MARTIN COYLE FROM LONDONDERRY SENTENCED TO 6 YEARS FOR ABUSE OF SCHOOLGIRLS IN DERRY

In a case that has shocked the community of Londonderry, Martin Edward Coyle, a 52-year-old resident of Bridge Street, has been sentenced to six years in prison following his conviction for a series of heinous crimes involving four young girls. The offences, which spanned over a nine-month period in 2007, included a range of serious charges such as gross indecency with a child, unlawful carnal knowledge, and indecent assault.

During the proceedings at Londonderry Crown Court, it was revealed that Coyle systematically targeted the girls, who were between the ages of 14 and 16. He employed manipulative tactics, including the use of alcohol, cigarettes, and money, to lure the victims to his home and another residence within Derry. The court heard that Coyle’s actions were not impulsive but carefully premeditated, involving grooming and exploitation of vulnerable minors.

Judge Piers Grant delivered a stern judgment, describing Coyle as “depraved, vile and disgusting.” The judge emphasized that the abuse was “premeditated, planned, organised and involved grooming,” highlighting the calculated nature of Coyle’s misconduct. Evidence presented in court indicated that Coyle showed the girls pornographic films and provided alcohol to disinhibit them, facilitating the abuse which was carried out in front of each other, further traumatizing the victims.

The court was informed that the victims came from backgrounds marked by vulnerability, which Coyle exploited. The psychological scars inflicted by his actions remain evident, with one girl having attempted self-harm and the others struggling with feelings of worthlessness and social difficulties, especially in relating to peers of their own age.

Judge Grant remarked on the disturbing details of the abuse, noting that during the assaults, the girls called Coyle “daddy,” and he falsely reassured them by telling them they were “special.” The judge condemned Coyle’s conduct as “wicked,” underscoring the profound and lasting impact on the lives of the four children. He also expressed concern that Coyle continues to pose a significant risk to children and the wider community.

As part of his sentence, Coyle was also placed under an indefinite sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits him from having unsupervised contact with any children under the age of 18. This measure aims to protect potential future victims and prevent any recurrence of such crimes. The case has left a lasting scar on the community of Londonderry, highlighting the importance of vigilance and safeguarding vulnerable minors from predatory individuals.