to 16, threatening to shoot or bury them. He was sentenced to five years and six years consecutively. The judge praised the victims' bravery and noted their "courageous" statements. O'Sullivan's lawyers highlighted his military service and remorse. He lodged an appeal 13 weeks late, but the Court of Appeal, led by Mr Justice George Birmingham, refused the application, citing the lack of prospect for success and the need for finality in sexual offence cases. The decision was upheld by the panel of judges. Timothy O'Sullivan pleaded guilty.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Former army officer refused more time to appeal 11-year rape sentence. Charges or matters: sexual assault as well as oral and anal rape of two boys on dates between 1991 and 1996 at locations in Dublin. Procedural stage: appeal

When:

• 1991 and 1996 Incident
• 2019-03-22 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Appeal

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Read the original CNI report