Exclusive

CONCERNS RAISED

Cops on high alert after kid abduction attempt sicko makes vile ‘going back to see young one’ threat at homeless shelter

As part of his release conditions, he has to inform Gardai of his movements

• Crime Editor

• Dublin
• Published: 7:00, 19 Mar 2024

COPS have been put on high alert after a sicko who was convicted of trying to abduct an 11-year-old girl made threats to staff at a homeless shelter.

The Irish Sun can reveal hostel workers contacted Gardai in Waterford last week after Michael Martin, 44, threatened to return to his native Kildare.

In an exchange with staff, he said: “I don’t give a f***” – I’m going back to Kildare to see a young one.”

Staff also told how Martin had remained isolated in the hostel, often refusing to leave his room.

Following the complaint, chiefs warned gardai to be on high alert if Martin leaves his accommodation in Waterford, where he has been staying since getting out of jail in January.

As part of his release conditions, he has to inform Gardai of his movements.

One local told us: “Staff at the hostel are a bit concerned because he just sits in his room all day.

“When they do approach him he insists that he’s going to leave – but it could be all talk.

“Staff had no option but to phone the Gardai and make them aware of what he had been saying.

“Hopefully he continues to get help and keep out of trouble.”

He was jailed after he targeted the girl as she played with her brothers in the rural area of Cullohill, Co Laois, in March 2015.

After initially speaking to her, he grabbed the child and tried to force her into his car.

Attempt foiled

The girl struggled and her ten-year-old brother ran to her aid and attacked the pervert.

The career criminal, who has 97 previous convictions, was released due to time served and for good behaviour.

During his time behind bars, Martin took courses to help deal with his “volatile behaviour”.

His previous convictions include sexual assault, threats to kill, burglary and theft.

At his trial, Judge Keenan Johnson said he had a “high risk of reoffending”.