DAVID BENNETT FROM CURRY RIVEL JAILED FOR ABUSE IN DEVASTATING CASE

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Curry Rivel, a 70-year-old man named David Bennett has been sentenced to prison for his involvement in a series of serious sexual offenses. The court proceedings revealed a disturbing pattern of abuse that spanned several years, beginning in the late 1980s and only coming to light in August of this year.

David Bennett, who has long been known in the Curry Rivel area for his caring nature and dedication to helping others, was found guilty of nine counts of indecent assault. These offenses reportedly started in 1988 and persisted until 1991, with the victim only feeling able to disclose the abuse after many years had passed. The victim, who was a young boy at the time, met Bennett when he joined the local Scout troop at the age of 13. Over the course of their association, Bennett, who resided on Stoneyhurst Drive, engaged in repeated acts of indecency, often more than once a day during their meetings.

Prosecutor Tony Scofield detailed the disturbing nature of the abuse, explaining that Bennett would often put his hand down the boy’s trousers and feel his bottom during Scout meetings. These incidents became so routine that they appeared almost normal to the victim, who was groomed over time to accept such behavior as expected. The abuse extended beyond the Scout meetings, with Bennett visiting the boy’s home and continuing his misconduct there. The victim described the lasting impact of these events, stating that he feels his life has been profoundly damaged and that the trauma has had a devastating effect on his well-being.

It was only in August of this year that the victim, after many years of silence, decided to report the abuse to the police. Bennett, who has no previous criminal record, cooperated fully with law enforcement, making honest and comprehensive admissions during police interviews. His defense team highlighted his long history of service and community involvement, noting that he had spent six years in the military, followed by a career caring for vulnerable children, and nearly three decades working in ambulance control and hospital support roles. They emphasized his contributions to society, his role as a family man, and his current status as a grandfather settled into retirement with his wife, who is 81 and requires care.

During the sentencing hearing, Recorder Jonathan Fuller QC acknowledged that while Bennett’s actions did not reach the most severe levels of sexual offending, they involved significant aggravating factors. The court heard that Bennett exploited his trusted position as a Scoutmaster to groom and abuse the boy, even ingratiating himself with the victim’s family to gain access and opportunity. The court also considered Bennett’s remorse and the impact of the conviction on his family, including his wife.

Ultimately, Bennett was sentenced to three years in prison for each of the nine counts, with the sentences to run concurrently. Additionally, he was ordered to register as a sex offender and was issued a Sexual Offenders’ Prevention Order. The judge also prohibited him from working with children under the age of 16 in the future.

A representative from the Scout Association issued a statement condemning Bennett’s actions, emphasizing that his betrayal of trust was deeply unacceptable and that the organization condemns such conduct unequivocally. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals and the devastating consequences when trust is broken in such a manner.