MAREK BURIETA SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABDUCTION AND WEAPONS OFFENSES IN LURGAN

In a serious case that has shocked the community of Lurgan, 34-year-old Marek Burieta was formally sentenced today (Tuesday) after being found guilty of multiple criminal charges related to an incident involving a young girl. The court proceedings took place at Belfast Crown Court, where Judge Patrick Lynch KC presided over the case and delivered a sentence that reflects the gravity of Burieta’s actions.

According to court records, the incident occurred on June 28, 2023, when the young girl, aged seven, was outside her family home in Lurgan, playing in the front garden along with her friends and her younger sister. It was during this seemingly ordinary afternoon that Burieta approached the children while visibly intoxicated. He engaged them in conversation, asking if they wanted to go for pizza and ice cream, a seemingly benign question that took a disturbing turn. A vigilant neighbor, witnessing Burieta kneeling and speaking to the children, observed him taking the girl by the hand and leading her down the street. Recognizing the potential danger, the neighbor quickly intervened, running after Burieta and shouting for him to release the girl. Burieta complied when confronted, responding with an “ok” when asked to stop. Fearing for the child's safety, the neighbor threatened to call the police, prompting Burieta to flee the scene. Fortunately, the girl was returned safely to her mother, who was alerted immediately.

Following the incident, law enforcement officers responded swiftly. During a search of Burieta’s belongings, police discovered an 11-inch blade knife concealed in his backpack, raising further concerns about his intentions and the potential danger he posed. The police then detained Burieta and transported him to the station. During the journey, he exhibited disruptive behavior, making inappropriate gestures, laughing inappropriately, and making comments about a female officer’s appearance. His conduct led to additional charges, including assaulting a police officer and possessing an offensive weapon.

Initially, Burieta denied any involvement in the abduction, but during the second day of his trial, he changed his plea to guilty. The defense argued that although Burieta’s actions involved taking the girl “for a number of steps,” he released her immediately when challenged by the neighbor. They emphasized that he was intoxicated at the time and highlighted his clean criminal record, noting that he had no previous offenses. The defense also pointed out that Burieta is estranged from his family and had previously abandoned his education in favor of alcohol and a lifestyle centered around drinking and women.

Judge Lynch commended the neighbor’s bravery and quick thinking, emphasizing the importance of such actions in preventing a potentially tragic outcome. The judge acknowledged the profound impact the incident had not only on the young girl but also on her mother and younger sister. The mother’s Victim Impact Statement revealed that the girl now suffers from sleep issues, and her younger sister is haunted by fears of being “stolen or killed.” The mother expressed feelings of insecurity and trauma, even contemplating leaving the area altogether.

In sentencing, Judge Lynch ordered that Burieta serve 27 months in prison for child abduction and possession of the offensive weapon. An additional six months were added to run consecutively due to the assault on the police officer. The court also mandated the destruction of the knife found in Burieta’s possession, emphasizing the need to prevent future harm. The sentence reflects the court’s recognition of the seriousness of the offenses committed and the lasting impact on the victims and their family. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals like Burieta and the importance of community vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable members of society.