Courts / Dublin / Report

Terenure college coach abused boys during 'costume fitting' for plays

Summary

John McClean, a former rugby coach and teacher at Terenure College, was found guilty of 27 charges of indecent assault against 23 boys between 1973 and 1990. The court heard that McClean abused boys during costume fittings for school plays, in his office after class, and while coaching rugby. Victims ranged from 12 to 17 years old. McClean's abuse included physical assault, fondling, and sexual touching, often while he was in a position of authority. He left the school in 1996 after allegations surfaced and later worked as a rugby coach at UCD. The sentencing hearing considered evidence of 15 of the 23 victims, with further charges under consideration. The hearing will continue tomorrow before Judge Pauline Codd.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Terenure college coach abused boys during 'costume fitting' for plays. Charges or matters: 27 charges of indecently assaulting the males at Terenure College in Dublin on dates between 1973 and 1990. Procedural stage: sentence

When:

• November 2020 Hearing Or Sentence
• 1973 and 1990 Incident
• 1966 and 1996 Incident
• 2021-02-10 Publication

Why: The boy explained that his work had been affected by his home life being difficult and the accused said he understood. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Sentence Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report