“Retired solicitor and ex Fianna Fáil chairman sentenced to five years for sexually assaulting eight-year-old girl”

John Hussey, a retired solicitor, and former Fianna Fáil chairman of Fermoy Urban District Council, has been sentenced to five years in jail for sexually assaulting an eight-year-old girl during a sleepover at his home in Cork, Ireland. The accused admitted to the crime and was sentenced by Judge Catherine Staines at Cork Circuit Criminal Court. The victim, Hannah Beresford, has waived her anonymity and was described by the judge as “a very brave lady.” The impact of the assault on the victim has been significant, and she has spoken about how it has affected her life. The guilty plea obviated the need for a trial, and the defense barrister said it was a momentary lapse in judgement. The five-year jail term was backdated to when he went into custody almost three months ago, and his name will go on the Sex Offenders Register.