BARRIE CLARKE SENTENCED TO 19 YEARS FOR RAPE AND ABUSE IN BILDESTON AND NORTH HERTFORDSHIRE

A man identified as Barrie Clarke has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term of 19 years after being found guilty of heinous sexual offenses committed over three decades ago. Clarke, aged 66 and residing on Artiss Close in the village of Bildeston, Suffolk, faced justice for a series of disturbing crimes that have left a lasting scar on his victims.

Clarke was convicted on multiple counts, including one charge of rape and eight counts of indecent assault, all related to a young girl he assaulted many years ago. In addition, he was found guilty of indecently assaulting a second girl who was under the age of 15 at the time of the abuse. Throughout the legal proceedings, Clarke maintained his innocence, denying all allegations against him.

The investigation into these offenses was led by Detective Constable Liz McGrath, who emphasized the profound impact of Clarke’s actions. She stated, "Barrie Clarke's sickening offending has had a long-lasting impact," highlighting the emotional and psychological toll inflicted upon the victims.

The case was brought before Cambridge Crown Court, where Clarke faced a seven-day trial in January. The court heard that the offenses occurred in North Hertfordshire during the late 1980s and early 1990s, a period during which the victims endured unimaginable suffering at the hands of Clarke.

During the trial, Clarke was also charged with another count of raping a child under 16. However, the jury was unable to reach a unanimous decision on that particular charge. Instead, they convicted him on an alternative count of indecent assault, which still reflects the severity of his crimes.

Detective Constable McGrath, formerly part of the Non-Recent Child Abuse Investigation Team, expressed her appreciation for the victims' bravery in coming forward. She said, "I would like to commend the two victims for reporting these incidents to police and for their support during this difficult time. Clarke preyed on these two young girls and has refused to hold himself accountable for his abhorrent behaviour."

Clarke’s sentencing marks a significant step in delivering justice for the victims and underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to address historical child abuse cases, especially those that span many years and have long remained hidden.