JOHN/JOE FAHY OF GALWAY AND OUGHTERARD SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRLS

In a chilling case that has shocked the communities of Galway and Oughterard, an 85-year-old man, who once held the position of mayor in a Co Galway town, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against five young girls over a span of more than a decade. The man, identified as John, also known as Jack Fahy, pleaded guilty to two counts of rape and seven counts of sexual assault, with the crimes dating back from 1981 to 1992.

Fahy’s disturbing actions came to light after a lengthy investigation by Gardaí, which revealed a pattern of abuse inflicted upon victims whose ages ranged from as young as seven to 16 years old. During the court proceedings, Fahy admitted to the charges, which included two instances of rape and multiple sexual assaults. He also made a controversial statement claiming that one of his victims 'brought it on herself,' a remark that drew widespread condemnation.

The court heard that Fahy’s offenses spanned over a decade, with some incidents occurring in his own home, his vehicle, and other locations within Galway and Oughterard. The victims recounted their experiences, describing how Fahy, a man once highly regarded in the community, used his position and familiarity to manipulate and abuse them. One young girl, who was only seven at the time, was raped on two separate occasions, with her family recalling Fahy’s frequent visits to their home and his collection of nature videos, which he often used to lure children into his company.

Superintendent Michael Curley of Salthill Garda Station provided details of the case, revealing that the first report came from a 31-year-old woman who contacted authorities on November 12, 2001. She recounted that when she was between 14 and 15 years old, Fahy had put his hand inside her T-shirt and fondled her breast while she sat in his house. She also described how Fahy invited her into his bedroom, which she refused, and subsequently fled the scene. Her sister later disclosed that Fahy had also sexually abused her when she was between 10 and 13 years old, including kissing her and attempting to force his tongue into her mouth, as well as touching her inappropriately.

Another victim, who was as young as seven, detailed how Fahy had raped her on two occasions, with her family noting that he was a frequent visitor to their home. She described incidents of sexual abuse occurring in various locations, including Fahy’s home and car, over a period from March 30, 1981, to an unspecified date in 1988. A fourth girl, aged between 10 and 12 at the time, reported that Fahy had attempted to rape her and sexually assaulted her multiple times between 1984 and 1986. Fahy claimed that she had initiated the abuse, a statement that was met with disbelief by the court.

The final victim, aged between seven and 13 during the period from June 6, 1987, to August 31, 1992, also testified about her experiences of sexual assault by Fahy on two separate occasions. Throughout the investigation, it was revealed that Fahy had a particular interest in nature, often taking children on nature trails or inviting them into his home to view his collection of nature videos. During these encounters, Fahy would sometimes give children 20 pence or sweets after abusing them, further illustrating his manipulative tactics.

Fahy, a single man, was once a respected figure in the community and served briefly as mayor of Oughterard. However, his reputation was shattered when these allegations surfaced. A warrant for his arrest was issued on December 6, 2001, and during police questioning, Fahy made several admissions regarding his misconduct.

In sentencing, Mr. Justice Paul Carney acknowledged the impact on the victims, noting their fears that Fahy might receive special treatment due to his age. Nonetheless, the judge emphasized that Fahy’s age did not warrant leniency, especially given the severity of his crimes. Fahy was sentenced to nine years for the two rape charges and an additional four years for the sexual assault charges, with the sentences to run concurrently. The court also suspended the last four years of the sentence, reflecting considerations of Fahy’s health and early guilty plea.

Conor Bowman, representing Fahy, expressed remorse on behalf of his client, stating that Fahy had never formed a mature relationship with a woman and was unreservedly sorry for his 'utterly inexcusable behavior.' The case has left a lasting scar on the community of Galway and Oughterard, highlighting the importance of vigilance and justice in protecting vulnerable children from such predatory individuals.