MAN CONVICTED OF CHILD RAPES
A man who continues to deny the serious sexual abuse inflicted on a young girl, despite recently being convicted, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison.Bryan Tulip was classified as “an offender of particular concern” after a jury at Durham Crown Court found him guilty of two counts of rape one involving multiple repeat offences and a sexual assault against the girl.
The trial concluded last month.
The 45-year-old, residing in Hillside Gardens, Stanley, had pleaded not guilty to all charges during a hearing in March.
During the recent sentencing, which was delivered via video link from Durham Prison, it was highlighted that Tulip continues to deny the allegations for which he was convicted.
Following his conviction on August 8, the victim—who is now an adult—prepared a statement describing the emotional and psychological impact of Tulip’s actions.
Prosecutor Ian West read the statement in court, in which she explained how her childhood and education were affected and shared her ongoing struggles with anxiety.
The woman also described feeling cautious around men, including in everyday settings like shops, and expressed how challenging it was to recount her experiences to police and relive the trauma of her childhood.
She stated that she intends to seek counselling now that the legal process has concluded.
She further expressed her inability to forgive Tulip, emphasising that she believes he should serve a lengthy prison sentence and never be allowed near children again.
In mitigation, Tony Davis, representing Tulip, noted that his client is restricted in what he can say because he still denies guilt.
Davis described Tulip as a hardworking man, a devoted son, and a caregiver for various children he has looked after.
However, Judge Adkin emphasised that a good character assessment aside from the abuse was irrelevant, especially considering the age of the victim under 13.
The judge sentenced Tulip to 18 years in custody, with an additional 12 months on extended licence upon release.
Furthermore, the judge issued a restraining order preventing Tulip from contacting or approaching the victim and imposed lifelong restrictions through a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, including registration as a sex offender for life.
