High-risk Sex Offender Jailed for Assault on 12-Year-Old Girl

A high-risk sex offender who groomed and sexually assaulted a 12-year-old girl has been jailed for 17 years. Paul Bryant, 43, bought sex toys to abuse the youngster and encouraged her to go on the contraceptive pill as part of his calculated and manipulative behavior.

Kings Lynn Crown Court heard that Bryant's actions were part of a plan to coerce the girl into sexual activity over several weeks. Prosecutor Marc Brown stated that it was clear grooming, including degrading language where he nicknamed the girl "tiny p****". There was significant pre-planning involved, formulated at least six weeks before the offences, which constituted a clear plan for sex.

Bryant, who lived in south Norfolk at the time of the offenses, denied the charges but was found guilty of assault by penetration of a child under 13 and two counts of making indecent images of children following a trial. His phone's search history, seized during his arrest in March 2024, revealed he had searched for films of young girls using terms like "petite sweetie" and "child model parties".

In a statement read in court, the victim said she suffered flashbacks and a sense of feeling sick and disgusted. She described trying to distract herself during the abuse by imagining complex math problems. Her mother added that Bryant's actions had a significant impact, causing her daughter to lose her childhood innocence.

Sentencing Bryant, from Haddenham, near Ely, Judge Andrew Shaw imposed an extended sentence of 11 years in prison followed by six years on licence. He stated that there was no doubt this was calculating and manipulative, with no mitigating features or remorse shown. A lifetime sexual harm prevention order was also issued, recognizing Bryant's ongoing high risk to children.

Investigating officer DC Donna Read commended the victim's bravery in coming forward, stating that it enabled police to secure justice against Bryant. She expressed hope that the lengthy sentence would provide some comfort and allow the victim to begin rebuilding her life with Bryant behind bars.