Today, Friday 1st September, an 80 year old man was sentenced at Antrim Crown Court for 9 counts of indecent assault.

Patrick Sharkey was sentenced to three years and four months. He will be placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely and will be subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) for seven years.

Detective Chief Inspector Kerry Brennan said: “Patrick Sharkey exploited and abused three children over a nine year period.

“His offending is a deep betrayal of trust placed in him.

“We would like to thank the three victims, now adults, for their bravery in coming forward and working with us throughout the investigation. Your courage should be commended.

“We would continue to encourage anyone who has experienced any form of sexual abuse or assault to contact Police on 101, or in an emergency call 999. We have specially trained detectives who can help you, no matter when the abuse happened."