CRAIG SMITH AND SHOCKING SEXUAL ABUSE IN HULL
The parents of a young girl who endured persistent nightmares following her sexual abuse have expressed feelings of heartbreak and disgust over what transpired, yet they also feel a sense of relief now that justice has been served.They hope that the conviction and subsequent imprisonment of Craig Smith will serve as a crucial step on her path to recovery after the deeply distressing incident.
The incident, which took place in Hull, was brought before Hull Crown Court, where it was revealed that Smith, aged 27 and residing on Priory Grove in west Hull, denied the charge of sexually assaulting the girl on April 28 of the previous year.
Despite his denial, a jury found him guilty after a trial, leading to his conviction.
According to court proceedings, Smith had inappropriately touched the girl by pulling down her underwear, an act that caused significant emotional and psychological trauma.
The girl began experiencing nightmares and disturbing dreams shortly after the assault, which her family hoped would diminish over time as she grew older.
However, they harbored fears that these symptoms might persist.
Craig Smith had a criminal history prior to this offence, including a 15-month imprisonment in 2014 for wounding.
His record also included convictions for criminal damage, burglary, and arson.
Notably, he had no previous convictions related to sexual offences.
During the trial, defence barrister Nigel Clive acknowledged the seriousness of the offence, stating, "There's little that can be said by way of mitigation." He noted that while the offending was deeply unpleasant, there was no evidence of premeditation or the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Smith received a relatively lenient sentence considering the circumstances.
Clive added, "Thankfully, for all, this is not the worst offence of its type.
There are other offences which, regrettably, are far worse than this." He expressed hope that with the passage of time, the traumatic memory might fade for the girl.
Judge Kate Rayfield addressed Smith directly, stating, "You thought you could get away with touching her.
She still has nightmares and flashbacks to what happened." She emphasized the far-reaching impact of sexual abuse, noting that the long-term effects on the girl remain uncertain.
The judge also referenced Smith’s previous custodial sentence from many years ago, underscoring the seriousness of his current actions.
Smith was sentenced to four years in prison and was issued an indefinite sexual harm prevention order.
Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for life.
Following the sentencing, the girl’s mother expressed a mixture of relief and disappointment, saying, "We would have liked longer but are happy that she has found some justice.
We are so glad that she could come to us and that we finally got something back for her." She described her feelings towards Smith with disgust, stating, "We are just disgusted." The girl’s father shared his emotional response, saying, "We are heartbroken.
It’s hard to put it into words.
We got justice for her.
She can rest easy.
It’s part of the road to recovery for her." He added his hope that this chapter was finally closed, allowing his daughter to regain happiness and confidence.
This case highlights the devastating impact of sexual abuse and the importance of justice for victims.
The court’s decision aims to protect the community and support the healing process for the young girl affected by Craig Smith’s actions in Hull.
