Courts / Wexford / Report
Rapist acted on "paedophilic sexual interest"
Summary
Kenneth McDonald, 54, of Wexford, was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment for raping and sexually assaulting his girlfriend's younger sister, a schoolgirl, between 1987 and 1994. The victim, who was aged seven at the first offence, described the abuse as having destroyed her childhood and haunted her adulthood, citing terror, shame and a loss of self‑worth. McDonald pleaded not guilty and continues to deny the charges. The court heard that he had a "paedophilic sexual interest" in the child, and that his actions were "depraved" and opportunistic. Despite character witnesses describing him as loving and kind, the judge set a headline sentence of eleven years, reduced to seven, and imposed no suspension, noting McDonald's refusal to engage in therapy. A three‑year post‑release supervision period was ordered, with a requirement to cooperate with Tusla recommendations regarding access to children. Kenneth McDonald was convicted.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Rapist acted on "paedophilic sexual interest". Charges or matters: one count of rape at a house in Co Wexford in 1987. Procedural stage: sentence. Findings: Convicted
When:
- January 1987 Incident
- November 1994 Incident
- 2019-10-21 Publication
Case subjects
Convicted Person
Charges: one count of rape at a house in Co Wexford in 1987 (Proven)
Plea: Not guilty
Finding: Convicted
Outcome: Convicted; After taking into consideration what he said were McDonald's immaturity at the time and the passing of time since the offending, he set a headline sentence of eleven years. He said he would not suspend any of the sentence and noted that McDonald has made it clear he will not engage in therapy.; At that hearing Justice Owens adjourned sentencing to today.
Places mentioned
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