BRANDEN MCGOWAN'S SHOCKING RETURN TO DERRY: PAEDOPHILE RELEASING AFTER 11 MONTHS IN PRISON

In the William Street area of Derry, residents are expressing deep concern and alarm following the recent return of Brendan McGowan, a convicted paedophile, to their community after serving an 11-month prison sentence. The local community, particularly parents with young children, are worried about the safety of their families and the potential risks posed by McGowan's presence.

Over the recent weekend, welfare officers from statutory agencies reached out to residents, informing them of McGowan's return and advising caution. They specifically urged parents not to allow McGowan into their homes or near their children, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in the wake of his release. One local parent, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed her firm stance, stating, “I knew Mr. McGowan before he went to prison. I have kids and I will not be letting him anywhere near my house.” Her words reflect the widespread unease among community members who are now questioning the safety measures in place.

McGowan's address at the time of his court case last year was Brewster’s Close. His criminal history is well-documented, with him having pleaded guilty to multiple charges related to the sexual abuse of a young boy. The abuse began in September 1989 when the victim was only 12 years old. The court heard that McGowan, who was then employed as a swimming instructor at the City Baths on William Street and at the Templemore Sports Complex, used his position and familiarity to groom and seduce his young victim.

During the trial, the judge highlighted that McGowan, who shared a common interest in jazz music with the boy, exploited this connection to manipulate him. The court revealed that McGowan employed flattery, grooming tactics, and seduction to carry out the abuse. At one point, he reportedly told the boy, “I thought you knew I was gay,” attempting to normalize or justify his actions. The judge also noted that McGowan, a known gay rights activist who had established a helpline and support group for gay individuals, struggled to accept responsibility for his misconduct.

The sentencing included an 18-month prison term and a three-year probation period. Additionally, McGowan is prohibited from working with children, a restriction that remains in effect for ten years following his release. The court's decision underscores the severity of his crimes and the ongoing concern for community safety.

In a related case from March 2014, McGowan, then aged 69, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple charges of child sexual abuse. His offenses spanned over four years, beginning in 1989, and involved six counts of indecent assault, two counts of gross indecency, and one count of inciting the boy to commit an act of gross indecency. The abuse took place in McGowan’s flat in Colmcille Court, located in the Bogside area of Derry, while he was employed by Derry City Council at the City Baths and Templemore Sports Complex.

Judge Philip Babington described McGowan’s grooming process, noting that he used flattery and seduction, and that he shared a love of jazz with his victim. The judge pointed out that McGowan, who was 33 years older than the boy, exploited his position and the victim’s trust for his own sexual gratification. During sentencing, it was revealed that McGowan had difficulties accepting responsibility for his actions, despite his involvement in gay rights activism and the establishment of support groups for the gay community.

Following his imprisonment, McGowan was ordered to serve 18 months in jail, followed by three years of probation. He is also required to inform police of his whereabouts for the next decade, a measure aimed at monitoring his compliance and ensuring community safety. His disqualification from working with children remains in effect, reflecting the serious nature of his offenses and the ongoing concern for the safety of vulnerable individuals in Derry.