JOHN SMITH FROM BASINGSTOKE SENTENCED FOR RAPE OF 15-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN EXETER

In a case that has shocked the local community, John Smith, a man residing in Basingstoke, was sentenced to prison after being convicted of raping a 15-year-old girl. The disturbing incident came to light after the victim used Snapchat to alert a trusted friend about her traumatic experience.

According to court reports, Smith, aged 49 and previously from Exeter, had groomed the young girl starting from the age of 13. His manipulative behavior involved gradually escalating acts of abuse, which eventually culminated in a full sexual assault in December of the previous year. The girl, overwhelmed by fear and shame, was initially unable to confide in any authority figures about what was happening to her. Instead, she confided in a schoolfriend via Snapchat shortly after the assault, revealing her fears and the details of her ordeal.

The girl expressed her reluctance to involve the police, fearing repercussions or disbelief. However, her friend, recognizing the seriousness of the situation, agreed to contact the authorities on her behalf. This decision proved crucial, as forensic experts were able to gather conclusive evidence linking Smith to the crimes. The evidence played a significant role in the subsequent legal proceedings.

During the trial, Smith pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and three counts of sexual assault. The court heard that the abuse began with inappropriate touching over clothing and gradually intensified over the course of two years. The final assault involved vaginal and anal rape, with Smith reportedly telling the girl, “I better stop or I will make you pregnant,” as he committed the acts.

Judge David Evans presided over the case at Exeter Crown Court, where he sentenced Smith to nine years and eight months in prison. Additionally, Smith was ordered to register as a sex offender for life and was subjected to a sexual harm prevention order that will remain in effect for 25 years. The judge emphasized the profound impact of the abuse on the victim, noting her vulnerability due to her age and the psychological damage inflicted.

In his remarks, Judge Evans acknowledged the courage of the girl in coming forward and praised her friend for their quick thinking in reporting the incident, which enabled police to gather vital scientific evidence. The judge stated, “No sentence that I can pass can ever repair the harm that you have done. She was vulnerable because of her age and you have caused significant psychological damage. You seem to have little understanding of the effect on her.”

Prosecutor Jason Beal detailed the progression of the abuse, highlighting that it began with inappropriate touching and escalated over two years until the final assault. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and swift action in protecting vulnerable young individuals from predatory behavior.