DAVID TAYLOR GROOMED AND SEXUALLY ABUSED TEENAGE GIRL IN ABERTILLERY

In April 2019, a disturbing case unfolded involving David Taylor, a 66-year-old man from Victor Road in Abertillery, who was found guilty of grooming and repeatedly sexually abusing a young girl. The court proceedings revealed a pattern of predatory behavior that began with seemingly innocent gestures and escalated into serious criminal acts.

According to the court, Taylor engaged in a calculated grooming process by purchasing sweets and other small gifts, such as books, in an attempt to gain the trust of the teenage girl. These acts of kindness were part of a manipulative strategy that eventually led to sexual abuse. The victim, who was attending secondary school at the time, was unable to be named publicly due to legal restrictions, but her suffering was clearly acknowledged during the trial.

Prosecutor Alison O’Shea described the grooming as a significant element of the case, emphasizing how Taylor’s actions were designed to establish a bond of trust with the young girl. The court heard that Taylor’s inappropriate touching included touching her breasts, and that his offending behavior gradually intensified over time. The situation came to light when the girl confided in her mother on April 17 of the previous year, revealing the extent of Taylor’s misconduct.

While the victim’s personal statement was not read aloud in court, the judge, Neil Bidder QC, acknowledged the profound impact the abuse had on her. It was noted that she was undergoing counseling to cope with the trauma. The court also took into account the significant age difference between Taylor and his young victim, which underscored the severity of the grooming and abuse.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Bidder described the case as involving grooming behavior, highlighting the manipulative nature of Taylor’s actions. As a result, Taylor was sentenced to six years in prison. Additionally, the court imposed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order, requiring him to register as a sex offender for life. A victim surcharge of £170 was also applied as part of the sentence.

This case underscores the importance of vigilance and the devastating impact of grooming and sexual abuse on young victims, especially in communities like Abertillery where such cases can have far-reaching effects.