Rodney Bunzly, a 57-year-old man from Grasmere Drive, Weston-super-Mare, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for multiple historic sexual offences against a child. His actions inflicted serious and lasting psychological trauma on the victim.
During sentencing at Bristol Crown Court on Monday, October 20, the victim bravely shared how the abuse has deeply affected her life over the years. She described struggling with feelings of weakness and instability upon learning of the charges. “What Rodney did to me has been a constant burden,” she said. “It has always affected my ability to form relationships. However, I no longer feel guilty for his actions. Despite what he did to me, I am now in a strong place and beginning to enjoy life again.”
Bunzly was convicted of indecent assault, sexual intercourse with a child, and penetrative sexual activity, alongside charges related to creating indecent images of a child. Following an eight-day trial, a jury found him guilty of ten additional counts related to child exploitation on September 18.
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He is also subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order prohibiting any contact with the victim.
Detective Constable Joe Sanderson commended the victim’s courage in coming forward and emphasized the ongoing commitment to supporting survivors of abuse. “Bunzly targeted a vulnerable child nearly two decades ago, causing enduring harm,” DC Sanderson said. “This conviction sends a clear message that abuse will not be tolerated and survivors will be heard.”
Judge Moira Macmillan acknowledged the profound impact on the victim, stating, “I am satisfied she has suffered serious and significant psychological harm as a result of your offences.”
Authorities encourage anyone affected by sexual offences, regardless of when they occurred, to report their experiences to the police. Support is available through The Bridge, a confidential Sexual Assault Referral Centre offering assistance 24/7 by phone at 0117 342 6999.