Shaughnessy’s rape conviction appeal dismissed

This report is a localnews.ie summary based on public court reporting and records; sources are listed below.

Shaughnessy’s appeal against his rape conviction was dismissed by the Court of Appeal, as reported on 31 October 2023. The conviction therefore stands.

The source said Shaughnessy had been sentenced to six years’ imprisonment, with some suspension options linked to participation in a rehabilitation programme.

The appeal challenged the safety of the conviction and the adequacy of the defendant’s legal representation, including the handling of evidence about time spent in a hotel suite. The defendant denied the rape allegation but admitted kissing and cuddling during a police interview.