Michael McMonagle breaches sexual offences order

Former Sinn Féin press officer Michael McMonagle, who was jailed for child sex offences last year, has been given a suspended sentence for breaching a court order.

He was given a one month prison sentence suspended for 12 months for breaching a sexual offences prevention order, by being in an online chat room without permission of his designated risk manager.

McMonagle, 44, formerly of Limewood Street in Londonderry, was jailed for child sex offences, including attempting to incite two children to engage in sexual activity, in November 2024.

On Wednesday, a judge at Limavady Magistrates’ Court warned McMonagle he could have his licence revoked following the breach.

A police officer told the court that McMonagle was a category two registered sex offender who is prohibited from accessing chat rooms without permission of his designated risk manager.

She told the court that on Tuesday, McMonagle was asked for his device for examination.

It was discovered he had been on a site with a chat room element and had contacted a number of females.

The court was told McMonagle accepted he had not told his designated risk manager about this and he was arrested.

A defence solicitor said since his release from prison, McMonagle had “kept himself to himself”.

He said his conviction had had “a significant affect on his life” and he had had a major fall from grace from his previous career in journalism and public relations.

The solicitor said McMonagle had abided by all other conditions.

District Judge Peter King said any revocation of the licence was best left to the crown court.

He said in the case before him was “clearly within the licence period” and the defendant could expect further developments as regards his licence.

McMonagle had pleaded guilty, the judge said, adding there was no suggestion of anything “untoward” in the chat room or anything sexual.