Key Takeaways
- Geoffery Miller, 53, has been sentenced to 9 years and 7 months in prison for historical sexual abuse charges relating to two victims in separate decades.
- The victims, now adults, suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and depression as a result of Miller’s offending.
- Miller’s first victim was sexually abused by him when she was a child, and he continued to offend against another victim decades later.
- The victims read their victim impact statements to Miller during his sentencing, describing the trauma and pain they endured as a result of his actions.
- Miller denied any wrongdoing and showed no remorse, with the judge noting that his offending was premeditated, violent, and intrusive.
Introduction to the Case
The case of Geoffery Miller is a disturbing example of the long-term effects of sexual abuse on victims. Miller’s first victim had lived with post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and had more than 20 clinical bouts of depression as a result of his offending against her. The victim’s silence was finally broken when Miller stood in her kitchen, boasting of being "proud" of his life, which triggered a flood of emotions and gave her the courage to report him to the authorities. This moment marked the beginning of a long and difficult journey towards justice for the victims.
The Offending
Miller’s offending began when he was just 14 years old, and he repeatedly sexually abused a young girl. The court heard that he violated her with objects and, on one occasion, plied her with alcohol until she passed out, and then raped her. Decades later, Miller’s sexual offending continued, and he had a new victim. He repeatedly touched this girl sexually and gave her cannabis, and also supplied her with methamphetamine and smoked it with her. Miller’s actions were not only violent and intrusive but also calculating, as he used drugs as a form of payment for his sexual abuse.
The Impact on the Victims
The victims, now adults, read their victim impact statements to Miller during his sentencing, describing the trauma and pain they endured as a result of his actions. The first victim said that she was scared of Miller’s dark moods and felt safer on the streets, in the dark. She had to grow up quickly to survive, and her life was forever changed by his offending. The second victim also lived a life with mental health challenges linked to Miller’s offending and battled a drug addiction, which took hold after he had supplied her with drugs when she was younger. Both victims expressed feelings of worthlessness, shame, and guilt, and their statements highlighted the devastating impact of Miller’s actions on their lives.
The Sentencing
Miller was found guilty by a jury of 12 charges, including rape and supplying methamphetamine to one of his victims. During his sentencing, the Crown lawyer, Danette Cole, noted that both victims had reported Miller was physically violent towards them, and their lives had taken a turn for the worse as a result of his offending. Miller’s lawyer, Chris Muston, made no oral submissions at the hearing, and Miller himself showed no remorse, denying any wrongdoing. The judge, Keith de Ridder, noted that Miller’s offending was premeditated, violent, and intrusive, and sentenced him to 9 years and 7 months in prison.
Conclusion and Support
The case of Geoffery Miller highlights the importance of supporting victims of sexual abuse and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. The victims in this case showed remarkable courage in coming forward and sharing their stories, and their bravery has helped to bring Miller to justice. For those who have been affected by sexual violence, there are resources available, including support services and counseling. It is essential to remember that victims are not alone, and there is help available to support them on their journey towards healing and recovery.