Man imprisoned over sexual assaults on young girl

A West Sussex man has been sent to prison over a series of sex assaults on a vulnerable young girl, according to police.
Tony Monery. Picture: Sussex PoliceTony Monery. Picture: Sussex Police
Tony Monery. Picture: Sussex Police

Tony Monery, 56, a sales representative, now of Swanfield Drive, Chichester, was sentenced to a total of ten years imprisonment at Brighton Crown Court on Friday (May 5) having been convicted after a four-day trial of a series of sexual assaults in Worthing, spanning three years, on a young girl, police said.

A police spokesman said: “He was convicted of seven counts of indecent assault, one attempted rape and one rape on the girl.

“Monery will be a registered sex offender for life. “

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Detective Constable Graham Gray of the West Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit said: “Monery gained the confidence of this young girl and systematically abused her for three years. Only in 2014 did she feel able to come forward and tell us what had happened to her.

“He made no comment in interview and pleaded not guilty throughout, showing no remorse whatsoever. The victim had to face cross-examination in court but the jury clearly believed her evidence.

“We will always take such reports seriously and pursue them wherever possible, to try to achieve justice and support for victims.”

The victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said: “The reason I came forward after so long is that he showed no remorse and I believe he needed to know he was in the wrong and I deserved justice. Now he has been found guilty I feel a great sense of relief and I can finally move forward with my life.”

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Speaking after the sentencing, an NSPCC spokesman said: “This case shows that survivors of child sexual abuse will be listened to – no matter how long ago the crime was committed.

“Monery abused the trust he had gained from his young victim and his actions will have had a hugely damaging impact. Her bravery in speaking out has helped bring him to justice and we hope she has received all appropriate support to rebuild her life.

“It is vital that anyone with concerns about child abuse contacts the NSPC Helpline on 0808 800 5000. Children can speak to a trained counsellor at Childline – a free, confidential and 24/7 service, on 0800 1111 or via www.childline.org.uk.”