DAVE MARSDEN FROM REDDITCH SENT SEXUAL TEXTS TO SCHOOLGIRL - JAILED IN WORCESTER

In October 2010, a disturbing case emerged involving David Marsden, a bus driver from Redditch, who was convicted of sending highly inappropriate and sexually explicit messages to a 14-year-old girl. The incident unfolded over a span of just two days, during which Marsden sent a total of 122 explicit texts to the young girl, raising serious concerns about the exploitation of a minor.

It was the victim’s father who first uncovered the troubling communications. While reviewing his daughter’s mobile phone, he discovered one of the messages, which prompted further investigation. Upon examining her computer, he found additional evidence that confirmed the inappropriate nature of Marsden’s communications. The prosecutor, Gareth Walters, detailed these findings during the proceedings at Worcester Crown Court.

David Marsden, aged 62 and married, was present in the courtroom where he appeared slumped in the dock, holding his head in his hands as the verdict was delivered. He was subsequently sentenced to 21 months in prison for his actions. Judge John Cavell emphasized the gravity of the offense, stating that Marsden’s “obscene” texts to a vulnerable teenager constituted a crime that, if carried out physically, could have amounted to rape.

Marsden, who was employed full-time as a driver for Dudley Coaches, was responsible for transporting pupils to and from Studley High School. The court heard that he engaged in communication with the girl over a period of three weeks in June of the previous year. During this time, he expressed fears that she might disclose their conversations to others, which added to the troubling nature of his conduct.

The victim’s father took swift action after discovering the messages. He reported the matter to the bus company’s management, leading to Marsden’s suspension. The police were also informed, initiating a formal investigation. Marsden later admitted to the authorities that his actions were driven by infatuation. He claimed that the girl had asked for his mobile number and had threatened to harm herself if he refused.

Further details revealed that Marsden had asked the girl when she would next have a day off so they could meet at his home for sexual activity. The victim also sent him a photograph of herself taking a bath via text message, which added to the evidence against him.

During the court proceedings, Marsden’s defense lawyer, Diljit Bachada, acknowledged that her client found it difficult to come to terms with his behavior. She stated that Marsden had blamed the girl for his downfall, claiming that she had asked for his number and threatened self-harm if he did not comply. However, she emphasized that Marsden now recognized the seriousness of his actions and the fact that he was an adult engaging in misconduct with a minor.

It was also noted that Marsden had no prior criminal record and was generally considered to be of good character. He was married, with his wife living abroad. The defense highlighted his health issues, including heart problems, depression, and suicidal tendencies, which the court took into consideration.

In addition to his prison sentence, the court imposed several restrictions on Marsden’s future conduct. He was given an indefinite restraining order and a sexual offences prevention order to prevent any contact with children under the age of 16. Furthermore, he was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years, reflecting the severity of his misconduct and the need for ongoing monitoring.