Man with 192 previous convictions jailed for sexually assaulting a 17-year-old Good Samaritan
Paul Farren (34) of no fixed abode admitted the charge that occurred on June 22 as well as a charge of indecent behaviour on June 21
A man with 192 previous convictions has been jailed at Derry Magistrates' Court today for sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl who was acting as a Good Samaritan by going to his aid.
Paul Farren (34) of no fixed abode admitted the charge that occurred on June 22 as well as a charge of indecent behaviour on June 21.
The court heard that on June 22 the defendant was lying on the ground outside Iceland in Foyleside Shopping Centre.
Two girls were passing and as one of them had experience with St John's Ambulance they went to his assistance.
Farren then sat up and lit a cigarette before groping one of the girls and trying to kiss her neck before she pushed him away.
The court heard that the defendant had been observed urinating in the street on June 21.
At interview Farren accepted it was him on the CCTV but couldn't recall the incident of the sexual assault.
Defence counsel Michael Donaghey said that Farren was 'a prolific offender and a drunken nuisance' but was not a prolific sex offender.
He said the girl was acting as a Good Samaritan and was proof of the saying 'no good deed goes unpunished'.
Farren was jailed for three months, had a restraining order imposed for a period of three years and was fined £200.
He will have to sign the Sex Offender's Register for a period of seven years.
Speaking after sentencing, Local Policing Team Inspector Craig said: "I want to thank the victim for bravely reporting this sexual assault and showing such strength.
"This occurred as the victim was enjoying spending time with her friend. Out of kindness and concern she took the time to stop and offer help. In return for such compassion and kindness, she was sexually assaulted. That the victim was violated in such a way is despicable, and utterly reprehensible.
"We know today's outcome will not erase what happened, but we do hope it will provide some comfort to the victim.
"We are committed to tackling violence against women and girls, and we hope today’s court outcome sends a clear message to offenders there is no hiding place, and we will work tirelessly to bring you before the Court."
Inspector Craig added: "We are committed to building trust and confidence, relentlessly pursuing perpetrators and making all spaces safer for women and girls. If you have ever been sexually assaulted, experienced or witnessed any form of sexual abuse, we urge you to contact police on 101, or in an emergency call 999. We are here to help you.”