West Donegal man pleads guilty to possession of child abuse images

A west Donegal man has appeared in court to reaffirm a guilty plea for the possession of child abuse material.

Michael Gillespie, a 74-year old of 16 Braad, Kincasslagh, was before Letterkenny Circuit Court this week.

Gillespie had been sent forward from the District Court on a signed plea of guilty.

At Tuesday’s sitting of the Circuit Court, Gillespie appeared to affirm his plea.

Gillespie spoke only to inform Judge John Aylmer that he was pleading guilty to the charge.

The accused pleaded guilty to knowingly possessing child pornography images on June 2, 2021. The offence is contrary to Section 6.1 of the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act, 1998.

Barrister for Gillespie, Ms Fiona Crawford BL, instructed by solicitor Mr Patsy Gallagher, asked the court to put the matter back to allow for the preparation of a probation and welfare report.

She said her client is a 74-year-old man and asked that a psychological report also be prepared.

Ms Crawford informed the court that reporting restrictions were imposed when the matter was before the District Court. Judge Aylmer queried the restrictions and Ms Crawford said an application was made and acceded to.

Barrister for the State, Ms Patricia McLaughlin BL, said she did not believe there was any basis for the restrictions and Judge Aylmer agreed, meaning Gillespie can be identified.

The case was adjourned to the October sitting of Letterkenny Circuit Court.