Magherafelt man sentenced for online sexual blackmail of two women

Convicted: Cathan Quinn

A man from Magherafelt has been sentenced to two years and two months for the online blackmail of two female victims involving intimate images.

Twenty-nine-year-old Cathan Quinn appeared before Dungannon Crown Court on Monday, 4 November, where he was told he will serve half his sentence in custody and half on licence.

He has also been made subject to a five-year restraining order for each victim.

Detective Inspector Ryan said:

“In early 2021, Cathan Quinn targeted two female victims.

“Using social media platforms, the defendant cajoled his victims into sharing intimate images. He then blackmailed both women, threatening to post the images online unless demands for money were met.”

The detective added that both victims had “suffered terribly throughout this nightmarish ordeal”, expressing gratitude for their bravery in coming forward.

“It’s hard to truly imagine the trauma they have endured, and I am grateful to both for finding the courage to come forward and speak to us. Your support has been invaluable,” Detective Inspector Ryan said.

Quinn’s conviction is not his first offence of this nature. The court heard that he had previously received a prison sentence on 21 April 2022 for similar offences involving a third victim.

“Today’s sentencing relates to our investigation into the online blackmail of two females. This, however, is not Quinn’s only offence of this nature.

“On 21 April in 2022, the defendant was given a prison sentence for similar offences against a third innocent victim, who also found the courage to speak to police,”

Detective Inspector Ryan explained.

The PSNI has urged anyone facing online exploitation to report it immediately, warning that offenders cannot remain hidden behind technology.

“I hope this sends out a very clear message to anyone who would seek to exploit and threaten others. Let me assure you, you can’t hide behind a computer or mobile screen. Rather, you will be identified and investigated. And you will be held to account,”

said Detective Inspector Ryan.

He also encouraged victims not to engage with blackmailers:

“To those innocent victims who may be experiencing similar, please don’t respond to demands. Don’t enter into further communication. If you can, confide in a trusted friend or family member, and please contact officers as soon as possible on 101. Dedicated officers will handle your case with the sensitivity you deserve.”

If you are a victim of online blackmail

Police advise anyone experiencing online sexual blackmail or “sextortion” to avoid paying money or sending further images. Victims are encouraged to report the incident to police on 101, or in an emergency, call 999.