DAVID JORDAN FROM FRAMPTON COTTERELL SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF GIRL IN BRISTOL

In a case that has shocked the local community of Frampton Cotterell and the wider Bristol area, David Jordan, a 51-year-old man residing on Kelbra Crescent in Frampton Cotterell, has been sentenced to six years in prison for a series of heinous sexual offenses committed against a young girl during the 1990s. The court proceedings revealed a disturbing pattern of abuse that spanned several years, during which Jordan exploited the innocence of a girl who was only 13 or 14 years old at the time.

According to the evidence presented at Bristol Crown Court, Jordan engaged in multiple acts of sexual assault against his victim, often in secluded woodland areas around Bristol. The court heard that his abuse was not limited to simple acts but extended to more disturbing practices, including the use of bondage, which he reportedly introduced by tying her up inside a van. These assaults were described as planned and predatory, with Jordan treating the girl as little more than a personal sex toy, a characterization that deeply distressed the court and the victim herself.

During the sentencing hearing, the victim, visibly emotional, read a heartfelt personal statement. She described how the abuse had devastated her life, stating, “It has ruined my life. The memory of the abuse I suffered will always be with me.” She recounted her transformation from a cheerful, trusting child with aspirations for the future into someone plagued by depression, self-harm, and a series of mental health struggles. Her narrative included the painful details of her three nervous breakdowns and multiple suicide attempts, illustrating the profound and lasting impact of Jordan’s actions.

She also shared how her adult life was marred by failed relationships and a pattern of seeking out unhealthy, destructive partnerships, which she attributes to the trauma inflicted upon her as a child. Her words reflected a deep sense of mistrust and emotional damage, as she told the court, “I cannot trust any man not to hurt me. Every time I’m happy, I will find a way to destroy myself. I’m damaged, I’m cold and I’m isolated.” Her family members sat in the public gallery, listening to her account of suffering and resilience.

Judge Mark Horton, presiding over the case, delivered a stern sentence, emphasizing the severity of Jordan’s crimes. He stated, “You stole her late childhood through this abuse, and as the court has heard, you robbed her of any chance to develop proper intimate relationships. Your actions were planned in a predatory manner, and you treated her as little more than a personal sex toy.” The judge also noted the absence of remorse from Jordan, highlighting the lack of any genuine regret for his actions.

Despite denying the charges of indecent assault, Jordan was found guilty by a jury after a trial. The court heard that the victim had initially “consented” to some of the sexual activities, but because she was under 16, the law deemed her too young to give legal consent. In mitigation, Jordan’s defense presented numerous character references, describing him as a hardworking man who loved his family. His barrister, Mary Cowe, argued that Jordan was unlikely to offend again and that his imprisonment would have a severe emotional and financial impact on his family.

Jordan’s history as a van driver was also scrutinized during the trial. It was revealed that he had taken the girl on approximately four occasions, including during early morning newspaper deliveries and daytime trips. Jordan claimed these outings were innocent, with the girl expressing a desire to accompany him, and he had sought parental permission beforehand. He insisted that there was nothing inappropriate about their interactions and expressed disbelief when allegations surfaced, stating, “I was shocked. I never did anything to her. There is no basis whatsoever for her to tell anybody that I had.”

Prosecutor Kerry Barker detailed that the girl was even taken on holiday with Jordan, his wife, and their children. The assaults allegedly occurred in the privacy of his daughter’s bedroom while the rest of the family was out. The victim’s life took a turn for the worse after she encountered Jordan again at her workplace, which triggered a breakdown and prompted her to confront him, seeking an apology. The case was further reignited when she saw pictures of Jordan on Facebook, which brought back painful memories, leading her to report the abuse to the police in July of the previous year.

Jordan’s case remains a stark reminder of the devastating impact of childhood sexual abuse and the importance of justice for victims. His sentencing marks a significant step in addressing these serious crimes and providing some measure of closure for the survivor and her family.