CALLINGTON STUDENT MARTIN O’NEILL SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN PLYMOUTH AND LAUNCESTON

In a case that has shocked the local community of Callington and the surrounding areas, Martin O’Neill, a 23-year-old student, was sentenced to seven years in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing two young girls. The incident, which spanned over a period of seven years, was brought to light during a court hearing at Truro Crown Court, where O’Neill pleaded guilty to ten separate charges related to the abuse.

O’Neill, who was studying human biology, had previously resided in the Callington area. At the time of his arrest and trial, he was living in student accommodation located in Pennycomequick, Plymouth, while attending the University of Plymouth. His connection to Callington, however, remained a significant aspect of the case, as the community grappled with the revelations of his crimes.

The sentencing took place on Friday, June 10, with Judge Christopher Elwen presiding over the hearing. The judge did not only impose a seven-year prison term but also mandated that O’Neill must sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for the remainder of his life, a measure intended to monitor and restrict his activities post-release.

Detective Constable Rebecca Deane, who is part of the Child Abuse Investigation Unit based in Launceston, provided a statement following the sentencing. She expressed her admiration for the bravery of the victims who came forward to report the abuse, emphasizing their courage in the face of trauma. Detective Deane also extended her gratitude to her entire team for their diligent work throughout the investigation.

She remarked, “I would like to pay testimony to the courage of the victims who came forward in the first place and thanks to my whole unit who helped throughout. I think it’s an appropriate sentence for the crimes committed.”

As the community processes this case, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims and safeguarding others from similar harm in the future.