New figures reveal nearly half of sex crime victims in 2025 were children

Kenneth Fox

Fianna Fáil TD and Spokesperson on Justice, Tom Brabazon, said a rise in offences against children and juvenile crime must be addressed as a matter of urgency.

The figures, published on Thursday by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), revealed that 46 per cent of sexual offence victims last year were under 18 when the incident occurred.

One in five offenders of harassment or other related crimes was also under 18.

The Dublin Bay North TD said the data reinforces the importance of investment in youth diversion programmes.

“I have been fortunate enough to see firsthand the incredible work being done in Youth Diversion Programmes.

“These programmes give some of the most vulnerable people in our society a chance at a better, more fulfilling life. Their work has positive impacts on these young people, their families and their communities,” he said.

Budget 2026 saw a 22 per cent increase in funding for Youth Diversion Programmes, with an allocation of €7.3 million.

Seven out of ten victims of sexual offences last year knew their attacker. The figures also revealed that 63 per cent of victims in 2024 were female.

Deputy Brabazon said this highlighted the importance of ongoing legislative reform, noting that measures such as Jennie’s Law and Valerie’s Law will strengthen protections for victims and families affected by violence.

He said understanding trends in suspected offenders is equally critical in ensuring effective policing and prevention strategies.

“We must continue to ensure An Garda Síochána has the tools, resources, and legislative backing required to respond to crime effectively and to disrupt offending patterns at an early stage,” he said.