Priest jailed for historical abuse at Christchurch college

Rowan Maxwell Donoghue, 69, worked the college as a priest and dean of boarders. The offending, which involved four students, took place while he was working at the school.

On May 13, Donoghue appeared at Christchurch District Court before Judge Jane Farish for sentencing.

In October last year, he pleaded guilty to six charges, including indecent assault on a boy aged 12-16, indecent assault on a boy 16 and over, and sexual violation by unlawful sexual connection, but the pleas had been suppressed. In January, a suppression order was lifted when a number of other charges were dismissed.

Judge Farish delivered a sentence of seven years and eight months in prison, with no minimum term of imprisonment.

Tears were shed as victims read out statements on how Donoghue’s offending had impacted them. Judge Farish told Donoghue his role was to protect the victims and help them understand the rules of the religion under which he was ordained, Radio New Zealand reported.

“Yet you harmed all of these boys, in the most serious of ways.”

Judge Farish said Donoghue had expressed remorse for his actions and now has “some understanding of the harm you have caused on the victims.”

She said there were several aggravating factors including the scale of the offending and the span of time it occurred over. There was also the vulnerability of the victims and a significant breach of trust, as well as planning and premeditation.

Judge Farish acknowledged the victims’ bravery and said it showed they were strong, despite the adversity the offending had caused.

In a statement, the Society of Mary said Donoghue was immediately removed from public ministry permanently after he advised leadership in 2007 of offending at St Bede’s.

“The anonymous complainant was encouraged on multiple occasions to report the offending to Police at that time.

“The justice process has now concluded. Donoghue will serve time in prison because of his criminal actions. We acknowledge the courage of the men who shared their experiences with Police and extend our unreserved apology to them, their family and the community.

“The Society of Mary deeply regrets harm caused by any of our members. We are committed to ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of all people in Church settings.”

The Society of Mary said it wished to provide support to those affected by Donoghue’s offending. Contact can be made through the Society’s confidential helpline on 021 909 749 or email at safeguarding@smnz.org.nz

St Bede’s College rector Jon McDowall attended the sentencing to be in solidarity with the victims and to acknowledge the harm caused to them whilst in the care of the college.

“I am truly sorry this happened and that those affected continue to live with the impact of that harm. It was harrowing listening to their victim impact statements, it makes feel sick and angry that these young men were abused in our care,” he said.

FULL STORY

St Bede’s priest Rowan Donoghue jailed for sexual abuse against young people (By Jazlyn Whales/New Zealand Herald)

Former St Bede’s College priest Rowan Donoghue jailed for sexual abuse of boys (By Sam Sherwood/Radio New Zealand)