Man (57) admits using social media in child sexual exploitation attempt

Tom Tuite

A Co Westmeath man has pleaded guilty to attempted child sexual exploitation offences using social media apps.

Kevin Smyth, 57, of Dublin Road, Castlepollard, appeared at Mullingar Circuit Criminal Court on Tuesday and pleaded guilty to four offences under the 2017 Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act.

The incidents occurred on various dates in 2021.

The first charge states that on July 15th, he attempted to intentionally cause a child to look at an image of himself engaging in sexual activity, for the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification, or corrupting a child.

He also admitted attempting to use information and communication technology applications, Skype and WhatsApp, to facilitate child sexual exploitation between June 29th and July 8th, and July 8th and July 19th.

He also pleaded guilty to attempting to invite a child to sexual touching on June 30th.

Judge Connolly asked if the case was in-camera, which requires the court to be cleared.

However, prosecutor Cathal said that no child victim was identifiable from the proceedings, and the arraignment hearing continued in public with the accused replying “guilty” when the four charges were put to him.

John Shortt SC, defending, asked the court to extend legal aid to cover a psychological report which would be essential in determining the sentence. He had already been attending counselling, and a report would be available.

Judge Connolly agreed to the request and ordered the accused, who is on bail, to appear again for a sentencing hearing on January 20th next.