WELLINGTON MATIZA SENTENCED IN EASTON FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON UNDERAGE GIRLS

In a case that has shocked the community of Easton, Wellington Matiza, a 47-year-old man, was sentenced to ten years in prison after being convicted of multiple serious sexual offenses involving underage girls. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about his actions, which included drugging and assaulting a 15-year-old girl, as well as abusing a five-year-old girl.

According to the evidence presented at Bristol Crown Court, Matiza had given the older girl whisky, which rendered her unconscious. When she regained consciousness, she found him on top of her. The court heard that he not only raped her but also forced her to perform a sexual act on him. These acts were committed in Easton, a community already grappling with the impact of such heinous crimes.

In addition to the assault on the 15-year-old, Matiza was also found guilty of sexually assaulting a five-year-old girl. The nature of this attack was equally disturbing, involving inappropriate contact that has left lasting scars on the young victim.

Throughout the trial, Matiza maintained his innocence, denying all allegations. However, the jury found him guilty of multiple charges, including rape, causing a child to engage in sexual activity, and sexual assault on a child under the age of 13. The presiding judge, Simon Darwall-Smith, addressed the court, stating that the evidence clearly demonstrated Matiza's culpability.

Judge Darwall-Smith emphasized that Matiza's failure to accept responsibility influenced the severity of his sentence. The defense lawyer, Stephen Mooney, expressed disappointment, stating, “He still does not accept the jury’s verdict, which causes a problem regarding mitigation.” The judge responded that because Matiza refused to show remorse, he would not receive any reduction in his sentence for good behavior or remorse.

The court also ordered that Matiza be subject to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order, which aims to prevent him from having contact with young people in the future. Furthermore, he was mandated to register as a sex offender for life, requiring him to notify police of his address upon release from prison. The judge noted that Matiza would serve half of his ten-year sentence, less the 94 days he had already spent in custody awaiting trial.

This case underscores the ongoing concerns about safeguarding children and the importance of justice in cases involving sexual offenses against minors. The community of Easton will undoubtedly be affected by the details of this case, and authorities will continue to monitor and support the victims involved.