JOHN RATH FROM BALLINCOLLIG SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN CORK

In November 2017, a disturbing case of child sexual abuse came to light involving John Rath, a man residing in Innishmore Park, Ballincollig, County Cork. Rath, aged 62 at the time, had a deeply troubling history as a victim of child abuse himself during his teenage years while in care. This background did not deter him from engaging in further criminal conduct, as he was found guilty of sexually abusing a young boy over a span of several years.

The case was heard at Cork Circuit Criminal Court, where Rath pleaded guilty to eight sample counts out of a total of twenty charges. These charges detailed a pattern of sexual assault that occurred at various locations within Cork and beyond, stretching from January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2008. The offences involved acts of oral sex and masturbation, with the victim, who was between the ages of 12 and 17 during the period of abuse, describing a sustained and manipulative relationship with Rath.

Detective Garda Rory McGrath, who led the investigation, provided crucial testimony about Rath’s conduct. McGrath, a married man and former sergeant in the Defence Forces, stated that Rath had openly admitted to the abuse and cooperated fully with the Gardaí when questioned. Rath’s willingness to plead guilty prior to the trial was noted as a significant factor in the proceedings.

According to Garda McGrath, Rath had ingratiated himself with the victim and his family, even visiting their home at times when he was abusing the boy. The nature of the abuse was particularly invasive, involving oral sex and masturbation, and it continued over several years. The victim, now in his late twenties, delivered a heartfelt victim impact statement, revealing the profound emotional toll the abuse had taken on him. He expressed feelings of guilt and anger, especially towards his parents, who had invited Rath into their home, unaware of his true intentions.

In his statement, the victim conveyed the devastating impact of Rath’s actions, stating, “A lot of my childhood years and innocence were lost at your hands – I cannot forgive you for what you have done – you have ruined my life. You not only hurt my family but you have also hurt your own.” His words underscored the deep scars left by Rath’s betrayal of trust.

Judge Seán Ó Donnabháin addressed the court, highlighting the serious aggravating factors in the case. He emphasized the prolonged and repeated nature of the abuse, as well as the multiple locations where Rath had carried out his predatory acts. The judge described Rath’s conduct as an egregious breach of trust, exploiting the vulnerability of a young boy.

He acknowledged the maturity and insight shown by the victim in his statement, particularly in understanding the guilt experienced by his parents. The judge expressed hope that Rath’s guilty plea might offer some measure of solace to the victim, recognizing that the plea served as a public acknowledgment of Rath’s guilt and the innocence of the young boy.

Ultimately, Judge Ó Donnabháin sentenced Rath to six years in prison. However, he suspended the final two years, contingent upon Rath maintaining good behavior upon his release. The sentence was backdated to November 8th, the day Rath was taken into custody following his guilty plea, marking the conclusion of a case that revealed a disturbing pattern of abuse and betrayal in the community of Ballincollig, Cork.