DEAN THOMAS OF FRAMLINGHAM SENTENCED TO 16 YEARS FOR RAPE OF TWO GIRLS IN SUFFOLK

In a case that has shocked the community of Framlingham, Suffolk, Dean Thomas, a 33-year-old man, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after being convicted of heinous crimes involving two young girls under the age of 13. The sentencing took place at Ipswich Crown Court in December, following a trial that revealed the disturbing details of Thomas's actions.

During the proceedings, the jury found Thomas guilty of raping two girls, but they were unable to reach verdicts on an additional 20 counts of sexual assault. As a result, those charges were ordered to lie on file, meaning they could not be prosecuted further but remain on record. Throughout the sentencing, Thomas showed no visible emotion, maintaining a stoic demeanor as the judge handed down the sentence.

Prosecutor Jane Oldfield emphasized the vulnerability of the victims, highlighting that their young age made them particularly susceptible to Thomas's predatory behavior. She described how Thomas engaged in deliberate planning and grooming, systematically manipulating his victims and coercing them into silence by instructing them to keep what happened a secret. The court was told that his actions have left the victims feeling a mixture of embarrassment, shame, and confusion, which will likely affect them for years to come.

Oldfield also pointed out that Thomas offered no mitigation or remorse on his behalf, indicating a lack of remorse for his crimes. The judge sentenced him to 16 years in prison, with an additional year to be served on licence after his release. Furthermore, Thomas was subjected to a sexual harm prevention order that is indefinite in duration, along with lifelong restraining orders designed to protect his victims from any contact.

In addition to the prison sentence, Thomas was placed on the sex offenders register and will be required to serve at least half of his sentence before being eligible for parole. The court's decision underscores the severity of his crimes and the ongoing risk he poses to the community of Framlingham and beyond.