GALWAY MAN JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF TEENAGE GIRL 20 YEARS AGO
A 72-year-old man from Ardrahan has received a three-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to sexually abusing a teenager nearly two decades ago.The case was heard at Galway Circuit Criminal Court, where it was stated that Pat Howley, aged 72 and residing in Lisnagranshy, Ardrahan, admitted to four counts of sexual assault on a full facts basis, with incidents occurring between February and December 2006.
He has no prior criminal record.
The court was informed that the victim wanted Howley’s name to be disclosed but preferred that her identity remain confidential.
Judge Brian O’Callaghan, in passing sentence, highlighted the significant age gap, noting Howley was 72 and the girl was between 13 and 14 during the abuse.
The judge emphasized that Howley’s moral responsibility was considerable and that he exploited a young girl for personal gratification.
He also remarked that Howley was aware of his actions, though only he knew his motives.
A probation report revealed that Howley displayed limited empathy towards victims but was considered unlikely to re-offend.
The judge identified several aggravating factors, including breach of trust, the nature of the misconduct, the substantial age difference, and the impact on the victim, who provided a compelling statement.
The court assessed the offending as slightly above mid-range severity and initially set a six-year term.
Considering mitigating factors such as Howley’s guilty plea, long working life, voluntary civil defence work, and health issues, the judge sentenced him to four and a half years, suspending 18 months for three years.
He was also ordered to be supervised by the Probation Service for a year after release.
Prosecutor Detective Garda Sharon Noone recounted that Howley befriended members of the victim’s family and gradually engaged in inappropriate conduct, which escalated from touching her leg and bottom to more serious acts, including sexual assault.
The girl, who was menstruating at the time, was physically assaulted when Howley digitally penetrated her after unbuttoning her bra, which led to her later escaping by striking him with a screwdriver when he entered her room and she managed to lock the door.
The victim confided in her father about the incidents in 2009, and later discussed them with healthcare professionals.
She formally reported the matter to Gardaí in October 2021.
Howley denied the allegations during three police interviews, only offering a late plea of guilt.
His defense argued that, at 72, he lives with his wife who cares for him and that he suffers from significant medical conditions, including a stroke.
The Probation Service’s low risk of re-offending and the absence of prior convictions were noted.
An apology letter from Howley acknowledged his wrongdoing and expressed remorse.
The court considered his late guilty plea, age, health, and lack of previous convictions in its decision.
Final reports from his doctor and care team were ordered to be sent to Castlerea Prison’s governor.
Howley is required to report to the prison by noon on July 30.
