Two men who were sexually abused by their step-dad say he robbed their childhood.
The accused, who can’t be named, has pleaded guilty to rape and sexual assault over a ten year period in Co Wicklow.
In powerful statements both victims, who are now in their 20s and 30s outlined to the court the impact the abuse has had on them.
They were young boys when the abuse started and one of the victims described how the abuse knocked his confidence and he’s been told he’s afraid of his own shadow. While his brother said he’s filled with anger and he takes it out on those closest to him.
He told the court the abuse took the closeness out of the bond he should have had with his brother because they both knew it was happening but they were afraid to talk about it.
The accused, who is 51, has been remanded in custody and will be sentenced in February.
