JOHN CORRIGAN FROM GATESHEAD AND MAYO SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN UK

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the communities of Gateshead and Mayo, John Corrigan, a 71-year-old man with connections to both locations, has been sentenced to four years in prison after admitting to a series of serious sexual offenses committed against young children. The case unfolded after Corrigan was extradited from Ireland to the United Kingdom, where he faced multiple charges related to the abuse of three boys and a girl in the regions of Durham and Tyneside.

Corrigan, known as Father Ben in Westport, Mayo, was accused of committing seven counts of indecent assault on boys aged between eight and 13, with the offenses spanning from 1967 to 1972. Some of these assaults took place while he was serving at St Wilfrid’s Church in Gateshead, a detail that has added to the community’s distress and outrage. The allegations against Corrigan came to light after he pleaded guilty to the charges, which were brought to public attention following his extradition last year.

The case took a further disturbing turn when, amid the media coverage, a fourth female victim came forward, revealing that Corrigan had also assaulted her nearly four decades ago. This led to additional charges, and Corrigan later admitted to two indecent assaults on a 15-year-old girl at Newcastle Crown Court. The incidents involving the girl occurred between January and December of 1970, when she was just 15 years old.

Following the sentencing, Father Dennis Tindall, who serves as the safeguarding co-ordinator for the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle, expressed his thoughts on the outcome. He stated, “I think justice has been done for the people whose lives have been harmed by Father Corrigan. I have worked with the victims for a number of years and I know they have suffered greatly. For the members of the families who were here today, they will feel they can move on.”

Father Tindall also emphasized that the Catholic Church has implemented procedures to thoroughly investigate allegations of abuse against its members. He underscored the importance of these measures in ensuring accountability and protecting vulnerable individuals.

Judge David Hodgson delivered the sentence, condemning Corrigan’s actions and attitude. He remarked, “You thought no one would complain and even if they did, their word would not be believed against yours. You were in an especially privileged position and were regarded by parishioners as a person with whom the safety and innocence of children in your charge would be safe.” The judge’s words highlighted the betrayal of trust and the gravity of Corrigan’s misconduct, which has left a lasting impact on the victims and their families.