DERMOT MACBRIEN FROM ENNISKILLEN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING UNDERAGE GIRL IN OMAGH

In a serious case that has shocked the community of Enniskillen and the surrounding areas, Dermot MacBrien, a 50-year-old man from Derrin Road, Enniskillen, was brought before Omagh Crown Court to face charges related to the sexual abuse of a minor. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about the case, which has garnered significant attention due to the nature of the offenses and the age of the victim.

MacBrien admitted to engaging in sexual touching of a girl under the age of 16, with the incident occurring sometime between January 1, 2012, and October 15, 2013. The court was informed that he had pleaded guilty to this charge on March 25, 2015. A second charge, which involved meeting the underage girl with the intent to carry out a sexual act, was left on the books, meaning it was not pursued at that time but could potentially be prosecuted in the future. The identity of the victim remains protected by law, and her name has not been disclosed to the public.

Details of the case indicated that MacBrien had been in custody since February 28, 2014. The Northern Ireland Prison Service confirmed that he was released on the day of the sentencing, having served the time allocated for his remand period. The court heard that his release was due to the calculation of time served, and he was now subject to a series of strict conditions aimed at preventing further offenses.

As part of his sentencing, MacBrien was sentenced to a total of three years in prison. This sentence was structured as one year of immediate imprisonment, followed by an additional two years on license, meaning he would be under supervision and subject to certain restrictions during this period. Furthermore, he was ordered to comply with a five-year Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), which imposes a range of restrictions designed to protect the public, especially minors.

Under the terms of the SOPO, MacBrien is prohibited from having any contact or communication with female children under the age of 16, unless such contact is incidental and unavoidable during normal daily activities, and only with prior written approval from his designated risk manager and social services. The order specifically restricts him from having access to a mobile phone unless approved, and from residing or staying overnight at any location without prior permission. The order also restricts any direct or indirect contact with the victim, ensuring her safety and well-being.

In addition to these restrictions, MacBrien is disqualified from working with children under the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults (Northern Ireland) Order 2003. He is also required to sign the sex offender register indefinitely, a measure that ensures ongoing monitoring and management of his behavior. The court emphasized that these measures are necessary to mitigate the risk of reoffending and to safeguard the community.

During the hearing, MacBrien’s defense lawyer, Martin Rogers, acknowledged the seriousness of the case and expressed his client’s willingness to engage in therapeutic counseling. Rogers highlighted MacBrien’s difficult personal background, including the tragic loss of his wife and his current situation with a son in foster care. He requested that, if a SOPO was imposed, MacBrien be allowed to see his five grandchildren, citing his family circumstances.

Judge Paul Ramsey QC, who presided over the case, listened carefully to the facts presented and acknowledged the complexity of the situation. He stated that he would need time to consider the appropriate sentence and decided to remand MacBrien in custody until the next hearing scheduled for June 11. The court also received letters from MacBrien’s family, who were present during the proceedings, indicating their support and concern.

This case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and judicial authorities in Northern Ireland to address and prevent sexual offenses against minors. The community remains vigilant, and the legal system continues to impose strict penalties and restrictions on offenders to protect vulnerable individuals and uphold public safety.