MATTHEW WILLIAMS

A man from Lawrence Hill expressed feelings of shame, disgust, and devastation after admitting to sexually abusing a minor.

Following his confession, he was immediately sentenced to prison.

Matthew Williams targeted a 14-year-old boy, coercing him into performing sexual acts.

The court was informed that the distressed teenager threatened to disclose the abuse to his family, but Williams continued his actions until the boy finally confided in someone.

Upon confrontation, Williams apologized for his conduct.

The 36-year-old, residing on Cobden Street, pleaded guilty to charges including rape, engaging in sexual activities with a minor, and inciting a child to participate in sexual acts.

Judge Edward Burgess KC sentenced Williams to seven years in prison.

He stated, "I must send you to prison.

I am obliged to sentence you according to the sentencing guidelines, as required by law." In addition to his prison term, Williams received a 15-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which prohibits him from having any contact with children under 16.

He was also issued a restraining order, preventing him from contacting the young complainant, and instructed to inform police of his whereabouts for the rest of his life.

Furthermore, he is barred from working with children or vulnerable adults.

During the proceedings, prosecutor Michael Hall described how Williams appeared intoxicated when he approached the victim and began groping him.

Despite the child's protests, Williams continued his assault.

The young boy told Williams to "Stop, before I tell somebody," to which Williams responded, "This is our secret." The child later seized an opportunity to confide in his family, leading to Williams's confrontation and subsequent apology.

The victim’s impact statement revealed lasting emotional damage, stating he lost trust in others, feels uneasy around people and in crowded environments, and spends hours on Facebook, paranoid that the abuse might happen again.

Defending Williams, Tabitha Macfarlane remarked that few individuals admit guilt in sexual offence cases.

She highlighted that her client was respectful and remorseful during a probation interview, claiming he could not recall the incident but saw no reason for the boy to lie.

Ms.

Macfarlane added, "He is ashamed, disgusted, and gutted about his actions," emphasizing her client’s remorse for his behavior.