KENNETH MCDONALD FROM BALLYSHANNON JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN DONEGAL

In a case that has shocked the community of Ballyshannon and the wider Donegal area, Kenneth McDonald, a 34-year-old man with a long-standing connection to the Irish Army, was sentenced to a total of two years and three months in prison for serious sexual offenses committed against a young girl. The sentencing took place at Donegal Circuit Court, where Judge Ray Fullam delivered the verdict after a detailed trial that revealed disturbing details about the crimes.

McDonald, who had resigned from the Irish Army just a week prior to his sentencing after serving for fifteen years, was found guilty of four counts of sexual assault on a girl who was only 13 years old at the time of the offenses. The incidents occurred between June 1 and November 30, 2003, in a secluded area near woodlands in south Donegal. The court heard that the assaults took place in McDonald's car, a location that provided him with privacy but also heightened the severity of his crimes.

Judge Fullam emphasized the gravity of McDonald's actions, stating that the defendant, then 28 years old, had exploited the vulnerability of a young girl who was legally incapable of giving consent due to her age. The judge further condemned McDonald for taking advantage of her during a period when she was effectively abandoned, without proper guidance, and beginning to lead a life marked by promiscuity. The court described his conduct as degrading, motivated solely by his own desire for self-gratification.

The victim, now 19, provided harrowing testimony earlier this month, revealing that she had engaged in sexual activity with 22 adult men when she was just 13. She kept a diary documenting her encounters, including a “period chart” intended to identify the father of any potential pregnancy. The court was informed that there are five other prosecutions pending related to her case, indicating a broader investigation into her experiences.

During the proceedings, it was also disclosed that initial police concerns about a possible child-sex ring operating in the Ballyshannon area were unfounded, and no evidence supported such claims. Nevertheless, Gardaí were commended for their diligent work, especially for caring for the girl during the five years she spent in foster care following the start of the Garda investigation in November 2003.

Judge Fullam acknowledged the significant progress the girl had made since her ordeal, noting her changed demeanour in court compared to six years earlier. The court heard that McDonald’s wife, Maggie, was present during the sentencing, standing by her husband, along with other family members. The victim was accompanied by a social worker, but no family members from her side were present.

Part of the victim impact statement was read aloud by the prosecution, Eileen O’Leary, SC. The girl described her struggles following her removal into care, including her turn to drugs to cope with the trauma, her repeated attempts to escape, and her self-harming behaviors such as cutting her arms and legs. She also recounted overdosing multiple times, expressing a deep longing for her family and a sense of loss.

During the investigation, Garda Feeney informed the court that firearms had been temporarily removed from McDonald’s residence for his safety, especially during a period of depression he experienced. The court also learned that McDonald’s military career was rooted in a family tradition, as his father had also served as a soldier. Throughout his service, McDonald was stationed mainly at Finner Camp, located just a few kilometres from Ballyshannon.

As McDonald was led away to begin his sentence, he winked at his wife, who responded with a raised hand in acknowledgment. The case has left a lasting impact on the Ballyshannon community and highlights the ongoing issues surrounding child protection and the importance of justice for victims of sexual abuse.