DONALD VAN MALE'S SHOCKING SEXUAL ABUSE IN LAUNCESTON: BIZARRE PHOTOS AND CHILD VICTIM

In June 2019, a disturbing case emerged involving Donald Philip Van Male, a 71-year-old man from Launceston, who was convicted of sexually assaulting a young girl. The incident drew significant attention due to the nature of the evidence found at his residence and the details of his actions.

Following his arrest, police conducted a search of Van Male’s home in St Clether, Launceston. During the investigation, officers discovered a series of unusual photographs of the young girl, who was between the ages of 11 and 12 at the time of the offenses. These images were notably disturbing because they featured the girl’s face cut out, a detail that initially raised questions about their intent. However, during court proceedings, it was clarified that Van Male claimed these photographs were part of his attempt at surrealist art, and there was no suggestion of further malicious intent behind the images.

Van Male appeared before Truro Crown Court on Wednesday, June 5, where he faced multiple charges related to his inappropriate conduct. He pleaded guilty to six counts of sexually touching a girl under the age of 13. Prosecutor Philip Lee detailed the nature of Van Male’s misconduct, stating that he had touched the girl on approximately 12 occasions. The contact involved touching her between her legs, either over her jeans or sometimes underneath her clothing. The court was informed that the girl was confused and unsure of how to respond to Van Male’s actions, which added to the distress of the case.

Mr. Lee emphasized that Van Male had admitted to becoming obsessed with the girl, which contributed to his troubling behavior. Despite the serious nature of the charges, the court noted that Van Male had previously been of good character and had served in the Armed Forces during the 1960s. This background was considered during sentencing.

Judge Simon Carr acknowledged Van Male’s genuine remorse and took into account his early guilty pleas. As a result, Van Male was sentenced to four and a half years in prison for each of the six offenses, with all sentences to run concurrently. Additionally, Van Male was ordered to register as a sex offender and was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for a period of ten years, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to prevent further harm.

This case highlights the disturbing nature of the offenses committed by Van Male and underscores the importance of thorough investigations and legal proceedings in protecting vulnerable victims from sexual abuse.