Convicted of nine offences of rape and sexual assault against a child

A 42-year-old man jailed for child rape and abuse

Karl Osborne, 42, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for multiple sexual offenses against a child, committed in Tiverton between the 1990s and early 2000s.

Exeter Crown Court heard Osborne groomed the child, offering cigarettes and cannabis, to satisfy his own sexual desires. The victim, who gave a powerful statement to the court, described the profound impact of the abuse.

"I tried to bury the memories of the abuse, the anxiety, shame, and guilt," the victim said. "Year after year it ate away at me and has left me with massive trust issues. The psychological harm and distress overwhelmed me. I will never forget what he did to me. I hope one day I will not be burdened with the gravity and feelings of what he did to me."

Osborne's defense attorney, Jenny Tellentire, argued that he had a difficult childhood and struggled with ADHD. She stated that most of the offenses occurred when he was a teenager. "You can be an offender and still be vulnerable," she said, highlighting that Osborne is currently in a stable relationship and has not committed any similar offenses since.

Osborne was found guilty after trial of nine offenses, including rape, attempted rape, and inciting a child to engage in sexual behavior. Judge Stephen Climie acknowledged the significant period over which the offenses took place. Osborne will be added to the sex offender register and will be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.