KEVIN MCVEIGH FROM CRUMLIN SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE ON BELFAST OUTSKIRTS

In a recent court case that has resonated deeply within the community of Crumlin and the wider Belfast area, Kevin McVeigh, a 52-year-old man from Glenavy Road in Crumlin, was found guilty of sexually abusing his nephew, Sean, during their childhood. The incident took place in 1992 on the Hannahstown Road, located on the outskirts of Belfast, when Sean was just 13 years old and McVeigh was approximately 30.

Sean, who chose to waive his right to anonymity in order to publicly identify his abuser, expressed a mixture of relief and emotional pain following the sentencing. He stated that while justice does not erase the trauma, he feels a sense of closure knowing that his uncle has been held accountable. Sean emphasized that, despite the passage of over two decades since the abuse, the memories continue to haunt him, manifesting in nightmares and ongoing psychological distress.

Kevin McVeigh was convicted by a jury of his peers and subsequently sentenced to two years in prison. In addition to his incarceration, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years and was permanently barred from working with children. These measures are part of the court’s efforts to prevent any potential future harm and to protect vulnerable individuals in the community.

The McVeigh family, who resided in the St James’s area of west Belfast at the time, was known in the community, and the case has brought to light the painful realities of childhood abuse that often remain hidden for years. Sean, a father of two, shared that the emotional scars from the incident persist, with him revealing that he has experienced sleepless nights—specifically, 17 nights since the court verdict—due to the trauma.

He further explained that his mental health has deteriorated over the years, with increased stress and anxiety, but he expressed a sense of vindication with the court’s decision. “When the jury returned their guilty verdicts, I felt vindicated,” he said. Reflecting on his childhood, Sean admitted that he once loved and adored his uncle, describing him as “the best uncle we had by far,” which underscores the profound betrayal he experienced.

Overall, the case highlights the enduring impact of childhood abuse and the importance of justice for victims, regardless of how much time has passed since the incident. The community of Crumlin and Belfast at large continues to grapple with the implications of such cases, emphasizing the need for vigilance and support for survivors.