LORRAINE HAYE FROM LONDONDERRY JAILED FOR SEXUALLY TOUCHING BOY IN THE STREET
In May 2010, a disturbing incident involving Lorraine Haye, a woman from Londonderry, resulted in her being sentenced to prison after she was found guilty of sexually touching a young boy in a public setting.The incident took place on June 24 of the previous year, when Haye, then 42 years old, engaged in inappropriate conduct towards a boy under the age of 13 while she was on Duddy's Court in Londonderry.
Haye was initially charged with the offense but denied the allegations during her first court appearance.
However, she later pleaded guilty to the charge during a hearing at Derry Magistrate's Court.
The court was told that the act was preceded by Haye taunting the young boy in the street, which led to the distressing incident.
District Judge Barney McElholm described the event as "outrageous" and emphasized the seriousness of the misconduct.
During the proceedings, Haye's legal representative argued that the act was a fleeting moment of contact, asserting that there was no sexual gratification involved.
The defense also highlighted Haye's personal struggles, including her status as a chronic alcoholic and street drinker.
It was explained that the incident occurred in a context where Haye was drinking heavily in the street, and that the act was not predatory but rather a momentary lapse.
Her lawyer stated that the act was carried out in front of her partner and that both she and the boy were fully clothed at the time.
The court was informed that Haye had complex personal issues and expressed deep remorse for her actions.
Her legal team emphasized that she was distressed and would never forgive herself, claiming that she believed her actions were a misguided attempt at banter while under the influence of alcohol.
Despite her remorse, Judge McElholm expressed concern over the nature of the incident, noting that it was a sexual act directed at a young child in an inappropriate manner.
Judge McElholm also questioned the sincerity of Haye's remorse, pointing out that she initially denied the charge, which meant the young boy had to give evidence in court.
The judge criticized her for attempting to portray the young boys, including her own brothers, as undeserving of sympathy and for trying to cast herself as the victim.
He condemned her behavior as "completely and utterly outrageous" and highlighted her taunting of the young boy to embarrass him, exposing him to an inappropriate situation.
Adding to the criticism, the judge referenced the disapproval expressed by Haye's former partner, who reportedly said, "You are not at this again." Judge McElholm described her conduct as a failure to accept responsibility and a serious breach of conduct.
Ultimately, he sentenced Haye to three months in prison for her actions.
Following the sentencing, Haye's solicitor announced that she intended to appeal the decision.
She was released on bail with a surety of £1,000 pending the outcome of her appeal process.
