Judge defers jailing child sex abusers

A BELFAST judge yesterday deferred jailing two Derry men for child sex abuse.

A BELFAST judge yesterday deferred jailing two Derry men for child sex abuse.

Crown Court judge, Mr Justice Sheil, said he wished to consider his sentencing of Joseph Lewis (49) and John Harkin (21).

Lewis was convicted earlier this week of indecently assaulting and sexually abusing a schoolboy, while Harkin pleaded guilty to indecently assaulting the 13 year old boy and sexually abusing another 12 year old boy.

Mr Desmond Boal QC for Harkin argued yesterday that his client deserved substantial credit for his guilty pleas which saved his victims having to give evidence.

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Mr Jim Lavery QC for Lewis urged the judge to take into consideration Lewis's clear record and the fact that the offences took place after his marriage broke down.