Rumours that a high profile convicted sex offender has moved to Ennis have been described as "false and malicious" by local Gardai.
It's been suggested on social media sites that Larry Murphy – who served ten years in prison for the rape and attempted murder of a woman in the Wicklow Mountains, has been in the Ennis area in recent weeks.
Without specifically naming Larry Murphy, Gardai have made contact with Clare FM to deny any rumours that "a notorious Sexual offender" is in Ennis, or that he might be related to anyone in the town.
Garda Spokesman Sergent Joe Downey says the rumours have been investigated and found to be false.
He issued the following statement:
"It has come to the attention of the Gardai in Ennis, that a notorious sexual offender, has been seen or is presently in Ennis town. We have investigated this rumour, and can categorically state, that this man is not in Ennis and neither is he related to any person in Ennis.
Certain malicious comments have appeared on social media sites and on the internet concerning this man's whereabouts, and to who might be related to him in this town.
The rumours are untrue, and we would like to caution people who may be posting comments on any site, that they may be putting themselves at risk of civil suit by any person who may be affected by these malicious rumours.
This man is not in Ennis town and he is not related to anyone residing in Ennis town."
