
Co Donegal businessman admits sexually assaulting 15-year-old girl
A Co Donegal businessman has pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl.
The man, who is in his 40s, appeared at Letterkenny Circuit Court.
The accused, who cannot be named at this stage of proceedings, spoke only to plead guilty.
He pleaded guilty to assaulting the girl by touching her on her breast and her vagina through her clothing.
A second count was taken into consideration.
The court was told the married businessman, who is also a father, employs a number of people in his business.
He has no previous convictions.
Letterkenny Circuit Court. Photo: North West News Pix
News in 90 Seconds - July 23rd
The court was told that the victim now resides outside of the country but was present in court for the brief arraignment.
The charge is contrary to section 2 of the Criminal Law (Rape) (Amendment) Act, 1990.
Ms Fiona Crawford BL, prosecutor for the State, said that the guilty plea to the count of sexual assault met the case on a full facts basis.
Barrister for the accused man, Mr James McGowan SC, with Mr Peter Nolan BL, instructed by solicitor Mr Donough Cleary, said his client is a businessman with 'a number of employees'.
The man's barrister requested a full Probation and Welfare Report on his client before final sentencing was passed.
Judge Roderick Maguire granted the request and adjourned the case until October for sentencing.
The victim, who was accompanied to court by a number of family members, was told she could attend the sentencing by videolink.
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