David Miller, 44, of Ipswich, has been sentenced to 21 years in prison after being found guilty of 16 sexual offences involving three children, spanning from 2002 to 2019.
The sentencing occurred at Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday, June 20, following a nine-day trial in which Miller had pleaded not guilty to all charges.
The jury delivered a unanimous guilty verdict on Friday, May 14, convicting Miller of 16 offences. These offences include two counts of rape, two counts of indecent assault, four counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, seven counts of sexual activity with a child, and one count of sexual activity with a child. The crimes involved three children and occurred between December 2002 and December 2019.
Miller was first arrested in October 2020, and after a detailed investigation, he was charged in October 2022. He had targeted vulnerable adult women with the intent to abuse their children, all of whom were boys.
Investigating officer DC Michael Florey commended the victims and witnesses for their courage in supporting the investigation, stating, "Without their support, Miller would be free to continue abusing young boys." He noted that the public gallery was full throughout the trial, including the family from a 2002 trial where Miller was acquitted.
DC Florey acknowledged the distress experienced by the victims and their families during the trial due to Miller's not-guilty plea, which necessitated a week of extremely distressing evidence. He hoped the sentencing would provide some closure for the victims and allow them to move forward with their lives.
Suffolk Police emphasized their commitment to investigating allegations of sexual assault, whether recent or historical and to providing comprehensive support to victims during the investigative process. The Suffolk Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH), which includes police, county council, education, and health services, collaborates to address harm, abuse, and neglect risks.
Concerned individuals are urged to contact Customer First at 0808 800 4005 if there is an immediate risk to a child's safety or to call the police on 999 in an emergency. Referrals regarding potential abuse or neglect can be made through the Suffolk Children and Young People's Portal.
For more information on child abuse reporting and advice, visit the Suffolk Constabulary's website.
Additional details are available on the Suffolk Safeguarding Partnership children's website at https://www.suffolksp.org.uk/concerned/.
