BERNARD MAGUIRE FROM CO WEXFORD SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN GOREY

In a case that has shocked the community of Gorey, Co Wexford, Bernard Maguire, aged 29, has been sentenced to prison for heinous acts committed against his half-sister during their childhood. The offences took place at their father’s residence in Gorey between September 2006 and September 2008, when the victim was only six and seven years old, and Maguire was between 15 and 16.

Bernard Maguire, of Allenwood Drive in Gorey, pleaded guilty before the Central Criminal Court to two counts of orally raping his half-sister. The court heard that the abuse involved manipulative and disturbing conduct, including the use of a blindfold and objects placed in the victim’s mouth during what was described as a game. On one occasion, Maguire persuaded his sister to wear a blindfold, during which he committed the assault, and on another, he instructed her to close her eyes but did not blindfold her.

The victim, Bethany Maguire, now aged 20, chose to waive her right to anonymity so that her brother’s name could be publicly disclosed. A detective from the Garda Síochána provided testimony that detailed how Maguire had put his penis into her mouth during these incidents, which were only brought to light in 2018 when Bethany reported the abuse to the police. Following his arrest, Maguire fully admitted to the offences, which the court acknowledged.

Justice Michael White addressed the complexities involved in sentencing a juvenile offender who is now an adult. He emphasized that the case law and sentencing guidelines must be carefully considered, especially given the serious nature of the crimes, the breach of trust involved, and the significant age difference between the siblings. The judge noted that while Maguire had shown remorse and had made immediate admissions, these factors did not diminish the gravity of his actions or the profound impact on his sister.

In his sentencing, Justice White imposed a two-year prison term, with the final year suspended on certain conditions. Among these conditions was Maguire’s requirement to participate in an assessment for the Better Lives program while in prison, aimed at rehabilitation.

During the proceedings, Gerard Clarke SC, representing the prosecution, informed the court that Bethany Maguire wished to waive her right to anonymity. The judge agreed, stating that it was in the interests of justice to allow her to be named publicly. This decision was made under the provisions of section 252 of the Children Act, which permits the court to override the usual protections for juvenile victims in certain circumstances.

Bethany Maguire delivered a heartfelt victim impact statement during a previous hearing, describing her emotional suffering. She expressed feelings of worthlessness and despair, revealing that the betrayal by her own brother has left her with ongoing nightmares and a constant sense of his presence in her mind. She recounted her fears of encountering her brother or other teenage boys her age, and her struggles with anxiety and trauma stemming from the abuse.

The court also heard from Maguire himself, who admitted to Gardaí that he knew his actions were wrong. He explained that he had been excited by a video he watched, and although his sister did not tell him to stop, he recognized that she did not like what was happening. Maguire later wrote a letter of apology to his sister, which she has received but does not accept.

This case underscores the devastating impact of childhood sexual abuse and highlights the importance of justice and support for victims. The community of Gorey and Co Wexford continues to grapple with the repercussions of this disturbing case, which has brought to light the dark realities of familial abuse.