Thomas McKenna: 'Predatory' sex abuse by ex-GAA official lasted decades

Thomas McKenna pleaded guilty to 162 offences against 23 male victims

A former Crossmaglen Rangers GAA club treasurer engaged in a "predatory campaign" of serious sexual abuse over three decades, a court has heard.

Thomas McKenna, 62, is to be sentenced after previously pleading guilty to 162 offences against 23 male victims.

He appeared at Belfast Crown Court on Monday, when the judge was told those victims were aged between 12 and 26.

A prosecution barrister said McKenna used control, manipulation and a treat and reward system on his victims.

McKenna had coerced them and intertwined himself into their lives and into the wider community in Crossmaglen village in south County Armagh.

His abuse took place at the club, in Crossmaglen Credit Union, in his Royal Mail work van, in his home and on trips away.

The offences he pleaded guilty to include multiple charges of indecent assaults, sexual assault, voyeurism and gross indecency with a child.

His offending took place from 1988 until his arrest in 2018.

He had told some younger boys that what was happening to them was part of team-building within the club and he made promises about them being promoted to senior teams.

'Dangerous offender'

McKenna's offending came to light after one victim reported covert filming of his abuser.

An investigation followed, with other victims coming forward.

The prosecution barrister described McKenna as a "dangerous offender" who posed "a significant risk of harm to the public".

A defence barrister said McKenna had recognised the harm and dreadful consequences of his behaviour.

The judge said she would take some time before passing sentence due to the complexity of the case.

"There are a large number of people affected," she said.

"I want to find a way that every single one of them feels they have been properly taken account of."

McKenna was taken back into custody at Maghaberry Prison by prison staff.

Last year, when McKenna admitted almost 140 of the offences, the GAA apologised to his victims and their families.

The GAA president, Larry McCarthy, said he had "admiration" for the victims and the courage they had shown by telling the police about what they had suffered.