DAVID DRAKE OF THORPE WILLOUGHBY SENTENCED AFTER CHILD ABUSE AND SUICIDE ATTEMPT AT YORK CROWN COURT

In a case that has drawn significant attention, David Drake, a 61-year-old resident of Thorpe Willoughby, is now behind bars following a series of serious criminal convictions related to child abuse. The proceedings unfolded at York Crown Court, where Drake faced multiple charges stemming from heinous acts committed against a young girl over a period of three years.

During the trial, Drake's mental health became a focal point after he attempted to take his own life. The incident occurred midway through the proceedings, with Drake found unconscious at York Hospital. He remained in a coma for two days, during which the court continued to hear evidence against him. Despite his unconscious state, the jury convicted him of four counts of rape, eight acts of indecency with a child, and two indecent assaults. These crimes were committed against the same girl, starting when she was just four years old.

Following his discharge from hospital just before the New Year, Drake was brought back to court to face sentencing. The judge, Recorder Nicholas Campbell QC, decided to adjourn the case to allow for pre-sentence reports and medical evaluations. Drake was remanded into custody pending the final sentencing hearing. During the proceedings, the judge addressed Drake directly, stating, "You are fully aware of what happened in court after you left the hearing last year."

At the time of the trial, Drake was residing on Sandway Avenue in Thorpe Willoughby. He had consistently denied all charges brought against him. His defense team revealed that he was under the care of his general practitioner and was only prescribed medication for high blood pressure. The court was informed that Drake had previously been discharged from hospital briefly over Christmas but was readmitted before the New Year, following his suicide attempt.

During the trial, evidence was presented that detailed the abuse, which reportedly occurred while Drake was caring for the young girl during her mother’s working hours. One particularly alarming incident involved the mother returning home with a friend to find Drake and the girl in the kitchen, with the girl having no pants on. Drake claimed that the girl had soiled herself and that he was simply changing her at the time. The abuse was alleged to have taken place approximately 30 years ago, adding a layer of complexity and distress to the case.

In light of the evidence and Drake’s mental health issues, the court ordered a report on his psychological state before finalizing the sentence. The case has left a lasting impact on the community and highlights the importance of vigilance and safeguarding for vulnerable children.