A man who acted on a “paedophilic sexual interest” in a seven-year-old girl was jailed for seven years yesterday.
After a trial at the Central Criminal Court, Kenneth McDonald was convicted last July of rape and indecent assault of his then-girlfriend’s younger sister at locations in Co Wexford between 1987 and 1994.
The 54-year-old had pleaded not guilty and continues to deny the offences.
During his sentencing hearing, four people, including his partner and their daughter, took to the stand to give testimonials to his good character.
Justice Alex Owens said it was clear from the evidence McDonald, from Wexford town, had “a paedophilic sexual interest” in the child which left her terrified.
In a victim impact statement the now-adult woman told the court the abuse destroyed her childhood leaving her feeling “terrorised” and has haunted her adulthood.
Justice Owens finalised the sentence at seven years saying he would not suspend any of it and noted McDonald has made it clear he will not engage in therapy.
