Luis Da Silva

A Dorset man has been sentenced to a significant prison term following his admission of guilt in a series of child sex offences. Luis Da Silva, aged 41 and residing in Gillingham, appeared at Bristol Crown Court where he was handed a custodial sentence of nine years and five months.

Da Silva pleaded guilty to five sexual offences, which included one count of rape, all perpetrated against the same young victim. The offences came to light through a police investigation initiated in October 2023, after the victim confided in her family about the sexual abuse she had endured at Da Silva's hands. The abuse involved grooming and manipulation tactics employed by Da Silva to exploit the victim when she was a child, using lies and fear to maintain her silence for years.

In addition to the prison sentence, Da Silva will be subject to a year-long extended licence upon his release and has been issued with an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order to restrict his future behaviour and protect the public.

The victim provided a poignant statement detailing the profound impact of the crimes: "Since this happened to me, it has made me feel like I have been living a nightmare that I couldn’t wake up from. I feel scared of being on my own. I know he is in prison but it makes me feel worried, scared and stressed."

Detective Inspector Claire Millington from Avon and Somerset Police commended the victim's bravery in coming forward. She stated: "I want to praise the victim for their courage in reporting what had been happening to her, and thank her for placing her trust and belief in the investigation team. Luis Da Silva groomed and manipulated the victim for the sole purpose of committing horrendous acts against her when she was a young child and his actions have no doubt had a devastating impact on her. He used lies and fear to ensure her silence for years, giving absolutely no regard to the psychological impact of his crimes." Millington also praised the investigating officer, DC Harry Vance, for his dedication in securing justice.

This case underscores the long-term effects of such offences on victims and the importance of reporting abuse to enable law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable. The sentencing was reported on 30th May 2024 by Faye Tryhorn for Greatest Hits Radio Dorset.