RALPH SLADE JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON ISLAND IN 2011

In March 2011, Ralph Slade, a 62-year-old resident of Wootton, was sentenced to four years in prison for a series of sexual assaults that occurred nearly two decades earlier. Slade was convicted at a previous court hearing on five counts of indecent assault and had admitted to another count, though he was acquitted of an additional similar charge.

Following the conviction, the victim—who remains unnamed—shared her emotional response, stating: "It has been a painful year waiting for a weight I’ve been carrying all my life to be lifted. Some of my worst times now have a positive ending."

She described feeling liberated, saying, "I feel like this is the first day of the rest of my life. I’m really happy I can start afresh. I can learn to live again without fear. It will be a relief to walk out of my front door and not worry about seeing Ralph Slade."

The victim also recounted her fears prior to reporting the crimes: "I was too scared to go out because seeing him around on the Island all the time made me feel he was freer than I was. I’d had enough."

Expressing gratitude to her supporters, she added: "I’m so grateful to my partner and family for their tireless support. I could not have gone to the police without them. Going through the courts has been a long process but I would like to tell other sexual abuse survivors seeking justice to stay strong because it will be worth it in the end. Taking time to talk about your experiences is the best healer."

She also praised law enforcement, particularly Detective Sergeant John Stirling, stating: "I’d really like to thank the police and particularly Det Sgt John Stirling. He’s always been there for me, and it’s brilliant how he’s able to put you at ease."