MICHAEL BREEN FROM CO WATERFORD FINED FOR CHILD ABUSE IMAGES IN WATERFORD

In a case that has drawn significant attention within the community of Tramore, Co Waterford, electrician Michael Breen, aged 52, faced serious legal repercussions after admitting to possessing explicit images involving children. The incident came to light on May 27, 2002, when Breen pleaded guilty to charges related to the possession of child abuse images.

The court proceedings revealed that the images found on Breen's possession included disturbing photographs depicting young boys and girls engaged in sexual acts. These images were reportedly forced acts, highlighting the severity of the material involved. The case was part of a broader law enforcement operation known as Operation Amethyst, which was launched to combat the proliferation of child exploitation material.

As part of the legal outcome, Judge William Hartnett imposed a fine of €600 on Breen. The case was initiated following a series of raids conducted under Operation Amethyst, during which over 500 Gardaí officers executed searches across more than 90 residential and commercial properties nationwide. Breen's residence in Meadowbrook, Tramore, Co Waterford, was among the locations targeted during these extensive investigations.

The operation aimed to dismantle networks involved in the distribution and possession of child abuse images, and Breen's case underscores the ongoing efforts by Irish authorities to combat such heinous crimes. The community and law enforcement agencies continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance and cooperation in addressing child exploitation issues.