A TOP Fermanagh showjumper who was yesterday cleared of having underage sex with a 15-year-old girl said he is “extremely pleased” the ordeal he and his family have suffered is over.
Gabriel Tunney, of Tattinweer, Tempo, was acquitted of six counts of knowingly having sex with someone under the age of 16.
The jury accepted the 42-year-old’s pleas of innocence during the 12-day trial.
In a statement issued through his solicitor, Chris McEvoy, Mr Tunney said: “I am extremley pleased that this trial has finally come to its conclusion and my position throughout vindicated. It has been an ordeal for myself, my wife, our family and friends for the last number of years dealing with the false allegations made against me.
“I wish to record my gratitude to the members of the jury for their careful and detailed consideration of the evidence throughout the duration of this trial.
“I also wish to thank my legal team, Chris McEvoy, John McCrudden QC and Gavyn Cairns BL, for all their work in the preparation and conduct of my defence.”
To read more.. Subscribe to current edition
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere