In a significant legal decision, 53-year-old Mark McAnaw, a convicted rapist with a history of violent offenses, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for the harassment of three female journalists: Nicola Tallant, Amanda Brunker, and Deirdre Reynolds. The Dublin Circuit Criminal Court imposed the full sentence after McAnaw refused to accept the conditions of a suspended term, which would have reduced his incarceration by 12 months.

Background and Offenses

McAnaw, previously residing in Letterkenny, Co Donegal, pleaded guilty to multiple counts of harassment occurring in August 2023. The court heard that he sent the victims a series of emails and messages containing violent and sexually explicit threats. These communications escalated to death threats, including a message stating he would “put bullets in your nut,” and self-identification as an “IRA Top Boy.”

In addition to digital harassment, McAnaw physically approached the workplace of one of the journalists. He was found in a café near the Sunday World’s offices, composing an email to one of the victims when apprehended by Gardaí.

Victim Impact Statements

The victims provided compelling statements detailing the psychological toll of McAnaw’s actions. Deirdre Reynolds expressed relief at the sentence, stating, “I’m really shocked and quite happy with the outcome… I’m relieved now at least we won’t have to think about it now for at least five years.” Amanda Brunker described living in constant fear, noting, “It’s been very scary to have somebody threaten to kill you. He’s a sick man and I’m very grateful that the judge was empathetic.”

Judicial Remarks and Sentencing

Judge Pauline Codd emphasized the severity of McAnaw’s actions, highlighting the targeting of women in public roles and the importance of protecting freedom of the press. She stated that general deterrence was necessary and that the “message goes out” that such criminal behavior will be met with strict legal consequences. The judge also imposed lifelong restraining orders, prohibiting McAnaw from contacting or approaching the victims or coming within 10 miles of their workplaces.

Mental Health Considerations

McAnaw is currently detained and has been diagnosed with schizophrenia, a diagnosis he does not accept. He has declined to take prescribed medication and has a history of substance misuse. The court considered these factors but determined that his refusal to engage with treatment and the risk he poses to public safety warranted the full sentence without suspension.

Prior Convictions

McAnaw’s criminal history includes a 2012 conviction for the rape of a foreign student in Donegal, for which he received a nine-year sentence. He also has multiple convictions for assault causing actual bodily harm. In 2018, he was convicted of aggravated assault after attacking a woman, resulting in an eight-year and four-month sentence. He was released from custody in July 2023, just one month before the harassment incidents occurred.

The sentencing of Mark McAnaw underscores the legal system’s commitment to protecting individuals from harassment and upholding the safety of journalists. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness of McAnaw’s offenses and the necessity of imposing a sentence that serves both as punishment and as a deterrent to similar conduct.

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