GEOFFREY ABSON AND SHOCKING CHILD SEXUAL ASSAULTS IN PAIGNTON

A 70-year-old man with a troubling history of sexual offenses has been sentenced to prison after being found guilty of assaulting a young child in Paignton. Geoffrey Abson, a resident of Derrell Road in Paignton, was convicted of touching a seven-year-old girl inappropriately on two separate occasions, an incident that has shocked the local community and prompted a serious legal response.

The case was heard at Exeter Crown Court, where it was revealed that Abson initially denied any wrongdoing when questioned about the allegations. However, as the proceedings progressed, he admitted that he was aware of his problematic behavior and expressed a sense of shame, stating that he needed help. His admission came after a period of denial, highlighting the complex nature of his psychological state and the importance of legal intervention.

Abson is not a first-time offender; he has a prior conviction dating back to 1989 for a similar sexual offense. This history underscored the severity of his current actions and the potential risk he posed to children in the community. During the court hearing, the judge, David Evans, addressed the defendant directly, emphasizing the gravity of the crimes committed.

Judge Evans remarked, "I have to sentence you for not one but two assaults on a girl aged under 13." He further commented on the defendant’s distorted sexual attitudes towards children, which contributed to the decision to impose a strict penalty. The judge described the offending as particularly serious, warranting a custodial sentence without delay.

In light of the evidence and the nature of the offenses, Abson was sentenced to 16 months in prison. The judge made it clear that an immediate custodial sentence was the only appropriate course of action, stating, "Immediate prison is the only appropriate sentence. This sort of offending is too serious for a suspended sentence or any other kind of sentence." The court’s decision reflects the need to protect vulnerable children and to serve as a deterrent against similar conduct.

Furthermore, Abson was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, a legal measure designed to prevent future offenses. This order explicitly prohibits him from making contact with girls under the age of 16, aiming to reduce the risk of further harm and to safeguard the community from potential reoffending.

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in managing individuals with a history of sexual offenses and underscores the importance of strict legal measures to protect children from predatory behavior.