A prominent Irish sports journalist has been arrested over allegations he sexually abused a minor.

The Dublin writer was detained on September 25 over allegations he had unlawful sex with a teenage girl. A file is now being prepared for the DPP, according to the Irish Independent.

It is understood the relationship began while the journalist was coaching the girl in an underage GAA team.

The investigation began over 18 months ago, after the suspect’s daughter allegedly discovered text messages he had sent to the girl on his old cell phone. He had given the phone to his daughter, who was planning on recycling old cell phones for charity. It is alleged she later found text messages as well as photographs of the young camogie player.

Police have interviewed both the girl involved about the relationship and alleged statutory rape.
Investigators were unable to question the suspect immediately, as he spent a period in hospital receiving psychiatric care.

During that time, a second girl, from a different GAA club in Dublin, also alleged she had inappropriate contact with him.

Over one week ago, police moved in to arrest the writer after they were given the go ahead by medical experts.