Former swimming coach to be extradited over abuse charges

July 11, 2025

Former Irish national swimming coach George Gibney is being extradited from the United States to Ireland following a ruling by a US district magistrate in Orlando, Florida. Gibney, who has lived outside Ireland for over 30 years, faces 78 counts of indecent assault and one count of attempted rape against four girls aged between eight and fourteen. He consented to the extradition and is currently in custody at Orange County Jail awaiting transport to Ireland.

Who is affected

Four girls aged between eight and fourteen (alleged victims)
George Gibney (former Irish national swimming coach)

What action is being taken

Gibney is being extradited from the United States to Ireland
Gibney is currently being held in custody at Orange County Jail awaiting transport to Ireland
A specialist team within the Garda National Protective Services Bureau is conducting a criminal investigation

Why it matters

The case involves serious historical sexual abuse allegations against a former national swimming coach
The charges are significant: 78 counts of indecent assault and one count of attempted rape
The extradition is bringing closure to a case that has remained unresolved for over 30 years since Gibney left Ireland
The investigation was reinvigorated following public awareness raised by the BBC podcast "Where is George Gibney?"

What's next

Arrangements are being made to transport Gibney to Ireland
Gibney will face the criminal charges in Ireland

Read full article from source: BBC