JOHN GOODE PENSIONER FROM NEWTON ABBOT SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE AND ABDUCTION
In December 2014, a disturbing case of child exploitation and abuse came to light involving John Goode, a 72-year-old pensioner from Newton Abbot.The case drew significant attention from law enforcement and social services alike, highlighting the grave dangers faced by vulnerable children and the importance of vigilant protective measures.
Police authorities commended the remarkable bravery of a young girl who endured unimaginable trauma at the hands of Goode.
The investigation revealed that Goode had systematically groomed the girl, who was only 12 years old at the time, with the intent of exploiting her sexually.
His manipulative tactics included bribery with sweets and tobacco, and he paid her approximately £30 each time they engaged in sexual activities.
The girl, deeply scarred by her experiences, confided in police that she saw herself as a prostitute, a testament to the profound psychological damage inflicted upon her.
Her ordeal began when she was taken into the care of social services in Newton Abbot, a move intended to shield her from further abuse.
Despite these protective efforts, Goode actively sought her out in foster and care homes, attempting to lure her away.
The case took a darker turn when it was revealed that Goode helped her to abscond from her safe environment, further endangering her.
The Exeter Crown Court heard that Goode’s predatory behavior extended over an 18-month period, during which he repeatedly took her out of care and continued his grooming process.
John Goode, a former Royal Navy sailor, was charged with multiple serious offenses, including rape, abduction, and engaging in sexual activity with a minor.
He pleaded guilty to these charges and was subsequently sentenced to 15 years in prison by Judge Jonathan Fuller.
The court’s decision underscored the severity of his crimes and the profound harm caused to the young victim.
Detective Inspector Julie Pazzani, the lead investigator on the case, expressed her appreciation for the victim’s courage in assisting law enforcement.
She also extended gratitude to social services and partner agencies for their unwavering commitment to tackling child exploitation.
Inspector Pazzani emphasized that the case was a clear example of child abuse and exploitation, with no room for ambiguity.
She stated, “I am pleased with the outcome.
Goode targeted the vulnerability of this child and undermined all attempts to keep her safe.
There are no grey areas in this case.
This was child exploitation and abuse.
We wish to thank the victim for assisting the police and showing a great deal of bravery.” Judge Fuller addressed Goode directly during sentencing, highlighting the extensive harm caused by his actions.
He remarked, “You groomed this girl within the space of a few weeks to the point where you asked her to have sex with you for payment.
Over the next 18 months, you abused her regularly, paying her approximately £30 each time, several times a week.
You knew she was particularly vulnerable and frustrated efforts by social services to keep her safe by facilitating her absconding.
It is a matter of particular aggravation that you repeatedly took her out of care, engaging in grooming from the early stages.” Prosecutor Adrian Chaplin detailed the extent of Goode’s exploitation, revealing that he had left a £3,000 inheritance for the girl in his will.
He also pointed out that when police arrested Goode on suspicion of abduction, they found him in possession of £33,000 in cash, along with clothes and a passport, indicating his readiness to flee.
Chaplin emphasized that the exploitation was deeply entrenched, with Goode showing no regard for the risks to the girl’s safety or her well-being.
The victim, who has been in care since 2012, described herself during police interviews as a prostitute, illustrating the devastating impact of the abuse.
Defense attorney Rupert Taylor argued that there was no violence, threats, or degradation involved in the case.
He described Goode as an elderly, lonely, and unwell man who had also suffered sexual abuse as a child at the notorious Forde Park care home in Newton Abbot.
Despite the mitigating factors, the court’s focus remained on the gravity of the crimes committed and the lasting harm inflicted upon the young girl, leading to the 15-year prison sentence handed down to Goode.
