Child rapist commited campaign of serious sexual offending' against a female victim.

Child rapist Paul Clutton sentenced to 21 years in prison

Paul Clutton, 60, has been sentenced to 21 years in prison for a "campaign of serious sexual offending" against a female victim. The offenses occurred during the 1990s and Clutton denied them, but was found guilty following a trial.

During the sentencing hearing, a statement from Clutton's victim - who was a child at the time of the offenses - was read out. She detailed the lasting impact of the trauma, stating that she had self-harmed for most of her life and "attempted suicide more times than I want to admit." She also shared her struggles with relationships and the profound pain she had endured.

Clutton, of London Road, Trent Vale, was found guilty of three charges of rape and three charges of indecent assault. He had ten previous convictions, but none for sexual offenses.

Kelly Cyples, mitigating for Clutton, stated that this was his first custodial sentence and first offense of this nature. However, Clutton showed no emotion as he was sentenced.

Judge Sally Hancox, delivering the sentence, highlighted the severity of Clutton's actions, stating that he had "committed these offenses in a campaign of serious sexual offending against the victim." She acknowledged the victim's bravery in sharing her experience and the lasting impact on her life, including her belief that she was "a bad egg" and her repeated suicide attempts.

Judge Hancox emphasized the lack of remorse or apology from Clutton and stated that the only appropriate sentence was a lengthy period of incarceration. She deemed the sentence "must be a sentence which reflects your terrible wrongdoing."

Clutton will be subject to the notification requirements of the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely.