Paedophile David Paul Jailed for 10 Years Over Child Sex Abuse
David Paul, 57, from Windmill Close, Ely, Cambridgeshire, has been slammed with a decade behind bars plus three years on license. The Wood Green Crown Court handed down the sentence on Tuesday, 28 March 2023, after he was found guilty of multiple child sexual offences earlier this year.
Shocking Abuse of Trust Revealed
- Two counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity
- Two counts of sexual activity with a child
Detective Constable Andreea Popa, who led the probe, said: “Paul completely abused the trust that had been placed in him. His abuse will have a life-long impact on Amy and her family.”
She added, “Both victim-survivors have bravely come forward because they don’t want anyone else to hide their abuse. They encourage anyone else who may have been subject to similar abuse to report it.”
Victim’s Courageous Fight for Justice
Amy, the current victim, came forward in 2019 after seeing news about Paul’s 2017 conviction for similar crimes against another girl, Rebecca, who was just eight when abused between 1989 and 1992. These revelations gave Amy the strength to finally speak out.
Amy said: “The day I learned that David had previously abused other girls like me was the worst day of my life. I felt sick, ashamed, and heartbroken. For years I blamed myself, and my mental and physical health suffered.”
“I tried to shut it all out and focus on studies, but eventually, I couldn’t run any more. I flew back to the UK, told my friends and family, and reported the abuse to the police. The Metropolitan Police and Victim Support have been incredible.”
“During the trial, I met Rebecca and her sister. We instantly connected, and I knew she was my ally. Having her, my family, friends, and the police by my side made me strong.”
The Grooming Nightmare Uncovered
Paul moved close to Amy’s home in Enfield around 2003. Over months, he wormed his way into her family’s life, exploiting her passion for football to gain trust and access.
- He invited Amy to his house to watch football matches and even gave her a pet snake, kept in his bedroom.
- As trust grew, Amy visited Paul alone, where grooming escalated into sexual abuse.
- He convinced her he was her secret boyfriend and forced her into sexual acts, which Amy described as “forceful and animalistic.”
Despite the trauma, Amy kept silent for years, fearing the consequences and bound by secrecy.
Support and Solidarity from Another Victim
Rebecca, the earlier victim, shared: “I’m proud I reported him and helped Amy find strength to get justice. Meeting Amy was emotional but comforting—finally, I’m not alone. The police support was amazing.”
Detective Constable Popa urged victims: “We believe you and will fight for justice. No matter how long ago, we’re here to listen and act. We also provide specialist support.”
Get Help – Don’t Suffer in Silence
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse or have information about offenders, contact police on 101 or 999 in emergencies. Specialist officers are ready to listen and investigate.
