Auto Amazon Links: No products found.
Edward Gallagher, a 59-year-old priest currently held at Maghaberry Prison, has admitted guilt to 109 sexual offences at Londonderry Crown Court. The offences occurred between June 22, 2023, and April 18, 2025, and include serious charges such as attempted sexual communication with a child under 16, possession of indecent images of a child, holding an extreme pornographic image, and attempts to encourage a child to take part in sexual activity. Gallagher is expected to receive his sentence in December.
Upon facing the charges, Gallagher pleaded guilty to all counts. His defence lawyer, Stephen Mooney, noted that a pre-sentence report is necessary and remarked, “the facts are what they are.” The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) welcomed the guilty plea and confirmed that sentence is scheduled for December 9. Gallagher remains in custody as proceedings continue.
In response to the case, Michael Router, the Catholic Bishop of Derry, announced his intention to ask the Vatican for Gallagher’s dismissal from the priesthood. Bishop Router stated his primary concern is for those harmed by Gallagher’s actions, especially the children affected by abuse. He expressed his commitment to seeking the “most serious penalty available under church law,” which would result in Gallagher’s immediate removal from clerical status.
Bishop Router further emphasized that although the Church cannot undo the damage caused, it must respond with honesty, justice, and decisiveness. He confirmed that the Diocese of Derry has fully cooperated with the Police Service of Northern Ireland and all statutory agencies involved in the investigation, pledging ongoing support for law enforcement throughout the case
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.