DAVID ABRAHAMS FROM BIRSTALL AND NETHERTON SENTENCED FOR REPEATED CHILD RAPE IN LEEDS

In a case that has shocked the local communities of Birstall and Netherton, David Abrahams, a 70-year-old man, has been subjected to a significant increase in his prison sentence following his conviction for multiple heinous sexual offenses committed against young girls. The original sentencing took place at Leeds Crown Court in February 2018, where jurors found him guilty of a series of disturbing crimes involving two victims, with the court hearing details that have left a lasting impact on the community.

Abrahams, who resides on Mercer Close in Netherton and previously lived on Briarmains Close in Birstall, was initially sentenced to 15 years in prison after being convicted of numerous child rapes and sexual assaults. The court heard that he had molested one girl when she was approximately 11 years old, subjecting her to repeated acts of sexual violence that left her living in constant fear. The judge at the time described how Abrahams had stolen her innocence and caused her to suffer lifelong mental scars. The court also found that he had abused another young girl, aged just 10, forcing her to strip and engaging in sexual acts with her.

Despite the severity of his crimes, Abrahams has maintained his innocence, refusing to admit guilt. The court was informed that he is contemplating an appeal against his convictions, which adds a layer of complexity to his case. During his initial sentencing, his defense lawyer, Richard Canning, expressed concern that the lengthy prison term might be life-threatening, asking the court to consider the possibility of his survival. This plea was made in the context of the serious nature of his offenses and his age.

However, the case did not end there. The Solicitor General’s office, represented by Robert Buckland QC, appealed the original sentence, arguing that it was too lenient given the gravity of the crimes. Now, at London’s Appeal Court, a panel of three judges, led by Lord Justice Davis, reviewed the case. They concluded that the original 15-year sentence was “unduly lenient” and decided to increase it to 19 years. Lord Justice Davis emphasized that the original punishment did not adequately reflect the seriousness of the offenses, especially considering that Abrahams had continued to prey on another young girl after his initial conviction.

In addition to the extended prison term, Abrahams has been ordered to serve an extra year on licence following his release, a condition that remains in effect. The court’s decision underscores the gravity of his crimes and the need for a proportionate punishment to serve as a deterrent and a measure of justice for the victims.

Details of the case reveal that the crimes spanned several decades, with the first girl being assaulted between 1987 and 2015, and the second victim’s abuse occurring more recently. The victims, whose identities are protected by law, have endured profound trauma from Abrahams’ actions. The case has been described by a children’s charity as highlighting the depravity of the offender and the importance of justice for vulnerable victims. The sentencing hearing also heard that Abrahams caused significant emotional and psychological damage to his victims, leaving them with lifelong scars.

As the legal proceedings continue, Abrahams remains a figure of concern within the local communities of Birstall and Netherton, with residents and advocacy groups calling for justice and increased awareness of such predatory behavior. His case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and the need for robust measures to protect children from predators like him.