Northern Ireland

‘Cruel and dangerous individual’ found guilty of child cruelty

Man ‘inflicted horrendous physical abuse on a number of children’ - PSNI

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A 'cruel and dangerous individual who inflicted horrendous physical abuse' has been found guilty of five counts of child cruelty at Newry Crown Court.
By Catherine McGinty

A 55-year-old Derry man described as “a cruel and dangerous individual” has been found guilty of five counts of child cruelty at Newry Crown Court.

The man, who cannot be named in order to protect the identity of his victims, will serve four years in prison and four years on licence.

Speaking following Friday’s sentencing, PSNI Detective Constable Mitchell said: “This offender is a cruel and dangerous individual who inflicted horrendous physical abuse on a number of children.

“We commend their bravery in coming forward and welcome the custodial sentence he received today as a result.

“Every child should feel safe in their home, cared for by those who love them.

“Unfortunately, we know that this is not always the case and so we will continue to work with our partners to protect children and bring offenders before the courts to answer for their crimes.

“The Police Service of Northern Ireland take reports of child abuse extremely seriously, no matter when the abuse occurred.

“If you are concerned that a child may be being neglected or abused in any way, please come forward to police by calling 101, or in an emergency 999.”