Police praise child victim's bravery as 'monster' offender gets more jail time

Officers say they'll continue to bring them to justice

Police say they will continue to target sex offenders on the Isle of Man and bring them to justice.

It follows the sentencing of a 33-year-old man, described in court as a 'monster', who has today been told he’ll serve an additional five years behind bars.

Joshua David Gray, who is already serving a nine-year sentence at the Isle of Man Prison, admitted committing further sexual offences against a child between 2017 and 2020.

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The Isle of Man Constabulary has welcomed the sentence passed, at Douglas Courthouse, by Deemster Graeme Cook.

Detective Constable Kate Crompton said: "I wish to commend the immense bravery of the child involved and their family for coming forward to report this distressing matter to the police and their continued strength throughout the judicial process.  

"The victim impact statement read to the court today demonstrated the devastating consequences of these terrible crimes. 

"The physical and mental trauma caused by this type of crime can have a significant impact on victims for years. He preyed on a young victim who was in no position to speak out or defend themselves."

Detective Inspector John Mitchell said: "The Isle of Man Constabulary’s Public Protection Unit will continue to pursue and target sex offenders and, together with the Attorney Generals Chambers, bring these criminals to justice.

"Police wish to encourage any victims of sexual offences to make contact with police or other supportive agencies, including Victim Support, to report such matters. 

"All reports will be thoroughly investigated and dealt with sensitively by specially trained officers." 

You can contact Police Headquarters by calling 01624 631212 or Victim Support on 01624 679950.