Child rapist sentenced to 15 years

A CHILD abuser who targeted a schoolgirl has been sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Dale Gavin Smith (35), of Wombwell, Barnsley, appeared at Sheffield Crown Court on Friday (December 2).

Smith abused his victim – who cannot be named for legal reasons – over a nine month period in Barnsley while the child was under ten-years-old.

His victim, who is now a young woman, came forward to police to report her childhood abuse.

Smith was found guilty by a jury in February of three counts of rape of a child under 13-years-old, two counts of indecent assault and four counts of indecency with a child.

Det Insp Gary Askew, from Barnsley, said: “This brave victim came forward to police to report the awful abuse she suffered as a young child at Smith’s hands.

“She has been incredibly courageous and has shown such strength through a police investigation and subsequent trial.

“Smith refused to accept responsibility for his crimes and this woman had to relive her abuse before a jury, who convicted Smith of multiple horrific offences.

“I hope this case illustrates that we will pursue offenders of this vile crime no matter when it happened – please, if you or someone else you know is suffering as a result of child abuse, come forward and talk to someone.”

He was jailed for 15 years with a one-year extended license and was handed a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO) as well as being placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register.

Sentencing was adjourned until last week as Smith was on trial again for further sexual offences against a second victim.

A jury found him not guilty of those charges.

To report concerns for a child call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or police on 101.

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