TYRONE O’DONOGHUE FROM HOUGHTON REGIS ESCAPES JAIL AFTER SHAMEFUL SEXUAL ASSAULT IN LUTON

In March 2017, a disturbing case unfolded at Luton Crown Court involving Tyrone O’Donoghue, a 34-year-old man from Houghton Regis, who was found guilty of sexually assaulting an 18-year-old girl. The incident, which took place on May 29 of the previous year, drew significant attention due to the nature of the offense and the circumstances surrounding it.

According to prosecutor Martin Mulgrew, O’Donoghue, who had been drinking at the time, engaged in inappropriate conduct by kissing and molesting the vulnerable teenager. The young woman, visibly upset by the assault, managed to raise the alarm, prompting immediate police intervention. O’Donoghue was swiftly arrested at the scene, and during police questioning, he chose to remain silent, offering no comment regarding the allegations.

During the court proceedings, a victim personal statement was read aloud by the girl’s father. In her statement, the young woman expressed the profound impact the assault had on her, stating, “It has affected me a lot. I hate him for what he did to me.” Her words underscored the emotional and psychological toll inflicted by the incident.

O’Donoghue, who resides on Douglas Crescent in Houghton Regis, had previously pleaded guilty to the charges. His defense lawyer, Daniel Darnbrough, emphasized that his client was remorseful and apologized to the victim. Darnbrough also highlighted that O’Donoghue was “clearly unwell” and suffering from a “delusional disorder,” which he argued should be taken into account.

Despite the remorse expressed, Recorder Stephen Lennard did not hold back in condemning O’Donoghue’s actions. He described the conduct as “deplorable and shameful,” emphasizing that no sentence could undo the harm caused. Ultimately, the court sentenced O’Donoghue to nine months in jail, but this was suspended for two years, meaning he would not serve time unless he committed another offense within that period.

Additionally, O’Donoghue was ordered to complete 60 days of a rehabilitation activity requirement, aimed at addressing his mental health issues. He was also mandated to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years, reflecting the seriousness with which the court viewed his actions and the need for ongoing monitoring and protection of the community.