July 2015
Torquay man jailed for 14 years for ‘foul’ sexual abuse of six-year-old girl A TORQUAY man has been jailed for 14 years for the ‘depraved’ sexual abuse of a six-year-old girl. Julian Soper, 51, of Thurlow Road, was found guilty of five offences of indecency with a child and one of inciting a child to engage in sexual behaviour after a trial at Exeter Crown Court. Sentencing him for the offences, which took place several years ago, Judge Jeremy Griggs said: “This was foul, degrading and depraved behaviour on numerous occasions.” Soper had pleaded not guilty to the offences. Judge Griggs said: “I have searched hard to find any mitigating features but have been unable to find any.” The court was told the girl was just six years old when Soper started the abuse. As a result the victim had suffered deep psychological scarring. “She will at least have the comfort of knowing justice has been done,” said the judge. Soper was put on the Sex Offender Register for life.