Sligo man (38) admits to possessing child sexual abuse videos and images

Clive Goulden, Gortnadrass, Lavagh, Ballymote, Co Sligo appeared before Judge Kenneth Connolly at Sligo Circuit Court on six charges.

He is charged with possession of 30 videos and ten images of child pornography at Gortnadrass, Lavagh on June 4, 2021.

He is also charged that on dates between January 25, 2021, and February 2, 2021, at the same address he attempted production of child pornography.

On dates between January 15, 2021, and February 2, 2021, at the same address, he is charged with the attempted inviting, inducing, counselling or inciting a child to sexual touching.

On dates between January 15, 2021, and February 2, 2021, at the same address he is charged with the attempted engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child under 17.

He is charged on dates between January 15, 2021, and February 2, 2021, that he attempted to cause a child under 17 to watch or to look at an image of a person engaged in sexual activity for the purposes of sexual gratification or corrupting or depraving the child.

He is also charged that on dates between January 15, 2021, and February 2, 2021, at Gortnadrass, Lavagh, Ballymote that he attempted communication by means of information and communication technology to facilitate the sexual exploitation of a child under 17.

The court heard the defendant was sent forward from the District Court on a signed plea of guilty.

Mr Colm Smyth SC with Mr Eoin McGovern BL instructed by Mr Gerard McGovern solicitor appeared for the accused.

Mr Smyth asked the judge to direct a Probation Report.

He said Goulden had no previous convictions and is currently in therapy.

Judge Connolly remanded the defendant on continuing bail to the Circuit Court on July 9 for sentencing. He ordered a Probation Report and also reports from psychotherapists Ciara Mangan and Edana Barrett. He entered Goulden on the sex offenders register.