BRADFORD SEX OFFENDER SEAN DOOLEY SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS FOR CHILD ABUSE
A dangerous sex offender who subjected a young girl to prolonged sexual abuse has been sentenced to 18 years in prison.Sean Dooley, aged 57, was found guilty of multiple charges including causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, sexual assault of a child under 13, and rape and assault by penetration of a child under 13, after a nine-day trial at Bradford Crown Court.
The court heard that Dooley targeted and sexually abused the girl over several years, grooming her and providing her with money and cannabis while committing these horrific acts.
The abuse began when the girl was around five to seven years old, and she recalls feeling she had to change her appearance to prevent further abuse.
Prosecutor Richard Walters described the abuse as a "campaign" carried out while Dooley was in his white van, taking her to the countryside and carrying out the assaults despite her protests.
The victim's impact statement revealed her struggles with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts, as well as her difficulty trusting others and her battles with nightmares and emotional trauma.
She expressed hope that Dooley's imprisonment will help her move forward, stating, "I know now I can go on to live a happy life while he goes to prison.
I hope he is never allowed to commit offences like these against anyone else." Dooley has 21 previous convictions for 67 offences, and the court noted gaps in his offending history, as well as a recent brain injury.
During sentencing, Her Honour Judge Watson described his conduct as systematic and deliberate, emphasizing the profound and lasting impact on the victim.
She also imposed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Detective Sergeant Hannah Andrews highlighted the ongoing suffering of the victim and urged other victims to come forward, ensuring support and investigation for such cases.
