DAMIEN MARSHALL SHIPLEY RAF OFFICER JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT ON 13-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN SHIPLEY

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Shipley, Damian Marshall, a Royal Air Force police officer, has been sentenced to a year in prison after being found guilty of sexually abusing a 13-year-old girl. The incident, which took place in January 2004, has not only ended Marshall’s career but also raised serious concerns about trust and misconduct involving individuals in positions of authority.

Marshall, a married man and father of two, initiated contact with the young girl through text messages. During these exchanges, he asked her personal questions, including whether she was a virgin, which marked the beginning of his grooming behavior. The case against him was built on evidence that included his inappropriate communication and actions towards the girl, which ultimately led to his conviction on one count of sexual abuse. However, he was acquitted on three other charges, including three allegations of indecent assault and one of indecency with a child.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge James Stewart QC did not hold back in criticizing Marshall’s conduct. He pointed out that the defendant had failed to admit his guilt, despite the evidence against him. The judge remarked, “You knew what you were doing was wrong. Indeed it is referred to in one of the letters, but you didn’t have the courage to admit your guilt.” He further condemned Marshall for prolonging the case, which forced the young girl to testify and undergo cross-examination, adding to the trauma she experienced.

Judge Stewart also highlighted the disturbing nature of Marshall’s interactions with the girl beyond mere messaging. He revealed that Marshall had discussed his sexual fantasies with her, befriended her, and allowed her to confide in him about personal issues. The court heard that Marshall visited her at school and took her to secluded woods nearby, actions deemed highly inappropriate and exploitative. The judge emphasized that the law exists to protect vulnerable young women from predators like Marshall, underscoring the seriousness of his misconduct.

Representing Marshall, his barrister Julia Nelson emphasized his long-standing service in the RAF, which began when he was just 17. She pointed out his otherwise exemplary record and the potential consequences he faced, including the loss of his RAF-provided home and 18 years of pension rights. Nelson requested that the court consider a non-custodial sentence, proposing that Marshall be subjected to a sex offender treatment program instead of imprisonment.

However, Judge Stewart was firm in his response. He stated, “Those in positions of trust must learn that if they act as predators on young girls they will be punished.” The judge’s decision reflected a clear message that abuse of trust, especially involving minors, warrants strict punishment to uphold the integrity of the law and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.