Robert George Carrel was sentenced to nine years in prison on Monday after being found guilty of three counts of procuring an act of gross indecency and one count of indecent assault against a girl under ten. The court heard how he gave his victim gifts as rewards. His crimes date back 30 years.
Following Carrel’s sentencing by the Royal Court, from where he was removed for swearing and calling the justice system ‘corrupt’, Detective Inspector Cathy Davison praised his victim for speaking out.
She said: ‘This victim has shown great strength and immense courage throughout this long investigation. She has been supported throughout by a specially trained sexual offence liaison officer and will receive any further support that is required.
‘Sexual abuse of children is the most detestable of crimes and we will work tirelessly to bring perpetrators to justice, no matter how long ago the offences took place.’
Carrel was brought back to Jersey in 2018, eight years after he was convicted for other child sex crimes in the UK.
A spokesperson for NSPCC Jersey said the case showed that victims of abuse would be listened to no matter how much time had passed.
The charity said: ‘It is testament to her bravery in speaking out that he is now facing the consequences of his actions.
‘Often children won’t realise that what is happening to them is abuse, so it is vital that they are taught from an early age how to recognise the signs and where to turn to for help. The NSPCC’s Speak Out Stay Safe programme has reached thousands of primary school children in Jersey this year with these important messages.
‘This case also highlights that all survivors of abuse will be listened to, no matter how much time has passed.’
Anyone who has concerns about suspected child sexual abuse or exploitation can contact the Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub on 519000 or the Public Protection Unit at police headquarters on 612612. The sexual assault referral centre, known as Dewberry House, can be contacted on 888222.
