WILLIAM MCCAUSLAND SENTENCED IN BERAGH FOR SEX OFFENCES AGAINST MOTHER AND YOUNG DAUGHTERS NEAR OMAGH

In a case that has shocked the local community of Beragh, William McCausland, a 66-year-old man, was sentenced to 21 months in prison after admitting to a series of serious sex offences involving a mother and her two young daughters. The incident, which took place over several years, has left a lasting impact on the victims and has drawn significant attention from the legal authorities.

William James McCausland, who resides on McFarland Terrace in Beragh, a village near Omagh, appeared in court to face multiple charges related to his misconduct. He pleaded guilty to a total of 15 counts, which included eight counts of indecent assault directed at the mother and her daughters, as well as seven counts of gross indecency against the children. The victims, who are not related to McCausland by blood, were known to him as a family friend, which added a disturbing layer to the case.

The offences reportedly occurred at the victims' residence in the Cookstown area, spanning from 1985 to 1988. During this period, the children were approximately seven and nine years old, making them particularly vulnerable to the abuse. The court was informed that McCausland would frequently visit the family home, sometimes as often as three times a week. During these visits, he would often bring sweets for the children, which may have been used as a means to gain their trust and manipulate them.

Despite the severity of his actions, the court noted that McCausland's crimes were committed before 1989, the year when harsher sentencing guidelines for such offences were introduced. As a result, he was spared the maximum possible sentence of ten years in prison. Instead, he received a sentence of 21 months, which reflects the court's consideration of the circumstances and the timing of the offences.

In addition to his prison term, McCausland, who is registered as disabled due to severe asthma, will be required to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years following his release. The court's decision underscores the seriousness with which the justice system approaches sexual offences, especially those involving vulnerable children and trusted family friends. The case has left a lasting scar on the victims and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and safeguarding within communities.