CHRISTOPHER ATKINS FROM LOSTWITHIEL PLEADS GUILTY TO HORRIFIC ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL IN SURREY

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Lostwithiel and the surrounding areas, Christopher Atkins, a 34-year-old man residing at Pendour Park in Lostwithiel, has admitted to committing serious acts of indecent assault against a young girl. The court proceedings revealed a history of cruelty and abuse that spanned several years during Atkins's teenage years in the early 1990s, leaving a trail of trauma for the victim, who is now 27 years old.

According to the Crown Court at Guildford, prosecutor Nicholas Bleaney detailed the extent of Atkins's misconduct, which included relentless bullying, physical humiliation, and sexual abuse. The victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was between the ages of 8 and 10 at the time of the abuse, which occurred between January 1, 1991, and December 31, 1993, when Atkins was aged between 14 and 17. The court heard that Atkins's actions created a 'reign of terror' in her life, with Bleaney describing his behavior as completely out of control and characterized by a pattern of belittling and torment.

Prosecutor Bleaney emphasized that Atkins, originally from Downderry near Looe, had a troubling history of bullying the girl, which escalated into sexual misconduct. The victim, now an adult, came forward to police to recount her ordeal, bringing the long-standing abuse to light after nearly two decades.

During the court proceedings, Atkins attempted to justify his actions, claiming that the sexual acts he committed were merely part of his bullying behavior rather than driven by sexual arousal. Cross-examined, he stated that his conduct was not motivated by desire but was an extension of his cruelty.

Howard Jones, representing Atkins, acknowledged the severity of his client's past actions, describing them as 'unspeakable.' He also highlighted that Atkins has led a law-abiding life since those events, which took place nearly 20 years ago. Jones characterized Atkins as an intelligent and articulate individual who, however, lacked proper parental guidance during his youth.

Following his guilty plea, Atkins was remanded on bail until June 17 to allow for pre-sentence reports. He has been placed on the Sex Offenders Register and faces potential restrictions through a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO), which could limit his access to children. The court also warned that Atkins might face a custodial sentence, although any prison time is unlikely to be lengthy, given that he has already served 206 days in custody last year following his arrest.

Judge Mr. Recorder Michael Hunter noted that while Atkins was not charged with bullying the victim, his behavior was nonetheless 'quite horrible.' The judge emphasized the importance of the legal process and the potential consequences Atkins faces, underscoring the gravity of his actions and their impact on the victim's life.