Northern Ireland

Man convicted under paying for sexual services legislation

A 23-year-old Armagh man has been found guilty under paying for sexual services legislation- the first conviction since the law in Northern Ireland changed.

James Maloney of Drumarg Villas, appeared before Dungannon Magistrates Court where he denied attempting to obtain the sexual services of a woman in exchange for payment on 28 August 2016.

The case ran as a contest before District Judge John Meehan where the victim who is Lithuanian, gave her evidence via live-link, having been granted special measures due to fear of Maloney

He ultimately declined to give evidence on his own behalf.

The victim was working at a Dungannon petrol station when Maloney approached in a black car, showed her a roll of money and gestured to his genital area with his hand and then to his mouth.

She told the court: “I said nothing. I was frightened. There was no-one about at that time of the morning.”

The car drove off but returned five minutes later and repeated the gestures.

After the victim told her supervisor police were called.

Ordering a conviction, Judge Meehan said: “I have no lurking doubt whatsoever in a finding of guilt. He signalled money would be available should the victim accept and carry out sexual activity on him. He put the lady through a highly stressful process. He can expert a severe response by the court.”

Warning he is considering immediate imprisonment, Judge Meehan adjourned sentencing until next month, whilst reports are prepared.