JAMES PRUNTY FROM CO LEITRIM AND CO LONGFORD SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN PARISH CHURCHES

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Co Leitrim and Co Longford, James Prunty, a priest aged 77, was sentenced to 12 months in prison after being found guilty of multiple counts of indecent assault against three young girls. The offences spanned a period of four years, from 1956 to 1959, and involved disturbing acts committed in various locations within the parish, including the girls' own homes, the church where he served as a curate, and even within the confession box of the church.

Prunty, who was originally charged with 76 counts, pleaded guilty to 13 sample charges during the court proceedings held at Tullamore Circuit Court. His address was listed as Cloone in Co Leitrim, but he was residing in Edgeworthstown, Co Longford at the time of sentencing. The court heard harrowing details of how the priest had indecently assaulted the girls, with one victim, speaking on behalf of all three, recounting that the abuse began when she was just 10 years old.

According to her testimony, the abuse started during her visits to the parish church for confession. She described how the priest would remove the grille separating the confessional and reach his hand through the opening, initially to tickle her and later under her clothing. She expressed that these experiences left her terrified of confession and claimed that the trauma has had a lasting impact on her life, a pain she said would continue indefinitely.

During the court session, Judge Anthony Kennedy addressed the case with seriousness, noting that the offences were particularly egregious because some occurred within the sacred setting of a church. The judge also emphasized that the case was held in camera, and despite a defence application to prevent the accused's name from being published, the court rejected this request. However, restrictions were placed on the publication of any details that could identify the victims.

Furthermore, the judge refused to allow a solicitor, who was present in a watching capacity for Dr Colm O’Reilly, Bishop of Ardagh and Clonmacnois, and two other individuals, to remain in the courtroom during the proceedings. This decision underscored the court's focus on maintaining the integrity of the case and protecting the privacy of the victims.

In his statement to the court, Fr Prunty expressed deep remorse for his actions, acknowledging that he had betrayed his vocation and the trust placed in him by the community. He stated, “I have betrayed my vocation and my Church,” and conveyed sincere sorrow for the pain he had caused the young girls.

Character witnesses for the accused testified in his favor, and an appeal for leniency was made. Nonetheless, Judge Kennedy highlighted that the fact some of the offences occurred within a church setting was an aggravating factor, which contributed to the severity of the sentence handed down. The case has left a lasting scar on the local community, raising questions about safeguarding and the protection of children within religious institutions.