Romeril committed the abuse almost weekly over an 11-year period between March 2011 and March 2022.
This became progressively getting worse over time, and resulted in the attempted rape of his victim.
During a seven-day trial, the Royal Court heard how Romeril had kept underwear from his victim over several years, from when they were a small child spanning through to their teenage years.
These were found during a search of his bedroom, hidden under his mattress, and were shown to the Jury during trial.
Romeril was first arrested in March 2023 and an investigation commenced.
However, he failed to attend police headquarters for charge and sparked an island-wide search involving a number of emergency services.
Pictured: Images of Romeril released by the police during the missing person search for him last year.
Jersey Fire and Rescue Service, the police, search dogs, drones and a French Navy helicopter were all mobilised.
Flyers were distributed bearing a description of him and a photo taken from CCTV.
Cameras had footage of Romeril buying camping equipment from Blacks in King Street, and he was seen again on CCTV at B&Q that same morning.
His car, a black Kia Sportage, was later found at Noirmont Point.
Romeril was eventually discovered in Route des Hêtres, in St Peter, in the early hours of the morning of 14 September by a police officer on patrol.
A number of electrical devices seized from Romeril were found to contain a large quantity of indecent images of children.
Romeril pleaded guilty to four offences relating to the indecent images in December 2023, and will also be sentenced for these offences later in the year.
Detective Constable Sian Dupre said: “This is a harrowing case of significant sexual abuse, and we welcome the jury’s guilty verdict.
“The victim in this case has shown incredible courage coming forward to police, with Romeril’s constant denials in the face of overwhelming evidence only adding extra stress to the victim, so their resilience and strength should be commended.”
She added: “This case highlights the very challenging circumstances faced by many victims who have been subjected to sexual abuse. Although this was an historic event, the evidence was compelling, and the victim was given reassurance that a thorough investigation would be conducted.
“We are committed to investigating and prosecuting all sexual offenders no matter how long ago the offences occurred, and we want to assure victims that there are a number of agencies who are in a position to offer support and guidance through all stages of the criminal justice process.”
SUPPORT…
Islanders affected by any of the issues raised in this report can contact any of the following:
SARC at Dewberry House provides expert independent and confidential support to victims of sexual abuse. Tel: 01534 888222.
Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR) provide and maintain a supporting framework for survivors and their families. Confidential helpline: 01534 482800.
Freeda (formerly Jersey Women’s Refuge) offer help and support for victims of domestic abuse. Tel: 0800 7356836.
Jersey Domestic Abuse Support (JDAS) is an independent service developed to protect and support victims of domestic and sexual abuse. Tel: 01534 880505.
Victim Support offer free and confidential advice to victims of crime. Tel: 01534 440496.
Victims First Jersey is a free and independent service offering confidential support to victims and witnesses of crime. Tel: 0800 7351612.
Samaritans offer a confidential and non-judgemental listening ear to people who need to talk. Tel: 116 123 free from any phone or 0330 094 5717 (local call charges apply).