JAILED FOR NON-RECENT SEXUAL ABUSE OF A CHILD IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE
A 65-year-old man has received an eight-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to multiple child sexual offenses committed in Gloucestershire during the 1990s.Brian Cooke, from Selby in North Yorkshire, appeared at Gloucester Crown Court on Thursday, 13 February, where he admitted to eight counts of indecent assault on a minor aged between six and 16.
The investigation into the case was initiated in 2022 after the victim reached out to police, alleging that Cooke had sexually assaulted her on numerous occasions from 1990 to 2000.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Cooke would give the girl gifts and treats following the abuse and would instruct her to keep the incidents secret.
Following his arrest, Cooke initially denied the charges during police interviews.
An inquiry conducted by Gloucestershire Police’s Criminal Investigations Department led to his formal charges.
Prior to sentencing, Judge Lowe took into account Cooke’s previous seven convictions for sexual offenses.
In addition to the prison term, Cooke was ordered to register as a sex offender for life.
During the court hearing, he expressed remorse for his actions, attributing his offending to excessive alcohol consumption at the time.
A victim impact statement was read aloud in court, describing the severe and lasting trauma caused by the abuse.
The victim, now an adult, explained how her childhood was forever altered, living with regret, anxiety, and PTSD for over three decades.
She recounted her struggles with depression and alcoholism, and described her hope that coming forward would provide some closure and encourage other victims to speak out.
The statement emphasised her desire to transform from a victim into a survivor, expressing determination to seek healing through therapy and support, and to assist others who have experienced similar abuse.
Detective Constable Helen Goode of the Criminal Investigations Department commented on the case, highlighting the bravery it took for the victim to come forward after so many years.
She expressed satisfaction that Cooke is now incarcerated, preventing him from harming others, and encouraged other victims to report abuse regardless of how much time has passed.
She assured the public that police will listen, believe, and work to hold offenders accountable.
