GEORGE SMITH FROM ODIHAM SENTENCED TO 13 YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF YOUNG GIRL IN HAMPSHIRE

In a case that has shocked the local community of Odiham and the wider Hampshire area, George Smith, aged 65, has been sentenced to a substantial prison term of 13 years for heinous sexual offences committed against a young girl. The sentencing took place at Winchester Crown Court on Friday, May 27, in front of a packed courtroom where the victim’s family was present to witness justice being served.

Smith, a resident of Salmons Road in Odiham, was found guilty of four serious sex offences after a jury deliberated and convicted him of multiple charges. These included the rape of a girl under the age of 13, two counts of sexual assault on a child under 13, and inciting or causing a child to engage in sexual activity. Despite his pleas of not guilty, the evidence presented in court led to his conviction, leaving him facing a lengthy prison sentence.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Andrew Barnett described Smith’s conduct as “not only shocking but quite unforgivable,” emphasizing the deviant and perverted nature of his actions towards the young victim. The judge’s remarks underscored the severity of the case and the profound impact on the victim and her family.

The victim’s mother delivered a powerful victim impact statement, expressing her anguish and heartbreak. She stated, “George’s evil intentions and actions towards [the victim] are impossible to explain to anyone.” She further explained that her daughter’s innocence has been irreparably damaged, but also praised her daughter’s bravery in speaking out against Smith. “Her bravery in speaking out against George means that that monster will no longer be able to hurt any more girls,” she declared.

While Smith was acquitted of possessing a prohibited image and an indecent image of a child on his work computer, the judge noted that the computer contained a number of images that touched upon the disturbing subject of young girls. Judge Barnett remarked that these images served as a “pointer as to what was going on in your warped mind,” and contributed to the assessment that Smith posed a significant danger to the public.

As part of his sentence, Smith was also subjected to an extended licence period of four years, reflecting the court’s concern about the risk he poses. Additionally, he was issued an indefinite sexual harm prevention order and a restraining order to protect the community from any potential future harm. The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Odiham, highlighting the importance of vigilance and justice in protecting vulnerable children from such predatory behaviour.