ALAN BARNEY OF YEOVIL SENTENCED FOR RAPE AND CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE NEAR BRISTOL

In a case that has shocked the local community, Alan Barney, a 29-year-old resident of Roseberry Avenue in Yeovil, has been convicted and sentenced for heinous sexual offenses involving both a young girl and an adult woman. The incidents took place in the vicinity of Bristol, with the court proceedings revealing disturbing details about Barney's actions.

According to court records, Barney engaged in sexual activity with a 13-year-old girl at a residence near Bristol. The court heard that this abuse occurred approximately one month after he had committed a separate sexual assault on an adult woman in her own home. The gravity of these offenses was underscored by the fact that Barney pleaded guilty to charges of rape and sexual activity with a minor, acknowledging his guilt before the court.

Judge Malcolm Gibney, presiding over the case at Bristol Crown Court, sentenced Barney to a substantial term of eight years and nine months in prison. In his remarks, the judge described the incidents as "appalling and devastating," emphasizing the profound impact on both victims. He also ordered Barney to be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, a legal measure intended to prevent any future offending, and mandated that he register as a sex offender for life.

Prosecutor Richard Posner provided further insight into the case, revealing that the young girl was visibly distressed and froze when Barney engaged in sexual activity with her. The girl confided in her mother afterward, stating, "I wanted to say no but no words came." This testimony highlighted the traumatic effect of the abuse on the young victim.

During police interviews, Barney reportedly made a chilling statement, warning that "snitches would get stitches," indicating a threatening attitude towards those who might report his crimes. The court also heard that Barney had prepared a statement denying any wrongdoing, but he chose to answer questions with a silence of no comment.

The case also included a detailed account of the earlier assault on the woman, which took place in her home. The victim provided an impact statement, describing how the rape had drastically altered her life. She recounted suffering physical pain, nightmares, flashbacks, and the ongoing need for counseling, illustrating the long-lasting trauma inflicted by Barney's actions.

Overall, the sentencing reflects the severity of Barney’s crimes and the court’s commitment to protecting the community from further harm. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of justice for victims of sexual violence and the ongoing efforts to prevent such offenses in the future.