Man Jailed for Raping Child Over Multiple Years

Paul Hunt, 35, of no fixed abode, was sentenced to 18 years' imprisonment on Thursday, 29 June, at Snaresbrook Crown Court for the rape and sexual assault of a child. The offences occurred between 2006 and 2008 when the victim was under the age of 13.

Hunt, who knew the girl, groomed her during visits to his home in Stratford. He repeatedly raped and sexually assaulted her, threatening that no one would believe her if she spoke out.

In 2018, the now adult victim confronted Hunt and reported the abuse to the police. Officers conducted an investigation, gathering evidence and witness statements from over a decade ago. Hunt was arrested but refused to cooperate with police. However, he was charged and subsequently found guilty at trial.

DI Jeremy McDermott of the North East Command Unit stated: "Hunt exploited and took advantage of a vulnerable child on numerous occasions. He told the victim that she would not be believed. Despite this, she showed commendable bravery in coming forward and providing such strong evidence to police and at the trial. I hope that the sentence handed down will bring her a small measure of comfort and a sense that justice has been done."

DI McDermott continued, "I would like to encourage anyone who has been a victim of a sexual crime to come forward and speak to police; they will be supported and their voice too can be heard."