Judge Commends Courage of Victim in Historic Abuse Case

A Taranaki judge has lauded the bravery of a victim who disclosed historical sexual abuse, an act that has led to significant family divisions. The case centers on a man, previously granted name suppression, who remains in denial about his actions, referring to himself as “the victim” during probation assessments.

In September, the defendant was convicted on two counts of committing an indecent act on a child under the age of 12 after a jury trial at the New Plymouth District Court. The offenses took place between September 2006 and December 2007, when the victim was aged 8 or 9. Evidence presented in court indicated that the man had inappropriately touched the victim and kissed her face.

During the sentencing hearing, the victim, accompanied by supporters, provided a victim impact statement that was read by Crown prosecutor Jacob Bourke. The statement revealed her ongoing struggle to comprehend the abuse and described the emotional turmoil it caused. The victim expressed how her trust in her uncle was shattered, leading to fears that others would not believe her account. “I got good at smiling and acting like I was fine as I didn’t want anyone to know about it,” she stated.

The court also noted the profound effects of the disclosure on family relationships, leading to estrangement from her father, grandparents, and two brothers. Judge Gregory Hikaka acknowledged the significant impact of the abuse on the victim’s life, commending her for her courage in coming forward.

While the defendant was assessed as posing a low risk of reoffending, Judge Hikaka expressed concern over his attitude and tendency to deflect responsibility. Following his conviction, the defendant exhibited disbelief at the verdict and received support from family members, including his mother and older brother, who is the victim’s father.

The judge also referenced past allegations against the defendant, including claims made by his daughter, which were dismissed by defense counsel Andrew Laurenson as hearsay. The judge emphasized that the victim’s disclosure had irreparably affected familial bonds.

In terms of sentencing, Laurenson pointed out that the only mitigating factor for his client was the absence of previous convictions. He proposed two potential residences for home detention, at the homes of the defendant’s mother and brother. However, Judge Hikaka rejected these options, citing their dismissive attitudes towards the offenses.

The judge sentenced the defendant to 18 months in prison, which also resulted in his automatic registration on the child sex offender’s register. Following the hearing, Laurenson announced plans to appeal the decision on behalf of his client.

This case highlights the ongoing impact of sexual abuse disclosures on victims and their families, further stressing the importance of support systems for those affected.