DONEGAL PRIEST DANIEL DOHERTY SENTENCED TO SEVEN YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN DONEGAL

In October 2006, a significant and disturbing case unfolded involving a priest from Donegal, Daniel Doherty, who was sentenced to a seven-year prison term for heinous acts of sexual assault and abuse. The case drew widespread attention due to the serious nature of the crimes and the long period over which they occurred.

Daniel Doherty, aged 48 and residing in Derriscleigh, Carrigart, was convicted of multiple charges related to the sexual abuse of a young girl who was only 13 years old at the time. The incidents took place over a span of several years, with the most serious offenses occurring in 1984 and 1985. Despite maintaining his innocence and pleading not guilty to all charges, the court found him guilty in May of two counts of raping the young girl in the sacristy of the church in 1985. Additionally, he was convicted of indecently assaulting the same girl in his car in December 1984 and again in the parochial house in 1985.

The victim, now 35 years old, came forward with her allegations in 2003 after being prompted by a television program that highlighted sexual abuse within the clergy. Her decision to report the abuse was a pivotal moment, shedding light on the long-lasting trauma inflicted by Doherty. During the trial, she testified about the nightmares and emotional distress she continues to endure, describing the experience as extremely difficult.

Judge Philip O'Sullivan presided over the case and delivered the sentence. In his remarks, the judge expressed disappointment that Doherty showed no signs of remorse, acceptance, or regret for his actions. He emphasized that Doherty would face significant challenges in coming to terms with the consequences of his conduct. Nevertheless, the judge took into account Doherty’s lack of prior convictions, his generally good character, and the fact that he had not re-offended since the incidents.

Following the sentencing, members of Doherty’s family indicated that he was considering a hunger strike, asserting his innocence and claiming that the trial was a miscarriage of justice. A brother of Father Doherty questioned whether a priest could receive a fair trial in Ireland, suggesting bias and injustice in the proceedings. An earlier attempt by Doherty’s legal team to allow him to address the court after the sentence was withdrawn, due to legal considerations.

Overall, the case highlights the ongoing issues of abuse within the church and the importance of justice for victims. Daniel Doherty’s conviction and sentencing serve as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of such criminal behavior, even when committed by individuals in positions of religious authority in Donegal.