DAVID TILEY FROM ST BRIDES MAJOR SENTENCED FOR CHILD ABUSE IN CARDIFF

In a harrowing case that has sent shockwaves through the community, David Tiley, a 45-year-old man from St Brides Major in the Vale of Glamorgan, was found guilty of sexually abusing a young girl during the 1990s in Cardiff. The victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, bravely came forward as an adult to report the abuse, which had a profound and lasting impact on her life.

During the trial at Cardiff Crown Court, it was revealed that Tiley’s misconduct began with inappropriate touching that was described as both slow and sensual. The court heard that he then escalated his actions by lifting the girl and placing her over his lap before pulling down her trousers and engaging in sexual touching. Throughout the ordeal, the young girl was crying and pleading for him to stop, but Tiley continued his assault, repeatedly telling her “good girl.”

The court was told that the abuse was only uncovered after the victim’s decision to report the matter to police as an adult. Following the conviction, the court heard her emotional victim personal statement during the sentencing hearing. In her statement, she detailed the devastating effects the abuse had inflicted on her mental health and overall well-being.

She described feeling emotionally affected from an early age, unable to articulate or recognize her feelings, which others might consider normal. Her experiences had a detrimental impact on her ability to form healthy relationships, leaving her feeling isolated, dark, and angry. She explained that she often felt unable to leave her house, experiencing severe anxiety and sweating at the thought of social interactions. Her mental health had deteriorated to the point where she expressed a desire to end her life.

The victim also revealed that she had turned to alcohol and strong painkillers to cope with her pain and sleep issues. She shared that every relationship she attempted to build was affected by her trauma, leading her to push others away out of fear of being hurt or abandoned. Despite her outward appearance of indifference, she admitted to feeling worthless and undeserving of life.

As a consequence of Tiley’s conviction, the court noted that he had lost his home and his business. The judge addressed the court, stating, “You singled her out and made her feel groomed. She was entitled to feel safe. The court bears in mind the courage of the witness in attending court and reading out her statement. It’s a devastating account.”

During the proceedings, Tiley was visibly emotional, weeping and shaking his head. The court sentenced him to four years in prison. Additionally, he was placed under a sexual harm prevention order for five years and will be required to register as a sex offender indefinitely. The case has left a lasting scar on the community and highlights the importance of justice for victims of childhood abuse.