Ralph Slade is tonight starting a 4 year prison sentence after systematically sexually abusing a young girl over a prolonged period of time in a ”significant betrayal of trust“.
Slade, 62, formally of Kite Hill Caravan Park, Wootton, Isle of Wight, was sentenced by Judge Ian Pearson at Portsmouth Crown Court this afternoon (Monday) after abusing the girl, aged under 13, around 20 years ago.
Mr Slade was found guilty by a jury after a trial at an earlier date.
Judge Ian Pearson described the offences as “very serious” and as “prolonged sexual abuse over a lengthy period”.
The sexual offences survivor, whose identity is protected under law, said: “It’s been a painful year waiting for a weight I’ve been carrying all my life to be lifted. Some of my worst times now have a positive ending.
“I feel like this is the first day of the rest of my life. I’m really happy I can start afresh. I can learn to live again without fear. It will be a relief to walk out of my front door and not worry about seeing Ralph Slade.
“I was too scared to go out because seeing him around on the island all the time made me feel he was freer than I was. I’d had enough.
“I’m so grateful to my partner and family for their tireless support. I could not have gone to the police without them. Going through the courts has been a long process but I would like to tell other sexual abuse survivors seeking justice to stay strong because it will be worth it in the end. Taking time to talk about your experiences is the best healer.
“I’d really like to thank the police and particularly Detective Sergeant John Stirling. He’s always been there for me, and it’s brilliant how he’s able to put you at ease.”
Owner of the caravan park, Mr Barry Abraham said: “The outcome is very distressing and if we had known of Mr Slade’s past, he would not have been welcome to stay at the park”.
Mr Abraham wishes to stipulate that Mr Slade stayed at the park during the out-of-season months and does not believe Mr Slade would have had any contact with children during this time.
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