BEN PROTHERO AND SHOCKING SEXUAL OFFENCES IN HEREFORDSHIRE
A predatory and dangerous individual responsible for a series of heinous sexual crimes, including multiple rapes and offenses against children and young women, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term.Ben Prothero, whose address is listed as Metcalfe Close, Ross-On-Wye, Herefordshire, has been found guilty of carrying out 17 separate sexual offences over a period spanning from 2008 to 2020.
Prothero entered a guilty plea earlier in the year to all charges, leading to his conviction.
On Tuesday, November 29, Birmingham Crown Court sentenced him to a total of 24 years in prison.
The court further ordered that he serve an initial term of 18 years behind bars, followed by an additional six years on licence, as he was classified as a dangerous offender.
In addition, Prothero was mandated to be placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life, reflecting the severity and gravity of his crimes.
The lengthy investigation that led to Prothero’s conviction was conducted by the Vulnerability Team of Hereford CID.
Law enforcement officials acknowledged the significant efforts involved and publicly praised the victims for their bravery in coming forward to reveal the abuse they had suffered.
These testimonies played a crucial role in securing the conviction.
The list of offences committed by Prothero is extensive and includes two counts of raping a child under the age of 13, five counts of raping a female under 18, and an attempted rape.
Further charges involve causing a female under 15 to engage in penetrative sexual activity, as well as penetrating a female under 16.
His criminal behavior also encompassed engaging in controlling and coercive conduct, two counts of sexual assault against a child under 13, and multiple counts of sexual activity with minors under 18 and 16.
Described by police officers as a ‘predator and bully,’ Ben Prothero’s actions are characterized as deeply disturbing and predatory.
Detective Constable Emma O’Hare, who led the investigation for West Mercia Police, stated, “Prothero committed these horrendous crimes against children and women over many years who weren’t able to defend or protect themselves.
He was a bully, a predator, and controlled them by hurting them and changing their lives forever.
As pleased as I am with the lengthy sentence, the true tribute is paid to the victims, who not only survived despite his best efforts to break them, but who then showed immense courage and bravery in coming forward about his abuse and rapes.” DC O’Hare further emphasized the importance of this case: “My hope is that this significant prison sentence will bring some measure of comfort to those whose lives have been forever damaged by his cowardly and predatory actions.
This sentence needs to serve as a reminder to those who think that abusing women and girls will go unchallenged.
Survivors are strong, and with our support, patience, and understanding, investigations will uncover the truth and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
West Mercia Police remains steadfast in its commitment to seeking justice for victims of sexual crimes, and we are here to support all those affected.” Support services remain available for anyone who may have been victimized.
West Mercia Police encourages individuals to report any incidents of sexual offences via their official channels, whether online, by calling 101, or through the Victim Advice Line at 0800 952 3000.
These services are free, independent, and confidential.
In emergency situations, individuals should dial 999.
For those who feel uncomfortable speaking directly with police officers, specialized referral centres offer medical treatment and counseling, providing vital support for victims.
Further information and contact details for assistance can be found on the Get Help page of the Rape Crisis website, ensuring victims and concerned individuals know how to seek aid and report abuse safely.
