Paedophile Catholic priest, 77, who sexually abused five boys in string of horrific attacks dating back to the 1970s is jailed
- The priest, of Cork, Ireland, admitted offences against boys as young as five
A Catholic priest who abused five boys in a horrific spate of attacks dating back to the 1970s has been jailed for 31 months.
James Murphy, 77, carried out the assaults while based at churches across south London, including Sydenham, New Addington and South Croydon.
The cleric, of The Alders Mallow in Cork, Ireland, was jailed for 30 months in 2000 after he admitted to abusing seven boys in south London between 1975 and 1988 who were as young as five.
Murphy was investigated again in 2019 after one of the victims came forward to their local police station.
Met officers travelled to Ireland to interview Murphy on two occasions, with the help of Garda officers, during the Covid pandemic.
James Murphy, 77, (pictured), of Cork, Ireland, was sentenced on Monday April 29 at Inner London Crown Court
The priest admitted seven offences of indecency against four boys as young as five between 1975 and 1988
Murphy accepted guilt when confronted with the evidence but denied further allegations relating to one of the victims.
Officers found much of the offences had taken place at a Catholic church in Sydenham.
PC Helen French, from Central Specialist Crime, who led the investigation, said: 'I want to acknowledge the bravery of the victims, whose courage has been unwavering throughout this process.
'Coming forward is not only a tribute to their strength, but serves as a sign to any other victims that they will be listened to and supported.
'Murphy used his position of power as a priest to prey on and take advantage of young boys - and some of their lives have been swathed with despair and anger, ridden with frustration and pain.
'I'd like to thank the dedicated team of officers who helped secure justice - their dedication has been extraordinary. I would encourage anyone who has been a victim of abuse, to come forward and get the help they so rightly deserve.'
