JOHN POWER FROM CASTLETOWN JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON NIECE DURING FISHING TRIPS IN WEXFORD AND ARKLOW

In a case that has shocked the community of Castletown and the surrounding areas, John Power, a man residing at Killowen Lower, Castletown, has been sentenced to prison for serious sexual offenses committed against his niece. The offences took place over a period spanning from June 1993 to August 1994, involving multiple locations including The Cliffs in Castletown and Arklow Pier.

According to the court proceedings, Prosecuting Counsel Ms. Rosario Boyle, B.L., outlined that Power had engaged in four counts of sexual assault against his young niece during fishing trips. These incidents occurred at The Cliffs in Castletown between June and July of 1993-94, and three additional charges related to assaults at Arklow Pier between July and August of 1993. The court was told that the assaults were carried out in a context where Power would bring the girl and her brother along on fishing excursions, during which the abuse took place.

Garda Josephine Dowling provided detailed testimony, revealing that Power would lie down beside the girl and 'interfere' with her inappropriately. She explained that during these trips, Power would sit between the girl and her brother, and the victim would often try to cuddle up to him or attempt to kiss him, which led to further physical contact. Garda Dowling also shared that Power expressed feelings of guilt for his actions and had apologized to the girl and her parents.

The officer added that Power had stated in a written confession that he began seeing the girl regularly while building a house for her parents and staying in a mobile home. He claimed that he took pity on the girl and her brother because their father was aggressive towards them. The girl, identified as Rachel Christie, was between 12 and 14 years old at the time of the offences.

At the time of the court hearing, Garda Dowling noted that Power was now a married man with two children, with a third expected in the autumn. He is also a manager and owner of a building business. Rachel Christie, the victim, chose to waive her right to anonymity so that the court could publicly name the defendant. She described how the abuse had profoundly affected her childhood, leaving her unable to trust or form loving relationships. "I am emotionally dead, but I’ve been unable to express this to my parents," she stated. She also expressed her feelings of betrayal, noting that although Power pleaded guilty, he had never apologized to her.

Ms. Christie recounted her own experiences serving on a jury for a sexual abuse case, which triggered memories of her own trauma and hindered her ability to continue her higher education. She emphasized that the abuse had destroyed her life and caused suffering not only to herself but also to her family, particularly her father, who had lost his family as a result.

Representing the defendant, Ms. Mary Ellen Ring, S.C., highlighted that in his 36 years, this was the only matter ever brought to the attention of law enforcement or the courts. She explained that Power had taken steps to understand his behavior and had sought professional help, with his wife supporting him through counseling sessions. The court was informed that, due to his guilty plea, Power would be registered on the Sex Offenders Register.

Judge Olive Buttimer acknowledged the guilty plea, the absence of previous convictions, and Power’s good character prior to these events. She emphasized that as an adult, he had a duty to protect children and had breached that trust. The judge sentenced Power to three years in prison, with the final two years suspended, underscoring the importance of protecting children and sending a clear message that such conduct will not be tolerated by the courts.