Man sentenced to 8 years for child rape and sexual assault

Declan Norman, a 23 year old resident of Shinewell Gardens, Southampton, has been sentenced to eight years in prison for rape and sexual assault against two children. The sentencing took place at Southampton Crown Court on Thursday, 07 September, 2023.

The court heard disturbing details of the crimes committed by Norman. One victim, who was only 13 at the time, was coerced into performing a sexual act on Norman in February 2020. Even more horrifying were the additional allegations that Norman had raped and sexually assaulted a young girl over a period spanning from 2014 to 2020.

This case unveiled an even darker side, as a separate investigation by Hampshire & Isle of Wight’s Child Abuse Investigation Team revealed that Norman was in possession of a large quantity of indecent images of children. The investigation followed a Section 18 search of Norman’s residence in November 2021, where multiple electronic devices were discovered. Among the evidence collected, a laptop yielded 88 Category A images (the most severe), 74 Category B images, and 494 Category C images. In total, Norman was found to be in possession of 656 indecent images, although these were not considered to be first edition images, indicating they were not directly taken by him.

After a trial, Norman was found guilty by a jury of rape against a child, sexual assault against a child, and engaging in sexual activity with a child. In addition to his eight year prison sentence, Norman received a further year extension. He has also been made subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for an indefinite period and placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life.

Detective Constable Ella Knight, the officer in charge of the case, expressed her admiration for the courage of the victims and their parents. She emphasised the importance of survivors coming forward to report such incidents and highlighted the commitment of the police to pursue perpetrators and provide support to survivors.

She stated, “The abhorrent offences committed by Declan Norman have, and will continue to have, a lasting impact on both the victims. My admiration for the victims and their parents is commendable.

“It takes a great deal of courage for people to come forward and speak to us about incidents of this nature, and that should never be underestimated; especially for those who have shown maturity beyond their years. I hope this case goes to show that regardless of how long ago a serious sexual assault, or sexual activity has happened, we will work tirelessly to relentlessly pursue perpetrators and provide specialist support to survivors.

“We want our communities to know that we stand with them, and will do all in our power to bring the offenders of these horrendous crimes to justice via the criminal justice system.”

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of reporting sexual abuse to the police. Survivors of such offences are encouraged to report incidents either by calling 101 or using the online reporting tool. In emergencies, where a crime is in progress or there is an immediate danger, individuals are urged to call 999.

Support for survivors of sexual offences is also available through independent organisations. For more information, please visit the Hampshire & Isle of Wight police website at https://orlo.uk/AKF4j.

This case underscores the need for continued vigilance and community support in addressing and preventing such heinous crimes against children.

SOnews.uk