JOHN MOLLOY OF WESTPORT, CO MAYO, JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF SCHOOLBOYS

In a case that has shocked the community of Westport, County Mayo, John Molloy, a former Roman Catholic priest, was sentenced to a year in prison after being found guilty of sexually assaulting two young boys during his time in ministry. The incidents, which spanned over a decade, have left a lasting scar on the victims and have prompted widespread discussions about abuse within the church.

According to court records, Molloy, now 44 years old, committed his first known offense in 1985 at the curate's residence within the parish where he was serving at the time. The victim was a boy under the age of six, and Molloy was accused of sexually assaulting him during that period. The court heard that the ex-priest had engaged in inappropriate and intimate fondling of the young child, an act that has been described as a grave violation of trust and innocence.

Six years later, Molloy was transferred to a different parish, where he committed a similar offense against a 10-year-old boy. The details of this second incident were also presented during the trial, revealing a pattern of predatory behavior that spanned several years. The court was told that Molloy’s actions had profoundly affected the lives of the victims, with one of them explicitly stating that the ex-priest had stolen his innocence.

During the proceedings, one of the victims shared heartbreaking testimony, revealing how the trauma had impacted his mental health and personal life. He described how he had struggled with feelings of despair, even going as far as holding his father’s gun to his head at times since the abuse. The victim also disclosed that he had contemplated ending his life on several occasions, illustrating the deep emotional scars left by Molloy’s actions.

Judge Kevin Haugh, presiding over the case in Westport, expressed his recognition of the courage shown by the victims in coming forward and giving evidence. The judge paid tribute to the resilience of the young men and criticized the small-mindedness of some community members who had subjected the victims to ridicule and abuse on the streets of Westport. Judge Haugh emphasized the importance of justice and hoped that those who had caused harm would eventually seek to make amends.

In response to the case, Michael Neary, the Archbishop of Tuam, issued a statement expressing his sorrow over the crimes committed by Molloy. The archbishop confirmed that Molloy had resigned from the priesthood in 1995 and conveyed his sincere sympathy and support to the victims. He also issued a formal apology on behalf of the Archdiocese of Tuam, acknowledging the pain inflicted upon those who suffered abuse during their childhoods within the church’s care.

The case has once again brought to light the dark history of abuse within the church community in Ireland, prompting calls for greater accountability and support for victims. Molloy’s imprisonment marks a significant step in addressing past wrongs and ensuring that justice is served for those affected by his actions.