DAVID SOADY SHOCKS TREMADDOCK AND ST NEOT WITH CHILD RAPE SENTENCE

In a case that has left the tight-knit community of St Neot in Cornwall reeling with shock, David Soady, a 44-year-old resident of Tremaddock, was sentenced to 12 years in prison for heinous acts of child sexual abuse. The conviction followed a series of disturbing revelations during his trial at Truro Crown Court, where Soady admitted to repeatedly raping and abusing a young girl when she was only 12 and 13 years old.

Judge Graham Cottle described the case as one of the most severe instances of child sexual abuse he had encountered. He emphasized the devastating impact such crimes have on victims, stating, “The consequences for her will be catastrophic.” The judge also condemned Soady’s violent behavior, noting that he used physical force, including slapping and pulling the girl’s hair, while disregarding her screams for help.

Soady, who had no prior criminal record, pleaded guilty to seven charges, which included rape and engaging in sexual activities with a minor. During the proceedings, it was revealed that after Soady’s confession, paramedics observed him speaking incoherently, uttering what was described as “gobbledygook with all sorts of religious connotations – complete nonsense.”

His defense attorney, Ramsay Quaife, explained that Soady had been pouring water over his head, claiming he was trying to “cleanse himself” and that he believed he had sinned. The defense highlighted that Soady’s honesty in admitting to the crimes was a mitigating factor, as it spared the young girl from having to testify in court.

As part of his sentence, Soady will be required to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life. The court also advised the prosecution to seek an indefinite Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) to further restrict his activities.

Cornwall councillor Derris Watson, representing the St Cleer division which includes St Neot, expressed her shock and disbelief. “I’m totally shocked, and almost beyond words. I don’t know how anyone can do anything like that,” she said. Mrs. Watson urged anyone who suspects such behavior to contact the police immediately or reach out to the safeguarding unit at Cornwall Council.

She described St Neot as a close-knit community where everyone knows each other, making the betrayal even more painful. “People will be shocked that such a thing could go on repeatedly in their own community,” she added.

Detective Constable Rebecca Deane, the lead investigator, underscored the seriousness of the case. She stated that the lengthy sentence reflected the gravity of Soady’s actions. “Long-term sexual abuse can happen anywhere and be committed by anyone,” she explained. “Perpetrators often groom not only their victims but also those around them to avoid detection.”

Deane praised the bravery of the young victim, who showed remarkable courage throughout the police investigation and trial. She also commended the efforts of the Launceston Child Abuse Investigation Team, which dedicated months to gathering evidence, some of which was years old but crucial in establishing the full extent of Soady’s crimes.

The officer expressed gratitude to all the officers involved and the social worker assigned to support the victim and her family. Police continue to encourage the public to report any suspicions of criminal activity by calling 101, or 999 if an emergency is unfolding. Cornwall Social Care can be contacted at 0300 1234101 for concerns related to safeguarding and child protection.