DAVID FULLER FROM EXETER SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF GIRL IN DEVON

A man residing in Exeter, Devon, has been sentenced to a prison term after being found guilty of sexually abusing a young girl. David Fuller, aged 64, whose address is listed as Church Lane, Broadclyst, Exeter, was convicted on two counts of engaging in sexual activity with a minor girl. However, he was acquitted of a third charge of sexual assault by penetration related to the same victim during the proceedings at Exeter Crown Court.

The sentencing took place on Wednesday, June 18, with Fuller receiving a custodial sentence of two years and three months. In addition to his imprisonment, Fuller is required to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for a period of ten years. Furthermore, he was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order that will remain in effect for ten years, restricting his activities and contact with minors.

The case against Fuller was built upon evidence presented during the trial, which revealed that the abuse occurred in 2023. The victim, whose identity remains protected, came forward after she confided in her mother about the abuse. She showed her mother a diary stored on her phone, which detailed the incidents involving Fuller. The girl described how Fuller had bought her gifts, including jewelry, as a means of keeping her silent about the abuse. This evidence prompted her mother to report the matter to the police.

Following the report, Fuller was arrested by law enforcement officers. During a search of his belongings, the arresting officer discovered a receipt for a recent purchase from a local jeweller, which was linked to the gifts given to the girl. During police interviews, Fuller admitted to buying gifts for the girl but denied any sexual contact had taken place. Despite his denials, the evidence against him was substantial enough to proceed with a trial.

Detective Constable Megan Singleton, who led the investigation, commented on the case, stating, “It was through the victim in this case bravely telling her mother what David Fuller did to her, and that information in turn being reported to us that we were able to bring him to justice. Fuller continued to deny any sexual offending took place despite overwhelming evidence against him, forcing the victim to give evidence at trial. We hope the victim and her family are now able to start moving on with their lives knowing that he has been convicted and sentenced. We take all allegations of sexual abuse seriously and will investigate any reports made to us, no matter when the abuse took place.”

Devon and Cornwall Police issued a statement emphasizing the importance of reporting sexual offences, encouraging victims or witnesses to come forward either by calling 101 or 999 in emergencies. They also highlighted the availability of support services, including the National Rape Crisis Helpline and the Devon and Cornwall Sexual Assault Referral Centres. The police reiterated their commitment to investigating all reports of sexual abuse and provided contact details for anonymous reporting through Crimestoppers and other support organizations. The message underscores the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure offenders are held accountable.