CHELTENHAM OFFENDER SENTENCED FOR CHILD RAPE
A dangerous individual named Bradley Hawkins has been convicted and jailed for serious sexual offences committed as a teenager.Hawkins was found guilty of raping an eight-year-old girl in Cheltenham, assaulting her again, raping her a second time, and causing or inciting her to engage in sexual activity.
The victim, who now resides in Lancashire, endured years of silence out of fear but bravely reported the offences to police in 2023, leading to an investigation.
Hawkins, described as a career criminal, was interviewed in prison where he initially denied involvement, claiming he 'doesn’t do these types of offences' and that ‘all his life he has been robbing’ and that ‘no one wants this put to their name as this is scum of the earth stuff.' He later pleaded guilty at Preston Crown Court to two rapes of a girl under 13, causing or inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
Although now an adult, Hawkins was sentenced based on the age at which he committed the offences—between 13 and 14 years old—and his sentencing took into account guidelines from that period.
He received a three-year jail term and was ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for life.
The court received a heartfelt impact statement from the victim, describing the profound and long-lasting effects of the abuse, including her struggles with trust and self-worth.
DC Dan Healey described Hawkins as a 'dangerous and violent individual who has a worrying sexual interest in children,' noting concerns about his views and sense of entitlement.
He expressed satisfaction that Hawkins had been convicted and emphasized the importance of victims coming forward.
The article highlights the victim’s bravery and hopes that her courage will encourage others to report similar offences.
