ANDREW MALONE TORQUAY SEX PREDATOR SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN DEVON

In a case that has shocked the community of Torquay and the wider Devon area, Andrew Malone, a 31-year-old man, was convicted of a series of heinous sexual offenses involving two young girls. The crimes, which spanned several years, involved systematic abuse and indecent assaults that left a lasting impact on the victims and their families.

Malone appeared before Exeter Crown Court in October 2008, where he pleaded guilty to a total of seventeen charges related to the sexual exploitation of children under the age of 13. The charges included nine counts of sexual assault, three counts of assault by penetration, and five counts of indecent assault. The court heard that Malone's actions were both repeated and predatory, targeting vulnerable young girls over an extended period.

Judge Graham Cottle, presiding over the case, expressed his serious concern regarding Malone's dangerousness. He stated, “Had you been a sophisticated sex offender capable of avoiding detection in the community, I would have had no hesitation in passing an indeterminate sentence for public protection.” This comment underscored the severity of Malone’s offenses and the potential risk he posed to the community if left unrestrained.

Earlier, in September 2008, during a hearing at Exeter Crown Court, Judge Christopher Elwen issued a stark warning to Malone, emphasizing the long-term consequences of his actions. “You are going to prison for a very long time,” the judge declared, making it clear that the gravity of the crimes would result in a substantial custodial sentence.

Initially, Malone was remanded in custody following his guilty plea. However, after considering the possibility that a probation report could be more comprehensive if he was released into the community, the court granted him conditional bail. As part of the bail conditions, Malone, who resides on Bronshill Road in Torquay, was ordered to adhere to strict restrictions. These included a residence requirement, a ban on contacting certain witnesses and children, and a prohibition from having any contact with children under the age of 16.

The sentencing date was set to be announced at a later time. In addition to his guilty plea, Malone, who has a prior caution related to a sex matter, was ordered to register as a sex offender. He will be notified of the duration of his registration at the sentencing hearing, which is expected to be lengthy given the nature of his crimes and the impact on the victims. The court’s decision reflects the seriousness with which the judicial system treats offenses involving the sexual abuse of children, especially those committed by individuals with a history of similar conduct.