Ex-Priest James Murphy Convicted of Indecent Assault Against Four Young Boys

James Murphy, a 77-year-old former priest, has been sentenced to 31 months in prison for indecently assaulting four boys aged between five and 11 years old. The offenses, which occurred between 1975 and 1988, were brought to light in 2019 when one of the victims came forward to report Murphy to their local police station in London.

5 Key Points

  • James Murphy, a 77-year-old former priest, has been sentenced to 31 months in prison for indecently assaulting four boys aged between five and 11 years old.
  • The offenses took place between 1975 and 1988, with some occurring at Murphy’s former church in Sydenham, southeast London.
  • The Metropolitan Police’s investigation began in 2019 when one of the victims reported Murphy to their local police station.
  • Murphy, who had moved to County Cork, Ireland, was interviewed twice by Met officers during the Covid pandemic.
  • The court heard that Murphy had been previously convicted of 11 counts of indecent assault against five boys in 1977.

Investigation Reveals Multiple Victims and a Pattern of Abuse

The Metropolitan Police’s investigation revealed that Murphy had multiple victims, with some of the offenses occurring at his former church in Sydenham, southeast London, and in the broader community where he was considered a trusted figurehead. Victims provided witness statements to the police, recounting the painful and intricate details of their ordeals.

Despite having moved to Alders Mallow in County Cork, Ireland, Murphy was interviewed twice by Met officers who traveled to question him during the Covid pandemic. On February 16, 2023, at Inner London Crown Court, Murphy pleaded guilty to seven counts of indecent assault related to the four victims.

Previous Conviction Highlights Long-Standing Pattern of Abuse

The court also heard that Murphy had a previous conviction for 11 counts of indecent assault against five boys in 1977, highlighting a pattern of abuse spanning several years.

PC Helen French from Central Specialist Crime, who led the investigation, praised the victims’ bravery and unwavering courage throughout the process. She emphasized that coming forward serves as a tribute to their strength and a sign to other victims that they will be listened to and supported.

French acknowledged the devastating impact of Murphy’s actions on his victims, stating that some of their lives have been “swathed with despair and anger, ridden with frustration and pain.” She thanked the dedicated team of officers who helped secure justice, commending their extraordinary dedication.

Metropolitan Police Encourages Victims to Come Forward

The Metropolitan Police encourages anyone who has been a victim of abuse to come forward and get the help they rightfully deserve.