Courts / Wicklow / Report
State failed to prosecute scout leader who admitted molesting boys over 20 years ago
Summary
David O'Brien, a former scout leader, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to eight counts of indecent assault relating to four boys between January 1, 1972, and December 31, 1981. The court heard that O'Brien admitted to gardaí in 1997 that he was "molesting" young boys in the scouts, yet a direction was made not to prosecute. He was previously jailed for four-and-a-half years in October 2015 for sexually abusing six young boys on camping trips in the late 1970s and 80s. Prosecution evidence detailed allegations of fondling and non-penetrative abuse during scouting trips in Wicklow and Meath. Victim impact statements described lasting psychological and physical effects, including trust issues and stress-related health problems. Defense counsel noted that O'Brien accepted he committed grave wrongs and apologized for his behavior. Judge Karen O'Connor remanded O'Brien in custody and adjourned the matter for sentencing on November 7.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: State failed to prosecute scout leader who admitted molesting boys over 20 years ago. Charges or matters: eight counts of indecent assault relating to four boys on dates between January 1, 1972 and 31 December, 1981. Procedural stage: sentence
When:
- January 1, 1972 Incident
- 31 December Incident
- October 2015 Incident
- November 7 Adjournment
- 2019-10-24 Publication
Case subjects
Convicted Person
Charges: eight counts of indecent assault relating to four boys on dates between January 1, 1972 and 31 December, 1981 (Admitted)
Plea: Guilty
Outcome: He was jailed for four-and-a-half years in October 2015 for sexually abusing six young boys on camping trips in the late 1970s and 80s.; Judge O'Connor remanded O'Brien in custody and adjourned the matter for sentencing on November 7, next.
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