KEITH BUTTERWORTH FROM THETFORD SENTENCED FOR HORRIFIC CHILD RAPE IN NORFOLK

In April 2018, a tragic case unfolded in Norfolk involving a man whose actions have left a lasting scar on a young girl and her family. Keith Butterworth, aged 60, a known sex offender from Thetford, was convicted of raping a six-year-old girl, an offense that has led to a severe and extended prison sentence. The court proceedings revealed the disturbing details of how Butterworth, who is currently incarcerated at HMP Bure, had previously served a four-and-a-half-year sentence for other child sex offences.

Following a trial at Norwich Crown Court, Butterworth was sentenced to an extended term of 16 years in prison, with an additional six years on extended licence. This means he will be under strict supervision for a significant period after his release, and he will be registered on the sex offenders’ register for life. The conviction underscores the serious nature of his crimes and the ongoing threat he poses to society.

Prosecutor William Carter highlighted that Butterworth had been assessed as a danger to children, based on reports presented during the trial. It was revealed that Butterworth had manipulated the victim’s family through grooming tactics, gaining their trust before committing the heinous act. Mr. Carter explained that Butterworth had reassured the family by claiming he had been vetted and CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) checked, citing his previous work with the elderly as a reason for his trustworthiness. This deception allowed him to be left alone with the young girl, which facilitated the assault.

During the court proceedings, it was noted that Butterworth’s actions demonstrated a significant level of planning and grooming, not only targeting the young victim but also deceiving her family. The impact of the abuse was profound, with the victim’s mother providing an emotional impact statement, describing how the ordeal had “ruined her life.” The court heard how the trauma inflicted on the girl and her family had caused deep emotional scars and lasting damage.

Judge Stephen Holt addressed the court, emphasizing the seriousness of Butterworth’s conduct. He stated that Butterworth posed a high risk of causing serious harm to the public, especially to children. The judge pointed out that Butterworth’s behavior showed a “significant degree of planning and grooming,” and that he had successfully deceived the victim’s family, betraying their trust. The judge condemned Butterworth’s actions, asserting that society expects to trust older individuals with children, and he had egregiously broken that trust.

Defense lawyer Wayne Cleaver argued that the rape occurred during the same offending period as Butterworth’s previous convictions in 2016. He contended that this was not a case of re-offending after release but rather part of a continuous course of conduct. Cleaver suggested that if all matters had been considered during Butterworth’s earlier sentencing, the totality of his offending would have been taken into account, potentially influencing the length of his current sentence.

Overall, the case highlights the devastating impact of Butterworth’s crimes and the justice system’s response to protect vulnerable children from repeat offenders. The community in Thetford and Norfolk at large remains vigilant, knowing that individuals like Butterworth have been removed from society for a long period to prevent further harm.