RONALD SHARP FROM ERISWELL SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS FOR SEX OFFENCES IN IPSWICH

In April 2017, a man from Eriswell named Ronald Sharp was handed a lengthy prison sentence of 17 years following a series of serious sexual offences committed against two female victims. The case, which was heard at Ipswich Crown Court, brought to light a disturbing pattern of criminal behavior that spanned several years and involved both a child and an adult woman.

Police officials have publicly commended the bravery of the victims who came forward to report the abuse. Their courage in reliving traumatic experiences played a crucial role in ensuring that Sharp was held accountable for his actions. Detective Chief Inspector Barry Byford, from Suffolk Constabulary’s Safeguarding and Investigations team, emphasized the importance of the victims' resilience, stating, “This terrible case only serves to highlight the bravery of the victims in coming forward and re-living the events in order to achieve justice.”

He further expressed hope that the lengthy sentence would serve as a form of closure for the victims, aiding their ongoing recovery from the emotional and psychological scars inflicted by Sharp’s crimes. The detective also reaffirmed the commitment of Suffolk police to thoroughly investigate all allegations of sexual assault, whether recent or historical, and assured victims of the highest level of support and care during the investigative process.

During the trial, prosecutor Caroline Gardiner described Sharp as a man with an insatiable sexual appetite. The court heard that he used threats of violence to coerce the victims into performing sexual acts against their will. The evidence presented painted a disturbing picture of manipulation and abuse, with some offences involving a minor and others involving an adult woman.

At the sentencing hearing, Charles Myatt, representing Sharp, expressed remorse on his client’s behalf. He told the court, “He clearly feels a significant degree of shame,” suggesting that Sharp was aware of the gravity of his actions and the impact they had on his victims.

Victims’ impact statements were also read aloud in court. One woman shared that she has struggled with low self-esteem ever since the assaults and now perceives herself as nothing more than a sexual object. She revealed that her trust in men has been severely damaged and that she continues to experience frequent flashbacks, vividly recalling the abuse. She described her childhood as being taken away from her, highlighting the profound emotional toll of the crimes.

The other victim also reported suffering from flashbacks and nightmares, illustrating the lasting psychological scars left by Sharp’s actions. Despite Sharp’s initial denial of eight charges—including rape, attempted rape, buggery, attempted buggery, and indecent assault—his guilt was ultimately established in court, leading to his substantial prison sentence. The case underscores the importance of victim bravery and the relentless efforts of law enforcement to bring offenders like Sharp to justice in Suffolk.