Ex-Garda Jailed for Disturbing Rape Plot, Now in Midlands Prison

UPDATE: A former garda, Shane Flanagan, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for a shocking plot that involved impersonating a female colleague to encourage men to commit rape. Flanagan, aged 39 and from Co Clare, is currently held in the E1 landing of the Midlands Prison in Co Laois, where he shares a cell with another disgraced ex-officer, Paul Moody, who is serving three and a half years for coercive control.

Flanagan’s actions, revealed in a Central Criminal Court hearing, are described as a “calculated, predatory act of violence” that has left lasting scars on his victim and her family. He resigned from the police force in March, and his transition from law enforcer to inmate marks a dramatic fall from grace.

The court heard how Flanagan created a profile on a Canadian fetish website, using real photos and personal information of his colleague. He engaged in disturbing discussions about sexual violence, including encouraging strangers to visit her home. The horrifying details came to light in December 2020, when one of the men involved attempted to verify the woman’s consent through her real Facebook account.

Judge Eileen Creedon emphasized the “breathtaking disregard” Flanagan showed for the safety of the woman and her daughters, highlighting that his background as a garda should have made him more aware of the risks involved.

A source within the prison noted that Flanagan is likely to adapt to prison life alongside Moody, who is expected to be released next year. “They will be like two peas in a pod,” the insider stated, hinting at potential employment for Flanagan as a cleaner, a position that allows for less interaction with the general population.

As Flanagan begins his sentence, he joins some of the country’s most dangerous sex offenders, marking a stark contrast to his previous life of law enforcement.

The impact of Flanagan’s actions extends beyond the courtroom, as the victim expressed her shock and trauma during the trial. She characterized the incident as a violation that will leave lifelong scars on her and her daughters.

Next steps: As Flanagan serves his sentence, the case has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of law enforcement officers and their accountability, raising urgent questions about public safety and the psychological toll on victims of such heinous acts.