Comments from gardaí following Moody sentence

By CCC Nuacht Staff

Speaking on the steps of the Criminal Courts of Justice in Dublin city, Detective Inspector Cormac Brennan said that he wanted to acknowledge the extreme bravery and courage of the complainant.

“We want to thank you for speaking up and telling your story. You can be proud of your immense personal courage, self-esteem and resilience. In taking that step to speak to An Garda Siochana, to trust An Garda Siochana, and to follow through with your case.

“You have shown to any other person out there in an abusive and controlling relationship that when an abusive partner says no one will believe you they are wrong.”

He said that coercive control was a degrading act of control which could be overwhelming for the victim.

“Coercive control is about power, is about isolating a partner, about breaking that person down, is a heinous degrading reign of control. Coercive control is overwhelming and that power is even more overwhelming where the abusive activity is by an abuser who appears to hold profession or a position of respect from the community such as in this case, a member of An Garda Siochana.”

He urged anyone who was in an abusive relationship to take the first step and speak to somebody about what was happening to them.

“To any person in an abusive relationship, you have done nothing wrong. You do not need to accept it. You are not alone. Please take that first step and speak to somebody; a guard, a support helpline, a family relative or a friend. You will be believed.

“An Garda Siochana is committed to tackling domestic abuse. It does not matter who the abuser is. If you speak to us you will be dealt with empathetically, professionally and with respect.

“We will advise and support you in whatever way you want to deal with your individual case. Please take that first step and speak to someone today.”

The detective also acknowledged the professionalism of the garda investigation team and the legal team in investigating and prosecuting this case and the Courts Service and support groups who assisted the case.