Derry woman made false sex assault allegations against her father

Derry Magistrate's Court heard today how a woman made sex assault allegations against her father because she was angry with him over money issues.

Lisa Marie Sheriff (34) of Duddy's Court in Derry appeared charged with wasting police time on February 4 2023.

The court heard that the defendant told police that her father had sexually assaulted her and was also taking money from her.

Police noted that when she was making her allegations she seemed more concerned about the money and also that she seemed to rely on others who were present to 'fill in gaps' for her.

The man was spoken to and denied all the allegations and said there were money issues as Sheriff was vulnerable. 

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On February 21 Sheriff made a withdrawal statement as regards the sexual assault allegations. 

Defence counsel Sinead Rogan said that these were very serious allegations. 

She said that the defendant was 'angry' that her father controlled her money but this had been put in place by social services due to Sheriff's addiction issues. 

The barrister said that the anger was a result of her father trying to protect her.

District Judge Ted Magill said this was 'a very serious offence'.

But he added the defendant was a vulnerable individual who had 'considerable difficulties'.

He imposed a sentence of 18 months probation.