DAVID WRIGHT FROM BRIDGWATER SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING UNDERAGE GIRL IN TAUNTON

In a case that has shocked the community of Bridgwater, David Wright, a 28-year-old man, was sentenced to 30 months in prison after being found guilty of engaging in sexual activities with a girl who was only 15 years old at the time. The incident dates back to 2007 when Wright first became involved with the young girl, who was just 14 years old. According to court proceedings, Wright and the girl developed a relationship that quickly turned physical, with the pair engaging in sexual encounters on a regular basis.

Prosecutor James Patrick detailed that Wright was fully aware of the girl’s age when their relationship began. Evidence presented in court revealed that Wright received cards celebrating her 15th birthday, which confirmed her age at the time. Despite knowing her age, Wright continued to pursue a sexual relationship with her, which included multiple instances of intimacy. The court also heard that their relationship was marred by violence and frequent arguments, especially as the girl found it increasingly difficult to cope with the situation. Eventually, she decided to end the relationship, citing the emotional and physical toll it had taken on her.

Following his arrest in October, Wright made some controversial remarks, describing the girl as “the little tart of Bridgwater” and claiming he believed she was 18, despite her confirming her age was 15 and that her birthday was imminent. His comments reflected a dismissive attitude towards the seriousness of his actions.

During the hearing, Wright’s defense lawyer, Alan Large, acknowledged that his client had engaged in sexual activity with an underage girl and had failed to register as a sex offender, which is a legal requirement in such cases. Large expressed that Wright was unaware of the gravity with which the courts viewed his offenses. The defense also highlighted Wright’s fears about how he would be treated in prison, emphasizing his concern about being labeled a sex offender and the impact it would have on him. Wright, who has a daughter from a previous relationship, expressed remorse and stated that he understood he would be under supervision by the probation service for an extended period.

Judge Graham Hume Jones emphasized the importance of protecting young girls from exploitation and took into account the circumstances of the case. He noted that if the case had gone to trial, the sentence could have been as high as four years. However, due to Wright’s guilty plea and other mitigating factors, including a lack of concern for the girl’s well-being by those responsible for her, the court decided on the 30-month sentence. The judge also acknowledged Wright’s remorse and the fact that he had shown some level of responsibility for his actions, which contributed to the reduction in sentencing.