Courts / Westmeath / Report
Man jailed for 10 years for raping 14-year-old girl
Summary
Martin Stokes, 24, was convicted after a 17‑day trial of raping a 14‑year‑old girl in a field while she walked to a friend's house. DNA evidence and about ten witnesses linked him to the crime. Stokes denied knowing the girl and later claimed consensual sex, but the judge described his lies as "obvious mendacity." He was sentenced to 12 years, with the final two years suspended on strict conditions, including no contact with the victim or her family and registration of his address with Gardaí upon release. The victim, who suffered panic attacks, anxiety, depression, self‑harm and suicidal thoughts, testified that the trial and Stokes' outbursts caused her panic attacks. The court also heard she had moved towns because of the rape. The judge ordered Stokes' name to be publicly identified. The case was heard at the Central Criminal Court in Westmeath. Martin Stokes pleaded not guilty.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Man jailed for 10 years for raping 14-year-old girl. Charges or matters: defilement of a child under the age of 15 at a location in Westmeath on June 3, 2011. Procedural stage: sentence. Findings: Convicted
When:
- June 3, 2011 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2015-08-07 Publication
Why: "If he continues to protest his innocence he cannot be surprised when no one believes him because of his history of lying," the judge said. CNI source report
Case subjects
Convicted Person
Charges: defilement of a child under the age of 15 at a location in Westmeath on June 3, 2011 (Proven)
Plea: Not guilty
Finding: Convicted
Outcome: Convicted; Mr Justice Moran imposed a 12 year sentence with the final two years suspended on strict conditions.
Places mentioned
- Central Criminal Court
Topics
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