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ACT man sentenced to seven years for abusing two girls over decade

A 74-year-old man was sentenced to seven years in prison for sexually abusing a 10-year-old and a 14-year-old about a decade apart.

The ACT Supreme Court sentenced a 74-year-old man to seven years in prison on October 6 after finding him guilty of nine charges including repeated sexual abuse, grooming and indecency. He abused a 14-year-old girl about a decade ago, meeting her at a sports club and pretending to be a coach and mentor while grooming her.

In messages, he said the universe sent him to her and that they had known each other for thousands of years. He sent sexual images he called spiritual teachings and assaulted her during driving lessons at remote locations.

About ten years later, he told his step-granddaughter they had been lovers in another life and repeatedly made her kiss him. The younger victim reported the abuse to her stepmother, who took her to police.

Chief Justice Lucy McCallum found he showed no empathy or remorse. He can apply for parole in May 2031.

October 6
Sentencing date
Seven years
Prison sentence
May 2031
Parole eligibility

Why it mattersThis sentencing shows how seriously courts handle grooming and child sexual abuse. It also recognizes the bravery of victims in reporting such crimes.

AustraliaThe case demonstrates ACT's legal response to child sexual abuse and the importance of victims reporting such crimes to authorities.

✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 10 h ago

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