TEIGNMOUTH SEX OFFENDER DAVID DEAM JAILED FOR SIX YEARS OVER ABUSE OF VULNERABLE GIRL

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Teignmouth, a man named David Deam has been sentenced to six years in prison after being convicted of sexually abusing a young girl over a period of several years. The offences came to light after the victim, who was only ten years old at the time, confided in her family about the abuse she had endured at the hands of Deam, who was entrusted with her care during babysitting sessions.

Deam, aged 63 and residing on Higher Coombe Drive in Teignmouth, was found guilty of multiple charges, including inciting the girl to engage in sexual activity and four counts of sexual assault. The court heard that the abuse began when Deam was babysitting the girl and continued for approximately six years, during which he exploited her vulnerability through various means.

According to the prosecution, Miss Emily Pitts, Deam initially used monetary incentives to lure the girl into sexual acts. During his first assault, he offered her £20 while they were out together in his car. As the girl grew older, Deam’s methods became more insidious, involving the use of alcohol as a means of coercion and manipulation. The court was told that these assaults took place in Deam’s home and during outings, with the abuse escalating over time.

The judge, Erik Salomonsen, emphasized the victim’s vulnerability, noting that she suffered from health issues and learning difficulties that made her particularly susceptible to grooming and exploitation. The judge described the case as a “classic example of grooming over the years,” highlighting the calculated nature of Deam’s actions and his awareness of the girl’s fragility.

Prosecutor Miss Pitts explained that the abuse only came to light when the girl confided in her sister and mother last year, prompting police investigations. Deam admitted to the offences, acknowledging that he had assaulted the girl over a prolonged period and had used cash and alcohol as inducements at various stages.

In his defense, Mr. Rupert Taylor stated that Deam had shown remorse and had cooperated fully with authorities. He pointed out that there were no threats or violence involved and that Deam had pleaded guilty at the earliest opportunity. Mr. Taylor also suggested that Deam was suitable for a sex offender treatment program, given his acknowledgment of his misconduct and desire to address his issues.

As part of his sentence, Deam was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life and was subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which explicitly prohibits him from having any unsupervised contact with children in the future. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness of the offences and the need to protect vulnerable individuals from potential harm in the community of Teignmouth.