A retired Irish Defence Forces member received a 10-year jail sentence for abusing his daughter nearly two decades ago.
Gerard Lawless, 61, pleaded guilty to four counts of oral rape and seven counts of sexual assault spanning from 1991 to 1998 in Dublin.
Danielle Lawless, waiving her anonymity, described her father as a perpetrator and protector, highlighting his betrayal of trust.
She expressed how he exploited her innocence, leaving her with lasting trust issues and feelings of shame and worthlessness.
The abuse began around age five, with the most severe incidents occurring when she was between ten and twelve years old.
Lawless, a Defense Forces member since 1980, retired in 2013 due to health issues and has been in custody since pleading guilty in December.
His sentence includes ten years in prison, three years of post-release supervision, and a no-contact order with the victim.
The judge emphasised Lawless’s lack of comprehension regarding the harm inflicted and recommended therapy during his sentence.
The abuse occurred predominantly while the victim’s mother was at work, ending when she was 12 years old.
Despite admitting guilt, Lawless maintained a distorted view of the abuse’s severity during interviews and expressed affection for his daughter.
Danielle Lawless disclosed the abuse to her mother in 2018, prompting her to report it to the authorities.
Lawless’s plea spared his daughter from testifying in court, but the judge noted his failure to grasp the extent of his actions entirely.
The defence cited Lawless’s health issues, including his current wheelchair use, as mitigating factors.
Lawless’s lack of prior convictions and contributions to voluntary work were also considered during sentencing.
His siblings continue to support him despite the gravity of his crimes.
The court acknowledged Lawless’s early childhood adversities but emphasised the severity of his offences.
Despite expressions of remorse, Lawless’s actions have left a lasting impact on his daughter’s life, necessitating a significant prison term.
©M10news 2024
