HALIFAX SEX OFFENDER JAILED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN BRADFORD
A calculated and manipulative sexual predator, David Hammond, has been sentenced to a total of 18 years in prison after being found guilty of child abuse offences in the Bradford district.Hammond, aged 44 and residing on Crabtree Street in Halifax, was convicted by a jury at Bradford Crown Court in November on charges relating to non-recent offending, meaning the abuse took place some time ago but came to light more recently.
Following the verdict, Hammond was remanded in custody and appeared via a video link from HMP Doncaster, where he is currently incarcerated.
The court heard heart-breaking testament from Hammond’s victim, who read aloud a statement describing the profound emotional and psychological damage inflicted by Hammond.
The victim labelled Hammond as 'disgusting and wrong,' expressing a deep hatred for him and recounting the nightmares and trauma that continue to haunt them since the abuse.
The victim also shared how Hammond's actions have permanently scarred their well-being, referencing how he was 'an awful disgusting man' who managed to rob them of their childhood innocence and happiness, taking away their smile and sense of security.
Hammond’s legal representative, Ian Howard, highlighted Hammond's physical disabilities, noting that he is wheelchair-bound and suffers from health issues including at least one stroke.
Mr.
Howard explained that Hammond’s condition complicates his incarceration, as he is not receiving any physiotherapy while in custody, which hampers his mobility.
He further argued that Hammond’s health issues have rendered him incapable of living independently and suggested that this would likely prevent him from reoffending should he be released.
However, the presiding judge, Recorder David Gordon, dismissed these health-related arguments, emphasising Hammond’s predatory and manipulative nature.
The judge described him as 'sexually predatory' with a history of cunning and deception.
Hammond had categorically denied any wrongdoing, taking the stand to give evidence in his own defence, but the jury showed strong belief in the victim’s account by delivering a unanimous conviction.
In his sentencing remarks, Recorder Gordon underscored Hammond’s longstanding sexual interest in children, labelling him as a 'dangerous offender' under the law.
The emotional impact on his victim was profound, with the judge noting that the psychological scars inflicted by Hammond’s actions would likely persist for many years.
The court also noted Hammond’s apparent lack of remorse for his crimes.
Despite his poor health and physical disabilities, the judge pointed out that Hammond’s behaviour demonstrated a continued dangerousness, warranting strict legal measures.
A probation officer’s report was presented as part of the evidence, describing Hammond as a high-risk individual with a significant potential for future harm.
The report’s findings contributed to the judge's determination that Hammond posed a serious danger to children, justifying an extended prison sentence.
Hammond was sentenced to an initial custodial term of 13 years, with an additional five-year period on license, totalling 18 years of extended detention.
The court made clear that Hammond must serve a minimum of nine years before he can be considered for parole, with the possibility that he could spend the entire 13-year custodial period behind bars.
Furthermore, he was ordered to register as a sex offender indefinitely and to comply with a lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
A restraining order was also issued, barring Hammond from making any contact with his victim in any capacity for an indefinite period, aiming to protect the victim from further harm.
This case highlights the ongoing challenge of safeguarding vulnerable children from predators like Hammond, whose manipulative behaviours and ability to hide behind disabilities complicate the justice process.
The lengthy sentence reflects the court’s recognition of the severity of his crimes and the need to prevent future harm.
