DAVID GREEN'S SHAME: ELLERKER GARDEN CENTRE BOSS SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the quiet village of Ellerker, David Green, a well-known local businessman and community figure, has been sentenced to prison for the heinous crime of indecently assaulting a five-year-old girl. The incident, which took place several years ago, only came to light after the victim, now an adult, reached out to ChildLine seeking support and counseling. Her courage in coming forward prompted the authorities to investigate, leading to Green's arrest in July of the previous year.

David Green, aged 67, was the owner and operator of Green's Garden Centre in Ellerker. Beyond his business pursuits, he held prominent roles within the community, including serving as the chairman of the village's Playing Fields Committee, the Village Hall Committee, and acting as a coordinator for the East Yorkshire Horse Watch. His involvement in local initiatives and voluntary work had earned him a reputation as a dedicated and tireless contributor to village life.

However, his community standing was shattered when the allegations surfaced. Green appeared before Hull Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to eight counts of indecent assault on the young girl. During the court proceedings, he offered a heartfelt apology to the community, expressing remorse for his actions. He stated, "I am sorry for my actions. To my local community and friends I have let them all down, I am sorry. To my family for squandering their trust in me and to my victim, I apologise most profusely for what I did. I hope one day my apology might be accepted."

Judge David Tremberg delivered the sentence, condemning Green's actions as driven by perverted motives. He sentenced him to two years and two months in prison and ordered him to sign the Sex Offenders Register for a decade. The judge emphasized the gravity of the offense, stating, "This was sexual abuse for your own perverted pleasure. You told her to keep quiet about it and she did. You said that if she didn’t, you would go to prison and you will."

Judge Tremberg highlighted the vulnerability of the victim, noting that Green specifically targeted her because of her age and innocence. The court heard that the girl had tried to process the trauma, maintaining silence out of fear and confusion. The judge acknowledged the profound emotional and psychological damage inflicted, referencing her victim impact statement, which confirmed the lasting effects of the abuse.

While Green expressed genuine remorse, the judge also took into account the damage done to his reputation and the impact on his family. His voluntary contributions to the community and his previous good character were recognized, but these factors did not outweigh the seriousness of the crime. The court noted that Green's actions had not only led to his imprisonment but also to the loss of his good name and the potential ruin of his family business.

Green's downfall was further compounded by personal consequences. His wife is reportedly in the process of divorcing him, and his standing within the village has been irreparably damaged. The community, which once regarded him as a pillar of local life, now grapples with the betrayal and the devastating impact of his actions. The case serves as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers that can lurk behind seemingly respectable facades, and the importance of vigilance and support for victims of abuse.