A MAN from Gwynedd who sexually abused a “petrified” child was told he has had a “ruinous” effect on their life.
The child said David Morris threatened them into not reporting his offending to police, and has “ruined my life” as a result of his abuse.
Morris, 41, of Towyn Road, Blaenau Ffestiniog, was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment, plus a four-year extended licence period, at Mold Crown Court on Thursday (September 24).
He was found guilty after a trial in August of five counts of voyeurism, three charge of sexual assault, and one offence of making indecent photographs of a child.
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Prosecutor Joshua Gorst said Morris exhibited “grooming behaviour” towards the child, and “threatened that there would be consequences” if the child reported him.
Mr Gorst read aloud a statement provided by the child during Thursday’s hearing.
Extracts from the statement read: “He told me I couldn’t tell anyone, that he would be arrested, and that regardless, no-one would believe me, anyway.
“I really don’t like trying to recall what happened. I’m trying to work at looking forward. I won’t let my past ruin the rest of my life
“There are times when I feel so low and helpless that I have suicidal thoughts, but I have never acted on these and I never will.
“I can’t express just how hard it is, but I’m doing my best to live my life. I just want to show everyone that I can succeed in my life despite what has happened to me.”
The child added that they felt “petrified” during the abuse, and said Morris has “ruined my life”.
The child has self-harmed as a result of Morris’ abuse, they added.
In a separate statement, a relative of the child added that the offences have had a “devastating impact,” and that the child has experienced things “no child should ever have to endure”.
The relative added: “I cannot put into words the pain of knowing what they have been through.
“None of what has happened was their fault.”
In mitigation, Morris was said to have no previous convictions.
Sentencing, Judge Daniel Williams told Morris: “It’s the clear the effect your appalling offending has had on the child has been ruinous. They have suffered severe psychological harm.
“You represent a very high risk to children.”
A 20-year sexual harm prevention order was made, while Morris must sign the sex offenders register.
He must serve at least two-thirds of his 15-year custodial sentence before the Parole Board can consider his release.
Once released, he must serve the rest of his 15-year jail term on licence, and then the following four years also on licence.
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