ANDREW TRATHEN FROM REDRUTH JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON YOUNG GIRL

In a case that has shocked the community of Redruth, Andrew Trathen, a 52-year-old former local councillor, has been sentenced to prison for a serious sexual offence involving a young girl. The incident took place in April of the previous year, and the legal proceedings culminated in a conviction that has left many residents concerned about safety and trust within their community.

Trathen, who resides on Rose Row in Redruth, initially denied the allegations, claiming he did not intentionally engage in any sexual touching of the girl. Despite his denial, the jury at Truro Crown Court reached a verdict after a trial that concluded in July. The jury, composed of 10 members in favor of guilt and 2 dissenting, found Trathen guilty of the charges brought against him.

Following the conviction, Judge Jeffrey Rucker handed down a sentence of 18 months in prison. Additionally, he ordered Trathen to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for a period of ten years, a measure intended to monitor and restrict his activities post-release. It is important to note that Trathen was acquitted of other serious allegations, including causing a young teenager to engage in sexual activity and sexually touching another minor. These acquittals suggest that the court found insufficient evidence to support those specific charges.

During the sentencing, defence counsel Martin Edmunds emphasized that Trathen had no prior history of similar offences and expressed hope that he would not reoffend. Despite this, the judge highlighted the profound impact of the assault on the victim. Judge Rucker stated that the girl had experienced significant emotional and psychological difficulties following the incident, which affected her relationship with her parents and her performance at school. The trauma was severe enough that she resorted to self-harm, illustrating the lasting damage caused by the offence.

The case has resonated deeply within the Redruth community, raising concerns about safeguarding and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals from harm. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which such offences are treated and the ongoing need for community awareness and preventative measures.