Three men sentenced for brutal gang rape of teenage girl in Douglas

Three men who have been convicted of a serious sexual attack on a teenage girl in June 2022 have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms. James Doherty, aged 41, was handed a 16-year sentence, Steven Cannon, aged 45, received nearly 16 years, and Graham Skillicorn, aged 65, was sentenced to just over 14 years. The attack took place at Skillicorn's flat in Douglas after the victim met the men at a house party and they transported her there despite Doherty being disqualified from driving. During the incident, the three men engaged in a prolonged assault, with Doherty allegedly initiating the attack, and the others becoming involved. All three men denied the charges but were found guilty following a trial. The court heard from the victim, who described how her innocence was taken, and she has suffered post-traumatic stress disorder, panic attacks, sleep paralysis, and nightmares since the assault. The victim praised her own bravery during the police investigation and court proceedings. The sentencing also included lifelong registration as sex offenders and restraining orders prohibiting contact with her. The judge condemned Doherty's ongoing disruptive behavior during the sentencing, describing his conduct as "nothing short of disgusting" and noting he still refuses to accept any wrongdoing. Doherty also has a record of 110 previous convictions for 41 different offenses, including separate driving offenses and an incident involving a police officer. Photos presented in court depicted the accused—Doherty, Skillicorn, and Cannon—each with mugshots. The court emphasized the brutality of the attack and expressed respect for the victim's courage in coming forward, highlighting the lasting impact on her mental health.