THOMAS GODDARD JAILED FOR RAPE IN IRVINE: HORRIFIC ABUSE IN NORTH AYRSHIRE

In a case that has shocked the community of Irvine and the wider North Ayrshire area, Thomas Goddard, aged 58, has been sentenced to seven years in prison after being found guilty of multiple heinous crimes committed against a young girl over two decades ago. The offences, which took place between 1989 and 1991, involved the sexual abuse of a 14-year-old girl at a residence in Irvine, a town known for its close-knit community and scenic coastal surroundings.

During the proceedings at the High Court in Glasgow, Judge Lord Bracadale delivered a stern judgment, condemning Goddard for the profound damage inflicted upon his young victim. The judge stated that Goddard had “blighted” the girl’s childhood, a comment that underscored the severity of the crimes and their lasting impact.

The court heard harrowing details of the abuse, revealing that Goddard had indecently assaulted the girl from the age of nine until she was 15. The prosecution presented evidence that Goddard had shown her pornography, taken explicit photographs of her while she was naked, and had subjected her to a regime of alcohol and cigarette abuse, all of which contributed to a pattern of exploitation and manipulation.

Testimony from the victim, now a 35-year-old woman, was particularly poignant. She recounted to advocate depute Jennifer Bain that Goddard had raped her on four separate occasions. She also revealed that he had coerced a 14-year-old boy into participating in the abuse, further illustrating the extent of his predatory behavior.

It was also disclosed that the victim had initially reported the abuse to police in 2002, but she struggled with the emotional toll and was unable to continue with the proceedings at that time. It was only earlier this year that another victim, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, came forward to provide evidence against Goddard. Both women’s testimonies played a crucial role in securing his conviction.

Throughout the trial, Goddard maintained his innocence, denying all allegations and claiming that his victims were lying. Despite his denials, the jury found him guilty of the charges, leading to his subsequent imprisonment. The case has left a lasting scar on the community of Irvine, highlighting the importance of vigilance and support for victims of sexual abuse.