A Co Tipperary man who broke into a woman's house and sexually assaulted her has been jailed for three years by the Central Criminal Court. James McCarthy (23), single and a father of one, of Parkmore, Roscrea, pleaded guilty to charges of committing sexual assault, robbery and criminal damage on October 18th, 1996.
Sgt John Byrne said the woman was in bed when she heard noise of a window breaking and locked her bedroom door. McCarthy broke it down and came in where he tried to engage in sexual activity with the frightened victim. He also forced her to open a safe and hand over £100 to him.
Sgt Byrne agreed with Mr Michael Counihan SC, defending, that no violence was used on the victim other than threats of verbal abuse. Mr Counihan said McCarthy was in a stable relationship and apologised unreservedly to his victim. Mr Justice Carney noted the prosecution had not proceeded with a more serious charge of attempted rape.