Courts / Dublin / Report
Eight years for man (56) who raped 'vulnerable and intoxicated' student
Summary
Dermott Brett, 56, was found guilty of raping a 20‑year‑old university student in a Dublin hotel on 11 January 2019. The victim, described as vulnerable and intoxicated, was taken from a pub to Brett's hotel room where she was raped and offered cocaine. CCTV footage showed Brett's arrival, the victim's drunken state, and the taxi incidents. Brett pleaded not guilty but was convicted in May 2023 and maintains his innocence. He has one prior traffic conviction. Ms Justice Eileen Creedon sentenced him to nine years' imprisonment, suspending the final year on strict conditions, including probation and a sex‑offender treatment programme. He was placed on the sex‑offender register. The victim suffered PTSD and academic disruption, and her impact statement highlighted profound loss of independence and trust.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: Eight years for man (56) who raped 'vulnerable and intoxicated' student. Charges or matters: one count rape at the InterContinental Hotel, Dublin on January 11, 2019. Procedural stage: sentence. Findings: Found guilty
When:
- January 11, 2019 Hearing Or Sentence
- May 2023 Hearing Or Sentence
- 2023-11-27 Publication
Why: The court heard that the woman had been out with friends but was asked to leave a Dublin pub because she was intoxicated. Court evidence reported by CNI
Case subjects
Convicted Person
Charges: one count rape at the InterContinental Hotel, Dublin on January 11, 2019 (Proven)
Plea: Not guilty
Finding: Found guilty
Outcome: Found guilty; Passing sentence today, Ms Justice Eileen Creedon said Brett claimed he had gone to the woman's assistance and acted as a good Samaritan. The judge said the offence warranted a headline sentence of 10 years before she imposed a sentence of nine years, having taken into account mitigating factors including Brett's lack of previous convictions.
Places mentioned
- The Central Criminal Court
- Central Criminal Court
- Carrick-on-Suir
- Tipperary
- Camden Street
- scene and attended Donnybrook Garda Station
Topics
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