THOMAS GANNON FROM CO MAYO SENTENCED TO FIVE YEARS FOR ATTEMPTED RAPE IN WESTPORT

In a high-profile case that drew significant public attention, Thomas Gannon, a 53-year-old man from Drummindoo, Westport, County Mayo, was sentenced to a five-year prison term by Mr. Justice Paul Carney at the Central Criminal Court. The case involved a disturbing incident where Gannon attempted to sexually assault an eight-year-old girl in his van, an act that shocked the local community and beyond.

According to court records, the incident took place on June 6, 1999. Gannon, who was employed as a county council worker at the time, was accused of trying to carry out a sexual assault on the young girl while her brother was sleeping in the back seat of the vehicle. The victim's family, deeply affected by the ordeal, requested that the media publish Gannon's name to ensure accountability and awareness.

Gannon subsequently admitted in his statement to the Gardaí (Irish police) that he had sexually assaulted the girl and had attempted to rape her. Despite his plea, he later sought to change his plea to not guilty, a move that was firmly rejected by Mr. Justice Carney during the proceedings. The court found sufficient evidence to convict Gannon of attempted rape and sexual assault, leading to his five-year imprisonment.

The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Westport and has raised ongoing concerns about child safety and the importance of vigilant law enforcement. Gannon's actions and subsequent conviction serve as a stark reminder of the serious consequences of such heinous crimes.