A young man who was sexually abused by a neighbour now serving a jail sentence on a charge relating to another person, has been awarded €88,000 damages and costs by the High Court.
The award includes €3,000 for aggravated damages imposed by Mr Justice Peter Kelly as a result of solicitors for the defendant, Jimmy O'Donnell, Belcruit, Kincasslagh, Co Donegal, demanding an apology from the plaintiff for the claim of abuse and seeking compensation for alleged defamation.
Mr Justice Kelly yesterday delivered a reserved judgment on proceedings by John O'Donnell, Kincasslagh, for compensation, which action was ultimately not defended.
The judge noted the victim was aged 14 when the abuse began, while Jimmy O'Donnell, who suffers from dwarfism, was several years older.
Mr Justice Kelly said the plaintiff had developed a drink problem which was largely the cause of his difficulties in holding down a job and also led to the failure of his marriage.
However, he was now holding down a job and had a relationship which appeared to have a steadying influence.
The plaintiff was entitled to substantial compensatory damages for the gross misbehaviour of the defendant towards him, the judge said.
