Man jailed for 'sickening' child sexual offences

A man who police say pretended to be a "fun and helpful" community figure has been jailed for committing sexual offences against a child and a teenager.

Thomas Brewer, of Whitefield Avenue in Speedwell, Bristol, was jailed for eight-and-a-half years on Thursday having previously been convicted of eight sexual offences against two female victims.

One of the victims said the 60-year-old's "sickening" abuse meant she had to grow up "quicker than I should have".

Det Con Eleanor Gaskarth said Brewer used "targeted, deliberate and sustained" grooming behaviours and "took advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce and manipulate his victims".

Brewer was convicted by a unanimous jury of four counts of engaging in non-penetrative activity with a child, two counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and two counts of sexual assault against a female.

Alongside his jail term, he was handed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order during sentencing at Bristol Crown Court.

During his trial, the jury was told Brewer abused his position of trust and assaulted the youngest victim over a period of about six months.

The oldest victim was assaulted at a party, police said.

The first victim, who was under the age of 16 at the time of the offences, said in a statement that she hated Brewer and his crimes had left an "ongoing" impact on her.

"This happening has made me grow up, and maybe quicker than I should have.

"I am not going to let this ruin my life. I have accepted it and can finally move forwards now," her statement said.

The second victim, who was under 18 at the time of the offences, said Brewer's lack of remorse for his actions was "sickening".

"I really hope one day you realise what you did and how disgusting it is.

"The nightmares and social anxiety I get to this day are caused by you, but I want you to know you've not won and never will," she said in her statement.

Det Con Gaskarth, from Avon and Somerset Police, praised the victims for their "extreme courage" and "immense personal strength" in speaking out and reporting Brewer.

"Their actions have been vital in bringing Brewer to justice, and their bravery will help protect others in our community," she added.

Follow BBC Bristol on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.