This is the visage of a Hull father convicted of egregious sexual crimes, including rape called Darren Broadbent.
Darren Broadbent, 31, of Seafield Avenue, Hull, refuted six sexual charges; but, a jury convicted him of five, including rape and assault by penetration.
His victim endured “mental anguish,” accompanied by nightmares, flashbacks, and night terrors. The abuse inflicted “catastrophic effects” on her, and the “severe psychological harm” significantly impacted her entire life, resulting in a “tidal wave” of suffering, as shown in Hull Crown Court.
Judge Mark Bury said that Broadbent committed the offences when he was much younger but the girl did not report any of them at the time. “She did not appreciate the severity of what you were doing,” said Judge Bury.
“You, however, did have some idea because you told her on more than one occasion not to tell anybody. It would be your secret. She was anxious about whether she would be believed.”
“The court can see how devastating your actions have been,” said Judge Bury. “It has affected every aspect of her life. You took the case to trial and the court is now in a good position to see the harm that you have caused.”
The “catastrophic effects” of Broadbent’s behaviour on the girl had become clear. “She continues to have nightmares and night traumas,” said Judge Bury.
“She has been diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder. She has sadness. Now that you are going to be sent to jail, she will get some closure. Severe psychological harm has been occasioned. You did know you were doing wrong. These are serious offences, as you well know.”
The girl said in a statement: “I have suffered with mental torture over the years, which has gradually got worse and worse. What Darren did to me was so wrong. What’s happened should never have happened. I suffer with nightmares and night terrors.”
She said that she would “wake up dripping with sweat” and this had been happening as long as she could remember. This was the lowest point of her life.
Sometimes she struggled to get out of bed and she struggled to sleep at night. She had suffered a “tidal wave” of effects. “This is not the life I should be living,” she said.
“The nightmares, flashbacks and night sweats continue, along with intrusive thoughts. My family have given me so much support throughout this. He has taken too much from me and put me through too much hurt.”
Charlotte Baines, mitigating, said that there had been no repeat of the offending. “He does not pose a high or significant risk to children at this particular time,” said Miss Baines.
Broadbent had a lack of previous convictions, including for anything similar. He was married, had a daughter and had been working.
Broadbent was jailed for six years and must register as a sex offender for life.
If you or anyone you know have been affected by the people highlighted in this article, then please report those individuals to the Police on 111 (999 if an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details of the options for reporting a crime. You can also make a report at Crimestoppers should you wish to be completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.