Raping girl after offering her a lift.

Mark Birtles Sentenced to Six Years for Rape

Mark Birtles, 20, of Laburnum Road, Mexborough, has been sentenced to six years in prison for the rape of a girl under the age of 18. The incident occurred in April of last year when Birtles picked up the victim and drove her to a remote area near Bolton-upon-Dearne, where he raped her.

Birtles was arrested that month after the victim reported the assault to the police. He was found guilty following a three-day trial at Sheffield Crown Court, which ended on Friday. He was also given an additional one-year prison sentence for breaching a suspended sentence for harassment, which will run concurrently with the rape sentence.

Detective Constable Cheryl McCorkell, who led the investigation, commended the victim's bravery in coming forward and enduring the trial, especially considering Birtles denied his guilt despite the evidence presented against him.

"She has shown immense courage in coming forward and reporting what happened and was forced to endure the trial after Birtles continued to deny his guilt, despite the substantial evidence gathered against him," said McCorkell. "I'd like to thank and praise the girl for showing such strength and bravery as she gave evidence during the trial. The conviction is a testament to that and I hope that knowing Birtles is behind bars for the next six years goes some way in helping her to move forward with her life."