Bristol pensioner jailed for historic child sex offences

78-year-old Brian David has been sentenced to 20 years behind bars

David attacked his victim multiple times in the 1970s and 80s
Author: James DiamondPublished 22nd Dec 2022

A pensioner from Bristol could die in jail after being found guilty of historic sex offences against a child.

Brian David, who's 78 and from Totterdown, has been sentenced to 20 years behind bars for 13 offences including the rape of a young girl in the 1970s and 80s.

In total he has been convicted of:

  • Eight counts of indecent assault
  • Three counts of rape
  • Two counts of buggery

All the charges relate to attacks on a girl who was aged between nine and 16 at the time.

Along with his sentence, David has been handed an indefinite restraining order, banning him from contacting the victim.

In a statement the victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said he is "still screwing up my life" because of flashbacks she has.

"I smell his cigarette smoke every day and certain words set me off on a regular basis," she said.

"Brian knows he is guilty and I want him to remember every day what he did to me.

"He ruined my life."

Officer in the case, Detective Sergeant Oliver Pond, said: "I don't underestimate the strength it must have taken to come forward after suffering such a crime.

"This has been a lengthy and protracted investigation and the survivor of these horrific offences has displayed exceptional bravery and resilience.

"I hope this sentence goes some way to reassure the public and all survivors of sexual abuse that we take these offences incredibly seriously."

If you are a survivor of sexual violence or abuse, you can find a list of all the support available in your area via this link.

There are various groups available in the west country all wanting to offer help, including Somerset and Avon Rape and Sexual Abuse Support.

If you would like to report an incident to the police, you can do so online here or by calling 101.

In a life threatening emergency you should always call 999.

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