DAVID WHITE

A survivor of sexual abuse has shared how the trauma has impacted her life, coinciding with the sentencing of her abuser, who will serve 12 years in prison.

The man, known to the victim, assaulted her over a decade, from age six to 16, between 1986 and 1996.

The case was reported in April 2020, leading to the arrest of David White (born 21 December 1956).

In May 2023, he faced charges including four counts of indecent assault on a girl under 14 and four counts on a girl under 16.

After a weeklong trial, White, aged 68 and residing in Sunbury, was sentenced at Guildford Crown Court on 11 September to 12 years in prison for the eight counts of indecent assault.

He was also ordered to remain on the Sex Offenders Register for life.

The survivor expressed that, “This has been a long and difficult process that tested my resilience and strength.

I live with PTSD, and even small triggers like a certain aftershave or noticing a ring on a man’s finger can bring back memories.

“The choices David made have affected every part of my life.

I will never forgive him for what he did.

Each time I hear that cell door close, I see a tiny reflection of the trauma he inflicted.” She also reflected on her journey, saying, “I want to support other survivors and encourage them not to give up.

I am grateful to Surrey Police, especially DC Louise Sloan and Witness Care officer Anna Banting, for their belief in me, their persistence, and for helping me find strength when I felt so weak.” Investigating officer DC Louise Sloan stated, “I thank the survivor for trusting us enough to come forward and report these terrible events.

Without her courage, this person might never have faced justice.

I hope this conviction helps her to move on.

“I want to assure victims that it’s never too late to report abuse, even if many years have passed.

Surrey Police will take all reports seriously and investigate whenever possible.

“This case should serve as a warning to those who commit child abuse: no matter how long ago the crimes, we can still find you, and we may come knocking at your door at any time.”