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A detective has paid tribute to a survivor of non-recent child sexual abuse after a 33-year-old man was sentenced today, Monday 19th October.
The child was under 13 years old when Liam Martin first carried out offences against them and following extensive enquiries, he was charged with:
- Rape of a child under 13
- Three counts of raping a child aged between 13 and 15 years.
- Engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child under 13, where the offender was aged over 18 years
- Causing/inciting a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity
- Voyeurism
During the complex and long running enquiries, the survivor was offered specialist support as well as safeguarding, and they were also kept updated with key developments.
Today Martin attended Teesside Crown Court where he received a sentence of 20 years, plus one year on licence.
Speaking after sentencing, officer in the case DC Melanie Phelps said:
“It took a great deal of bravery for this survivor to come forward and report what they’d gone through as a child.
“Martin carried out repeated sexual assaults and rapes over a long period of time, leaving the vulnerable child traumatised and afraid for many years.
“He denied any wrong doing, however thanks to the survivor supporting our complex investigation we were able to present compelling evidence at court and the jury found Liam Martin guilty.
“I hope the sentence he received will bring a degree of closure and enable this young person to continue to rebuild their life, knowing he is behind bars for a long time.
“Martin is a dangerous individual who is now on the sex offenders’ register and even after his eventual release from prison, he’ll be closely monitored by specialist officers.
“Finally, I want to reassure anyone else who has been victim of sexual offences - whether recent or non-recent - that if you’re ready to report we are here for you; we will listen to you, we will believe you and we will support you.”