PETER MCEVOY FROM CO LOUTH AND DROGHEDA SENTENCED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OFFENSES

In October 2012, a serious case involving Peter McEvoy, a resident of Drogheda, County Louth, came to light when he was convicted of possessing child pornography. McEvoy, aged 63 at the time, had previously served as a corporal in the Defence Forces before his military career was cut short due to an injury sustained during an overseas deployment.

The investigation was initiated after a computer repair technician, who was servicing a computer left at McEvoy’s residence, alerted authorities on June 27th, 2009. During this initial contact, the technician noticed something suspicious on the device, prompting further action. Subsequently, on June 29th, law enforcement officers conducted a thorough search of McEvoy’s home, which was located in Drogheda, County Louth. During this search, they seized a laptop along with several discs, which contained a vast collection of illicit material.

Analysis of the seized devices revealed a staggering total of 8,584 digital photographs and 697 videos depicting child exploitation. These findings underscored the severity of the case and the extent of McEvoy’s involvement in the possession of such illegal content.

Defense attorney Jonathan Kilfeather argued before the Dundalk circuit criminal court that McEvoy’s discovery of the material was accidental. He claimed that McEvoy believed downloading the files was a way of removing them from the internet, not realizing the criminal implications. Kilfeather described McEvoy’s actions as an addiction that developed over time.

McEvoy’s background included a distinguished military service, reaching the rank of corporal at age 37. However, his career was abruptly ended following an injury sustained during an overseas tour. After his military service, he spent some time living in Thailand before returning to Ireland. In 2003, he began working as a carer with St John of God in Drumcar, County Louth.

Throughout the investigation and subsequent legal proceedings, McEvoy demonstrated full cooperation with Garda authorities. A psychologist’s report indicated that McEvoy, who was residing at Boyle O’Reilly Terrace in Drogheda at the time but later moved to Water’s Edge, Ballyleague, County Roscommon, expressed remorse for his actions. The report also noted that he did not view his crimes as victimless and showed genuine contrition.

During sentencing, Judge Michael O’Shea emphasized the gravity of child pornography offenses, describing them as the “most serious exploitation and sexual abuse of young children” and a fundamental violation of their rights. McEvoy was sentenced to two and a half years in prison, but the sentence was suspended for three years on the condition that he enter into a good behavior bond. Additionally, he was placed on the sex offender register for a period of five years, reflecting the ongoing concern for public safety and the protection of children.