DAVID JACKSON OF CHADDESDEN SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS FOR HISTORIC ABUSE OF SIX YOUNG GIRLS IN DERBY

In a case that has spanned decades and brought to light the disturbing history of child abuse, David Jackson, a 59-year-old resident of Sandringham Road in Chaddesden, was sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 20 years for his heinous crimes. The conviction followed a detailed trial at Derby Crown Court, where a jury found Jackson guilty on multiple counts, including 14 charges of rape, seven counts of indecent assault, and one count of gross indecency with a child.

Jackson’s victims ranged in age from just five years old to 14, with some enduring his abuse over several years. The emotional and psychological scars inflicted upon these young girls have had lasting effects, some of which are still evident today. One of the victims, now a woman in her 30s and a mother herself, bravely shared her experience with the Derby Telegraph. She recounted how Jackson would threaten her, warning that if she ever told anyone about the abuse, she would never see her mother again.

She explained, “He knew I loved my mum and I never saw her much, so he used that against me. He would take me upstairs in his house and abuse me and then send me off to the shop to buy some sweets.” Her testimony highlighted the manipulative tactics Jackson employed to silence her and continue his abuse over a period of years. The woman, who was victimized between the ages of seven and twelve, expressed her relief at finally reporting the crimes to the authorities but also her regret for not coming forward sooner. “He’s an old man now and has lived most of his life, but I just didn’t feel strong enough to do it before,” she said.

Encouraging others who may have suffered similar abuse, she emphasized that it is never too late to seek justice. “I would encourage anyone who has been abused to go to the police, and it’s never too late to do this,” she added.

Detective Constable Luke Harper, the officer leading the investigation, revealed that the first victim came forward in February of the previous year. Her disclosure prompted others to come forward with their own statements, revealing a pattern of abuse that Jackson had denied throughout the proceedings. Despite his denials, the evidence was compelling enough to secure a conviction.

DC Harper praised the bravery of the six women who testified, acknowledging the immense courage it took for them to relive their traumatic experiences and speak out publicly. “They have all shown tremendous strength and courage to come forward to tell the police and the court what happened to them,” he said. The officer expressed hope that the substantial sentence would serve as a form of justice and help the victims find some measure of closure, allowing them to move forward with their lives.

In closing, DC Harper reaffirmed Derbyshire Constabulary’s commitment to thoroughly investigating reports of child abuse and ensuring that justice is served for victims. The case of David Jackson underscores the importance of speaking out against abuse, regardless of how much time has passed, and highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals from harm.