Owen Zissler, 21, from Haslington near Crewe, has been sentenced to 30 months in prison for engaging in sexual activity with a child after taking advantage of a drunk 14-year-old girl at a party in North Wales. The incident occurred in 2022, when Zissler, who was 19 at the time, had been invited to the party as he could purchase alcohol for underage guests. The victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, had gone upstairs to her bedroom to fetch something when Zissler followed her and proceeded to commit the heinous act. The Mold Crown Court heard that Zissler admitted to the offence of having sexual activity with a child.
The prosecution revealed that the defendant had purchased alcohol for the underage party guests and exploited the fact that the girl was inebriated. The victim’s father discovered what had transpired and promptly informed the police, leading to Zissler’s arrest. Following an investigation, semen belonging to Zissler was found on the girl’s underwear. The victim, in her statement, expressed feelings of discomfort and mistrust towards others, indicating that the traumatic incident had a profound impact on her mental wellbeing. She even felt that she would be better off dead, demonstrating the severity of the emotional distress caused by Zissler’s actions.
During the court proceedings, Zissler’s defence attorney, Simon Rogers, pointed out his client’s struggles with dyslexia and social challenges, which may have contributed to his poor judgement. Despite this, Zissler is said to be remorseful for his behaviour. The presiding judge, His Honour Niclas Parry, acknowledged the detrimental effects of Zissler’s actions on the victim’s mental health and sentenced him to two and a half years in prison. Additionally, Zissler was placed under sex offender notification requirements and a restraining order for a period of ten years.
The victim’s harrowing experience serves as a stark reminder of the long-lasting impact of sexual abuse on survivors. The incident highlights the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions and providing adequate support to victims in their path to recovery. It also underscores the need for ongoing efforts to educate individuals on consent and boundaries to prevent such tragic events from occurring in the future.
If you or someone you know has been affected by the content of this article, there are mental health support helplines and organisations available to provide assistance. These resources offer a safe space for individuals to seek help, guidance, and emotional support during difficult times. By raising awareness and promoting mental well-being, we can strive to create a safer and more supportive environment for everyone in our communities.