A victim of a west Wiltshire child sex offender has told a court she “didn’t have a childhood” as her abuser was sentenced to 16 and a half years in prison. 

Troy Gibbs, 44, of no fixed abode, was sentenced at Winchester Crown Court on Friday May 22 after being found guilty by trial in December for causing/inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, sexual assault by penetration of a girl under 13 and sexual assault of a girl under 13.

In a statement read out in court she said: “If I was asked to explain my childhood, I would simply say that I didn’t have a childhood.

“I have very few friends because I’ve become so introverted and fearful of letting someone else hurt me or having to explain to someone what happened to me growing up.

“These issues I have are mine, but they have all come about by one person, Troy. Someone who hasn’t once shared an ounce of remorse for what he has done, or the pain and suffering he has caused.”

The offences, involving two victims, all took place at a property in the west Wiltshire area between 2011 and 2013.

Gibbs was also ordered to pay a £120 surcharge, will be required to register with the police in accordance with the Sexual Offences Act 2003 indefinitely and will be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order. This order will remain in force until a further order is made.

Detective Sergeant Becki Nash said: “This was a prolonged and deeply distressing case. Gibbs’ actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the trust placed in him by the victims and their families. He exploited these children and gave no thought to the trauma his actions have caused.

“I want to recognise the courage shown by the victims in coming forward and supporting this investigation. We understand how difficult it can be to speak about abuse, particularly when it involves someone you trust, and they have shown immense strength. This case was first reported in 2015 but, sadly, it could not be progressed at the time. I would like to thank the victims for allowing us to reopen the case, which has been key to achieving this outcome.

“No sentence can ever truly reflect the seriousness of these offences, where the defendant took advantage of young females who trusted and looked up to him.

“I hope the victims and their families can now begin to rebuild their lives and move forward from this.”

Wiltshire Police take all reports of sexual abuse seriously and investigate them regardless of how much time has passed. You can report in the following ways:

• Online: Submit a report through the Wiltshire Police Reporting Service.
• Phone: Call 101 to speak to an officer, or call 999 if you are in immediate danger.
• Anonymously: Contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Support is available even if you choose not to involve the police.

• Swindon & Wiltshire SARC: Provides a safe, independent, and confidential space for adults needing support and forensic examinations. You can contact them directly at 01793 781917 or via the First Light SARC Referral Page.