JAMES GALLAGHER FROM DERRY SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON 15-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN LONDONDERRY

In a case that has shocked the community of Derry, James Gallagher, a 63-year-old man, was sentenced to a total of three years in prison by Londonderry Crown Court for the serious crime of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl. The court heard that Gallagher, who resides in St Columb's Wells in Derry, will serve an initial one-year term before being released on licence for the remaining two years of his sentence.

The incident in question occurred on the 24th of July last year, during a time when the young girl became separated from her friends in the city. According to court reports, the girl, who was under the influence of alcohol at the time, lost her mobile phone and found herself alone. Gallagher approached her, offering to help, which led to a disturbing sequence of events. The court was told that Gallagher then pulled the girl to the ground and subjected her to a sexual assault. Throughout the assault, the girl repeatedly expressed her desire to contact her mother, indicating her distress and fear.

Despite her pleas, Gallagher released her after she promised to meet him the following day. The girl, visibly shaken, immediately flagged down a passing car and contacted the police. When questioned by law enforcement, Gallagher claimed that he was unaware of the girl’s age and insisted that any sexual activity was consensual. However, Judge Piers Grant expressed grave concern over Gallagher’s statements, especially noting that in the pre-sentence report, Gallagher had bizarrely suggested that the assault might have been beneficial to the girl by making her more cautious in the future. The judge emphasized that the attack was both frightening and deeply unsettling, leaving a significant impact on the victim.

As part of his sentencing, Gallagher was ordered to participate in a community sex offenders programme and was subjected to a sexual offences prevention order. Additionally, he was mandated to register on the sex offenders register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct.

Prior to this incident, Gallagher had a history that included a conviction for indecent assault in 1982. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness with which such offences are regarded, especially involving vulnerable minors. The case underscores the importance of safeguarding young people and the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to address sexual crimes within the community of Derry.