64-Year-Old Downpatrick Man Jailed For Sexual Assault Of Children

A 64-year-old Downpatrick man has been sentenced to eight years for six counts of sexual assault against children.

At Downpatrick Crown Court on Monday, 27 November, the man, named Damien Craig, was sentenced to four years in custody and four years on licence. He will be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for an indefinite period and will also be subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) for 10 years.

Welcoming the sentencing, Detective Inspector Emma Lynch said: "Our thoughts today, are with the young victims that this man preyed on, and their families. No child should ever have to suffer this type of horrific abuse.

"We want to thank them for their bravery in coming forward, and their families for working with detectives to bring this abuser to justice.

"Craig took advantage of these children in the worst possible way and committed these despicable offences over a period of time.

"Our Public Protection Branch specialist detectives are trained to investigate this type of crime and we will continue to empower victims to come forward and educate adults on how to spot the signs of abuse.

"If you are concerned that a child may be being abused, or you have been the victim of sexual abuse. Please come forward to us by calling 101, or in an emergency call 999. Don't suffer in silence."