JAMES DRAPER OF DURSLEY SENTENCED TO 11 YEARS FOR SEX OFFENCES AGAINST YOUNG GIRL

In a case that has shocked the local community, James Draper, a 60-year-old resident of Dursley, was sentenced to a substantial prison term of 11 years for a series of serious sexual offences committed against a young girl. The court proceedings revealed a disturbing pattern of abuse that spanned over a period of time, leading to Draper’s conviction on multiple counts of sexual misconduct.

During the trial held at Bristol Crown Court, Draper was found guilty of 13 counts of sexual assault, six counts of assault by penetration, and two counts of inciting a child under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity. Notably, he was acquitted of six more serious charges, including attempted rape. The judge, William Hart, presided over the case and delivered the verdict, which included a sentence of 11 years in prison. Additionally, Draper was ordered to sign the sex offenders’ register for life and was given an indefinite ban from working with children, reflecting the severity of his crimes and the need to protect vulnerable individuals.

Prior to sentencing, Draper had been released on bail, allowing him time to arrange his affairs. The trial revealed that the victim, a young girl, did not disclose her ordeal until the previous year, despite the abuse having begun earlier. It was only during counselling sessions that she confided in her therapist about the abuse she had suffered at Draper’s hands. Following her disclosure, social services were contacted, and authorities were informed, as mandated by law.

Prosecutor Sarah Regan detailed the disturbing nature of the abuse, explaining that the girl described Draper’s initial conduct as “touchy-feely” and flirtatious. She recounted Draper’s threats, stating that he told her he would get her into trouble if she did not comply with his demands. The girl reported that Draper would hold her arms and pull her back when she tried to scream or push him away. The abuse reportedly occurred more than ten times but fewer than sixteen times, with Draper promising that it would never happen again whenever she expressed her discomfort. Despite Draper’s denials of any inappropriate behavior, the evidence presented in court led to his conviction, highlighting the gravity of his actions and the importance of justice for the victim.