WILLIAM PALMER FROM CHARD SENTENCED FOR PREDATORY PAEDOPHILE OFFENSES IN TAUNTON

In April 2018, a man from Chard, William Palmer, was handed a significant prison sentence after admitting to a series of heinous sexual offenses involving two young children. Palmer, residing on Dwelly Close in Chard, appeared before Taunton Crown Court to face justice following his guilty pleas to multiple charges of sexual assault.

The court was informed that Palmer committed a total of 12 separate acts of sexual assault against a girl under the age of 13, along with one incident involving a boy under the age of 13. Prosecutor Phillip Warren detailed the disturbing nature of Palmer’s abuse, emphasizing that the offender repeatedly subjected the young girl to inappropriate touching, often without warning. Palmer’s actions included putting his hand down her trousers and top on several occasions, with one incident involving him getting the girl to sit on his lap, cuddling her, and then attempting to touch her inappropriately. The girl managed to escape during this assault and ran to the toilet, but Palmer was waiting for her when she exited, continuing to touch her for a few more minutes.

Further details revealed that Palmer’s misconduct extended to an incident where the girl was wearing a crop top. During this encounter, he put his hands down her trousers and up her top, asking her, “Did you wear that specially for me?” These actions caused significant trauma, as reflected in victim impact statements read aloud in court. The court heard how Palmer’s abuse has profoundly affected both children involved.

The impact on the young boy was also discussed, with Mr. Warren explaining that he has been battling mental health issues ever since the abuse. The boy, once a lively and fun-loving child, has become withdrawn and unhappy, resorting to smoking cigarettes and exhibiting behavioral problems. Meanwhile, the girl has been suffering from nightmares and has experienced difficulties at school, indicating the deep psychological scars left by Palmer’s predatory behavior.

Judge David Ticehurst, presiding over the case, condemned Palmer’s actions, describing him as a ‘predatory paedophile’ with a clear interest in young children. The judge emphasized the danger Palmer poses to society, stating, “You are a predatory paedophile. You represent such a risk that you are such a dangerous offender.” He highlighted the severe damage inflicted on the victims, urging Palmer to feel shame and disgust for his conduct.

As a result, Palmer was sentenced to seven years in prison, with an additional three years on license. The judge also ordered the preparation of a draft Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which Mr. Warren was tasked with drafting and which must be approved by Mr. Mason before enforcement. This case underscores the ongoing efforts of the justice system to protect vulnerable children from individuals like William Palmer, whose actions have left lasting scars on their victims and the community of Chard.