EDWARD COLEMAN SENTENCED IN SURREY FOR NEARLY TWO DECADES OF ABUSE IN ST AUSTELL

In a case that spanned nearly twenty years, Edward Coleman, a man originally from St Austell and now residing in Surrey, has been convicted of multiple serious sexual offenses involving a young girl. The lengthy legal proceedings culminated in a conviction at Truro Crown Court, where Coleman was found guilty of three counts of sexual assault on a girl under the age of 13, including assault by penetration and five additional charges of sexual activity with a minor.

Prosecutor Heather Hope detailed the disturbing nature of the crimes to the jury, describing how Coleman engaged in inappropriate touching of the girl’s chest and genitals, digital penetration, oral sex, and the imitation of sexual acts. These offenses took place in the St Austell area, where the abuse was initially committed. Hope emphasized that during some of these incidents, Coleman was noticeably intoxicated, as he “smelt of alcohol,” and that the young victim would attempt to escape when Coleman tried to coerce her into masturbation.

Hope provided a graphic account of the abuse, illustrating the severity and the manipulative tactics used by Coleman. The abuse reportedly continued until the victim found the strength to stand up to him, which marked a turning point in the case. Despite the victim’s resistance, Coleman persisted in his inappropriate behavior, including taking photographs of her and maintaining an unsettling interest in her well after the abuse had ceased.

Further complicating the case, Coleman later reached out to the victim through social media, sending Facebook messages that included hearts carved into trees with their initials and suggesting they spend a night together in Newquay. These messages revealed that his predatory behavior extended beyond the initial abuse, showing a continued pattern of manipulation and grooming.

The victim’s courage in reporting the abuse was pivotal. She confided in a woman at a pub, which eventually led her to disclose the details to her mother, her partner, and ultimately to the police. The case was prosecuted with the support of the evidence gathered from these disclosures.

During the trial, Coleman’s defense attorney, Ed Bailey, described him as an otherwise decent and hardworking man, primarily employed as a lorry driver. Bailey also mentioned Coleman’s poor health and his history of making charitable donations, attempting to portray him in a more sympathetic light. However, Judge Robert Linford was unequivocal in his sentencing, condemning Coleman for the years of abuse inflicted upon the young girl.

In sentencing, Judge Linford ordered Coleman to serve a prison term of ten years, with an additional year to be served on license following his release. The court’s decision underscores the gravity of Coleman’s actions and the lasting impact on the victim, bringing a measure of justice after nearly two decades of suffering.