David Paul, 57, of Windmill Close, Ely, Cambridgeshire, has been sentenced to 10 years in prison with an additional three years on license for multiple child sexual offences. The Wood Green Crown Court delivered the sentence on Tuesday, 28 March 2023, following his earlier conviction this year.
Paul was found guilty of two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and two counts of sexual activity with a child.
Detective Constable Andreea Popa, who led the investigation, stated: “Paul completely abused the trust that had been placed in him. His abuse will have a life-long impact on Amy and her family.” She added, “Both victim-survivors have bravely come forward because they don’t want anyone else to hide their abuse. They encourage anyone else who may have been subject to similar abuse to report it.”
Amy, one of the victims, came forward in 2019 after learning about Paul’s 2017 conviction for similar offences against another girl, Rebecca, who was eight years old when abused between 1989 and 1992. This information gave Amy the courage to speak out.
Amy said: “The day I learned that David had previously abused other girls like me was the worst day of my life. I felt sick, ashamed, and heartbroken. For years I blamed myself, and my mental and physical health suffered.”
“I tried to shut it all out and focus on studies, but eventually, I couldn’t run any more. I flew back to the UK, told my friends and family, and reported the abuse to the police. The Metropolitan Police and Victim Support have been incredible.”
“During the trial, I met Rebecca and her sister. We instantly connected, and I knew she was my ally. Having her, my family, friends, and the police by my side made me strong.”
Paul moved near Amy’s home in Enfield around 2003. Over several months, he gained the trust of her family by exploiting her interest in football. He invited Amy to his house to watch football matches and gave her a pet snake that he kept in his bedroom.
As trust developed, Amy visited Paul alone, where the grooming escalated into sexual abuse. Paul convinced her he was her secret boyfriend and forced her into sexual acts, which Amy described as “forceful and animalistic.” Despite the trauma, Amy remained silent for years due to fear and secrecy.
Rebecca, the earlier victim, said: “I’m proud I reported him and helped Amy find strength to get justice. Meeting Amy was emotional but comforting—finally, I’m not alone. The police support was amazing.”
Detective Constable Popa urged victims to come forward: “We believe you and will fight for justice. No matter how long ago, we’re here to listen and act. We also provide specialist support.”
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse or has information about offenders, contact the police on 101 or 999 in emergencies. Specialist officers are available to listen and investigate.
Originally published by UKNIP.
