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DPP fails in appeal against sentence handed down to man convicted of indecently assaulting his step-daughter
Summary
In a 2014 appeal, the Director of Public Prosecutions failed to overturn a sentence imposed on Peter Rynne, a 56‑year‑old convicted of indecent assault on his step‑daughter between 1985 and 1990. Rynne was found guilty on four counts, with the victim aged between eight and thirteen. The judge, Carmel Stewart, sentenced him to two years' imprisonment, suspending the final 18 months. The DPP argued the sentence was unduly lenient, citing the victim's prolonged suffering and the impact on her family relationships. The Court of Appeal, hearing the case on its second day, upheld the judge's decision, concluding the suspension was not excessive given the circumstances. The appeal was dismissed, and the victim, who had waived anonymity, left the courtroom in tears.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: DPP fails in appeal against sentence handed down to man convicted of indecently assaulting his step-daughter. Charges or matters: six counts of indecent assault but an acquittal was directed on one charge and the jury failed to reach a verdict on the remainder. Procedural stage: appeal. Findings: Convicted
When:
- April 23, 2013 Hearing Or Sentence
- 1985 and 1990 Incident
- 2014-11-11 Publication
Case subjects
Appellant
Charges: six counts of indecent assault but an acquittal was directed on one charge and the jury failed to reach a verdict on the remainder (Proven)
Finding: Convicted
Outcome: Convicted; The 56-year-old was sentenced to two years imprisonment with the final 18 months suspended by Judge Carmel Stewart at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on April 23, 2013. The Director of Public Prosecutions had appealed Mr Rynne's sentence on grounds that it was unduly lenient.
Places mentioned
- Dublin
- Dublin Circuit Criminal Court
- Court of Appeal
Topics
Sexual Offences Stage Appeal Violent Crime
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