DAMIEN JERMYN FROM CO CORK JAILED FOR GRAVEYARD SEXUAL OFFENSES

In a case that has shocked the community of Co Cork, Damien Jermyn, a 30-year-old former Garda, has been sentenced to prison for engaging in sexual acts with a teenage boy in a graveyard. The incident, which took place in November 2013, involved Jermyn, who was previously stationed at Killarney Garda Station, pleading guilty to two charges related to the sexual abuse of a minor.

Jermyn's contact with the young victim began through an online platform dedicated to gay connections. During the investigation, it was revealed that Jermyn, who identified as gay and had served as a police officer for eight years, used the online pseudonym ‘Kerry Dude’. The teenage boy, who was also active on the site under the alias ‘Sexy Cork Boy’, exchanged over 700 text messages with Jermyn. These messages eventually led to two physical meetings, during which Jermyn engaged in oral sex with the minor.

The court heard that Jermyn was unaware of the boy’s age during their first encounter. However, by the time of their second meeting, Jermyn was fully aware that the teenager was under 17. It was also disclosed that Jermyn supplied the boy with alcopop drinks during their interactions, further complicating the case.

Following the allegations, the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) was notified. Nicholas Hardem, a GSOC official, confirmed that a formal complaint had been received regarding a Garda’s involvement in a sexual relationship with an underage boy. As a result of the investigation, Jermyn was immediately suspended from duty. During the course of the inquiry, he chose to resign from the force.

Jermyn, who resides on Main Street in Bantry, Co Cork, admitted to the charges during his court appearance at Cork Circuit Criminal Court in April of the previous year. His legal representative, Tom Creed, expressed that Jermyn deeply regretted his actions. Despite this, Judge Sean O Donnabhain emphasized the gravity of the breach of trust involved in the case. The judge acknowledged Jermyn’s cooperation with authorities and his remorse but highlighted the seriousness of the offense.

In sentencing, Judge O Donnabhain imposed a two-year prison term, with 12 months suspended. Additionally, Jermyn was ordered to register on the Sex Offenders’ Register, reflecting the severity of his misconduct and the impact on the community’s sense of security.