BRISTOL MAN WHO MOLESTED GIRL RECEIVES REDUCED SENTENCE DUE TO CASE DELAYS
A man who committed sexual offences against a girl under the age of 16 when he was 20 years old has been sentenced to prison.Following a considerable delay in proceedings, his original sentence was notably reduced.
Konner Derrick, 24, who was identified as living on Dunmail Road in Southmead but was reported to be homeless at the time, admitted to seven counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor.
He also pleaded guilty to inciting or causing the girl to take part in sexual acts.
Judge Michael Cullum remarked that the offences should have resulted in a four-year prison term, but due to case delays, Derrick was sentenced to two years and six months.
The judge condemned the delay as “utterly unacceptable” and stated that both the victim and Derrick had been let down by the legal process.
Derrick was also ordered to be on the Sex Offenders' Register for life, prohibited from working in roles involving children or vulnerable adults, and was given an indefinite restraining order preventing him from contacting the victim.
Prosecutor Fiona Elder detailed how Derrick touched the girl’s chest and private parts and engaged in a sexual act, which led police to collect his DNA from her clothing.
The victim provided an impact statement describing how the abuse affected her self-esteem, caused trust issues with men, and resulted in flashbacks and nightmares involving Derrick.
Defense attorney Derek Perry noted Derrick’s unstable background and diagnosed Asperger’s Syndrome, explaining that he faces significant challenges such as difficulty expressing emotions and forming relationships.
Perry also highlighted Derrick’s traumatic childhood and lack of support, which he argued contributed to his actions.
