One of Ireland’s most notorious sex offenders, Patrick Nevin, 44, is due to be freed from Midlands Prison, Co Laois, this spring. Known for a string of brutal attacks in 2014, Nevin’s imminent release has sent shockwaves through the community and his victims alike.
‘No Fixed Abode’ Ahead of Release
Before walking free, Nevin informed prison authorities that he currently has “no fixed abode.” Upon release, he will have just seven days to notify gardai of his new address. Strict probation rules will apply, and Nevin will remain on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
Details of the Crimes and Sentences
- Nevin was jailed for 12 years in July 2019 for the rape and sexual assault of two women he met via Tinder.
- In 2020, his original sentence was extended by two and a half years after the State challenged the initial leniency.
- He also received a five-and-a-half-year sentence for sexually assaulting a third woman, with custody spanning since 2014.
The attacks took place over just 11 days in July 2014, marking Nevin as “extremely dangerous” in the eyes of gardai.
Victims Fear for Safety as Predator Goes Free
One of Nevin’s victims, who was assaulted at University College Dublin, now lives abroad and spoke to The Irish Sun. She said:
“I live in fear that this monster will want revenge and try to track me down. I live outside Ireland but what’s to stop him trying to find me and other victims who made statements against him? We all live in a digital age now so it’s possible he could use this to his advantage because he has worked in the IT industry. It is the first time since 2018 that I am feeling fear.”
Nevin, who studied computer science while in prison, previously worked in IT and even used the Irish version of his name, Padraig Mac Naoimhin, to dodge police tracking. The victim urged:
“I would encourage every woman to be aware of what this man looks like when he is free.”
Police Warn: Stay Cautious on Dating Apps
The extensive investigation into Nevin’s crimes was led by top gardai including Superintendent Denis Ellard and Sergeant Niall O’Reilly. Retired Superintendent Joseph Gannon cautioned:
“This case is a reminder that users of dating apps should always use caution when meeting strangers.”
