DAVID NELSON FROM NORFOLK SENTENCED TO 28 YEARS FOR ABUSING TWO YOUNG GIRLS
In a case that has shocked the Norfolk community, David Nelson, a 51-year-old man with no fixed address, was handed a substantial extended prison sentence after being convicted of heinous sexual offenses involving two young girls.The sentencing took place at Norwich Crown Court, where the judge described Nelson as posing a “significant” risk to the public, particularly to vulnerable children.
Nelson faced multiple charges, including one count of rape and several sex assaults.
The crimes spanned a period of over two decades, with one victim’s abuse beginning when she was just seven years old, and the other victim’s assaults occurring more recently, approximately eight years prior to the trial.
Nelson had consistently denied all allegations, maintaining his innocence throughout the proceedings.
Prosecutor Duncan O’Donnell provided detailed testimony about the case, emphasizing the long-lasting impact of Nelson’s actions.
He explained that the first victim, now 31 years old, had endured a traumatic history of abuse that started in childhood.
She recounted how the abuse had led her to turn to alcohol and drugs as a means of coping, and how she had engaged in self-harm.
Despite these struggles, she expressed hope that her sentencing would bring some measure of closure, acknowledging that she still faces dark days.
The second victim also shared her emotional pain, describing feelings of anger and disgust towards Nelson.
She revealed that she suffers from panic attacks as a direct result of the abuse she endured.
Judge Maureen Bacon delivered the sentence, condemning Nelson for using a child for his own sexual gratification.
She stated, “You were using a child for your own sexual needs,” and expressed her agreement with the probation report, which highlighted Nelson’s high risk of causing further harm.
The judge emphasized the danger Nelson posed to the community, especially to young girls, and decided on a 28-year extended sentence.
This sentence comprises 20 years of custody, followed by an eight-year extended license period.
Additionally, Nelson was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was subject to a sexual harm prevention order.
The judge also noted that Nelson had shown no remorse for his actions.
Earlier, in November 2018, Nelson had already been warned by a judge to prepare for a lengthy jail term after being convicted of child sex offenses involving two girls.
The court heard that the assaults on one girl occurred 20 years ago, while the more recent offenses on the other girl took place approximately eight years prior.
Following the guilty verdicts, Judge Maureen Bacon adjourned sentencing until January 18 to allow for reports assessing Nelson’s potential danger.
The judge made it clear that a long prison sentence was inevitable, stating, “There will have to be a long sentence and you must prepare yourself for that.”
