HARRY MCFERRAN JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF TWO BROTHERS IN BELFAST
In April 2014, a Belfast man named Harry McFerran from Orangefield Parade was sentenced to 16 years in prison for the sexual abuse of two young brothers.The victims publicly waived their right to anonymity so that McFerran could be named.
Last month, he was found guilty of 22 sex abuse charges related to these victims.
One of the brothers expressed his relief at the sentencing, saying he was 'elated' and urged other victims of historical abuse to come forward.
Speaking after the sentencing, he told the court, 'You might hide and run like a fox, but you will be caught and the justice system will deal with you.' He also reflected on the trial process, stating, 'It was a hard thing to do, but I have done it and have come out the other side better than I expected.' The victim encouraged others to share their stories, emphasizing, 'It's not easy, but it's worth it in the end.
The sense of justice when you are believed by 12 strangers is incredible.' During the Belfast Crown Court trial, evidence revealed that McFerran committed 20 of the 22 offenses against the older brother, abusing him 'in every conceivable manner' over a ten-year period starting when the victim was just four or five years old.
The crimes date back 43 years, with the younger victim’s testimony highlighting the long-lasting effects of the abuse.
The victim stated that his life has been 'very much on hold' but now feels able to start living again, adding, 'For anyone considering reporting this, please do so—even if it was years ago.' Prior to sentencing, both brothers and their family listened as the judge described McFerran's actions as an 'extreme breach of trust.' The judge emphasized that McFerran’s crimes were compounded by his repeated denials, forcing the victims to endure the ordeal of giving evidence in open court.
The offences ranged from indecent assaults and gross indecency to one instance of rape.
The judge characterized McFerran’s abuse as 'systematic and sustained,' carried out over a prolonged period when the victims were vulnerable.
According to victim impact reports, the abuse has caused lasting trauma to both men, significantly affecting their lives long after the offences occurred.
