IAN GILROY FROM BRAUNTON SENTENCED FOR DECADES-OLD SEXUAL ABUSE IN EXETER

In a case that has spanned decades and brought to light the harrowing experiences of a young girl, Ian Gilroy, a 44-year-old man formerly residing in Braunton, has been sentenced to six years in prison for a series of serious sexual offenses committed over 25 years ago. The conviction was handed down at Exeter Crown Court, where a jury found Gilroy guilty of five counts of rape, one count of indecent assault, and an additional serious sex offense.

During the trial, it was revealed that the abuse took place over a period of four and a half years, from 1978 to 1982, on a farm near Braunton. The victim, who was between the ages of 11 and nearly 16 at the time, endured a prolonged period of trauma and psychological suffering as a result of the repeated assaults. For many years, she struggled with the emotional scars left by the abuse, which affected her mental health and well-being.

It was only after seeking counseling and reaching a point of emotional resilience that she felt capable of coming forward and making a formal complaint against Gilroy. The prosecution, led by Andrew Oldland, highlighted that Gilroy’s mother had previously shielded him from suspicion, dismissing the victim’s allegations by claiming she was promiscuous and possessed a 'vivid imagination.' This denial and cover-up persisted until her death a few years ago, which ultimately gave the victim the strength to speak out.

The court heard that the abuse was so frequent that the victim described the incidents as often blurring into one another, becoming an almost constant part of her life during those years. Gilroy, who now resides outside of the county, maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, claiming that the victim had fabricated her allegations against him. He pleaded not guilty to all seven charges.

Judge Graham Cottle, presiding over the case, took into account the fact that the offenses were committed many years ago and considered Gilroy’s age at the time of the crimes. The judge noted that if not for these mitigating factors, the sentence might have been more severe. He described Gilroy’s actions as subjecting his victim to a prolonged and terrifying ordeal, which left a lasting impact on her mental health.

In addition to the prison sentence, Gilroy was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders’ Register, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct following his release. The case underscores the importance of addressing historic abuse cases and providing justice for victims who have endured long-standing trauma.