DAVID MATTHEWS AND HIS SHOCKING SEX OFFENCES IN BATH

A man from Bath, David Matthews, aged 61, who committed a series of heinous historical sexual offenses, has been sentenced to more than eleven years in prison. Matthews, residing in Linley Close, off Poolemead Road, was convicted of abusing two girls on multiple occasions spanning the 1990s and early 2000s. The court heard that the crimes included multiple counts of indecent assault, attempted rape, and outright rape of underage girls.

The trial, which took place at Bristol Crown Court in January, lasted six days. The jury found Matthews guilty beyond reasonable doubt of ten counts of indecent assault applied to a girl. In addition, he was convicted of attempting to rape a girl under the age of 16 and successfully raping a girl aged 13, 14, or 15, with these latter verdicts reaching by majority decision.

Following the trial, Matthews appeared once more before Bristol Crown Court on February 21, where he was handed a substantial prison sentence of 11 years and six months. The court also ordered that Matthews be placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

The victims, whose identities are protected by law, were only 11 and 12 years old when the abuse began. Their suffering has had enduring consequences, as highlighted by the investigating officer, Detective Constable Gemma Crew. She emphasized that Matthews’s actions have left lifelong scars on the victims, who are still coming to terms with the trauma inflicted upon them more than two decades ago.

Detective Crew expressed relief that Matthews is now behind bars for a considerable length of time, stating, “I hope this provides a sense of justice for the victims and acknowledges the gravity of what they endured.” She also commended both victims for their bravery in speaking out about their experiences and stressed that their courage might encourage other survivors to come forward and report similar offenses.

The officer reiterated that no matter when or where the offenses happened, or who was responsible, the police are committed to taking all reports seriously and providing the necessary support. This case serves as a reminder that justice can be pursued regardless of the passage of time, and the criminal justice system remains resolute in its duty to protect victims of sexual crimes.