West,a formerNeighbours star,has given written consent to this masthead to be identified as a victim of sexual assault.
Now 44,she grew up near White’s property and was repeatedly abused over a five-year period that began when she was five.
At a plea hearing on December 5,West demanded that White look her in the eyes as she read out her victim impact statement in court.
“He wept,looked away. And time and again I demanded he meet my gaze,for the first time in his miserable life show a shred of integrity by looking at me and listen,” she recently posted on social media.
“I got to stand up for the little girl I ran from as far and as fast as I could,and I got to explain the true impact of his actions not just on that tiny little girl,but on the broken woman she would become,and on every person who crossed her path,” West posted to Instagram.
The court was told on Wednesday that West had agreed with detectives to wear a concealed listening device and record a conversation with White in June 2022.
He repeatedly apologised,but claimed not to remember his abuse.
“I am so sorry. I don’t remember doing anything like that. I am so sorry … It’s been washed from my mind,” White said during the covertly recorded conversation.
West declined to comment following the sentencing hearing after agreeing to an exclusive interview with60 Minutes,which is owned by Nine Media,also the owner of this masthead.
Chambers said White’s predatory behaviour towards young children was among the worst of its kind.
“Offending of this kind strikes at the very heart of the morals of a decent and civilised society,” she said.
“You can be in no doubt that your offending had a profound impact on the lives of your victims.”
If you or anyone you know needs support,callLifeline on 131 114 orBeyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
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