CHESTER CHILD SEX OFFENDER DAVID BENNION SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS IN PRISON

In a case that has shocked the community of Chester, David Bennion, a 56-year-old man from Windsor Road, was handed a severe prison sentence of 17 years after being convicted of multiple child sex offences. The Chester Crown Court heard on Wednesday, June 17, that Bennion had committed numerous heinous acts involving two young girls, some as young as 11 years old at the time of the abuse.

Judge Steven Everett, the Honorary Recorder of Chester, praised the bravery of the victims who appeared in court to deliver personal statements. These statements detailed the profound and lasting psychological scars inflicted by Bennion’s actions, describing how their childhoods had been irreparably damaged. The victims recounted the emotional toll and ongoing struggles they faced, including anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

Bennion, who had previously been convicted in 2016 and was serving a 12-year sentence for similar offences involving a third young girl, pleaded guilty to 12 counts of child sex crimes. These included sexual assault and causing a child to engage in sexual activity. His latest conviction and sentence reflect the gravity of his crimes, which spanned over multiple incidents, with some offences occurring on at least ten separate occasions.

The court was told that Bennion’s actions had a profoundly destructive impact on his victims. One of the victims, in her statement, described how the abuse had led to anxiety and how she had to repeatedly recount her story to police and family members. She expressed that her life had been “a long, horrible road” and that Bennion had “ruined her childhood.”

The second victim described her ordeal as an exhausting and relentless rollercoaster, revealing that she had been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, migraines, panic attacks, and insomnia over the past six months. She expressed her anger and disdain for Bennion, stating, “People like David [Bennion] do not deserve a place on this earth.”

During the sentencing, Judge Everett addressed the victims directly, emphasizing that feelings of guilt and self-blame are common but unfounded. He reassured them that the only person truly at fault was Bennion himself, who exploited their innocence and trust.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Everett condemned Bennion’s crimes as “totally despicable” and “disgusting,” highlighting the courage of the victims in coming forward. He acknowledged the severe psychological damage inflicted and expressed hope that the victims would find some closure through the court proceedings. The judge also explained that Bennion’s sentence includes a two-year extension on extended licence, meaning he will face a parole review after serving half of his term to assess whether he remains a danger to the public. If deemed a threat, he could serve the full 17 years behind bars.

Overall, the case underscores the importance of justice for victims of such heinous crimes and serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of child sexual abuse within the Chester community.