RCNI Press Release 15 March 2005
Judge Carney yet again lets the guilty walk free!
The Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) are astonished that Judge Carney has again released a man found guilty of a serious sexual offence on bail while awaiting sentencing. Jeremiah Lonergan was released on bail on the 14th of March having been convicted of the sexual assault of a minor with learning disabilities.
Kate Mulkerrins, Legal Coordinator of the RCNI said, "only a week ago Judge Carney made the error of releasing on bail while awaiting sentencing, a man found guilty of rape. This man then took the opportunity presented to him by the Judge, to abscond. This Monday, the day the Judge spoke of being ‘haunted’ by the living conditions of some our most deprived citizens, I wonder did he reflect upon the impact of his decision on the victim in this case, in releasing her convicted perpetrator. As a convicted sex offender is the judge satisfied that this man poses no threat to members of the community?
In a climate where only one in ten victims of sexual violence report to the Gardai, what message does the Judge’s practice of releasing convicted sexual offenders give to those considering reporting?"
The convicted man will remain at large in our community until June the 27th when his sentence will be heard.
Notes:
• The RCNI is the national forum of Rape Crisis Centres, which provides a strong voice for survivors and is a catalyst for social change to end rape and all forms of sexual violence.
For further information please contact Cliona Saidlear on 087 2196447
ENDS