Exeter man jailed for child sexual abuse

A man from Exeter has been jailed for sexually abusing a girl aged under 13.

Charles Kirkby, of Church Road in St Thomas, was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison at Exeter Crown Court on Friday 13 June.

The 39-year-old had previously pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault against a child, which took place on a date in 2024.

The court heard how the victim disclosed the abuse to her mother, who then contacted the police. Kirkby was arrested the same evening.

During police interview, he denied committing any sexual offences but admitted to being under the influence of alcohol.

Kirkby was also made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.

Detective Constable Jon Stephens, from Devon and Cornwall Police’s Public Protection Unit, praised the victim’s courage in coming forward.

He said: “By bravely disclosing what had happened to her, the victim in this case has allowed us to investigate and bring Kirkby to justice for his offending.

“His actions were motivated by sexual desire and showed no consideration for the child victim.

“We ask anybody who has been the victim of child sexual abuse to report it, whether it be recent or non-recent, and we will investigate each matter thoroughly.”

Support and resources

If you have been affected by this story, support is available.

• Visit victimcare-dc.org for help navigating the criminal justice system and to access support services.

• Call Victim Support on 0808 1689 111

• Contact Devon and Cornwall Police’s Victim Care Unit on 01392 475900

• National Rape Crisis Helpline: 0808 802 9999

• Devon and Cornwall SARC (Sexual Assault Referral Centres): 0300 303 4626

If a child is in immediate danger, call 999. To report non-urgent concerns, call 101, use the “Report” function on www.devon-cornwall.police.uk, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

For further information:

• Child abuse and exploitation advice

• Stop It Now: Confidential support for anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse, including those worried about their own behaviour or someone else’s.