EDWIN WALKER FROM STAPLE HILL SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE IN BRISTOL

In August 2019, a disturbing case unfolded involving Edwin Walker, a man with a military background from Staple Hill, who was convicted of heinous sexual offenses against a young girl. Walker, a former navy serviceman, was found guilty of multiple counts of indecent assault, crimes that have left a lasting scar on the victim and the community alike.

During the proceedings at Bristol Crown Court, Walker, aged 86 and residing at The Hawthorns in Staple Hill, admitted to a series of 17 charges related to the sexual abuse of a young girl. The charges included multiple counts of indecent assault, some of which involved repeated offenses against the same victim. His guilty plea marked a significant moment in the case, bringing some measure of relief to the complainant and her family.

The presiding judge, His Honour Judge Peter Blair QC, sentenced Walker to 17 and a half years in prison, with an additional five years on extended licence. This sentence reflects the gravity of his crimes and the court’s recognition of the profound impact on the victim. During the sentencing, the judge read aloud extracts from the victim’s impact statement, in which she described Walker as a “monster” who had “ruined my life” and expressed fears that he might have harmed others as well.

The victim’s words underscored the emotional toll of the abuse, emphasizing her need for justice and closure. The court was told that the abuse began when the girl was just five years old. She initially kept her suffering to herself but eventually disclosed the abuse to her family, which led to the police being involved and the subsequent legal proceedings.

Fiona Elder, the prosecutor in the case, highlighted the severity of the crimes and the long-lasting effects on the victim. The case has garnered significant attention in the local community, especially given Walker’s age and the nature of his offenses. The court’s decision aims to serve justice for the young girl and to send a clear message about the consequences of such reprehensible acts.