Irish Olympic swimming coach George Gibney jailed over indecent assaults
A jury earlier this year found him guilty on 40 charges linked to events in the 1970s and 1980s. Gibney had also admitted five counts of indecent assault involving a girl in Ireland in 1976, while contesting many other charges.
The sentence was handed down on Monday at Dublin’s Central Criminal Court by Judge Michael O’Higgins. The girls were aged between eight and 15, and the incidents took place at different locations from 1974 to 1981.
One victim, Orla Poole, waived her right to anonymity. She spoke about the vulnerability of young people in competitive sports and urged survivors to seek support when they feel ready, saying they can be heard and believed.
The case concerns abuse by a prominent sports coach and the dependence young athletes may have on adult mentors. The article does not give further details about Gibney’s custody arrangements or any appeal.
Key points
- Gibney was sentenced to 16 years and eight months, with 14 months suspended.
- A jury convicted him on 40 charges involving incidents in the 1970s and 1980s.
- Victim Orla Poole encouraged survivors to seek help when ready.