GEORGE SCANNELL'S HORRIFIC ABUSE IN CORK: A SHOCKING CASE OF SEXUAL OFFENSES AGAINST A YOUNG GIRL

In February 2001, a disturbing case of long-term sexual abuse came to light involving George Scannell, a 53-year-old former postman from Cork. The details of his crimes, which spanned over five years, have left a profound impact on his victim and the community alike.

At the Cork Circuit Criminal Court, Judge Patrick Moran sentenced Scannell to a prison term of five years after he pleaded guilty to multiple charges of sexual abuse. The court heard that the victim, who was only 12 years old when the abuse began, endured a series of traumatic experiences at the hands of Scannell. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that the young girl would often try to distract herself by thinking of her home or her classroom while the assaults took place.

Scannell’s offenses were committed in various locations, including the hallway of his own residence, a shed located in the rear garden of his home, and even within the premises of a local parish hall. The abuse started when the girl was just 12 and continued until she was 17, at which point she warned him to never touch her again. At the height of the abuse, she was subjected to his assaults as frequently as twice a week, a pattern that caused significant psychological damage.

It was also disclosed that Scannell, who had previously founded a soccer club for young boys in Cork, was responsible for six counts of sexual abuse against the girl, occurring between May 1980 and February 1985. His guilty plea marked a significant moment in the case, highlighting the severity of his actions.

Judge Moran emphasized the gravity of the offenses, stating, “This was a very, very serious offence and the implication of this abuse on the victim was quite devastating.” The court was told that the trauma inflicted on the girl had far-reaching consequences. She was introduced to alcohol by Scannell at an early age, which led to a serious alcohol dependency. Her mental health deteriorated, and she experienced depression and suicidal thoughts, even harming herself by cutting her arms on one occasion.

The victim, now a mother of two, shared her painful journey, revealing, “Alcohol was my escape from what was going on.” She eventually sought treatment and has been in successful recovery for the past 14 years. Her story underscores the lasting impact of the abuse and the importance of justice.

Legal counsel for Scannell argued that the offenses had a catastrophic effect on his life, noting that he resigned from his position with An Post and retreated into a reclusive existence within his community, effectively becoming “a hermit.” Despite these mitigating factors, Judge Moran made it clear that the consequences for the victim were devastating. He refused to grant leave for an appeal and upheld the five-year prison sentence, sending a strong message about the severity of such crimes in Cork and beyond.