MAN WHO BLACKMAILED WOMEN ON SOCIAL MEDIA OVER SEXUAL IMAGES IS JAILED
Cathan Quinn, a resident of Magherafelt, was sentenced on 4 November for engaging in online blackmail related to sexual content involving two victims.The 29-year-old appeared at Dungannon Crown Court and received a sentence of two years and two months.
This sentence is divided equally, with half served in prison and the other half on licence.
Additionally, he is ordered to adhere to a restraining order preventing contact with each victim for five years.
Detective Inspector Ryan commented: “In early 2021, Cathan Quinn targeted two female victims.
“Using social media platforms, the defendant cajoled his victims into sharing intimate images.
He then blackmailed both women, threatening to post the images online unless demands for money were met.
“Both victims have suffered terribly throughout this nightmarish ordeal.
It’s hard to truly imagine the trauma they have endured, and I am grateful to both for finding the courage to come forward and speak to us.
Your support has been invaluable.” He further stated: “Today’s sentencing relates to our investigation into the online blackmail of two females.
This, however, is not Quinn’s only offence of this nature.
On 21 April in 2022, the defendant was given a prison sentence for similar offences against a third innocent victim, who also found the courage to speak to police.” The detective concluded: “I hope this sends out a very clear message to anyone who would seek to exploit and threaten others.
Let me assure you, you can’t hide behind a computer or mobile screen.
Rather, you will be identified and investigated.
And you will be held to account.
