Convicted of historical rapes of a child.

Totterdown Pensioner Convicted of Historical Rapes, Likely to Die in Jail

Brian David, 78, of Wells Road, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for multiple sexual assaults against a child. The former RAF man was convicted of eight counts of indecent assault, three counts of rape, and two counts of buggery, committed against the victim between the ages of eight and 17.

David, who described the allegations as "a load of bloody nonsense", was found guilty by a jury at Bristol Crown Court. The judge, Recorder Mr James Bromige, told David that due to his poor health and diminished life expectancy, he is likely to die in prison.

The victim, speaking behind a screen, detailed the devastating impact the abuse had on her life, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and difficulties with everyday life. She expressed her desire for David to remember his actions and the suffering he caused.

The prosecution, led by Nikke Coombe, highlighted the vulnerability of the child and the manipulative tactics used by David. The defense, represented by Virginia Cornwall, argued for a shorter sentence, emphasizing David's age and the low likelihood of re-offending.

The judge imposed an indefinite restraining order prohibiting David from any contact with the victim and required him to register his whereabouts with the police indefinitely.