DES FOLEY'S SHOCKING ABUSE IN DUBLIN: FORMER SOCCER COACH SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES
In July 2009, a disturbing case involving a former youth soccer coach from Dublin, Des Foley, came to light as he was sentenced for the sexual abuse of four young boys.Foley, aged 49 at the time, was convicted of multiple counts of sexual assault against boys aged between eight and 14, with the incidents occurring over a span of several years from 1989 to 1996.
Foley’s background is marred by his own history of abuse; he was himself subjected to maltreatment at an industrial school during his childhood.
Despite this, he was found guilty of abusing the trust placed in him as a coach, exploiting his position to prey on vulnerable children.
The court heard that Foley, who resided on Coultry Road in Ballymun, Dublin, had befriended the boys through his role in the local football team, inviting them to his flat where the abuse took place.
The nature of Foley’s misconduct was particularly heinous, involving inappropriate touching of the children’s genital areas and mutual masturbation.
Prosecutors revealed that Foley used threats to silence his victims, including a chilling warning to one boy that he would “cut his mother’s head off” if he disclosed the abuse.
During the trial, victims recounted the long-lasting impact of Foley’s actions.
One man, now in his 30s, disclosed that he began using heroin as a teenager to numb the memories of the abuse, which subsequently led him into criminal activities.
Another victim, in his late 20s, shared that he struggles with nightmares, has attempted suicide, and uses cannabis to manage his anxiety.
These testimonies underscored the profound and enduring trauma inflicted by Foley’s actions.
Foley’s criminal record includes ten previous convictions, and he was arrested in November 2007.
During police interviews, he admitted to some of the sexual assaults.
In a letter read aloud in court, Foley expressed remorse, apologizing to his victims and revealing that he had been abused himself between the ages of eight and 15 at an industrial school.
He also disclosed that he has undergone months of intensive counseling and has vowed never to commit such offenses again.
Judge Frank O’Donnell sentenced Foley to four years in prison, with one year suspended.
The court also noted Foley’s financial situation, mentioning that he had gambled and drank away the majority of a €100,000 compensation award he received as a victim of institutional abuse.
The victims rejected this offer, emphasizing that no amount of money could undo the harm caused.
Garda Ronan McMorrow provided details of Foley’s repeated abuse, confirming that Foley had exploited his position to manipulate and harm the boys.
The case highlights the ongoing issues of child protection and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable children in Dublin and beyond.
