‘We welcome today’s sentence and the court’s recognition of the seriousness of the crimes committed against our daughter when she was just 14 years old,’ they said.
‘Nothing can undo the harm that was caused.
‘The impact of this abuse on our daughter’s mental health has been profound and long-lasting, and it has affected our entire family in ways that are difficult to put into words.
‘We continue to support her as she rebuilds her sense of safety, confidence and wellbeing.
‘While today is about accountability, we also hope that the perpetrator uses his time in custody to reflect on the harm he has caused and to engage with any support offered to him, so that he can rehabilitate and rebuild his life after serving his sentence.
‘Finally, we want to send a clear message to other victims of sexual crime in Guernsey – you are not alone, and you should not be afraid to come forward.
‘Support is available, you will be listened to, and you will be treated with care, dignity and respect.
‘We now ask that the media and public respect our daughter’s pri vacy and the privacy of our family as we focus on her recovery and on moving forward together.’
The family thanked the police ‘for their professionalism, compassion and determination throughout this investigation’ and to the reparative care team and the Victim Support and Witness Service who have provided vital care, guidance and reassurance during an incredibly difficult period.
‘Their support has made a meaningful difference to our daughter’s ability to cope and to seek justice.’
The police said in a statement that they would always take such reports seriously and investigate them to bring offenders to justice.
‘We cannot overstate how abhorrent offences of this nature are.
‘They can have a life-long impact on victims,’ they said.
‘We would like to commend the victim in this case for their bravery in coming forward, and for working with detectives during the investigation.’
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