Priest gets suspended sentence for child abuse

A 71-year-old priest who sexually abused four pupils 30 years ago was been given a five years suspended sentence at the Dublin…

A 71-year-old priest who sexually abused four pupils 30 years ago was been given a five years suspended sentence at the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court today.

Father Ronald Bennett of Dun Mhuire, Seafield Road, Killiney, was a former spiritual director and sports master at Gormanston College.

He pleaded guiltly pleaded guilty to six sample charges of indecent assault on dates from 1974 to 1981.

In sentencing Judge Desmond Hogan ordered Bennett to enter into a bond in the sum of €1,000 to keep the peace for five years, he must strictly adhere to his order's code of practice and if considered necessary he must continue therapy with the Granada Institute.

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A further stipulation authorises the investigating gardaí to enquire from time to time as to his compliance with the condition of the bond.