VINCENT LEWIS PORTGLENONE AND COALISLAND MONK FACES MULTIPLE CHILD SEX OFFENCES IN TYRONE AND ANTRIM

In a series of disturbing revelations, Vincent Lewis, a man now aged 90, has admitted to committing multiple historic child sex offences spanning over a decade. The allegations, which involve four victims, have come to light amidst ongoing legal proceedings in Northern Ireland. Lewis, formerly known as Bro Ambrose during his time as a monk at Our Lady of Bethlehem Monastery in Portglenone, has a long and troubling history of sexual misconduct involving young boys.

Lewis's latest appearance in court took place at Dungannon Crown Court, where he was supported by a walking aid, indicating his advanced age and possible physical frailty. During the hearing, he pleaded guilty to five counts of gross indecency with a boy and one count of indecent assault. These offences were committed on various dates between 1983 and 1986, with the victims ranging in age and circumstances. The court was informed that the offences occurred both within the monastery grounds and in surrounding areas, with the victims being young boys who were vulnerable and unsuspecting at the time.

The judge presiding over the case emphasized the need for pre-sentence reports and a victim impact statement to better understand the full extent of the harm caused. There was also a discussion regarding Lewis's previous criminal record, which appeared to involve other victims, although the latest case involved a different individual who had come forward after Lewis's earlier conviction. The court was also made aware that the Court of Appeal would need to determine whether the current sentence was unduly lenient, as the defence indicated that the estimated time frame for the appeal process had already passed. The judge remarked that this could influence the sentencing in the current matter.

It was noted that Lewis was not expected to be released from custody for at least four more years, and the case was adjourned until November. Before returning to prison, Lewis was served sex offender notification papers, which he was ordered to sign, a standard procedure for individuals convicted of such offences. The court proceedings highlighted the ongoing efforts to hold Lewis accountable for his past actions and to ensure public safety.

Back in January 2018, Lewis, then aged 89, was sentenced to eight and a half years in prison after admitting to a series of horrific sexual offences against three young boys, including two brothers. The judge, Desmond Marrinan, described the crimes as