Child Psychiatrist Jailed for Sexual Abuse of Teenage Girl

A Dublin child psychiatrist has been sentenced to eight and a half years in prison for grooming and sexually abusing a teenage girl. The case, which has sent shockwaves through Ireland, highlights the devastating consequences of such crimes and the breach of trust involved.

The Crime and the Victim

Amirul Arif Bin Mohd Yunos, 38, of Hollystown, Dublin 15, committed the offenses while employed at a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) center in Clonskeagh. The victim, who was not a formal patient, was experiencing mental health difficulties, and her parents sought Yunos' help. The abuse, which began with inappropriate touching and escalated to oral sex and penetration, occurred between 2023, when the girl was 15 and 16 years of age. The locations varied, including his home, her home, his car, and even his workplace.

The victim's powerful victim impact statement detailed the 'painful and grave trauma' she experienced. She described feeling responsible for the abuse, believing she 'deserved' it. Her words paint a picture of a young girl struggling with mental health challenges, only to be further victimized by someone she trusted. She poignantly stated, “He made me believe the hugs I needed during a tough time led to sexual abuse,” and that her younger self “never wanted” to be abused and all she wished for at the time was to “get better”. In hindsight, she reflected, “that 15-year-old got handed a lifelong sentence of unwanted trauma.”

The Sentencing and Mitigation

Yunos pleaded guilty to six counts of engaging in a sexual act with a child under 17, one count of sexual exploitation of a child, and one of meeting a child for the purpose of sexual exploitation. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged the mitigating factors, including Yunos' early guilty plea, lack of previous convictions, and expressions of remorse. A headline sentence of 12 years was reduced to 8.5 years, considering these factors. The judge noted the testimonials supporting Yunos and the fact that his community and wife stood by him, stating that he was “very fortunate”. However, the severity of the crime and the lasting impact on the victim overshadowed these mitigating factors.

The Judge's Remarks and the Impact

Judge Crowe emphasized the gravity of the offense, highlighting the grooming behavior, Yunos' professional standing, the impact on the victim, and the escalation of the abuse. She stated, “This is offending that simply has to be marked with the imposition of a significant custodial sentence.” The judge also noted a psychological report that highlighted Yunos' professional training and the insight he should have had into the potential harm his actions could cause. The fact that he was a qualified psychologist and should have had “greater insight” into the devastating consequences of his actions was mentioned by the judge during her sentencing remarks.

A Lasting Impact and the Need for Justice

The judge's decision reflects the severity of Yunos' crimes and the importance of protecting vulnerable children. The case serves as a reminder of the pervasive nature of child sexual abuse and the need for vigilance and support systems to protect children. The victim's courage in sharing her story, coupled with the justice delivered, demonstrates the resilience of survivors and the power of the legal system to hold perpetrators accountable. The sentence, while significant, cannot undo the trauma inflicted, leaving a lasting scar on the life of a young girl whose trust was tragically violated by a professional who was meant to help and protect. The case underscores the critical need for robust safeguards within institutions responsible for child welfare and highlights the enduring psychological impact of child sexual abuse on victims. The story leaves a lasting question, highlighting the urgent need for stricter measures to prevent similar incidents and better support for victims.