Sexually abused a young girl.

Suffolk Man Jailed for 10 Years for Sexually Abusing Young Girl

Ross Smith, 33, of Banham Road, Beccles, was sentenced at Ipswich Crown Court on Monday for three counts of causing or inciting a girl under the age of 13 to engage in sexual activity.

Smith had denied the charges but was found guilty by a jury after a trial. The offenses took place between 2018 and 2019. The court heard that Smith had no prior convictions of a similar nature.

During the sentencing hearing, the victim's mother described Smith's actions as "despicable" and detailed the significant impact they had on her daughter and their family. The statement was read by prosecutor Andrew Thompson.

Judge Emma Peters sentenced Smith to 10 years in prison with an extended five-year license period. Smith must serve at least two-thirds of the 10-year sentence before becoming eligible for parole.

The judge also ordered Smith to register as a sex offender for life and imposed an indefinite sexual harm prevention order.