John McClean, who molested 45 boys, has his prison sentence reduced by 18 months, with judges citing ‘unreasonable’ punishment

John McClean did not appear in court today as he chose not to attend the hearing.

John McClean’s 12-year prison sentence for molesting boys in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s has been overturned. Another sentencing took place today.

Magistrates said the original sentence he received for sex offences committed while he was a teacher and rugby coach at Terenure College in Dublin was “unduly harsh”.

Until this morning, John McClean was serving an eight-year prison sentence for sexually abusing 23 boys at Terenure College.

After serving that sentence, he was to serve a four-year prison sentence for the abuse of 22 other former students.

However, the Court of Appeal ruled today that the 12-year prison sentence imposed was unduly harsh.

Taking into account the seriousness of the offences committed, as well as the defendant’s plea of ​​guilty, remorse, age and poor health, judges found the original sentence was 18 months longer than it should have been.

With this in mind, judges threw out the original sentence and re-sentenced him to 10 and a half years in prison.

John McClean did not appear in court today as he chose not to attend the hearing.