Trans Woman Jailed for Grooming 14-Year-Old Girl and Causing Pregnancy
A trans woman has been locked up for nine-and-a-half years after grooming and having sex with a 14-year-old girl, leading to her pregnancy. The man, known as David Orton and also going by Danielle Rose Gemini, was found guilty of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a child following a trial at Leicester Crown Court.
Family Friend Betrays Trust
The victim’s parents first grew suspicious in October 2020. Orton was a close family friend who often visited the girl’s home. Despite their concerns, the victim initially denied any wrongdoing.
Detective Constable Sarah Le Boutillier explained, “Orton used the victim’s vulnerability for their own gain, grooming not just the victim but also her parents, who believed Orton was a genuine friend.”
Long Investigation Ends in Conviction
The victim eventually found the strength to speak out in June 2021, prompting the police to charge Orton with two counts of rape and four counts of penetrating sexual activity with a child. The jury found him guilty on two counts of sexual activity but not guilty of rape or the other two counts.
Det Con Le Boutillier said: “We hope the verdict and sentence help the victim come to terms with what happened and reassure her parents they did the right thing by coming forward.”
Perpetrator Denies Wrongdoing
Throughout police interviews, Orton claimed to be the victim and denied all allegations. The defendant was identified as a woman at the time of the crimes, but police couldn’t confirm their current gender identity.
Message to Other Victims
The police have urged anyone facing similar abuse to speak up. “We have specialist officers to support you every step of the way,” said Det Con Le Boutillier. “It’s never easy to speak out, but you will be heard.”
The victim was just 14 when the abuse began. The guilty verdict brings some closure after a complex, drawn-out investigation.
