DAVID VAN FROM CREWE SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS FOR ABUSING YOUNG GIRLS IN CREWE

In May 2019, a disturbing case involving a 61-year-old man from Crewe culminated in a significant prison sentence after he was found guilty of multiple sexual offences against young girls. David Van-Emmenis appeared before Chester Crown Court on Wednesday, May 15, to face sentencing following a comprehensive trial that revealed the extent of his heinous actions.

During the trial, it was established that Van had sexually abused five girls of varying ages, with the youngest victim being only nine years old. The court heard that he was responsible for nine counts of sexual offences committed against these children. The gravity of his crimes was underscored by victim impact statements read aloud by prosecutor Matthew Corbett-Jones, which detailed the long-lasting psychological scars inflicted upon the victims and their families.

One statement described how a young girl, identified only as [Redacted], continues to experience mood swings and emotional instability despite receiving regular counseling. Another mother recounted how her daughter, once a happy and lively child, had become withdrawn and detached following the abuse. The same girl now suffers from anxiety, which manifests in sleep disturbances and stomach issues, alongside a severely diminished sense of self-worth, often describing herself as 'hopeless' and 'worthless.' The prosecutor highlighted that her academic achievements had declined noticeably and that she now struggles with trust issues, which have profoundly affected her ability to form relationships.

Judge Berkson, presiding over the case, emphasized the severity of Van's actions during sentencing. He stated, “There have been nine offences on five young girls. You preyed on each of these young girls.” The judge also acknowledged the profound and lasting impact of the abuse, noting the breach of trust and psychological harm evidenced during the trial.

It was revealed that Van had a criminal history, with 10 previous court appearances involving 22 offences, mostly related to minor crimes. His prior convictions included sentences of 15 months each for counts one and two, and a one-year sentence for a third count. The judge explained that Van would serve a minimum of 10 years in prison before being eligible for parole. If released on parole, he would remain on license for the remainder of his sentence.

Additional sentences included 15 months each for counts four and five, and a cumulative custodial term of 21 years for counts six, seven, and eight. For the final count, Van was sentenced to an additional 30 months. All these sentences are to be served concurrently, meaning they will run at the same time.

In addition to his custodial sentence, Van was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was issued a sexual harm prevention order, which prohibits him from being in the company of any child. These measures aim to prevent further harm and protect the community from a man deemed a significant risk due to the nature of his offences and his history.