Former Sinn Fein press officer Michael McMonagle, 43, has been sentenced to nine months in jail for child sex offenses. The court also ordered nine months of statutory supervision after his release. McMonagle, from Limewood Street in Derry, has been banned from working with children and vulnerable adults.
The case has raised concerns about Sinn Fein’s safeguarding measures, especially after it was revealed that two other party press officers provided references for McMonagle when he applied for a job at the British Heart Foundation.
Detective Chief Superintendent Lindsay Fisher described McMonagle as a “predator” who targeted underage victims online. She commended the work of the Child Internet Protection Team in catching offenders like McMonagle before they can harm children.
The PSNI stated that McMonagle interacted with fake ‘child’ profiles online and engaged them in sexual conversations. In August 2021, he even attempted to persuade multiple children aged 14 and under to perform sexual acts.
This case serves as a reminder that law enforcement agencies are actively monitoring online activities to protect children from predators. The PSNI warned that anyone engaging in inappropriate online behavior with children will be caught and prosecuted.
It is crucial for organizations and individuals to prioritize the safety and well-being of children, both online and offline. By working together and staying vigilant, we can prevent such incidents and ensure that children are protected from harm.
