Dad sentenced to 15 years for sexually abusing daughter

A dad who sexually abused his daughter has been jailed after being convicted of his crimes.

In November 2019, the victim – who is now a teenager – told school friends she had been made to touch her dad. Staff at her school then reported the disclosure to police and social services.

The girl – who lives in Leicestershire but cannot be identified for legal reasons – was just 11 years old when the report was made. In January 2020, she then made further comments stating that she had been made to touch her dad inappropriately.

She also made comments stating he had engaged in sexual activity with her at their home and that the offences had occurred when she was between nine and 11 years old.

Her dad was interviewed by police and denied the allegations. However, he was charged with a number of offences and on 10 January, following a trial at Leicester Crown Court, was found guilty of:

• Two counts of rape of a child under 13
• Two counts of assault of a child under 13 by penetration
• Two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13
• Two counts of causing or inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity

Last Wednesday (5 April) at the same court, he was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment. He is also subject to a sexual harm prevention order.

Detective Constable Martin Burn, from the Child Sexual Abuse Investigation Unit (CAIU) non-recent team, was the investigating officer. He said: “The victim in this case has shown great bravery and courage in reporting what her dad had done – and giving evidence in a trial which led to his conviction.

“I’m certain he thought she wouldn’t say anything and that he’d get away with his crimes, However I hope the fact he’s now serving time in prison will mean he reflects on the severity of his crimes and the impact they’ve had on his own daughter.

“Likewise, I hope this provides a degree of closure to the victim and allows her to move on with her life.”

• There are a number of different agencies who are able to offer independent help and support to victims of sexual offences in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland
• Further information on these services and details on who to contact if you have been a victim of a sexual offence can be found by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/rsa/alpha-v1/advice/rape-sexual-assault-and-other-sexual-offences