VINCENT MCCAFFREY FROM LISNASKEA SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX ABUSE IN ENNISKILLEN

In a case that has spanned over a decade, Vincent McCaffrey, a 49-year-old man from Carrowshee Park in Lisnaskea, finally came forward to admit to a serious sexual offense involving a young girl. The incident, which took place sometime between January 1, 1998, and December 31, 2001, when the victim was only 11 or 12 years old, was brought to light after McCaffrey voluntarily approached authorities and confessed to his actions.

During a court hearing at Enniskillen Crown Court, it was revealed that McCaffrey’s decision to confess was pivotal in the case. Prosecutor Mr. Robin Steer explained that if McCaffrey had not come forward, there would have been no grounds to pursue charges against him. His admission allowed law enforcement to trace the victim, who, however, chose not to pursue a formal complaint at that time.

The court heard that the offense occurred at a social gathering held at the home of the girl’s aunt in Enniskillen. According to the evidence presented, McCaffrey entered the girl’s bedroom under the pretense of giving her a cigarette. It was during this visit that he touched her over her clothes and subsequently penetrated her with a finger, despite her protests and pleas for him to stop. The details of the assault were confirmed during the court proceedings, highlighting the gravity of the crime.

McCaffrey, who had already served three months in custody—equivalent to a six-month sentence—pleaded guilty to the charge of indecently assaulting the young girl. His guilty plea was a significant factor in the sentencing process. The court was informed that he still had another six months to serve in prison.

Judge Geoffrey Miller addressed McCaffrey directly, emphasizing the seriousness of the offense. He pointed out that the assault was committed while McCaffrey was under the influence of alcohol and drugs, but also noted that McCaffrey was aware of his actions at the time. The judge described the incident as a serious sexual assault and underscored the importance of accountability.

In sentencing, McCaffrey was given a combination order of 12 months in prison followed by 12 months on probation. Additionally, he was disqualified from working with children for five years and was ordered to remain on the Sex Offenders’ Register for a period of 10 years. These measures aim to protect the community and prevent any future offenses by the convicted individual.