Former Celtic player Paddy McCourt given suspended sentence for sex offence

The footballer was convicted in May of sexually touching a woman in a bar in Derry in January 2022.
Former Celtic player Paddy McCourt given suspended sentence for sex offence

By Jonathan McCambridge, PA

Former Celtic footballer Paddy McCourt has been given a suspended sentence for a sexual assault.

The 39-year-old, of Wheatfield Court in Muff, Co Donegal, was found guilty after a trial in May of sexually touching a woman in a bar in Derry in January 2022.

He had denied the offence and intends to appeal against the conviction.

McCourt was found guilty of a single charge of indecent assault after he was accused of putting his hand up the woman’s skirt and touching her bottom.

Lyra Mckee murder
Paddy McCourt was sentenced at Derry Magistrates’ Court. Photo: Cate McCurry/PA

At Derry Magistrates’ Court on Monday, district judge Ted Magill handed down a three-month sentence, which was suspended for two years.

McCourt was also placed on the sex offenders register for five years.

McCourt played 18 times for Northern Ireland, scoring two goals, and was a Celtic player between 2008 and 2013.

He also played for Derry City during his career.

More in this section

Dublin Fire Brigade stock Large gorse fire re-ignited in the Dublin Mountains
Russian military exercises off coast of Ireland Russia warns Ireland of 'serious consequences' if shadow fleet vessels boarded in country's waters
Ed Sheeran-backed cross-border music project takes centre stage at Fleadh Ed Sheeran-backed cross-border music project takes centre stage at Fleadh

Sponsored Content

Keeping their house in order: How PSRA regulation has raised the bar for Ireland’s property services sector Keeping their house in order: How PSRA regulation has raised the bar for Ireland’s property services sector
"My master's at UL taught me that structured learning and a demanding career can coexist" "My master's at UL taught me that structured learning and a demanding career can coexist"
Three days of steam, music and heritage at the 62nd National Steam Rally Three days of steam, music and heritage at the 62nd National Steam Rally
Contact Us Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited

Add Echolive.ie to your home screen - easy access to Cork news, views, sport and more