Step-Father Sentenced for Sexual Abuse of Step-Daughter in Northern Ireland

A man who fled Northern Ireland over child sex abuse claims made by his step-daughter was today (Tuesday) handed a 30-month sentence. Sentencing Details

Judge Philip Gilpin told the 52-year-old he will spend half the sentence in custody with a similar period on licence following his release from prison. He previously pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13 and one of an adult engaging in sexual activity with a child. Offences and Arrest

The step-father, who can’t be named to protect his victim’s identity, also admitted causing a child to watch a sexual act, sexual touching of a child, and possessing extreme pornography. Legal Proceedings

Belfast Crown Court heard the man, who is originally from Slovakia, was in a relationship with the victim’s mother when the offences came to light. Prosecution barrister Joseph Murphy outlined how the victim was aged nine or ten when the offending took place between October 2014 and December 2015 while the abuser was in his early 40s...