A man has today, Friday 13th December, been sentenced for sexual assault in Derry/Londonderry earlier this year.
Paul Farren, aged 34 years old, was jailed for three months at Londonderry Magistrate's Court.
The sexual assault occurred on Saturday, 22 June. The victim and her friend approached Farren out of concern, at around 2.15pm, after seeing him in a collapsed state on Foyle Street in the city centre. They stopped to offer help and ask Farren if he had a safe place to go. At this point, Farren got up, and placed his arm around the victim, kissed her to the neck and touched her inappropriately. When the victim pushed him away, he attempted to kiss her again.
Following enquiries by Local Policing Team (LPT) officers, including the use of CCTV, Farren was identified and subsequently arrested on suspicion of sexual assault on June 24th. He was subsequently charged with the offence. Today he was sentenced.
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.”