Courts / Wicklow / Report

Elderly man appeals conviction for raping babysitter in 1980s

Summary

In 2024, a 76‑year‑old former Dublin man appealed a conviction for raping a 15‑year‑old babysitter in the 1980s. The trial, held at the Central Criminal Court, found him guilty of two counts of rape and three counts of indecent assault. He was sentenced to 11 years' imprisonment, with the final three years suspended. The appeal argued that the judge should have warned the jury about the lack of corroborating evidence, citing inconsistencies between the victim's statements and those of her mother. The Director of Public Prosecutions maintained that such inconsistencies were for the jury to resolve. The case highlighted the victim's testimony of being forced into sexual acts, her fear during the assaults, and her subsequent pursuit of a career as a counsellor. The judge praised her bravery and determination in reporting the crimes and giving evidence.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Elderly man appeals conviction for raping babysitter in 1980s. Procedural stage: appeal

When:

• November 1988 Incident
• August 1989 Incident
• 2024-11-21 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Appeal Violent Crime

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Read the original CNI report