BRIAN DOEY FROM COLERAINE SENTENCED AFTER SEXUAL ASSAULT ON 13-YEAR-OLD SCHOOLGIRL ON BUS

In August 2022, a disturbing incident occurred involving a man from Coleraine, identified as Brian Doey, who was found guilty of sexually assaulting a young schoolgirl on a bus traveling out of Coleraine. The incident took place on October 21 of the previous year, and the court proceedings revealed the troubling details of the assault.

Brian Doey, aged 51 and residing in Keely Gardens, appeared before an online session of Coleraine Magistrates Court on Thursday, August 18. The hearing was held to determine his sentence following a contested trial where the evidence against him was presented and accepted. The court was informed that Doey had engaged in inappropriate and criminal behavior towards a 13-year-old girl during the bus journey.

According to the court's account, Doey sat beside the young girl, despite the fact that they were complete strangers. He initiated conversation with her, making comments that were clearly inappropriate given her age. Among his remarks were statements such as, “your beautiful” and “I want to marry you,” which understandably caused distress to the young girl. The girl, feeling uncomfortable, attempted to change her seat to distance herself from Doey. However, he blocked her attempts to move away until the bus came to a stop, at which point she managed to get off the vehicle.

Following the incident, the girl confided in her mother about what had transpired. She was described as being “very distressed” by the ordeal, highlighting the emotional impact of the assault. The court was shown evidence of Doey’s actions, which included him stroking her face and molesting her thigh, actions that constitute serious sexual misconduct.

District Judge Peter King addressed the court, emphasizing that the threshold for custodial sentences had been crossed in this case. He made it clear that the young victim had done nothing to deserve such treatment. In his sentencing remarks, Judge King imposed a five-month prison sentence on Doey, which was suspended for three years. Additionally, a three-year restraining order was issued, prohibiting Doey from contacting or approaching the victim. The judge warned Doey, stating, “You, sir, have got very close to going straight into custody. Do not re-offend and stay away from this young girl,” underscoring the seriousness of the offense and the importance of safeguarding the victim from further harm.