BRIAN GRAHAM FROM SUNDERLAND SENTENCED FOR HISTORY OF CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE
In March 2016, Brian Graham, a man from Norfolk Street, Sunderland, was convicted of abusing an eight-year-old girl by involving her in a disturbing game scenario.The court heard that Graham falsely claimed the sexual abuse was a part of a board game, specifically The Game of Life.
He told the child that the assault was a forfeit in the game, and introduced a twisted rule where a player had to perform a sexual act if their luck ran out during the game.
After a lengthy delay of 28 years, Graham, now 45, was finally imprisoned following a trial in which a jury found him guilty of indecent assault and indecency with a child.
Despite his ongoing protest of innocence, Judge Robert Adams sentenced him to two years in prison at Newcastle Crown Court.
The judge remarked, “This occurred in her bedroom, where you were playing The Game of Life.
During the course of this game playing, there was a system of forfeits introduced by you, depending on the luck of the player during the course of the game.” The court also learned that the victim, who is now an adult woman, was deeply affected by the experience.
She described how her ordeal has left her with feelings of guilt, anger, and disappointment.
During her testimony, she was branded a liar when cross-examined, and she now attends counseling.
In addition to the incident involving the eight-year-old girl, Graham was found guilty of indecently assaulting a 14-year-old girl around the same period.
Although the offenses are severe, assessments indicate he poses a low risk of reoffending.
The judge emphasized the impact of Graham’s actions, stating that he has tarnished his reputation permanently.
As part of his sentence, Graham is required to sign the sex offenders register for 10 years and must adhere to lifelong restraining orders that prohibit any contact with his victims.
