DAVID HANNAH FROM CHESTERFIELD SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS IN DERBYSHIRE

In April 2023, a disturbing case unfolded at Derby Crown Court involving David Hannah, a 71-year-old resident of Chesterfield, who was found guilty of committing serious sexual offenses against a woman. The court heard how Hannah’s actions, characterized by a blatant disregard for consent and personal boundaries, shocked the community and drew stern condemnation from the judiciary.

During the proceedings, the judge did not hold back in criticizing Hannah’s attitude towards sexual consent, describing it as akin to that of a 'caveman.' The defendant, who had earned the nickname 'Dirty Dave' among locals in Chesterfield, displayed a shocking lack of understanding of appropriate behavior when questioned by police about his conduct. When asked about the allegations, Hannah reportedly responded with a provocative question, asking, “are you supposed to ask permission these days?”

The court was informed that Hannah faced two counts of sexual assault, with the incidents allegedly occurring in 2019. The victim, whose identity remains protected by law, did not report the assaults until the summer of 2021, despite the events having taken place over two years earlier. Prosecutor Mark Achurch detailed the disturbing nature of the offenses, beginning with an incident where Hannah visited the woman’s residence. While in her kitchen, he made an inappropriate comment, saying, “you need k******g by a real man,” before proceeding to kiss and lick her face. The prosecutor further explained that Hannah attempted to undress her and, in a shocking display, undressed himself. He then tried to place his private parts into her hand, an act she managed to stop by kicking him in the groin. Before leaving, Hannah ominously warned her that if she told anyone, she would be dead.

The second assault took place outdoors, where Hannah approached the woman from behind and physically grabbed her breast and private parts. Witnesses later described him as 'Dirty Dave,' a nickname that perhaps reflects his notoriety in the local community. Hannah’s arrest followed, during which he made further inappropriate remarks, questioning whether police officers were supposed to ask permission before questioning him. He also made a disturbing comment suggesting that if someone doesn’t try to 'try it on' with others, they might be perceived as gay.

Hannah pleaded guilty to both counts of sexual assault. The court heard from the victim in a victim impact statement, revealing her emotional trauma and how she had stopped caring about her appearance afterward, feeling unattractive and vulnerable. She also expressed her anger and fear, stating that if she had a weapon, she might consider using it against him.

In sentencing, Recorder Adrian Reynolds emphasized that Hannah’s attitude was outdated and unacceptable, stating, “if you do this to another woman in the next two years you will be going to prison.” The judge highlighted the significance of Hannah’s statement to the victim, where he threatened her with death if she disclosed the assaults, indicating a clear understanding of his wrongdoing. The court sentenced him to two years in prison, suspended for two years, and ordered him to attend 45 rehabilitation sessions. Additionally, Hannah was placed on the sex offender register for ten years. His defense lawyer acknowledged that his client’s views were “like a dinosaur,” but stressed that this did not justify his actions. Hannah, who has no previous convictions, was also warned that any future offending would result in immediate imprisonment.