This article is from page 15 of the 2006-10-03 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 15 JPG
A MAN who indecently assaulted a young girl in west Clare over 30 years ago has been handed a two-year suspended sentence.
Handing down sentence at Ennis Circuit Court yesterday (Monday), Judge Carroll Moran said he would suspend the jail term for two years.
Stephen Hennessy (69), of Shanganagh, Kilkee, pleaded guilty to a number of charges, in the late 1960s and early 1970s. At the time, he was in his 30s and his victim was aged between 11 and 14.
The court heard that one of the incidents took place in a parked car, while another happened in a field.
On one occasion, the accused put his hand inside the girl’s panties and touched her vagina, while they were in a parked car.
On another occasion, while he was driving his car, he let her change gears and touched her between the legs.
Hennessy used to buy presents for his victim, including a watch, sweets and chocolate.
The court was told that Hennessy – who had no previous convictions – wrote a letter to his victim, apologising for his actions. He stated, in the letter, that he would “regret it all his life.”
“I hope you can put it behind you and get on with your life,” he added.
Judge Carroll Moran was told that the injured party made a statement in relation to the matter, three years ago.
Hennessy, who was immersed in the GAA, was described in court as an exemplary, well-respected man in his local community, a man who was very honest and truthful.
Judge Moran said the accused “committed a pretty heinous offence against a very young girl, albeit a long time ago.” He was told gardaí were not aware of any other complaints made about the accused.