The family of a teenager who was sexually assaulted by someone she knew have urged other victims of such crimes to come forward, saying that support is available and that “you will be listened to, and you will be treated with care, dignity and respect”.
The girl’s attacker was yesterday jailed for four years and four months, after admitting sexually touching her twice. He had also downloaded indecent images of children.
After he was taken away to Les Nicolles Prison to start his prison sentence, Guernsey Police issued Express with a copy of his custody photo and shared a statement on behalf of the girl’s family.
“We welcome today’s sentence and the court’s recognition of the seriousness of the crimes committed against our daughter when she was just 14 years old,” they wrote.
“Nothing can undo the harm that was caused. The impact of this abuse on our daughter’s mental health has been profound and long-lasting, and it has affected our entire family in ways that are difficult to put into words. We continue to support her as she rebuilds her sense of safety, confidence and wellbeing.”
The girl’s family said the support they have all received, but especially the victim herself, has been “vital” during this difficult time.
Her family said the support received helped the victim to cope.
“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Guernsey Police for their professionalism, compassion and determination throughout this investigation, and to the Reparative Care Team and the Victim Support and Witness Service who have provided vital care, guidance and reassurance during an incredibly difficult period,” they wrote. “Their support has made a meaningful difference to our daughter’s ability to cope and to seek justice.
“While today is about accountability, we also hope that the perpetrator uses his time in custody to reflect on the harm he has caused and to engage with any support offered to him, so that he can rehabilitate and rebuild his life after serving his sentence.
“Finally, we want to send a clear message to other victims of sexual crime in Guernsey: you are not alone, and you should not be afraid to come forward. Support is available, you will be listened to, and you will be treated with care, dignity and respect. We now ask that the media and public respect our daughter’s privacy and the privacy of our family as we focus on her recovery and on moving forward together.”
Guernsey Police also urged other victims of sexual offences and other crimes to come forward.
They confirmed that the teenager’s attacker was arrested soon after his crimes were reported.
Guernsey Police said the victim has been very brave, and they said other people in her situation will also be supported to bring offenders to justice.
“Following his arrest, his electronic devices were seized, and a total of 26 indecent images were identified, totalling five separate counts on the indictment,” said a police spokesperson. “He faced five separate counts of sexual touching offences.
“Brady pleaded guilty to all of these offences.
“We cannot overstate how abhorrent offences of this nature are. They can have a life-long impact on victims.
“We would like to commend the victim in this case for their bravery in coming forwards, and for working with detectives during the investigation.
“Guernsey Police will always take reports of this nature seriously, and will investigate as thoroughly as possible to bring offenders to justice.”