Today, the court handed down a 13-year prison sentence to Raymond Shorten, a convicted rapist, for the rape of a seven-year-old girl in 2012. This case is particularly harrowing and sinister, as the rape occurred during a time of immense vulnerability for the child – at her mother’s funeral. The trauma of losing her mother, compounded by the abuse she suffered, is a weight that no child should have to bear.
Raymond Shorten, a 50-year-old taxi driver from Melrose Crescent in Clondalkin, Dublin, was 38 years old when he committed these heinous acts. The first incident took place at the girl’s grandmother’s house, where the family had gathered after the funeral. Shorten assaulted the girl again later that year. The rape came to light in 2020 when the girl, then 15, left a handwritten note on her grandmother’s pillow, revealing the horrific events. This prompted a Garda investigation, leading to Shorten’s arrest and subsequent trial.
During the investigation, Shorten vehemently denied the charges, telling the Gardaí that the allegations were “110% a lie.” This kind of language, using nonsensical percentages to vindicate his actions, is often a red flag. It is indicative of a person who refuses to accept responsibility for their actions, revealing much about their character. Shorten’s denial and his attempt to discredit the victim’s account only add to the depravity of his actions.
In court, Shorten continued to deny the charges, claiming that the allegations were total fabrications. However, the jury found him guilty on all counts. The victim, now 20 years old, testified that she did not understand what was happening to her at the time of the abuse. It was only later, through sex education classes in school, that she began to comprehend the gravity of what had occurred.
Judge Kerida Naidoo, who presided over the case, highlighted the profound and lasting impact of Shorten’s actions on the victim. He noted that the offences were particularly egregious, given the victim’s young age and extreme vulnerability following her mother’s death. The judge emphasised that Shorten’s actions demonstrated a complete lack of compassion and an utter disregard for the long-term harm inflicted on the girl. He stated that there was “overall very little mitigation” in Shorten’s case, leading to the 13-year prison sentence.
In addition to this case, Shorten is also due to be sentenced for the rape of two young women in his taxi in 2022. These incidents occurred in June and August of that year, involving women aged 19 and 20 who were trying to get home after a night out. The court heard that Shorten targeted these vulnerable young women, preying on their incapacity. He denied these charges as well, claiming that the activities were consensual. However, the jury unanimously found him guilty.
Mr. Justice Paul McDermott, who will be sentencing Shorten for the 2022 offences, stated that he would take into consideration the transcript of Judge Naidoo’s decision in the 2012 case. This will allow him to deliver a sentence that reflects the severity of Shorten’s actions and the pattern of predatory behaviour he has exhibited.
The sentencing of Raymond Shorten serves as a stark reminder of the importance of listening to and believing victims of rape and abuse. It also highlights the need for vigilance in recognising the language and behaviour of those who refuse to take responsibility for their actions. The trauma endured by the young girl and the other victims is beyond measure, today’s sentencing will hopefully provide a sense of justice and offer these young women some level of closure, as they heal.
If you have experienced any form of abuse, coercive control, violence, or sexual violence, please reach out to the following …
Rape Crisis Centre – call 1800 77 8888
Women’s Aid – call 1800 341 900
An Garda Siochana – call 999 / 112
