Absconded Carlow rapist subject of televised appeal in FBI hunt

A RAPIST facing a lengthy prison sentence in Arbour Hill is the subject of major public hunt by America’s Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Absconded Carlow rapist subject of televised appeal in FBI hunt

Last month the FBI made a televised appeal in the US for Carlow man Michael Christian Moran, 29, who fled to America days before he was due to be sentenced here for rape.

Moran, formerly of Tullow Road in Carlow has already pleaded guilty to raping the woman in the Blackbog Road area of Carlow in July 1999.

In 2001 he escaped to Boston where police have kept in constant contact with the gardaí. An FBI spokesman said they are treating the investigation very seriously.

“Rape and sexual violence is an international crime and wherever he is he could do that to another woman.”

Moran’s mother, Phyllis Moran told the Central Criminal Court in 2002 that her son fled after receiving a letter from inmates at Arbour Hill saying they were looking forward to his arrival.

After reading a Deirdre Purcell book recommended by the guilty man’s mother, Judge Paul Carney said he would grant a suspended sentence on condition that Moran returned but that offer was subsequently withdrawn.

Detective Garda Frank Stephenson in Carlow Town is investigating the case and said there have been persistent efforts to execute the extradition warrant.

“The investigation is still open. We are being assisted by FBI who are keeping us updated on whatever information they have.

“The extradition warrant has been drawn up and should he show up in America or in any jurisdiction with an extradition warrant with Ireland he will be sent back.”

Moran is listed among the most wanted men in the New England area and the FBI are categorising him as armed and dangerous.

The former meat-packer is understood to have been working as a labourer in Boston and may be using his middle name, Christian.

In July 1999 Moran raped a 27-year-old woman who was walking home from a hen-party in Carlow town.

He was arrested within a week in response to a highly successful public appeal for information.

On the second day of his trial in July 2001 Moran changed his plea of innocence to that of guilty after legal discussions.

He was granted bail and nine days before he was due back in court he boarded a plane for America and has not been seen here since.

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