Write a commentDetectives from Serious Crime Branch have welcomed the sentence handed down to a convicted rapist at Newry Crown Court on Wednesday, 16 April.
23 year old Padraig O'Callaghan pleaded guilty to rape and theft and was sentenced to seven years imprisonment. The offences relate to a serious sexual assault on a 23 year old female in Newry on Sunday, 11 December 2011 .
During the early hours of that morning the young female accepted a lift from two males in a dark coloured, four door car at Sugar Island. It is believed the car drove around Newry for approximately an hour through Sugar Island around the one way system stopping on Talbot Street and Stream Street ending up in the North Street/Lindsay Walk area. The female was sexually assaulted during this time.
Following the sentencing, DC Haughey, Rape Crime Unit, said: "This was a traumatic and vindictive attack where the victim was ridiculed and intimidated. We are pleased to see the sentence handed down and hope this sends a clear message to all offenders. Sexual offending is unacceptable and if you offend, we will bring you before the courts.
"The victim in this case should be recognised for her bravery throughout the investigation."
