A 30-year-old Tasmanian man has been jailed for three years after admitting to repeatedly sexually abusing his half-sister when she was a child.
The man, identified only as JPD, pleaded guilty to persistent sexual abuse of a young person.
The Supreme Court of Tasmania heard the abuse took place between 2010 and 2015, when the victim was aged between nine and 14.
After their mother died in 2006, both children went to live with their grandparents in Bridgewater.
JPD was often left in charge of his younger half-sister when their grandparents went out on weekends.
The court heard he used this position of trust to commit the abuse, sometimes bribing the girl with treats or gifts.
The victim, now 24, described the long-term impact of the offending in a statement to the court.
“She states that she was only five years old when her mum passed away and at that time she needed protection and love the most,” the sentencing judge said.
“The complainant says that during her most vulnerable years, you exploited her innocence, leaving her with fear, pain and deep trauma that continues to affect her to this day.”
“Your actions left her feeling confused, worthless and profoundly alone.”
The woman said she still experiences flashbacks and anxiety and struggles with work and relationships.
She also avoids visiting her grandmother’s house due to the traumatic memories.
JPD made full admissions when interviewed by police in 2024, telling officers he was “disgusted” with himself.
“I hate myself for it. I know it was wrong,” he said.
A psychiatric report found he suffered from depression and anxiety linked to his mother’s death and likely had autism spectrum disorder and ADHD.
The judge said the offending called for a four-year sentence, but reduced it due to JPD’s mental health issues, his age during part of the offending and his early guilty plea.
JPD will be eligible for parole after serving 18 months and must remain on the sex offender register for five years after his release.
